Master Builders NSW members magazine April-June 2022

MASTER BUILDER Official Magazine of the Master Builders Association of NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

THE PROFITLESS BOOM

BEHIND AUSTRALIA’S CONSTRUCTION CRISIS

2021 MRCAA AWARDS WINNERS REVEALED INSIDE

• 38,000 NEW HOMES FOR WESTERN SYDNEY • MEN’S HEALTH • PREVENTING SUICIDE — MATES IN CONSTRUCTION • NEW SAFEWORK SAFETY BLITZ

Are your showers ticking time bombs?

Despite builders best efforts, leaking showers are consistently listed in the BSA’s top ten defects.

Sadly, sometimes this is due to substandard workmanship, but most of the time it is the design of the shower itself which is creating the potential for disaster.

Most contractors are at a complete loss as to why, but detailed testing has shown how, by the action of expansion and contraction, water is “pumped” along glue cavities to escape the shower enclosure, no matter how well it is water-proofed.

The best way to prevent the problem is to seal the screen directly to the membrane, and NOT to the tiles.

Waterstop Streamline provides: •

Positive connection between screen and membrane

•

Maximises floor area

•

Provides a template for following trades

•

Ensures correct fall to waste

•

Complies with and exceeds AS3740

•

Modern, cost effective, one-piece design

•

20 different shapes and sizes

•

Minimum change for maximum benefits

My business has expanded rapidly since we star ted using the Waterstop Streamline ho b and I now have tilers recommending the Waterstop Streamline system – and me – to othe r builders.

Everyone that uses it loves it.

Mr Fred Medd ings, Managin g Director Watertight Austr alia (Water-proo fers)

Remove the doubt. Fit Waterstop Streamline ... and forget about leaking showers.

Water escapes shower enclosure

Water path

Bed

Hobbed shower

Tile

Screen ‘sealed’ to tiles with silicon Tile

Bed

Mr Glen Whitehead, Managing Direct or BJM Developments

Water escapes shower enclosure

Membrane

Waterstop Streamline Screen ‘sealed’ to tiles with silicon

Screen

Screen

Rebated or flow-through shower

By using Waterstop Streamline I know the shower will be perfect every time.

It has to be, because this prod uct is designed to dictate placemen t of all of the other components to make up a complete shower. It’s virtu ally impossible to stuff it up.

Water path

Streamline

Screen Screen sealed to membrane with silicone

Keyway to trap liquid membrane

Tile Tile height gauge

Tile Hob

Bed

Bathroom floor tile height optional Substrate

Bed Membrane

For more information, visit www.waterstopstreamline.com.au Phone 07 5426 3700 • Fax 07 5426 3711 • Email sales@gleda.com.au

WATE12057

Membrane

CONTENTS

MASTER BUILDER Official Magazine of the Master Builders Association of NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

IN THIS ISSUE REGULARS

5 7 9 18 48 56 72 74 75

Contact List President’s Viewpoint Executive Director’s Viewpoint Training Advertising Features Regional Roundup The Way We Were New Products Diary

CONTENT

14 32 33 34 35 37 39 41 43 45

Apprenticeship Services Skip Bin Reversal Electric Vehicle Charging ALP changes

BEHIND AUSTRALIA’S CONSTRUCTION CRISIS

Personal Liability

WINNERS REVEALED INSIDE

Even as one of Australia’s strongest and biggest industries faces yet another crisis, it’s inbuilt resilience is sure to see it rebound stronger and better equipped.

38,000 new homes Building new schools

24

The Profitless Boom

Men’s Health The Leading Cause of Male Deaths in Australia is Coronary Heart Disease

27

MRCAA AWARDS

Mates in Construction NSW Suicide is no longer a dirty word!

Metal Roofing and Cladding Association Awards of Excellence Winners for 2020 & 2021

17

• 38,000 NEW HOMES FOR WESTERN SYDNEY • MEN’S HEALTH • PREVENTING SUICIDE — MATES IN CONSTRUCTION • NEW SAFEWORK SAFETY BLITZ

What’s new about NCC

One of the major factors behind Australia’s home building crisis has been revealed, amid fears some companies won’t survive.

20

2021 MRCAA AWARDS

New Work Standard

FEATURES 10

THE PROFITLESS BOOM

Meet our legal team

30

ASIST Training Workshop The Impact Of Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), as shared with Omesh Jethwani by Shane Judd and Michael Rudd.

Forklift Safety Blitz Construction blitz puts safety first

Published by

Custom Publishing Advertising: Mary-Ann Zammit 07 4690 9370 | M 0436 028 319 Mary-Ann.Zammit@news.com.au

News Corp Australia is the exclusive Publishing Partner of the Master Builder magazine.

Custom Publishing Advertising: Julie Marshall

ABN: 63 009 820 035 Phone: (07) 4690 9422 Website: www.newscorpaustralia.com

Julie.Marshall@news.com.au

Custom Publishing Manager: Erika Brayshaw 07 4690 9921 | M 0407 078 572 Erika.Brayshaw@news.com.au

07 4690 9349 Editorial Coordinator: Carmen Miller Carmen.Miller@news.com.au Graphic Designer: Jeff Brown Printed by: Greenridge Press

This publication is copyright. No part of it may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means including electronic, mechanical, microcopying, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the permission of Master Builders Association of NSW or News Corp Australia.

Disclaimer: Readers are advised that the Master Builders Association of NSW and the publisher cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of statements made in advertising and editorial; nor the quality of goods and services advertised.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

3

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Create folders Store resources Team access

Save favourites Personalised Pickup from where you left off

www.mybig.com.au An initiative by the Master Builders Association of NSW

RESOURCES Aust. Standards Best Practice Codes Installation Specs Legislation Product Info Tech Notes Waterproofing guides

CONTACTS MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF NEW SOUTH WALES 52 Parramatta Road, Forest Lodge NSW 2037 | Private Bag 9, Broadway NSW 2007 Tel: 02 8586 3555 | Fax: 02 9660 3700 | Email: enquiries@mbansw.asn.au Website: www.mbansw.asn.au | ABN 96 550 042 906

HEAD OFFICE EXECUTIVE BOARD Simon Pilcher Robert Black Martin Patience Frank Mamasioulas Mick Banks Michael O’Donnell Colin Jewell

EXECUTIVE

Executive Director Executive Assistant

LEGAL

President Deputy President Immediate Past President Vice President Vice President Vice President Vice President

Head Solicitor Senior Solicitor Solicitor Legal and Administration Officer

EVENTS & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Brian Seidler Amanda de Vries

8586 3503 8586 3507

MASTER BUILDERS INSURANCE BROKERS

NSW State Manager Dele Omisore

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT HUNT GROUP Business Development Team Leader Patrick Rafferty

Senior Business Development Executive Harry Rankin

Business Development Manager (M - W) Tom Bennett CORPORATE HUNT GROUP Senior Account Manager Edwina Lyall

Account Executive Adam Myers

Business Development Manager (M, Tu, W) Leanne Farmer

SME TEAM — HUNT GROUP SME Team Leader David Petkovski

8586 3519 0422 513 705 02 9296 6798 8586 3565 0481 906 275 9296 6609 0466 431 218 9296 6604 02 9296 6796 8586 3570 0412 806 700 8586 3594 0435 967 945 9296 6781 0466 777 057 02 9296 6797 8586 3556 0466 626 323 Senior Account Executive Alan Fraser 9296 6717

0410 234 605 Account Executive Barbara Sou TBC Account Executive Hannah Collins 9296 6605 Senior Account Executive Hilda Marfo 8586 3501 Account Executive Michael Stubbs 8586 3568 Account Executive Michelle Lo Baluyut TBC Account Executive Nicola Benson 9296 6612 WARRANTY ELIGIBILITY HUNT GROUP 02 9296 6799 Senior Account Executive (M, Tu, Th, F) Jayne Cornwell 9296 6792 Home Warranty Team Leader Jacklyn Selberg 8586 3512 / 0481 919 108 Account Executive Sam Hu 8586 3528

MASTER BUILDERS FINANCIAL SERVICES

Manager, Finance & Car Buying Ogarit Kelley

MEMBER SERVICES

Manager Member Services Membership Coordinator Administration Coordinator Marketing and Sales Support Member Engagement Representative

0414 919 194 1300 760 366

5 Burbank Place, Norwest NSW 2153 General Manager Education & Apprenticeships Jody McGann

8586 3588 8586 3589

APPRENTICESHIP SERVICES

Simon Page 8586 3534 / 0412 694 001 Maria Branezac 8586 3536 Danyelle Griffiths 8586 3542 Michael Freeman 8586 5602 / 0423 025 380 Tarek Farhat 8586 3558 Teressa O’Brien 0412 499 754 Drae Nelson 0401 998 853 Donna Seidler 8586 3551 / 0413 316 407

INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS AND SAFETY Workplace Relations Manager Exec Officer Technical, Safety & Risk Industrial Relations Officers

Awards and Events Manager Awards Coordinator Awards & Events Administration Events Administrator Events Administrator Events Administrator

ICT

ICT Manager Communications IT Support

Cameron Spence David Solomon Iain Jarman Matthew Gissane Joanna Psaros Safety Officers Luke Sammut Peter Murphy Technical/Safety Officer Bart Beezley Executive Administrator Elena Worsfold IR Administration Officer Annette Gee Administration Assistant William Louie Industry Sector Co-ordinator Tracey Van Breugel Government Projects & Programs Manager Omesh Jethwani

8586 3535 8586 3552 8586 3531 8586 3531 8586 3531 8586 3523 8586 3523 0447 039 860 8586 3523 8586 3531 9296 6603 9296 6666 8586 3539

8586 3517 8586 3549 8586 3547 8586 3517

Amanda Kelly Susan Manning Maiya Irving-Mackinnon Janet Hood Jayne Collins Sophie Abbott

8586 3504 8586 3506 8586 3546 9296 6613 8586 3524

Amanda Kernaghan Steven Swan Alexander Ashley-Carrington

8586 3580 8586 3562 8586 3525

FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION

Manager Finance & Administration Strebre Delovski Credit Control Manager Eric Milne Credit Officer Daniela Fraumeni Inventory & Administration Officer Treena Carter Accounts Payable Officer Bridget Delmore Accounts Supervisor Rose McGill Accounts Officer Bachar Mourad Reception #2 Charles Martin Room

8586 3508 8586 3509 8586 3567 8586 3527 8586 3510 8586 3511 8586 3530 8586 3526 8586 3546

REGIONAL OFFICES NEWCASTLE OFFICE

Level 1, 165 Lambton Road, Broadmeadow 4953 9400 or 9296 6777 NSW Regional & Division Manager Luke Reeves 9296 6775 Events Coordinator Andrea Cross 0418 770 630 Administration & Member Support Eliza Sharpe 9296 6773 Safety Officer John McGhee 9296 6772 Regional Awards & Events Team Lead Rebeccah Kilmurray 0499 022 677 MBA Insurance Services Business Development Manager – Warranty Leeanne Farmer 9296 6781 Account Executive — HWI Jayne Cornwell 9296 6792 Reception & Division Administrator Lauren Linnen 4953 9400 Hunter Regional Coordinator Ebony Devlin 9296 6791 SME Account Executive Shannan Cummings 9296 6782 SME Account Executive Barbara Sou 9296 6779

NORTHERN REGIONS Graham McGuiggan 8586 3554 Paul Love 8586 3540 / 0413 306 556 Debralee Scarselletta 8586 3545 Jessica Martin 8586 3520 Clare Mayhew 8595 3515

EDUCATION AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT

Recruitment Coordinator Government Funding & Contracts Co-ord Payroll Officer Sales Coordinator Safety Coordinator Field Officer Coordinator Field Officer Admin & Training Plan Mgt

Robert Collings Hannah Shephard Jena Hallani Libby Molloy

2 Boeing Avenue, Ballina Regional Coordinator Bernadette Hayter Business Development Manager Alan Fraser

CENTRAL COAST

Zenith Building, 6/6 Reliance Drive, Tuggerah Regional Coordinator Kerrie Bendeich

SOUTHERN REGIONS

Unit 1, 171 Princes Highway, Ulladulla Regional Coordinator Lynn Smith Member Services Representative Tracy Cooley

ALBURY

552B Stanley Street, Albury Regional Coordinator Laura English Member Services Representative Darcy Inskip

PORT MACQUARIE

Unit 3, 12 Jindalee Road, Port Macquarie Regional Coordinator Kerrie Clark

WOLLONGONG

66 Auburn St, Wollongong Regional Coordinator Lee Tanks Member Services Representative Ruth Billington

ORANGE

10 Ralston Drive, Orange Regional Coordinator Katie Kidd Member Services Representative Chontae Bouffler

MATES IN CONSTRUCTION

Hotline

6681 4266 0428 412 784 0410 234 605 4323 4588 0403 128 682 4454 1955 0418 633 297 4454 1955 6058 2000 0487 067 678 9296 6735 6581 4033 0409 180 301 4272 9409 0419 140 126 4272 9409 02 6362 6895 0458 243 976

8586 3575

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

5

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PRESIDENT’S COMMENT

INTRODUCTION

From the President

A tough industry for tough times

T

here is no denying that things are getting harder in building and construction. Day after day in the media we see stories about material costs increases, pressures on residential builders as a result of fixed price contracts, and there is a growing list of construction contractors failing amid worsening conditions.

Not only does the building and construction industry know how to manage a challenge, we are the industry often relied on to bring about positive economic change. Time and time again governments have looked to building and construction to stimulate an economy.

Simply put, there is a significant strain on the industry and that industry confidence is taking a hit. In addition to all this the recent change of federal government will undoubtedly see a raft of changes in workplace relations that will greatly affect the industry. MBA is already watching this space with great interest.

We know there are some factors in the construction industry which make us vulnerable. We are perhaps too reliant on overseas supply chains for our materials.

This is something that governments may address going forward and we are well placed to advise on this.

Also, this industry requires large cash flows and large outlays of time and material to deliver our products. We are not some ethereal “service industry” that peddles a clever idea and some tech. We are a real industry that delivers concrete outcomes.

It is all too easy in challenging times to dwell on the negatives and to let the gloom set in. But such an attitude in my view overlooks one vital fact, which is that our industry has seen tough times before and we will get through this period, and more than that, we will come through stronger and better placed.

Despite any adversity we face, the fact remains that we are a vital industry, and we are here for the long run.

I am sure that whatever crises we may face today, they will not outweigh the very real opportunities that will flow to and from our industry.

Simon Pilcher MBA NSW President

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

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Master Builders TV COMING SOON

S T A Y

T U N E D

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S COMMENT

INTRODUCTION

From the Executive Director

The gathering storm

F

or better or worse, Industrial Relations has always been a true point of difference between the major political parties in Australia.

As such, it is inevitable that the change of government at the recent Federal election, will result in some major changes to the Australian workplace relations landscape. For our industry, foremost amongst these changes will be the impending abolition of the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC) and the Registered Organisations Commission (ROC). These abolitions were a core promise of the new government before the election.

The abolition of the ABCC will be a seismic change for our industry.

Without a powerful regulator, lawlessness will return. Beyond abolishing the ABCC and the ROC, the government has already indicated other workplace relations changes that they intend to pursue, namely.

• Pushing for a 5.1% minimum pay rise for low paid workers, • Rebalancing Fair Work Commission (FWC) appointments, • Giving the FWC the power to address “employee-like” work, • Redefining casual employment, • Making work more “secure” by establishing “same job, same pay” rules, and • Criminalising wage theft Casual employment The redefining of casual employment will have a significant impact on our industry. Members will recall the outcomes of various Federal Court decisions which resulted in casual employees who had already been paid a loading to account for their annual leave were still able to claim “unpaid” annual leave when their employment finished. These problems were fixed by both a High Court decision and by the Morrison government putting in an accurate and workable definition of a casual employee in the Fair Work Act 2009. However, these improvements now look set to be wound back.

MBA will watch this space closely.

Wage “theft” It has never been a criminal offence in Australia for an employer to make a mistake on an employee’s pay. Given the mind-boggling complexity

of payments in our industry under the relevant Modern Awards and Enterprise Agreements (and whatever mix of the two may be in operation at any one time) this is a good thing. However, this is set to change under the new government. Criminal offences are usually punishable by imprisonment. We are yet to see how ‘wage theft’ will be defined as a crime, and we hope that no Australian Government is ever myopic enough to criminalise what are almost always (in our industry at least) genuine payroll errors. MBA will closely watch this space and provide updates as the law is rolled out.

Labour Hire Licensing Currently, certain businesses in Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and the ACT that provide labour hire services, including certain types of secondments, must now be licensed. Western Australia has provided in-principal support to introduce its own scheme.

Companies that host workers from a labour hire environment have a legal responsibility to ensure that the provider is licensed. Fines of over $500,000 may apply to businesses that hire people from unlicensed providers.

Labour hire companies must apply to the various authorities for a license to operate under the schemes. Very clearly, a failure to secure a licence would be a death knell for any labour hire company.

The new ALP government has clearly indicated that they will address labour hire at the federal level under their “same job, same pay” mantra. How they will do this remains to be seen, but the Albanese government has promised that they will ensure that workers employed through labour hire companies receive no less than workers employed directly. NSW will be captured by any federal labour hire licensing laws.

Again, MBA will closely monitor these developments and report on them as they occur.

The details of the above are all yet to be put forward by the new government. One thing is for certain however, the implications for our industry will be most significant. We will keep you up to date.

Brian Seidler MBA NSW Executive Director Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

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FEATURE

Profitless Boom BEHIND AUSTRALIA’S CONSTRUCTION CRISIS 10

MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

FEATURE

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

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FEATURE

One of the major factors behind Australia’s home building crisis has been revealed, amid fears some companies won’t survive.

A

ustralia’s home building industry is battling a profitless boom, as the sector struggles under the weight of a skilled worker shortage and a major escalation in material costs.

And it isn’t just construction businesses that are feeling the pressure. Consumers are also dealing with the fallout in the form of lengthy building delays and unexpected cost blowouts.

Supply chain delays also add to the chaos, with thousands of clients forced to wait for building materials to become available before work can recommence.

The pandemic, the dislocation in Eastern Europe caused by war, China’s mass shutdowns in Beijing and Shanghai, have strangled, or at least stymied a range of supply chains for building materials. This ranges from timber and steel to concrete, sand and skilled labour.

Steel prices are 43 per cent higher than last year, structural timber is 39 per cent higher, electrical cable is 27 per cent more expensive and the cost of bathroom fixtures has risen by 13 per cent.

Rising costs and building delays mean these companies now have a backlog of fixed-price projects to complete from early 2021 on which they are essentially making no profit.

It is not just small companies feeling the pressure, many large operators are facing severe financial pain. It’s yet another symptom of the domestic building industry; despite big levels of sales, they are being hit hard by fixed-price contracts as material costs escalate.

The rising cost of construction, which is increasing at a pace of about 15 per cent per year – the fastest rate in more than 40 years – is a serious issue for building companies.

Building costs have risen at the quickest pace in 21 years in March. At the same time, many home builders are committed to fixed-price contracts with no room to move on prices, many of which have been negotiated as far back as the beginning of the pandemic two years ago.

The number of homes under construction has increased significantly, with over 70 per cent more than there were in 2019.

This is partly due to the HomeBuilder scheme, aimed at stimulating the economy through

12

the pandemic, and similar programs at state government level, as well as interest rates at record lows.

to their profitability. Master Builders surveys suggest contractors are having their profits squeezed or are losing money, as the price of timber, steel, concrete and other construction materials has soared, and deliveries are delayed for up to six months.

MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

Also, various economies have used building and construction industries to aid recovery in a post-COVID environment, adding to the global increase in demand for building materials. All this as well as a shortage of skilled workers, it’s the perfect storm.

The rising cost of construction, which is increasing at a pace of about 15 per cent per year – the fastest rate in more than 40 years – is a serious issue for building companies.

Some industry commentators suggest that up to one in two Australian building companies are now experiencing trouble. It’s been estimated that the average cost of building an Australian home has blown out by between $40,000 and $150,000, which now brings into question the use of fixed price contracts.

Most builders are experiencing a challenge

The general advice is that customers should

FEATURE

be prepared to provide the money for a price increase or risk their builder going under and it costing a lot more to get their home complete.

Builders have had to absorb the costs, but what has compounded the problem was not just the rise in materials prices, but also delays due to Covid, and in more recent times (first quarter of 2022) unprecedented periods of inclement weather.

Builders can only take on so many projects at any one time, and when a project usually takes 25 weeks but has pushed out to 30 weeks, it means fixed expenses go up but the cost to the consumer stays the same.

Residential builders are legally bound to meet lump sum contracts and adjusting the cost and other terms of that agreement is ultimately up to their ability to get the client to agree to pay more.

Master Builders NSW Executive director Brian Seidler said while the renegotiation process has been gaining momentum, the industry is stuck between a rock and a hard place and it’s still uncertain if the outcomes from these negotiations are actually achieving anything.

“It’s not in the client’s interest for their builder to be under a fixed-priced contract that binds them to unforeseeable major cost increases, and any replacement builder would be repricing the work at a higher cost, not to mention the disadvantage of having not begun the work themselves,” Mr Seidler said.

“It’s to both the client and builder’s interest to renegotiate the current contract instead, especially considering the material cost increases and timeframe shifts are unforeseen changes.”

Master Builders NSW strongly encourages all parties who have signed building contracts to be flexible and realistic, and seek to renegotiate building material costs components of fixedprice contracts.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

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APPRENTICESHIPS

You Talk.

We Listen.

TRANSFORM YOUR BUSINESS WITH MASTER BUILDERS APPRENTICESHIP SERVICES

N

o two businesses are the same. No two building projects are the same.

There is not one solution to fit all. That’s why Master Builders have expanded our Apprenticeship service offerings to bring you three new, distinct packages.

We know that engaging an apprentice can be hard. So, we made it easier. We still offer our traditional, tried, and true, industry-leading Apprenticeship Services (MBAS) with all its benefits. We have simply added extra options to give you more flexibility; Master Builders Apprenticeship Services Plus (MBAS+) and Master Builders Recruitment Services (MBRS).

MBAS Let us take all the hassle out of engaging an apprentice. Suitable for managing your workload without the risk. When you use MBAS, you are supported by a dedicated team of experts who manage all the contractual and administrative responsibilities of taking on an apprentice. We do all the paperwork for you and we support you every step of the way. You are connected to a selection of apprentices with all the formal health and safety training, and we’ll give you advice and support, so you can focus on your business.

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

MBAS+ Like MBAS plus more. We give you more options, more flexibility, and more control with all the ease and benefits of MBAS. Then after six months, you get to call the shots. You can carry on as is or choose a direct employment option with your apprentice. For the first six months we do the heavy lifting undertaking the recruitment, contractual and administrative management of the apprentice for you. Once the apprentice is settled in, and if you and your apprentices are in agreement, you can choose to take over with direct employment. We take the risk and uncertainty out of taking on an apprentice initially.

Which gives you peace of mind.

MBRS If you are looking to recruit an apprentice but want to keep it in house, this is the option for you. You don’t need to be an expert in recruitment or an expert in HR. Trust us to help in your search for the best industry-ready and screened candidates to help your business.

We consult with you to find out what you need and then we prepare your job advertisement and place it. We screen applicants and provide you a shortlist. We undertake credit checks, reference checks and aptitude testing. You

focus on your business and let us do the rest.

Find your new apprentice online now — mbaapprenticeship.com.au/find-an-apprentice Each of the three packages are easy to use and you are fully supported by a team of experts and have valuable resources at your fingertips.

It couldn’t be easier.

Visit — mbaapprenticeship.com.au/resources “We have just employed an adult apprentice through MBA and have found the help and support to be of an extremely high standard.

Nothing was a trouble, and they were only too willing to assist and responded to all enquiries in a timely manner. Will use them again and would highly recommend their services.” Jenine Harris, S&J Harris Building Services Pty Ltd. Master Builders are a GTO (Group Training Organisation). This means we help you save money on hiring an apprentice. There are no hidden charges or fees. Our services are 100% tax-deductible, and we will advise of relevant government subsidies. We have made the whole process easier for you. Save time. Save money. Save energy. Grow your business. To find out more visit our brand-new website — mbaapprenticeship.com.au

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LandCruiser Prado GXL shown.

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1

NSW MASTER BUILDER NEWS

NEW SAFEWORK FORKLIFT SAFETY BLITZ

S

afeWork NSW is running a new Forklift Safety Blitz until the end of July.

Following recent tragic fatalities, 30 SafeWork NSW safety inspectors will proactively visit workplaces across the State to conduct forklift compliance safety checks and provide educational material.

NSW Minister for Fair Trading Eleni Petinos said that safety was one of her key priorities and that is why SafeWork is stepping up their compliance and education efforts.

“From today until the end of July, SafeWork NSW inspectors will visit upwards of 600 workplaces to conduct compliance safety checks and provide the necessary support,” Ms Petinos said.

“Our message today is clear — think about safety before you operate a forklift, check the area is clear of pedestrians, the load is secure and you have enough room to use the forklift safely. “Inspectors will also be issuing fines for safety breaches if businesses and drivers are caught doing the wrong thing but will also be building strong working relationships to embed a culture of forklift safety.”

The Forklift Safety Project has been running since June 2021 with efforts stepped up sinceMarch this year.

Case study video available here (https://youtu.be/EfRF1aioNs4)

Construction blitz puts safety first S

afeWork NSW has cracked down on dangerous work practices with a targeted operation in Bankstown and Rockdale.

The week-long safety blitz saw 35 construction sites visited, 86 improvement notices issued and 16 prohibition notices handed out.

Minister for Fair Trading Eleni Petinos said the first priority of the NSW Government is safety, with falls from heights still the number one killer on NSW construction sites.

“We take a zero-tolerance approach to lives being placed at risk. This means a construction sector with no site taking unacceptable risks when it comes to working with heights,” Ms Petinos said.

“As a result of the SafeWork NSW inspections, two construction sites in were fined $3,600 for failing to meet safety

compliance around heights.

“We want to ensure construction sites have the appropriate safe systems and the right safety equipment in place to prevent incidents causing serious injury or death.”

While good results were observed in a number of areas, the risk of falls from heights, electrical, scaffold and housekeeping continue to be the top four areas where penalties and notices are issued — falls from heights risks were evident at 57 per cent of the sites visited.

Small businesses can take advantage of SafeWork’s free online safety workshops for site supervisors, $1,000 small business safety rebate, and access the many safety podcasts, checklists and toolbox talks on the SafeWork NSW website.

For more information visit the building and construction webpage (https://www. safework.nsw.gov.au/your-industry/ construction) or contact 13 10 50.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

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TRAINING

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TRAINING

EDUCATION AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT Upskill today and future-proof your career.

Industry licence qualifications and workshops are now available online. For builders, gaining your CPD points has never been easier!

With online learning, students can study at anytime from anywhere. Instead of rushing from work to class, you now have time to go home, settle in, grab a snack, then simply login to learn.

With Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) you can achieve a nationally recognised qualification, without the need to attend classes. Simply follow our RPL kit and provide video and photographic evidence of the knowledge, skills and experience you have.

Our training programs include: • Builder and trade licence pathways • Online qualifications • Recognition of Prior Learning • Online continuing professional development • Work health and safety training

Search mbansw.asn.au/training

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

TRAINING

Qualifications and Licence Pathway Programs CPC40110 Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building)

CPC30620 Certificate III in Painting and Decorating

CPC50210 Diploma of Building and Construction (Building)

Kitchen, Bathrooms, and Laundry Renovation

CPC30211 Certificate III in Carpentry

CPC30320 Certificate III in Concreting

CPC31420 Certificate III in Construction Waterproofing

MSF31113 Certificate III in Cabinet Making

CPC33020 Certificate III in Bricklaying and Blocklaying

BSB50820 Diploma of Project Management

Safety Training and Industry Courses First Aid

Remove Non-Friable Asbestos

Internal Waterproofing — Industry Best Practice

General Construction Induction (White Card)

Supervise Asbestos Removal

External Waterproofing – Industry Best Practice

Manual Handling

Asbestos Awareness

Work Safely at Heights

Professional Development Workshops Managing Sediment and Waste

Complying Development

Pre-Purchase Inspection Report Writing

Keys to Property Development

Building an A Team

Understanding BASIX

Contracts and Disputes

Managing Finance

Tenders and Contractual Arrangements

Site Management

Quality and Risk Management

Processes and Personnel

Project Planning

Building Profitability

Waterproofing for Builders

Project Cost Control

Builders Quantities and Estimating

Supervision

The Features of AAC Panels

Mental Health in Construction

The Sustainable Builder

For further course information including course fees, visit our website www.mbansw.asn.au/training Contact the Education and Skills department on 02 8586 3588 or education@mbansw.asn.au REGISTER YOUR INTEREST: www.mbansw.asn.au/make-training-enquiry RTO ID: 6163 Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

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AWARDS / EVENTS 2020 & 2021 METAL ROOFING AND CLADDING AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

Metal Roofing and Cladding Association Awards of Excellence 2020 & 2021

T

he Metal Roofing and Cladding Association of Australia (MRCAA) conducted its Awards of Excellence for 2020 & 2021 on Friday 13 May 2022 at the Hyatt Regency, Sydney with 440 in attendance. Twenty two Contractor Members submitted 253 Entries over the 17 categories. The judges commented on the outstanding craftsmanship being undertaken by members.

The Master of Ceremonies this year was the well-known comedian and compere Mikey Robins.

The Rex Blackwell Award – MRCAA Excellence in Roofing Award was awarded to Sterland Roofing and Cladding. This is awarded to the entrant who the judges consider exemplify the high consistent standard in their entry / entries.

The Apprentice of the Year was awarded to Joint Winners; Brenden Downton from TAFE NSW Coffs Harbour and Larry Stricker from TAFE NSW Gymea. Brenden Downton is a business owner working for himself and Larry Stricker is employed by Roof Tek Roofing.

Congratulations to the Entrants and Winners – you are all a credit to the Roofing Industry.

The MRCAA would like to thank the sponsors for their support throughout the year and especially for the evening who, without their support, the event would not be possible.

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

The Rex Blackwell Award – MRCAA Excellence in Roofing Award Winner: Sterland Roofing and Cladding Sponsor:

Colorbond

Project: 155 Willoughby Road, Naremburn (top) Builder: Creation Homes Construction Project: 157 Macpherson Street, Bronte Builder: Ground Up Projects

Awarded to the entrant who the judges consider exemplify the high consistent standard in their entry / entries

2020 & 2021 METAL ROOFING AND CLADDING AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE AWARDS / EVENTS

Single Residential and Duplex Building (Roof Cost <$50K)

Single Residential and Duplex Building (Roof Cost $50K - $100K)

Winner: Enhance Metal Roofing

Project: 3 Queen Street, Berry Builder:

FANDR

Sponsor: Fletcher Insulation

Winner: Metal Masters Home Improvements Project: Builder: Sponsor:

Single Residential and Duplex Building (Roof Cost >$100K)

70 Greenbank Drive, Glenhaven Grove Luxury Homes Eureka Insulation

Multiple Residential Building

Winner: Sterland Roofing and Cladding

Project: 155 Willoughby Road, Naremburn Builder: Creation Homes Construction Sponsor: Lysaght

Winner: Sterland Roofing and Cladding Project: Builder: Sponsor:

157 Macpherson Street, Bronte Ground Up Projects All Metal (Australia)

Public Building – Roofing and/or Cladding (Roof Cost <$500K)

Public Building – Roofing and/or Cladding (Roof Cost >$500K)

Winner: Revamp Roofing and Cladding

Winner: Red 8 Roofing

Project: Builder: Sponsor:

Project: Builder: Sponsor:

Gerringong Medical Project Contractors United Bondor Australia

Central Station Nth Concourse Platform 12 Laing O’Rourke Kingspan Insulated Panels Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

21

AWARDS / EVENTS 2020 & 2021 METAL ROOFING AND CLADDING AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

Commercial/Industrial Roofing and/or Cladding (Roof Cost <$1M)

Commercial/Industrial Roofing and/or Cladding (Roof Cost >$1M)

Winner: Sterland Roofing and Cladding

Winner: Red 8 Roofing

Project: Builder: Sponsor:

Project: Builder: Sponsor:

1 Marine Parade, Shellcove New England Constructions Stramit Building Products

Specialist Works Project Roof Cost Under $500,000

New Intercity Fleet Maintenance Facility, Kangy Angy John Holland Ampelite Australia

Specialist Works Project Roof Cost Over $500,000

Winner: Combined Roofing Australia Project: The Abbey, Johnston Street, Annandale Builder:

ANDR Illes

Sponsor: UniCote

Winner: The Copper and Zinc Roofing Company Project: Builder: Sponsor:

5a Beach Road, Palm Beach RW Stidwell Constructions Fielders

Architectural Façade

The Use of Unique Materials in the Installation of Roofing or Cladding

Winner: Sterland Roofing and Cladding

Winner: Alliance Metal Roofing

Project: Builder: Sponsor:

Project: Cowra Aquatic Centre Builder: Royal Contractors Sponsor: Ace Gutters

22

320 Pitt Street, Sydney Renasent Botany Access

MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

2020 & 2021 METAL ROOFING AND CLADDING AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE AWARDS / EVENTS

Curved Roof Installation

Wall Cladding

Winner: Black Label Roofing

Winner: AGF Metal Roofing

Project: Builder: Sponsor:

Project: Builder: Sponsor:

10 Superba Place, Cronulla Jim Katsikas CSR Bradford Insulation

Kyeemagh Public School Taylor Constructions Colorbond

Safety Award

Winner: Red 8 Roofing Project: Builder: Sponsor:

New Intercity Fleet Maintenance Facility, Kangy Angy John Holland ATF Services

Apprentice of the Year Award

Apprentice of the Year Award

Joint Winner:

Joint Winner:

Sponsor: Master Builders Association of NSW

Sponsor: Master Builders Association of NSW

Brenden Downton TAFE NSW Coffs Harbour

Larry Stricker TAFE NSW Gymea – Roof Tek Roofing

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

23

WORKPLACE, HEALTH & SAFETY

The Leading Cause of Male Deaths in Australia is Coronary Heart Disease

A

ccording to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare the leading cause of male deaths in Australia is coronary heart disease. In 2019 this disease accounted for 10,822 (12%) of male deaths.1 This was followed by deaths caused by dementia (including Alzheimer disease) 5,424, lung cancer 5,190, chronic lower respiratory diseases 4,242 and stroke and other cerebrovascular diseases 4,089.

Coronary heart disease partially or fully restricts the supply of blood to the heart and has long been the top-ranked killer of men in Australia.

Common symptoms of a heart attack: Although heart attack symptoms can vary widely from one person to the next, some of the most common symptoms include:

Coronary heart disease

10,822

3,611

5,424

2,932

5,190

2,783

4,242

2,731

4,089

2,502

Dementia incl.Alzheimer’s disease

Lung cancer incl. trachea & bronchus

Chronic lower respiratory diseases

Stroke & other cerebrovascular diseases

59.3%

of all heart disease deaths

45.8%

more coronary heart disease deaths than females

206.6%

Prostate cancer

Colon cancer incl. sigmoid, rectum & anus

Lymphoma – incl. haematopoietic & related tissue cancers

Diabetes

Suicide

more suicide deaths than females

• Chest pain or a feeling of discomfort in the chest • Shortness of breath or trouble breathing • Pain in the arm, neck, shoulder, or jaw • Sweating

• Upper back pain2

• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy

As indicated by the Heart Foundation of

disease in general include people from lower socioeconomic groups, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and those living in remote areas.”

• Fatigue

Australia “those most affected by heart

The Foundation further states “Most people

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

• Nausea

WORKPLACE, HEALTH & SAFETY

don’t know they have heart disease until they have a heart attack or some other condition brought on by the disease.”

Risk factors of heart disease: A family history of heart disease is one potential risk factor. Others include: • High blood pressure • High cholesterol • Being overweight or obese • An unhealthy diet • Being physically inactive The Foundation says “on average, a person is hospitalised with a form of heart disease every 80 seconds in Australia, and a person dies every 18 minutes.3 Steps to take to help prevent heart disease: There are steps that can be taken to help prevent heart disease which include lifestyle — quit smoking, eat healthy, lose weight, exercise regularly, stress reduction — reduce alcohol, drugs, caffeine • Quit smoking — it is a tough thing to do — but recovering from a heart attack is tougher

• Arteries may harden — as you age, your arteries can become stiffer and harder

• Follow a healthy diet — a healthy diet is so important to help fight heart disease. The food you eat (and the amount) can affect other controllable risk factors: cholesterol, blood pressure, diabetes and overweight

• Heart walls may thicken — the walls of your heart might grow thicker as you get older

• Aim for a healthy weight — to achieve this you need good nutrition and manage your calorie intake to ensure you maintain a healthy weight • Be physically active every day — research has shown that at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity physical activity can help lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol and keep your weight at a healthy level • Reduce stress — research has found a relationship between coronary heart disease risk and stress in a person’s life that may affect the risk factors for heart disease and stroke • Limit alcohol — drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure, increase cardiomyopathy, stroke, cancer, and other diseases.4 Lifestyle Themes A heart attack can occur at any age, but your risk increases as you get older. In men, the risk for heart attack increases significantly after the age of 45. According to research the average age for a first heart attack is 65.6 years old for men and 72 years old for women.

• Valves may work less effectively — your heart has four valves that open and close to keep blood flowing in the right direction. Over time, these valves might thicken, stiffen, or become leaky. This makes it harder for your heart to control blood flow.

• Electrical impulses may change. Your heart’s electrical impulses may also change as you age. This can lead to the development of an arrhythmia.

• Sensitivity to sodium may increase. Some people become more sensitive to sodium, or salt, as they get older. This can raise your blood pressure and increase your heart attack risk.5 Men are less likely than women to have health checks Early detection and early intervention are always the best approach when dealing with health issues. So regular visits to a doctor or other health providers are imperative if underlying illnesses and diseases are to be detected, diagnosed and treated. Yet regardless of this fact men are far less likely than women to have routine health checks.

There are several ways that your heart can change as you age:

Research has indicated that men are reluctant to visit a doctor regularly for a number of reasons such as macho attitudes, fear of diagnosis and men being uncomfortable with physical examinations.

• Fatty deposits — over time, fatty deposits can build up on the walls of your arteries

Men are twice as likely to wait more than two years between doctor visits. In fact, for all the

reasons listed above and more, more than 40% of men don’t go to the doctor at all unless they have a serious issue on their hands.

Unfortunately, men who report traditional views of masculinity are not only less likely to go to the doctor, they are also less likely to be honest about their health history and current symptoms. Choose a doctor you’re comfortable with and be honest with them about what’s really going on. This enables them to arm you with information and a path toward treatment if necessary.

Avoiding the doctor doesn’t make your health issues go away — it only delays detection.

So, it is important to find a doctor you can be comfortable with. Once you have a doctor you really trust you will know you taking the right steps to self-care.6 For more information or assistance with workplace safety, injuries or employee assistance: Please contact Tricia Garnett at Mend Services on 1300 176 774 or tricia.garnett@mendservices.com.au 1. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/life-expectancydeath/deaths-in-australia/contents/leading-causesof-death 2. https://www.healthline.com/health/heart-attack/ heart-attack-age#symptoms 3. https://www.canstar.com.au/life-insurance/leadingcauses-of-death-australia/ 4. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heartattack/life-after-a-heart-attack/lifestyle-changes-forheart-attack-prevention 5. https://www.healthline.com/health/heart-attack/ heart-attack-age#age-and-heart-health 6. https://www.tricitymed.org/2017/06/dont-men-godoctor-often-women/

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

25

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WORKPLACE, HEALTH & SAFETY

Suicide Is No Longer A Dirty Word!

By Omesh Jethwani, Government Projects & Programs Manager

A

ccording to Mates In Construction NSW (MATES NSW), construction workers are more than two times more likely to die by suicide than Australian men. Indeed, young construction workers are almost six times more likely to die from suicide than workplace accidents.

management and employees came together for the common good of everybody on a site, to prevent suicide in the workplace,” he says.

MATES NSW offers three areas of training

MATES NSW is a charity set up to try and combat the terrible rate of suicide in the industry. According to CEO Brad Parker, 190 people in the construction industry take their own lives every year.

The charity has reduced suicide by almost 8 per cent since its formation in 2009.

• General Awareness Training (GAT) — training is delivered to at least 80% of workers on-site and is delivered en masse and on-site.

This training introduces workers to the nature of the problem, that it is okay to talk about mental health, and provides practical guidance on how they can assist.

• Connector Training — provided to those people on site who volunteer to become a Connector — a person trained to help keep someone safe in a crisis while at the same time connecting them to professional help.

“We have a straightforward model, but it’s very effective. We have created a network of carers who will assist people in identifying the signs of suicide and connecting those people to help,” Mr Parker says.

“The Program uses the world’s best practices tailored into language that construction workers understand.

The genius of construction industry

across the industry:

Brad Parker, CEO Mates NSW

• Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) — equips individuals to become ASIST workers, comparable to the first aid officer on-site. ASIST workers will talk to a person contemplating suicide to make this person ‘safe’. Using simple skills, an ASIST worker will listen to the person’s concerns and respond to them appropriately to reach a ‘safe plan’.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

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WORKPLACE, HEALTH & SAFETY

“It’s mates looking out for mates and mates helping mates. It goes further than preventing suicide attempts — our Program develops a caring sanctuary for those with depression or mental health issues,” Mr Parker says.

The New South Wales Suicide Monitoring System collaborates with NSW Health, the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ), the State Coroner, and the NSW Police established in October 2020. NSW Health publishes monthly reports on suspected deaths by suicide occurring in New South Wales.

Many factors contribute to suicidal thoughts, including long working hours, job insecurity, bullying, financial concerns, relationship issues, and a higher rate of drug and alcohol abuse within the industry.

The latest report for January 2022 found 928 suspected deaths by suicide in New South Wales in 2021, which is higher than the number of deaths reported for 2020 (904) but lower than for 2019 (945) (NSW Health 2022).

“We also need to remove the stigma surrounding mental health issues, which causes people to try to cover up thoughts of suicide,” Mr Parker says.

Projects like Mates In Construction, Mates in Mining, and Mates in Energy are all working towards reducing the suicide rate, but there is a need for higher funding levels.

As Mr Parker says: “Take-up of the service in NSW is currently outstripping supply significantly, where the service is not actively promoted… additionally, our work experience in regional NSW has confirmed a significant need for service rollout, with high levels of lived experience of suicide in each session delivered.”

Suicide in the Australian construction industry costs the economy more than $1.5 billion a year. However, over the past 10-15 years, we’ve seen increased investment in mental health at the state and federal levels.

Master Builders NSW is currently facilitating the Suicide Prevention Gatekeepers Training workshops (Connector and ASIST) in partnership with MATES NSW. The NSW Ministry of Health has funded the two-year Program since 2020.

Master Builders NSW aims to deliver the Suicide Prevention Gatekeepers Training workshops amongst 3000 construction workers in Sydney.

Master Builders NSW Suicide Prevention Gatekeepers Training workshops target the following cohorts: • young apprentices; • support staff (business trainees, new entrants); and • apprentice mentors (Supervisors, Project Managers, etc.)

• others working in or connected to the Building & Construction Industry Executive Director of Master Builders NSW, Brian Seidler, says the Program is a giant leap forward for the building and construction industry, with significantly higher rates of suicide

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

Over 10 million Australian adults are estimated to know someone who has died by suicide, and 1 in 2 young people are impacted by suicide by the time they turn 25. The latest Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data shows that around nine (9) lives are lost per day to suicide.

and mental health issues amongst workers than in other sectors.

“Mental health and suicide prevention is everyone’s business, and when all of us look out for our mates, we are protecting the most important commodity in our industry — its people.”

These statistics are based on 2020 data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics on 29 September 2021.

Brian Seidler

“In the building and construction industry, suicide seems to be a part of the reality — the sector is highly transient, with most workers employed on a project by project basis, for periods from a few weeks to a few years,” he said.

“We need to ensure the industry represents a sustainable and safe workplace which attracts and keeps workers on their career pathways and mental health training is a critical part of that.”

Facts About Suicide Worldwide According to World Health Organisation, 703,000 people take their own lives every year, and many more people attempt suicide.

Every suicide is a tragedy that affects families, communities and entire countries and has longlasting effects on the people left behind. Suicide occurred throughout the lifespan and was the fourth leading cause of death among 15-29 year-olds globally in 2019.

Suicide does not just occur in high-income countries but is a global phenomenon globally.

Over 77% of global suicides occurred in lowand middle-income countries in 2019.

Facts About Suicide in Australia

• 3,139 Australians died by suicide in 2020, representing an age-standardised suicide death rate of 12.1 per 100,000 people.

• This is a decrease of around 6.6% compared with the 12.9 age-standardised suicide death rate reported for 2019.

• However, over the previous ten years, the age-standardised suicide death rate per 100,000 people has increased from 10.5 in 2011 to 12.1 in 2020, an increase of 15.2%.

• Suicide was the 15th most common cause of death overall (down from 13th in 2019), accounting for 1.9% of deaths.

• The median age of death by suicide was 43.5 years, compared to 81.7 years for all causes of death. Because suicide frequently occurs at a younger age than other causes of death, the potential years of life lost are high.

As in previous years, in 2020, suicide was the cause of death, resulting in the highest number of potential years of life lost: 109,525 years. This was more than half again (57.7%) as many years higher as the next most significant cause.

Younger Australians • In 2020, 454 young people aged 15-24 died by suicide, representing 21.2 deaths by suicide per 100,000 people. Over one-third of deaths in 15-24-year-olds are due to suicide.

WORKPLACE, HEALTH & SAFETY

TAFE NSW Trade Teachers attending the ASIST workshop. From left – Back row: Michael Rudd, Shane Judd, William Guthrie, Rudi Meuwissen, Christopher Neal, Richard Bailey, Patrick Aiken. Front Row – from left: Josef Fritzer, Akash Chauhan.

• Suicide was the most common cause of death for adults aged 15-44, with 1,612 deaths by suicide in this group.

Men • Consistent with previous years, males are three times more likely to die by suicide than females. Males accounted for 75.9% of deaths by suicide (2,384 deaths); this represents an age-standardised suicide death rate of 18.6 per 100,000 people (compared with a rate of 5.8 for females).

• Men over 85 are particularly impacted, with 36.2 deaths by suicide per 100,000.

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples • In 2020 there were 223 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples died by suicide.

• The median age of death by suicide of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples was 31.3 years, more than a decade younger than the median age of death by suicide for the general population of 43.5 years.

• Age-standardised rates of death by suicide were higher in regional Australia: 15.7 deaths per 100,000 outside capital cities, compared with 10.3 deaths per 100,000 in capital cities.

• The most significant difference was in Western Australia, with an age-standardised death by a suicide rate of 12.7 per 100,000 in Greater Perth, compared with 20.8 per 100,000 in the rest of the state.

Risk Factors • In 2020, over 90% of people who died by suicide had at least one risk factor reported.

Both mental and behavioural disorders and psychosocial risk factors were present in over two-thirds of deaths of people who died by suicide. People who died by suicide had an average of 3-4 risk factors.

• The proportion of suicide deaths recording at least one psychosocial risk factor was 67.1%.

• When looking at State and Territory data, Northern Territory had the highest agestandardised rate of deaths by suicide at 20 per 100,000.

• The three most frequently occurring psychosocial risk factors for men were: a personal history of self-harm (19.5% of deaths by suicide), disruption of a family by separation and divorce (14%), and problems in a relationship with a spouse or partner (11.8%).

• All states except Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory had decreases in the number of suicides between 2019 and 2020.

• The three most frequently occurring psychosocial risk factors for women were: a personal history of self-harm (32.8% of

Region

deaths by suicide), problems in a relationship with a spouse or partner (10.9%), and disappearance or death of a family member (9.7).

Other statistics • 65,000 suicide attempts each year (est.)

• It is estimated that more than 500,000 Australians have attempted suicide at some time in their life.

Master Builders NSW would like to take this opportunity to thank the team from MATES NSW, Brad Parker, Heather Drew, Kayte Wilson and Andrew Bate for their ongoing support in the rollout of the Master Builders NSW Gatekeepers Program.

Master Builders NSW will deliver the FREE Suicide Prevention Gatekeepers Training workshop every month till November 2022.

Master Builders NSW members and their employees will be notified via an e-circular of the upcoming dates.

For further enquiries, contact Omesh Jethwani, Government Projects & Programs Manager, on 02 8586 3539.

If you need support in the industry, please contact your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or call the MATES NSW hotline on 1300 642 111.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

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WORKPLACE, HEALTH & SAFETY

The Impact Of Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) Omesh Jethwani, Government Projects & Programs Manager, in conversation with Shane Judd, Team Leader – Plumbing & Water Industry, Infrastructure, Energy and Construction, TAFE NSW and Michael Rudd, Teacher Carpentry and Construction Meadowbank TAFE NSW Omesh: Tell us more about yourself.

Monday, post-weekend.

Shane: I am currently employed as a team leader for Plumbing and water trades across Western Sydney. I have been employed in TAFE NSW for 14 years. Prior to leadership roles, I had the pleasure of teaching apprentices within the first eight (8) years of my career, in which I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of skilling the next generation of industry trade persons.

What made you enrol for the Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) workshop?

Having coordinated the SafeTALK programs into work health and safety trade spaces of TAFE NSW along with Mates in Construction and Master Builders NSW, ensuring all enrolled students attend a workshop during their three years as an apprentice, I felt it would be paramount for myself along with as many teachers within the trade space attend this important workshop not only to break down the stigma related to mental illness but to upskill our trade teachers in developing a greater understanding around the topic of suicide prevention and how to have the tough conversation. This coordination piece would later be recognised by receiving the M.D.’s state-wide Safety Award in 2021 for my contribution to the rollout of SafeTALK programs across Western Sydney.

Shane: Over the past few years, I noticed an increase whilst leading and supporting many trade teaching section Teachers, Head Teachers and students with the terrible news of apprentices lost to suicide. These alarming notifications are generally shared internally on a

Michael: The Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training workshop appealed to me because I have seen how many apprentices are affected by mental health problems and wanted to further my understanding of the signs that people contemplating suicide exhibit. I think the

Michael: I am a residential builder/carpenter and have been in the construction industry for 13 years. I teach at Meadowbank TAFE campus, teaching carpentry and Certificate IV in Building and Construction for those aspiring to become builders. I have been teaching for two years.

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

current generation of apprentices is faced with different issues than generations past. So it’s essential to identify if there are any underlying issues relating to suicide and how to approach them to help the students in the best possible way.

Before the first ASIST what was your understanding of mental health and suicide in the building and construction industry?

Shane: Having worked closely with Master Builders NSW and Mates in Construction, coordinating SafeTALK workshops for enrolled students over the past couple of years, I already had formed a good understanding of mental health and suicide and was able to recognise that my colleagues, teachers, and the like would benefit from this same understanding.

As I am not a professional in this field, I sort the professionalism of Master Builders NSW and Mates in Construction to educate on this topic and teach the skills to recognise the signs and the tools to assist.

Michael: I did not realise that suicide was so far-reaching and as common as it is. I understand that mental health issues have

WORKPLACE, HEALTH & SAFETY

been raised in the past few years.

However, I don’t feel as if the problems of suicide have been raised equally and are somewhat still taboo.

Shane Judd

In your opinion, why do you think apprentices are reluctant to discuss their mental health issues with their teachers?

Shane: I think students see their teachers as professionals in their field of education and, therefore, may perceive their teacher only to be approachable to issues pertaining to their direct education. They may also see this as a weakness in a male-dominated trade where you are often told in industry and amongst peers to have a cup of concrete and harden up. They may also feel that this would affect their training and results; they perceive this as not being fit for trade and is not the done thing. This is the sort of stigma that I felt needed to be broken, restoring confidence because, in TAFE NSW, we pride ourselves in supporting our students.

Michael: I think apprentices are reluctant to discuss their mental health issues with their teachers because they do not think anyone cares or wants to listen. It is a possibility some teachers have not developed a rapport with their students, so they do not trust their teachers enough. Some teachers probably find it hard to find time to set aside for individual students when they have 16 in a class and limited time to teach them all the skills they need to learn.

As a teacher, how have you provided support to students who were going through a difficult time or thinking of suicide before the training?

Shane: During my career, I have found in most circumstances, some students do open up to their allocated teachers regarding personal issues that they may be experiencing in their personal/professional careers. Along with many colleagues, I have had many conversations in which the student has opened up and, as a result, is offered support services such as counselling (which forms part of their enrolment with TAFE NSW). This, however, was a reactive approach to the student opening up and did not necessarily build a pro-active pathway for students. I felt this was a hit and miss situation.

Michael: I have never had to assist students thinking about suicide, but I have tried to listen to other students who have had problems at work or at home, which has made their learning difficult and offered them the most opportunity I

Michael Rudd possibly can to assist them in their learning.

What did you think of the ASIST and what did you learn from the training?

Shane: Post attending the ASIST workshop, I feel confident in now asking the question ‘suicide’ whilst supporting a student in the mental health space. Asking the question may save a life by aligning the student with professional support mechanisms that otherwise would not be connected. Similarly, we complete Risk Assessments every day of our lives in the workplace; spending the required time to summarise a safety plan for a student/person at risk may connect all the voids the student is facing at that point in their life.

Michael: I learnt how to intervene with those thinking about suicide and learnt the importance of empathy and listening and letting the person feel listened to. The training highlighted most people thinking about suicide probably would not suicide if they had someone they could talk to about their problems and feel heard. It also made me realise that taking the time to make someone feel heard during the class might help them more than you could imagine.

What was the main take home message for you from this training workshop?

Shane: Don’t be afraid to ask the question of suicidal thoughts. Mental Health is not a sign of weakness, and it can affect males, regardless of age, race or ethnicity. Suffering in silence isn’t a safe or healthy option for anyone in our lives.

Check in with them and ask them how they’re feeling, especially if they have experienced a recent event that could trigger thoughts of despair.

Michael: Suicide should not be a taboo topic, and nearly everyone thinks about suicide at some point, even if they know they choose not to act upon it. It is okay to talk about it, and it is okay to ask someone if you are worried about them.

How prepared do you feel to talk directly and openly to a person about their thoughts of suicide?

Shane: Post ASIST, I feel con!dent that I could provide effective suicide intervention to a person at risk in ways that would meet their individual safety needs.

Michael: I feel much more comfortable talking about suicide after completing the training. I

also feel comfortable talking to friends, family and students about the training, and it’s interesting.

It is okay to talk about it even though sometimes it might feel uncomfortable.

Do you think the Suicide Prevention Gatekeepers Training workshops should be rolled out to all apprentices and TAFE NSW teachers as part of a curriculum?

Shane: Many males won’t admit they have a mental illness or a problem. They still believe today that mental health is a significant sign of weakness. Whilst programs such as SafeTALK reduce the stigma and expand opportunities for support mechanisms, males still are experiencing shame and guilt that could lead to them being less willing to ask for help. For this reason, I believe this training should be funded by the government and made available to all enrolled apprentices state-wide within TAFE NSW, as we as a community have a long way to go.

Michael: I think the training would help teachers in TAFE NSW. Some teachers in our training session were not exactly open to the topic and had some alternative views on the matter, but after the two days and completing the training, they had a change of perspective and thought they had benefitted from the training.

In your opinion, do you think the State and Commonwealth Governments are doing enough to address mental health and tackle suicide issues?

Shane: I believe much more is needed to address mental health and suicide, with awareness workshops to commence during secondary school level. Breaking down the stigma related to mental illness and suicide at this age would be a great start to give confidence in the student’s voice to speak up to their superiors and seek the available professional services.

Michael: I do not know enough about Commonwealth and State Government initiatives to give an insightful comment; however, I know that NSW Health local districts are trying to roll out these programs through the NSW Department of Education. I think it is an excellent start. Targeting teachers and the youth with this sort of training will help to lead to generational change concerning suicide and societal views towards suicide for the better.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

31

NSW MASTER BUILDER NEWS

EPA SKIP BIN REVERSAL A WIN FOR SMALL BUSINESS

T

he NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has today confirmed that it will no longer proceed with controversial changes that would have seen small business skip bin operators hit with increased costs as high as 400-500 per cent.

NSW Small Business Minister Eleni Petinos said that she welcomed the EPA’s decision to listen to the concerns of small businesses and shelve the proposed changes to the Recovered Fines and Recovered Soils Orders and Exemptions.

“Small businesses have already battled a pandemic for the last two years, as well as increased costs to doing business and cost of

living pressures. The absolute last thing small skip bin operators needed was another giant business cost imposed on them,” Ms Petinos said.

“I welcome this decision by the EPA to listen to the feedback from industry and acknowledge the tremendous financial burden this change would have posed to affected small businesses.

“I want to thank all small businesses in the industry who presented their concerns to myself and the Small Business Commissioner.

I’d like to also recognise the leadership shown by the Waste Management and Resource

JOG Computer-Controlled Grouting Re-levels Waterfront Property A two-storey brick home situated along the banks of the Woronora River had been experiencing ongoing settlement due to adverse ground conditions. The home was built on soil comprised of sand, silt and clay associated with the river. The poorly compacted ground had caused the property to sink by approximately 200mm.

Attempts to re-level the home a few years prior by a 3rd party had proved unsuccessful as they were unable to achieve the degree of lift required to reinstate the home back to its intended levels. Mainmark delivered a non-invasive solution using its proprietary JOG Computer-Controlled Grouting technology, which was identified as being one of only a few products available in Australia that could provide the lift that the client was seeking.

The client required the home to be re-levelled by 200mm, returning it to its original level. The owner was also seeking a

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

Recovery Association and Waste Contractors & Recyclers Association of NSW on this matter.”

NSW Small Business Commissioner Chris Lamont said that the decision was a win for common sense.

“Stakeholders were very concerned about the impact these changes would have had to waste management recycling centres, skip bin operators and many small businesses across construction. This decision is a win for common sense.”

permanent, long-term solution that would prevent the home from future settlement.

The low-viscosity JOG grout solution was applied through more than 60 injection points which were positioned in a grid pattern across the ground floor of the property. This helped to ensure that the house was re-levelled very gently and evenly, reducing the risk of any possible concentration around individual pressure points. The application process followed the exact engineered specifications to re-level the building.

The home was returned to its original level without causing any undue stress to the structure.

For an obligation free, expert opinion contact us

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NSW MASTER BUILDER NEWS

Charger guide helps NSW buildings get electric vehicle ready

More electric vehicle drivers can soon charge up at home and work, with a step-by-step guide released by the NSW Government, and a pilot site providing proof of concept for EV-ready buildings.

M

inister for Energy Matt Kean said there are already more than 850 registrations for a new Government webinar about helping make apartment and commercial buildings ready to install electric vehicle (EV) chargers.

‘With the global shift to EVs it’s not a matter of if, but when, buildings will need to provide EV charging options,’ Mr Kean said.

‘We’re providing guidance materials, templates and tools on how to retrofit these buildings on one convenient website.

‘Having all the information in one place makes it an easy first stop for apartment owners, strata organisations, tenants and building managers planning to install EV chargers in their buildings.’

The EV Ready Buildings website provides an easy to use, trusted source of information and practical tools and templates to help navigate the process.

The Richmont building in Pyrmont has been co-funded by the NSW Government to upgrade the electrical system to enable EV charging in all 104 parking spaces. They have already installed shared charging facilities in the visitor parking spaces, and through this process have discovered how to manage the charging of multiple EVs without costly upgrades to the

buildings’ electricity supply.

The Government has also supported EV feasibility studies at 15 residential and commercial buildings in Sydney metro to assess EV ready upgrade costs. These studies have helped to understand the costs and options for retrofitting EV charging in existing buildings of various ages, sizes, layouts and locations.

Mr Kean said making a building EV ready will increase property values and attractiveness to tenants while helping to reduce vehicle emissions.

‘The take up of solar in New South Wales has been exceptional and as we transition to renewable energy, this program ensures a clean drive and a clean future,’ Mr Kean said.

‘EVs are expected to make up 50 per cent of

new car sales by 2030 in New South Wales, and the new guidance materials will help make this target a reality while also protecting the environment.’

EV ready buildings are part of the Government’s Electric Vehicle Strategy announced last year under the NSW Net Zero Plan. The strategy also includes $171 million over the next four years to ensure widespread, world-class EV fast charging coverage across New South Wales.

The EV Ready Buildings materials and webinar registration details are available on the Drive electric NSW EV ready buildings webinar webpage. Speakers at the webinar include the EV Council Head of Energy and Infrastructure, Ross de Rango, and Owners Corporation Network chairman, Fred Tuckwell.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

33

NSW MASTER BUILDER NEWS

WHAT THE ALP WIN WILL MEAN FOR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY POTENTIAL CHANGES FOR WORKPLACE RELATIONS

A

s Members are aware, following the election on Saturday 21 May 2022, Scott Morrison’s Coalition Government has suffered a heavy defeat and the Australian Labor Party (ALP) looks set to claim a majority in the House of Representatives and form the next Government of Australia in their own right.

The ALP has outlined several workplace relations changes it wishes to pursue, such as; • Pushing for a 5.1% minimum pay rise, • Rebalancing Fair Work Commission appointments, • Giving the FWC the power to address "employee-like" work, • Redefine casual employment, • Abolishing the Australian Building and Construction Commission and the Registered Organisations Commission, • making work more “secure” by establishing

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

"same job, same pay" rules.

Shadow IR Minister Tony Burke said in March that an Albanese Labor Government will "deliver secure jobs, better pay and a fairer industrial relations system" by "protecting lowpaid vulnerable workers like those in the gig economy, cracking down on cowboy labour hire firms, ensuring workers who do the same job get the same pay, closing the gender pay gap and criminalising wage theft".

He said that it will extend the FWC's powers to include "employee-like" forms of work and legislate a "fair, objective test to determine when a worker can be classified as a casual.”

Labor pledged during the election campaign to commission a labour market white paper to foster "secure work and higher wages" and convene an employment summit to boost job security and bolster the ailing enterprise bargaining system.

Mr Albanese said during the campaign that convening the summit would be one of his first acts and that it would "bring employers and unions together to collaborate on secure work and to ensure enterprise bargaining works effectively".

Anthony Albanese and his four most senior MPs were this morning sworn in as ministers and assumed temporary control of every portfolio before the Labor leader finalises the makeup of his new cabinet. The appointments are.

• Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister • Richard Marles, Minister for Employment • Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs • Jim Chalmers, Treasurer • Katy Gallagher, Minister for Finance, Women and Attorney-General MBA NSW will report on the foreshadowed workplace relations issues as they occur.

LEGAL

Meet the Master Builders NSW Legal Department Jena Hallani, Hannah Shepard, Robert Collings, Libby Molloy

T

he MBA Legal Department is operated by consultant lawyers and Master Builders Association of NSW (MBA) support staff and is known as “MBA Lawyers”.

MBA Lawyers plays an integral role within the MBA and is a highly valued service amongst its members seeking general and specific legal advice.

MBA Lawyers assists members with a range of matters including choice of contracts, contract interpretation, and advice on specific contract provisions.

The lawyers can also offer members advice on dispute resolution — informal and formal proceedings — as well as provide guidance in relation to contract administration and other legally binding documents.

Advice is provided by telephone and, where more beneficial, a meeting at the MBA or another appropriate venue can be arranged.

MBA Lawyers has seen a change in its team in recent years, so this is a good opportunity to reacquaint members with both the familiar and new faces within MBA Lawyers.

Robert Collings – Head Solicitor Robert Collings has been admitted as a solicitor for 38 years. He has been the Head Solicitor of MBA Lawyers for more than 20 years, and possesses a wealth of expertise, experience, and knowledge in not only building and construction law, but a wide range of legal issues including contractual law, property law, commercial law, and dispute resolution.

Robert has participated in consultations with the State Government in the establishment of the Design and Building Practitioners legislation.

Robert is also a frequent speaker at MBA

NSW Division Meetings, presenting updates regarding changes to legislative and regulatory requirements for builders under the Home Building Act 1989 (NSW), the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 (NSW) and more recently the Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020 (NSW).

Hannah Shephard – Senior Solicitor Hannah Shephard is a highly skilled and qualified legal practitioner who has extensive experience in building and construction law, contractual law and dispute resolution. Hannah has run civil litigation matters in building and construction law in the NSW Local, District and Supreme Courts and the Consumer and Commercial Division and Appeal Panel Unit of the New South Wales Civil and Administrative Tribunal. Hannah has been a long-valued member of MBA Lawyers, having worked for MBA between 2010 and 2018 before leaving to enter private legal practice. She then returned to MBA Lawyers in mid-2021 as one of our two senior solicitors.

Jena Hallani – Junior Solicitor Jena Hallani is a junior legal practitioner who is also the newest member of MBA Lawyers, having commenced with MBA Lawyers in mid2021. She was admitted to legal practice at the beginning of 2021 and has carriage of several matters relating to letters of demand. She also assists in the preparation of court documents and undertakes legal research. Jena is also beginning to assist with providing legal advice to members over the phone.

Libby Molloy – Legal and Administration Officer Libby Molloy plays an essential part of MBA

Lawyers. She is the first point of contact for members contacting us with their legal enquiries, dealing with all calls, emails, and other administrative duties. Libby commenced at MBA NSW as an administration officer within the MBA NSW reception team, and then transferred to MBA Lawyers in 2020. Libby has previous experience in administration and customer service relations.

MBA Lawyers can advise you in the following areas: General Legal Advice — MBA Lawyers offers advice to member builders, contractors, and consultants on a range of issues, both over the telephone and in conference by virtual meeting or appointment.

Dispute Resolution — MBA Lawyers provides information and advice on dispute resolution procedures.

Security of Payment — The Master Builders Association of NSW is an Authorised Nominating Authority [“ANA”] under the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 (NSW). In the role of an ANA, the Association appoints adjudicators to determine matters suitable for adjudication as allowed for under the Act. Understanding Building Contracts — MBA Lawyers’ consulting solicitors are on hand to answer telephone and email enquiries, and to review proposed contracts and special conditions, explain particular contractual terms and to advise builders and contractors on their responsibilities in complying with the law.

Complaints Process — All members of the Master Builders Association are bound by the Association’s Code of Ethics and Fair Business Practice. If you have a complaint against a financial member then the MBA NSW complaints procedure may assist you.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

35

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LEGAL

Personal Liability for Defects for Directors, Supervisors, Project Managers and Developers — under the DBP Act

By Jonathan Nathan Barrister-at-Law University Chambers

I

n a recent decision of the Supreme Court of NSW, the Court found a person who was a project manager and supervisor of the builder personally liable for defective works of the builder under the Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020 (NSW) (DBP Act).

In 2020, the DBP Act was introduced which, amongst other things, mandated a duty of care to be owed by “a person who carries out construction work” (see s. 37 of the DBP Act).

Until recently, there was some doubt

as to who exactly would be “a person who carries out construction work”. For example, it was unclear whether such class of persons was limited to the entity that contracted to do the work (i.e. the builder), the developer or all persons involved in doing the work (e.g. nominated supervisors, directors, project managers and the like).

In the recent decision of Goodwin Street Developments Pty Ltd atf Jesmond Unit Trust v DSD Builders Pty Ltd (in liq) [2022] NSWSC 624, Stevenson J of the Supreme

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

37

LEGAL

Court of NSW determined that a project manager of the builder was liable for defective works under the DBP Act. In that case, the builder was placed into liquidation and the developer brought proceedings against Mr Roberts the husband of a director of the builder.

The Court found that Mr Roberts was a project manager of the builder and had supervised the construction works. On that basis, Mr Roberts was found to be “a person who carried out construction work” within the meaning of the DBP Act and found to be liable for the subsisting defects (see Goodwin at 3 and 137138).

In another decision of Stevenson J in The Owners – Strata Plan No 84674 v Pafburn Pty Ltd [2022] NSWSC 659, proceedings were brought by an owners corporation against a builder and developer. In that case, the Court found, inter alia, that a developer could be

construction works.

held liable under the DBP Act as a person who carried out construction work (see Pafburn at 58). The Court also found that a person could be liable under the DBP Act if that person could have, but not necessarily did, have control of the construction works carried out (see Pafburn at 58).

Given the two decisions referred to above, it now appears that directors, nominated supervisors, project managers, developers and even subcontractors may be liable to owners under the DBP Act as long as it can be shown that such persons could have exercised control over the carrying out of the relevant

The above has far reaching consequences particularly because s. 37 of the DBP Act applies to buildings (defined broadly in the EPAA) where the loss became apparent in the 10 years prior to the commencement of the DBP Act (see clause 5 of Schedule 1 to the DBP Act). For example, in Pafburn, the proceedings were commenced within 5 days of this 10 year limitation period (see Pafburn at 8).

There is however some work to be done in pleading cases against individuals and developers under the DBP Act, as a plaintiff pleading such an action will need to show the specific risks that the relevant defendant was required to manage and the precautions that the defendant should have taken to manage those risks (see The Owners of Strata Plan No. 87060 v Loulach Developments Pty Ltd (no.2) [2021] NSWC1068 at 40 to 44).

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

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LEGAL

New Return To Work Standard of Practice in force SIRA has implemented a new Standard of Practice on the early management of claims and return to work.

S

tandard 34 applies SIRA’s expectations when it comes to return to work and provides an insurer checklist identifying the risk factors for delayed recovery.

SIRA Chief Executive Adam Dent said that the new Standard of Practice supported SIRA’s focus on driving a turnaround in system-wide return to work performance.

“In December 2021, I announced SIRA’s return to work action plan where I committed to undertaking 10 actions aimed at reversing the trend of poor return to work performance,” Mr Dent said.

“One of the actions was for SIRA to introduce a return to work and early intervention Standard of Practice.

“Working in consultation with insurers, we have created a Standard that will help facilitate early recovery and improved return to work outcomes for people in NSW who are injured at work.

“It is my expectation that all insurers in the NSW workers compensation system follow this Standard to achieve best practice claims administration practices.”

The draft Standard was subject to a public consultation from December 2021, with stakeholders invited to provide feedback by the end of February 2022.

SIRA’s consultation with insurers through the first quarter of this year extended to an education session on the supporting research and practical tips for implementation. More than 240 insurer representatives were in attendance.

Standard of Practice 34 applied to all NSW workers compensation claims from 4 April 2022.

Further information Standard of Practice 34: Return to work – early intervention Public consultation on the draft Standard of Practice 34: Return to work – early intervention SIRA’s return to work action plan Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

39

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NSW MASTER BUILDER NEWS

What’s new 2 2 0 2 C C N about The first stage of NCC 2022 ‘Preview’ is here. So, what are the main changes?

T

he NCC 2022 is here, and there is a lot to get across. Here’s an overview of some of themain updates to help you get across the content before it comes into effect.

state,territory and local governments. This change will increase the stock of accessible housing,supporting Australians with disability, older Australians, their families and carers.

Major Changes

Consistent volume structure

Livable housing Volumes One and Two contains new livable housing requirements for Class 1a buildings (houses and townhouses) and Class 2 soleoccupancy units (individual apartments). This puts in place features based on the Livable Housing Design Guidelines silver standard, with a voluntary gold standard also available for features beyond this.

These reforms were developed over many years, in close collaboration with disability support and advocacy groups, occupational therapists, building industry, and

NCC 2022 uses a new structure and clause referencing system to create better consistency across all volumes. While the new SectionPart-Type-Clause system makes the NCC look different at first, it’s allowed us to reorganise the Code’s content to improve user experience, and make it more web accessible.

To help users get used to the new clause reference system, the old clause numbers will continue to be listed on the right hand side of the document as handy reference.

Housing Provisions Standard The Housing Provisions Standard is a significant

format change to the NCC. This new ABCB Standard is introduced to align the structure of the NCC Volumes. It represents the Acceptable Construction Practices’ (ACPs) content previously found in NCC 2019 Volume Two, Section 3. Like the ACPs, it’s referenced by the Deemed-to-Satisfy (DTS) Provisions in Volume Two. To make it easier to understand this change, a more traditional version combining NCC Volume Two and the new Housing Provisions Standard into one document can be downloaded.

Lead free plumbing products A significant change to Volume Three is the new requirement for lead free plumbing products.

NCC 2022 specifies new requirements for any plumbing product containing copper alloy and intended for use in contact with drinking water from 1 September 2025.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

41

NSW MASTER BUILDER NEWS This major reform has long term health improvements that will flow to all Australians.

You can read more in our advice to practitioners on the new lead requirements.

Other Changes Early childhood centres There are new DTS Provisions for early childhood centres in Volume One. Most of these are extra requirements to address the difficulties associated with evacuating young occupants from the upper levels of multi-storey buildings; but some requirements apply for all early childhood centres.

Fire safety of external walls Volume One contains a number of amendments to the fire safety of external walls. This clarifies interpretation of concessions from noncombustibility requirements. Also included is a new provision that prevents fixing of certain bonded laminated cladding panels by adhesive only.

Waterproofing There are new DTS Provisions in Volume Two for waterproofing of wet areas, not previously covered by an ACP.

Volume One contains additional DTS Provisions, providing new solutions for weatherproofing of external walls. These include references to weatherproofing provisions in Australian Standards for masonry, autoclaved aerated concrete and metal wall sheeting.

Plumbing Volume Three contains new provisions for on-site wastewater management, and a new Verification Method for sanitary plumbing and drainage pipe sizing.

Volumes One and Two are amended to require bathrooms and laundries where a floor waste is installed, to have a fall of the floor in order to help drain the surface. This also applies to floor wastes included voluntarily.

A new Verification Method for cross-connection control also allows the user to identify a hazard risk by using a simple-to-follow matrix. Tested extensively across Australia, this Verification Method assists in improving the consistency of installations across all jurisdictions and remove the frustration often seen in the past.

Number of exits

Standards

Falls for floor wastes

Some minor amendments to the required number of exits are in Volume One. This includes a new concession allowing a single exit for a part of a storey in some circumstances,where previously at least two exits were required.

Quantification We continue to quantify the NCC to include a range of Performance Solutions to assist practitioners and designers meet the Performance Requirements. For NCC 2022 the following areas have been quantified:

Waterproofing in Volume One is restructured into three parts to enhance readability and accommodate future changes.

• Water efficiency

Weatherproofing

• Drinking water pressure limits.

• Sanitary plumbing and drainage pipe sizing • Heated water temperature delivery

The latest editions of several new Australian Standards are also adopted by reference in NCC 2022, as part of new DTS Provisions.

For example, AS 3740: 2021 sets out the requirements for the materials, design and installation of waterproofing for domestic wetareas for residential buildings.

Where can I find out more?

NCC 2022 will initially be available to download from NCC Online as a pdf only. The onlineversion will be available shortly thereafter.

Printed copies of NCC 2022 will be made available for sale from our commercial providers later in the year, once the second stage of the NCC is finalised.

The ABCB will continue to release guidance on NCC 2022 throughout the year.

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

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NSW MASTER BUILDER NEWS

38,000 new homes from Parramatta to Inner West NSW Department of Planning and Environment

M

ore than 38,000 new homes and around 66,000 new jobs are on their way for Parramatta and along Parramatta Road, after plans for the future of the area progressed.

Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts said the NSW Government had finalised changes to planning rules around Parramatta CBD, guiding a vibrant and robust future for Greater Sydney’s second CBD. “Parramatta is one of the fastest-growing local government areas in Western Sydney, and this proposal will make it an even better place to live and work,” Mr Roberts said.

“We need to optimise land for homes while building sustainable and resilient communities.

The finalisation of these plans are the culmination of work with Parramatta City Council to unlock more than 11,000 new homes and almost 16,000 new jobs in the CBD.” Mr Roberts said comprehensive traffic studies

along Parramatta Road have also wrapped up, showing what infrastructure is required to support 27,000 new homes and 55,000 new jobs that will be created along the corridor in the next two decades.

“We are also investing $49 million towards significant infrastructure projects in the area.

The NSW Government is backing Parramatta and setting our city up for the future. This is a great win for the local community.”

“Work is already underway to bring to life our vision for the road and surrounds. The completion of this analysis enables councils to progress planning proposals to unlock hundreds of millions – if not billions – of dollars' worth of investment,” he said.

Infrastructure to be delivered over the next 12 months includes:

Member for Parramatta Geoff Lee welcomed the finalisation of the proposal for Parramatta CBD.

• Bridge Street;

“It has always been my goal to make Parramatta Sydney’s second CBD. So by finalising the changes to the planning rules around Parramatta’s CBD, we can unlock more land and essentially build more homes,” Mr Lee said.

• Construction of a new park at Albert and Prince St in Granville, and;

• Upgrades to Alfred Street Bridge; • Significant improvements to the streetscapes in Alfred Street, Good Street and • Open space for a new Urban Plaza at Granville;

• Upgrades to F.S. Garside Park in Granville.

For more information visit the Planning Portal website.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

43

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NSW MASTER BUILDER NEWS

NEW TECHNOLOGY BUILDING QUALITY SCHOOLS FASTER

H

igh quality schools are set to be built and upgraded faster than ever before, with the NSW Government rolling out a revolutionary new way of delivering schools.

The NSW Government has partnered with the construction sector to develop the ‘pavilion’ model, which allows high quality schools to be delivered in months instead of years.

Pavilions are designed and constructed offsite and assembled in a matter of weeks on the school site, saving time, construction costs and minimising disruption.

Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said the new model would transform how schools were built in NSW and has been a game changer for our students and the building industry.

“Thanks to the NSW Government’s historic $15 billion investment in school building, NSW is leading the way in school design, manufacturing and technology – creating world leading schools for our students and providing a major boost to our construction industry,” Ms Mitchell said.

“By pioneering the pavilion approach, we are ensuring we can provide permanent, high quality classrooms reducing the need for Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

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NSW MASTER BUILDER NEWS

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demountables on our school sites.

“The pavilion approach has the potential to cut construction time by 30 per cent, and construction costs by 20 per cent, by building schools in a more sustainable and efficient way.

“The sheer volume of school building projects has allowed us to push industry to find innovative ways to deliver schools sooner and reduce the impact on local communities while retaining high quality.

to be constructed faster, more efficiently and safely but also offered design flexibility, high quality components and strong sustainability outcomes.

“Our fully designed product can be built 50% faster than a conventional build and provides the flexibility to be designed into infinite configurations to meet the needs of different schools, locations and future growth. It really is the future of building schools,” Mr Mason said.

The pavilion model takes the Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) pilot that delivered new primary schools in Jordan Springs, Schofields, Catherine Field, Denham Court and Wagga Wagga to the next level.

The school building program in NSW now totals an investment of $15 billion with $7.9 billion being invested over the next four years in 215 schools, building on $7 billion in infrastructure delivered since 2017.

“With a mix of traditional school construction and the new pavilion approach, we will create schools that grow naturally with their communities,” Ms Mitchell said.

An upgrade at Fern Bay Public School near Newcastle piloted the pavilion model with a total construction time of 12 weeks including just six weeks of on-site assembly.

Lipman delivered the Fern Bay Public School upgrade and Manager – Design & Innovation, Phillip Tondl said the project clearly demonstrates the benefits of this method.

“Works on site were completed in six weeks due to high levels of prefabrication in the large, panelised building components. In spite of COVID and wet weather during construction, a building of high quality was delivered on time at Fern Bay,” Mr Tondl said.

Built is another builder delivering schools via modern methods of construction, including early contractor involvement contracts for the Murwillumbah Education Campus and Wee Waa High School.

Built CEO & Managing Director Brett Mason said Built’s product not only allows schools Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

47

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Design studio ‘directs’ the goals and aspirations of clients to produce prize-winning projects CREATING ENJOYABLE ENVIRONMENTS FOR WORK AND RELAXATION

T

HE creation of architecture involves many people and disciplines to produce a successful project.

Architects themselves seem to imitate the role of the movie director, controlling and coaxing the core message, continuously assessing and subtly directing the process to achieve the final solution.

No one is more aware of this than James Fitzpatrick who, after studying architecture in Tasmania, explored theatre and film design at the National Institute of Dramatic Art in Sydney. fitzpatrick+partners was created in August 2001, evolving from an independent design studio formed by James Fitzpatrick a year earlier. The award-winning design studio with 45 architects is considered one of the leading commercial architecture practices, with current and completed commissions across Australia.

“The skill is to take a client’s goals and aspirations, develop and evolve these into successful projects which meet and exceed their requirements, and in doing so reflect our philosophy about architecture,” James Fitzpatrick said.

“The result celebrates the solution, not only the technology and principles of construction, but, most importantly, it embraces the full project idea and concept, creating enjoyable environments for both work and relaxation,” he added.

We visited fitzpatrick+partners in the heart of the Sydney CBD. The lift doors open and you know you are in a studio. The warmth of informality radiates from every corner, welcoming you to share in the activities on show. The space fits us like a glove; it instils a moral and work ethic into a singular and clear message from the moment of entry.

Immediately we’re treated to the warmth, colour and aroma of the Tassie oak floor, wall and ceiling that includes a 700 sq m ‘Woodsmith’

This journey led us to utilising a new engineered timber floor product developed in Tasmania by NSFP. This prefinished Tas Oak engineered board is installed throughout the 700square metre studio space, and informs the overall aesthetic of the space The lift doors open and you know you are in a studio. pre-finished engineered timber floor which informs the aesthetic of the space.

The design studio’s detailing is quiet but considered. When viewed closely, it shows an understanding of the material and how it can be manipulated to its end purpose. The studio is akin to a workshop – timber stools, commissioned timber benches, tables, door pulls and chairs and ply cabinetry, all carefully considered functional workpieces fitting its intended purpose and informing the overall singular message that great architecture is always functional architecture.

The timber flooring in the studio was supplied

by Responsible Wood-certified Neville Smith Forest Products in Launceston, one of Australia’s largest and most advanced processors of certified sustainable regrowth forest and wood products, operating in Tasmania since 1924.

The sawmill manufactures high-value appearancegrade products from sustainably-managed and certified forests, supplying both domestic and overseas markets under the Abelwood and Woodsmith brands.

standing commitment, again sponsoring the certified timber category in the 2022 awards to be held later this year.

Now in their 23rd year, the awards are distinguished by a proud heritage of innovation and achievement that promotes and encourages outstanding timber design.

Responsible Wood acknowledges building projects where Australian timber is used and where credentials for sustainability and legality of wood are confirmed through Responsible Wood, PEFC, or FSC certification.

Responsible Wood marketing and communications officer Jason Ross relishes the importance of forest certification in

The design is a kit of parts, imbued with a starting formation but allowing for change as how we work will continue to evolve.

The Tasmanian Oak solid profiles were supplied

by Responsible Wood-certified Britton Timbers also in Tasmania. fitzpatrick+partners was one of the finalists in the 2021 Australian Timber Design Awards in the Australian Certified Timber category, sponsored by Responsible Wood, Australia’s largest forest certification scheme, winning the best use of timber in a commercial interior award.

Responsible Wood has renewed its long-

demonstrating the sustainable origins of timber used on building projects.

“Timber is good but certified timber is much better,” Jason said.

To find our more fitzpatrick+partners please visit: www.fitzpatrickpartners.com.

To find out more about forest certification in Australia please visit: www.responsiblewood.org.au.

Photos — Mark Skye: msarchphoto.com Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

49

‘

’ ATO certifie Single d for To Payrolluch

Taking your construction company to the next level?

‘

BEAMS: THE ONLY COMPLETELY INTEGRATED CONSTRUCTION SOFTWARE AVAILABLE TODAY!

The BEAMS system has everything needed to transform the average construction company into a professional systemised business With BEAMS, there is no need to switch between other programs when estimating, quoting or keeping track of your accounts.

BEAMS was designed for the construction industry in 1989 and the software is now used by many companies in many sectors.

Unlike others systems in the market, BEAMS is a complete, fully integrated Estimating, Scheduling and Accounting system with the addition of a Mobile application to deal with all the supervisor’s onsite activities. This means no double up of processes or information as it flows seamlessly from one section of the program to the next — saving time and frustration.

BEAMS also allows you more control over your data, allowing you to store your valuable data locally rather than relying on internet connections or cloud based applications.

Ask about our no-obligation free demo!

Features include; • CRM with direct email leads and customer portal.

• CAD Image for fast accurate on screen take offs.

• Quotes Register and auto Addenda selections.

• Purchase Orders and integrated Variations.

• Progress Claims, Percentage Claims and Retentions.

• Full Accounting including auto BAS, Cashflow and WIP. • Job Cost control with security settings for overpayments.

• BEAMS Mobile for onsite construction time line scheduling.

• Document Storage for emails, letters, images etc.

Full integration and functionality streamlines your entire business.

Provides fast quotes, documents, scheduling, purchase orders and reports – anytime, anywhere.

Delivers fully detailed quotes in just 30 minutes.

Suits sole trader sub-contractors right up to Top 100 Builders.

10% ongoing discount for all HIA and MBA members, on initial software purchases.

Building Estimation & Management Software

1300 040 446

Still the #1 choice for construction industry software in Australia

AUSTRALIAN MADE AND OWNED

AUSTRALIAN MADE AND OWNED

www.beamsbuild.com.au

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Much more than a building quoting software package, BEAMS easily streamlines all the complex processes

T

hey say necessity is the mother of invention and when it comes to the success story of the construction software, BEAMS – this saying couldn’t be truer.

experienced and dedicated team who are constantly looking for ways to improve the package which is in perpetual development as the market changes and users’ needs evolve.

Founded in Perth by director Peter Fonte, the concept for the software came about when, working as a builder himself, he realised the need for an integrated building package.

When it comes to setting itself apart from other similar products on the market, BEAMS offers the unparalleled knowledge and understanding of a builder / company director with years of practical, hands-on experience.

BEAMS was five years in the making and although initially developed for internal use only, the ease and functionality of the software prompted them to make it available for commercial use in 1994.

Since then, BEAMS has enabled a greater understanding of what is required to manage and maintain a profitable business thanks to its coverage of the entire building process.

Unique in its offering, BEAMS covers web leads in CRM, estimating with CAD Image, scheduling and accounts, plus the addition of mobile functionality.

In addition to this, BEAMS is backed by an

“BEAMS software was developed by a builder who understands the wants and needs of users within the construction industry,” Peter said.

Mobile — to name a few.”

And while having a vast offering is a key point of business for BEAMS Software, simplicity and functionality have always been areas in which they endeavour to deliver time and time again.

“Users are able to prepare quotes quickly and respond to their clients in a timely fashion,” Peter said.

“We offer the ability to maintain accurate cost control which results in better profits, including time-line scheduling.

“BEAMS customer support is suited to both the East and West coast, resulting in the longest support hours for our Clients.

“BEAMS is keeping up with legislation changes including GST, T Par, Super Stream, Single Touch Payroll and provides full financial reporting, including BAS & PAYG.”

“We are currently the only software provider that integrates the functions of at least nine separate applications generally required to manage and operate a successful business, such as word processing, document storage, estimating, scheduling, CAD Image Take-off, email monitoring, accounting, CRM & Beams

Backed by more than 28 years in business and a relentlessly dedicated team, it is easy to see why BEAMS continues to lead the way in the construction software industry and with international expansion plans in the pipeline, it seems the sky is the limit for this innovative company.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

51

BE BOLD WITH 305 LONGLINE

®

DESIGNED FOR AUSTRALIA. SHAPED BY LYSAGHT. Building on the Lysaght heritage of 100 years of manufacturing in Australia, LYSAGHT LONGLINE 305® cladding delivers a stunning visual statement on any home thanks to its slender, high ribs and broad flat pans. Available in a range of COLORBOND® steel colours and finishes, LONGLINE 305® is just one of Lysaght’s striking range of inspirational profiles.

AVAILABLE NOW FROM LYSAGHT. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT LYSAGHT.COM LYSAGHT®, LONGLINE 305® and COLORBOND® are registered trademarks of BlueScope Steel Limited. © BlueScope Steel Limited May 2022 ABN 16 000 011 058. All rights reserved.

INSPIRATION TO BUILD BETTER

ADVERTISING FEATURE

LONGLINE 305®

the obvious cladding choice

Kenny Street House featuring LYSAGHT LONGLINE 305® shaped from COLORBOND® steel.

W

hen clients talk about ‘sustainable design’, not everyone is on the same page. For some, it’s about reducing their impact on the environment over the longer term. Others, though, have more immediate goals in mind.

That was the case for the owners of this outstanding home, winner in the Residential Projects category in the most recent Lysaght Inspirations Design Awards. Director of Chan Architecture, Anthony Chan, says thermal comfort was the driving force behind their interest in sustainable design.

“It was not so much that they were solely focused on sustainability, but they did want to be comfortable without the need for mechanical heating and cooling,” he says. “It was all about a well-performing house that would save them money in the longer term.”

Chan designed a two-storey home with three bedrooms and two bathrooms plus a more private living space on the upper floor featuring a skylight. A guest bedroom and ensuite on the ground floor is off to one side of the entranceway but central to the design is a spacious open plan kitchen, dining living space, characterised by a double height void.

A simple palette of concrete, timber and steel creates a rhythm for the internal spaces that is at once contemporary and warm while the masculine angles of the spaces are broken up with more feminine curves for the walls of the bathroom and living space upstairs. Chan says the challenge was balancing the desire for privacy with the need for space.

“They really liked that sense of space,” he says.

“They are definitely people who like to spend time at home, and they wanted that feeling of space internally.”

To ensure the house performed well, Chan positioned the house on the 2000sqm block so that the main living areas faced north, allowing the polished concrete slab to passively regulate temperatures, keeping the house naturally cooler in summer when the sun is higher and warmer in winter as the slab releases heat into the evening.

A thermal chimney directs hot air up and out of the house via windows on the top floor and the entire house has been heavily insulated, with the ceiling insulated to R7, the highest insulation batts available on the Australian market right now.

Outside, LONGLINE 305® cladding was the obvious choice, thanks to its versatility, flexibility and reflective qualities.

“The clients really wanted longevity and robustness and we wanted a product that could wrap around the building,” says Chan. “That pretty much narrowed it down to LONGLINE 305® cladding.”

Shaped from COLORBOND® steel in colour Surfmist®, the cladding also reflects, rather than absorbs the heat.

“The idea was that they wanted something that would reflect the light and make sure that it didn’t get too hot inside,” he says.

The sloping roof also allowed plenty of space for a substantial photovoltaic system, providing

more than enough power for the family.

Timber cladding and stacked stone break up the facade, while recessed reveals on the upper windows add depth and a sense of permanence to the home.

“When we do these recessed reveals, it makes it look a bit more substantial and gives it a bit of depth,” Chan says. “The advantage of using LYSAGHT® products is that we’re assured that it’s all shaped from COLORBOND® steel so the flashings are the same colour as the cladding so that it looks like it is wrapping.”

Given the local region was once dominated by farmland and orchards, the choice of cladding was also a nod to the history of the site, albeit a more sophisticated treatment thanks to the taller ribs and sharp shadows of the LONGLINE 305® profile.

“When we got there, the old farmhouse was still on it,” Chans says. “It had been butchered over the years, so we designed this as a reference to the history of the site, with a barn-like shape.”

And after several months in the house, you could say the new building is already bearing fruit.

“It was always hard to know how well it would perform so I got in touch with the owners a few months after they moved in,” he says. “They said it was amazing all through their first winter - the temperature never dropped lower than 19 degrees inside the house. For such a big internal space with a double height void, that was a great result.”

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

53

ADVERTISING FEATURE

FMC embrace innovation

I

n this day and age, we are constantly faced with higher expectations, challenging designs, and new method requirements — the Ronald McDonald House in Perth was one such build. As an international charity that helps the families of sick children with support and accommodation during their times of treatment, it was essential that the building be an exemplary design and construction for this type of project and purpose. The building achieved a LEED [Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design] Silver rating and a global recognition and certification for environmentally sustainable buildings — the first of its kind in Australia.

Several significant challenges presented themselves at Ronald McDonald House.

In particular, the new construction method affected the supporting basement retaining walls by creating gaps in the structure large enough for a small child to squeeze through. As with every unique project, this required a new

way of thinking.

The Homeguard team at FMC Australasia proudly assisted the HomeGuard Accredited Installer, Termico Pest Management Services, to install a HomeGuard Termite Management System. The solution was HomeGuard termite protection ‘sheeting’ – it provided great flexibility coupled with chemical repellence that could wrap the retaining walls and cover all entry points from subterranean termite infestation with no worries about exposure to residents as it is fully contained in the sheeting’s matrix.

HomeGuard is designed, researched and developed in Australia for Australian conditions to last for the design life of the building. So, Ronald McDonald House can rest assured that in the future their limited funds can be spent on the young patients and their families, not on continual termite treatments.

Perth’s Ronald McDonald House by Perth Architect Gerry Kho, built by Doric Construction HomeGuard installed by Termico Pest Management Services, and supported by FMC Australia.

Manufactured in Australia

54

MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

ADVERTISING FEATURE

BEST PRACTICE CONSTRUCTION TO ENSURE BUILDERS ACHIEVE COMPLIANCE TO AS3700:2018 and NCC:2019 FOR REINFORCED MASONRY

I

n 2018, following research by the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Australian Standard AS3700 was revised, relaxing stringency on the detailing of the vertical steel, recognising the true contribution of the grout used to fill the cores and removing the limitation of the allowable grout strength.

As a result, designers can now design Reinforced Masonry walls under compression in multi-storey buildings up to 19-storeys under AS3700:2018, whereas under the 2011 Standard, the limit was three storeys.

The 2018 research by QUT and amendment to the Standard opened up opportunities for Reinforced Masonry. However, AS3700:2018 states that the vertical reinforcement must be surrounded by an annulus of grout of at least two times the diameter of the reinforcing bar.

The masonry industry is well aware of the difficulty in ensuring reinforcement is placed accurately in reinforced masonry, so to achieve the required annulus of grout, the vertical reinforcement must be placed and securely restrained to ensure it is maintained centrally in

the core during the core filling operation.

Without using a locating device, this level of accuracy is impossible to achieve with every vertical bar, from the top to the bottom of the wall. Bar chairs are used in other reinforced concrete structures to locate reinforcement and maintain correct cover. BlockAid has designed bar chairs for Reinforced Masonry, to provide masons and builders with a device that ensures the reinforcement is correctly placed and held in position during core filling to ensure the construction achieves compliance to AS3700:2018, NCC:2019 and the engineering design for the construction.

Testing by QUT has shown the performance of BlockAid bar chairs is equivalent to using 6mm round bar cross ties that the National Construction Code requires for reinforced masonry. The industry does not use 6mm round bar cross ties as they are not practical, nor do they necessarily correctly position the vertical reinforcement, it is still up to the diligence of the contractor.

bar chairs will save up to 20% of labour over the minimum expected workmanship of tying the vertical to the horizontal. The industry is aware that most block layers don’t even tie the vertical, so the chances of being compliant are minimal.

Ensure the Reinforced Masonry in your next building project will achieve compliance by insisting the design engineer specifies bar chairs to accurately locate and maintain the reinforcement in position. Non-compliant masonry can no longer be accepted and builders can be assured that Reinforced Masonry in their projects will be compliant when bar chairs are used. Compliance is essential for all stakeholders when building multi-storey Reinforced Masonry constructions, so best practice construction using bar chairs should be mandatory.

Bar chair engineering specification drawings are available on the BlockAid website: www.blockaid.com.au

The advantage of using bar chairs to accurately locate and restrain the reinforcement is that Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

55

REGIONAL ROUNDUP

ALBURY / WODONGA

Riverina Murray Excellence in Building Murray Division Annual Members Dinner O Awards ur Murray Division Annual Members Dinner was held at the Commercial Club on May 17, 2022.

T

his year’s Riverina Murray Regions Excellence in Building Awards was the first event back since 2019 due to the pandemic, held on April 1, 2022.

The event was also moved to Albury (Commercial Club) after being held in Wagga previously. Congratulations to all our Award Winners for 2022.

We are looking forward to next year.

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

We had two guest speakers for the night, Joe Keiper from Master Builders Insurance Brokers, and Michael McLinden, Master Builders Building services.

Topics of discussion included the NSW Home Warranty Changes, Construction Insurance pricing increases and changes to the NCC.

For any questions regarding any of our division events or CPD points, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.

Laura English: 0487 067 678 / lenglish@mbansw.asn.au

REGIONAL ROUNDUP

ALBURY / WODONGA

Albury Gold Cup Race Day Fashions and Fun Master Builders Murray Division held its Albury Gold Cup Race Day on March 25

A

great day was had with over 120 local members and sponsors attending our marquee.

We would like to thank all our Murray Division Sponsors for their ongoing support. These events would not be possible without you.

Murray Division Sponsors: Australian Gas Networks, DLG Aluminum & Glazing, Belbridge Hague Law, Bunnings Trade, Dahlsens, Ground Up Building Products, Wodonga Border Carpets, eGarage Systems, James Hardie, Foster Hydronic Heating, Innovation Steel Frame & Truss, Macktronix, Johnsons MME, Jacob Toyota, Origin Energy, Master Builders Insurance Brokers, North East Bin Hire and Steeline.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

57

SYDNEY’S PREMIER LUXURY DISPLAY VILLAGE

FINAL REMAINING SPOT AVAILABLE

2 ERNESTA PLACE, BELLA VISTA

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST OFFERS CLOSING 5TH AUGUST An incredible opportunity exists to own not only a piece of real estate in arguably one of Sydney’s fastest growing areas in the North West being the suburb of Bella Vista. It also is an opportunity for that premium builder to elevate their business and form part of an exclusive group of elite builders in Sydney which is HomeQuest.

ANITA MIROSEVIC��McGrath West�|

The land is located In a prime position, the corner allotment which is 701.6 sqm of lovely levelled land ready for that exclusive Display Home to be built and showcased.

HomeQuest is a hand picked group of Australia’s most trust worthy builders and purchasing this land and forming part of this esteemed group will go hand in hand and as such there will be fees associated.

M 0414 305 077�| D 02 9407 7800�|

W mcgrath.com.au

REGIONAL ROUNDUP

BALLINA

Special guests, and a special Thank You M

aster Builders Northern recently held a brilliant Members Information Night combining North Coast and Tweed Divisions at the beautiful venue Harvest, Newrybar!

MBA Northern were honoured to have special guest presenter Denita Wawn, Master Builders Australia CEO, who openly interacted with Members addressing local issues for builders and construction on the Northern Rivers along with the matters Flood Disaster and Recovery in the region. A huge thanks also to guest presenters and major sponsors of Master Builders NSW; Keystone Lawyers and James Hardie Australia.

Northern Rivers Flood Disaster Recovery A huge Thank You to all the Members and local tradies who volunteered their time to help the community or who registered with the MBA Flood Recovery Assistance. It was a challenging time for the region and the community spirit has been commendable.

NEED 12 CPD POINTS IN A DAY? Register now for the North Coast CPD Seminar – Wednesday, August 10, 2022 — Ballina RSL.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

59

REGIONAL ROUNDUP

BALLINA

Receiving their award at the lectern is the Commercial Builder of the year, Bennett Constructions.

Winners of the Northern Regions Building Major Awards 2021

Active Pest Management.

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

Tara Rhoades.

Thank you for all the spectacular entries! Long awaited celebrations were held at Twin Towns Coolangatta, on Friday, May 27.

REGIONAL ROUNDUP

Foley Constructions.

David Smith.

Graham McGuiggan and Luke Reeves – Master Builders NSW

The award being received on behalf of Izac Monsuere.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

61

REGIONAL ROUNDUP

GOSFORD

2021 Central Coast Division Apprenticeship Awards T

he 2021 Central Coast Division Apprenticeship Awards were postponed last year Due to COVID-19. We were very fortunate that we were able to hold the event on Thursday 7 April at Ourimbah TAFE. It was great to be able to recognise the outstanding achievements of the Class of 21.

Cameron Mills

Thank you to the Ourimbah TAFE Staff, MBA Central Coast Committee, employers and the award sponsors for being an integral part of this fantastic event.

Major Award recipients Certificate III Carpentry 1st Year Apprentice

Jordan Reynolds Sponsored by: MITRE 10

Daniel Sloggett

Certificate III Carpentry 2nd Year Apprentice

John Latu Sponsored by: ELWD WORKWEAR Certificate III Carpentry 3rd Year Apprentice

Brandon Lehto Sponsored by: SANCTUARY NEW HOMES Certificate III Stage 1/2 MID

Cameron Mills Sponsored by: DAHLSENS Certificate III Stage 2/3 MID

Daniel Sloggett

Zoe Ifield

Sponsored by PGH BRICKS & PAVERS Certificate III Stage 3 MID

Jai Treadwell Sponsored by: SYDNEY TOOLS Certificate IV Building & Construction

Zoe Ifield Sponsored by: NORTH CONSTRUCTION & BUILDING President’s Award 2021

Jack Campbell Sponsored by MBA Central Coast Division

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

Jack Campbell

REGIONAL ROUNDUP

GOSFORD

Central Coast Office Opening A

great night with our local members to celebrate the Central Coast Division’s 60 year anniversary and to officially open the new Tuggerah office.

The amazing team at Kubarz served up some tasty canapes and kept our guests hydrated throughout the evening. A special thanks to our guest speaker Brian Seidler, MBA Executive Director for officially opening the office.

Division Information Night – Harvey Norman Commercial

A

big thanks to Matthew and the team at Harvey Norman Commercial for hosting our Central Coast Division Night on Tuesday 3 May.

The members were impressed by the large range of products on display in the showroom. Also a shout out to our guest presenters Cameron Spence: MBA Workplace Relations Manager; Ray Walters: Caroma and Rob Rennie: Eurolinx.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

63

FINANCE & CAR BUYING

EXCLUSIVE MEMBER DEALS

MBA

Call Ogarit today on:

0414 919 194 | 1300 760 366 With 20 years experience in the finance industry, Ogarit will find you the best member deals on funding and new vehicle pricing.

REGIONAL ROUNDUP

ORANGE

Central West & Orana Division Nights

A

s with every division across the state, construction in our region is incredibly busy and facing significant challenges with surging costs for materials, worker shortages, supply chain delays and looming interest rate rises.

Off the back of this, the timing couldn’t have been better to have Brian Seidler, Executive Director Master Builders Association NSW and Rob Collings, Head Solicitor, MBA Legal, present to our members at both Orana and Central West Divisions this month.

On the table for discussion was: • Material cost increases and delays — what can be done • How to recover money from homeowners using the Security of Payment Act • Impact of the Design and Building Practitioners Act​​​​ If you couldn’t make it to the division night, don’t forget that you can call MBA at any time for assistance and guidance.

Call Katie on 0458 243 976 or 02 6362 6895.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

65

REGIONAL ROUNDUP

ULLADULLA

T SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS DIVISION RACE DAY

he Southern Highlands President & Committee organised a Race Day in Goulburn on Friday 18 March.

This was the first race day for this Division and those who attended thoroughly enjoyed the day and would like to see this become an annual event.

Thank you to sponsors, Milliminum Windows, Laros Technology, Mitre 10 Goulburn, Divells Haulage and Concrete 4 Goulburn which made this event possible.

SAFEWORK NSW BREAKFASTS IN THE SOUTHERN REGIONS: T hank you to SafeWork NSW who has been supporting the building industry in the Southern Regions for many years thanks to Derek Pryor, SafeWork Regional Manager, South East.

If they are not attending our Division Nights,

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

they are sponsoring early morning breakfasts in all the southern regions as well as attending and presenting an Award at the Southern Regions Building Awards.

Their support and guidance to Members is very much appreciated.

ICARE WORKERS COMPENSATION WORKSHOP – BATEMANS BAY

A

dam O’Leary and David Huxley presented a very informative presentation on Workers Compensation in Batemans Bay where 40 people attended and asked a lot of questions on Workers Compensation.

REGIONAL ROUNDUP

ULLADULLA

FIRST AID TRAINING – ULLADULLA & GOULBURN

S

tudents attended First Aid Training in Ulladulla May and Goulburn in June.

First Aid is an essential life skill that is relevant to all workers that not only benefit you in the workplace but also in the home or everyday environments. This course is open to everyone, as you never know when you may need to provide first aid assistance to someone in trouble.

Photos showing students working hard to learn how to save lives.

ASBESTOS TRAINING – ULLADULLA

T

raining for the removal of Asbestos was held in the Ulladulla office in May.

Asbestos is a health and safety hazard that can be found in ceiling tiles, floor tiles, roofing shingles, eaves, pipes and in showers. This short course will teach you to identify and dispose correctly of non-friable asbestoscontaining materials found in structures or soils to minimise risk in the workplace.

Ideal for anyone working in the building and construction industry.

Master Builders is an approved SafeWork NSW asbestos training provider for unit code CPCCDE3014 Remove non-friable asbestos.

It has been such a long time since this course was held in Ulladulla due to Covid restrictions.

Please contact the Ulladulla Office if you require this training.

ENTRIES NOW OPEN SOUTHERN REGIONS EXCELLENCE IN BUILDING AWARDS 2022

E

ntries are now open to enter the Southern Regions Excellence in Building Awards through the MBA Website.

The gala presentation night will be held Saturday 29th October at the Ulladulla Civic Centre, Ulladulla.

The regional awards recognise excellence in the southern regions in all areas of building, spotlighting excellence for both your peers and the public.

Entries will close in July.

HIGH PROFILE VISITORS AT M MEETING

SHOALHAVEN DIVISION MEETING embers were pleased to have Denita Wawn, MBA Australia Executive Director attend their Division Meeting in April as well as MBA Lawyer Rob Collings.

WOLLONDILLY COUNCIL RECOVERY & RESILIENCE EXPO:

W

ollondilly Council organised an Expo in Mittagong on Recovery, Response and Resilience after the huge bushfires in their area in 2019.

They had many specialist organisations attending and presenting on what they could do better if this ever happened again.

MBA were invited to attend and represent the Association.

SOUTHERN REGIONS EVENTS JUNE – AUGUST 2022 7 June 8 June 8 June 9 June 15 June 23 June 8 July 13 July 10 Aug 11 Aug 17 Aug 24 Aug 25 Aug

Hume Division Meeting Campbelltown Southern Highlands Division Moss Vale SafeWork NSW Safety Regional Roadshow Wollongong SafeWork NSW Safety Regional Roadshow Batemans Bay South Coast Division Meeting Mollymook Mitre 10 Trade Show Pambula Award Entries Close Southern Highlands Division Meeting Goulburn Southern Highlands Division Meeting Moss Vale Hume Division Meeting Campbelltown South Coast Division Meeting Worrigee Far South Coast Industry Update Merimbula Snowy Mountains Division Meeting Cooma

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

67

REGIONAL ROUNDUP

ILLAWARRA

Just like old times!

I

t feels like it’s been years since we were last able to host events face to face.

Finally, the last few months have pleasantly seen the return of a variety of our events.

Members have been welcomed back to Division Meetings, Safework Breakfasts and CPD Seminars.

Both Cronulla and Illawarra Division meetings are back to their regular schedules. The Cronulla Division has enjoyed a range of speakers including MBA Legal, MBIB, Fairwork NSW and James Hardie. The Illawarra Division have also returned to regular meetings at the Wollongong Branch. The first of which, also finally gave us the opportunity to present a long overdue award to one of our local members.

Brian Burns of Burnshaw Constructions reached a 50 year service milestone! MBA NSW Executive Director, Brian Seidler was on hand to present Brian with his Certificate of Recognition.

Congratulations Brian Burns!

Both Division Committees have met and mapped out a calendar of meetings and events to be held throughout the year.

CPD Seminars are also back with our northern members returning to the St George Motor Boat Club in March, while the Illawarra CPD seminar is just around the corner. This year’s CPD Seminar will be held on June 8 at the City Beach Function Centre. With a great line up of speakers, we are excited to host another successful local event.

Lastly, SafeWork NSW provided members with a breakfast and Toolbox talk on May 5 to discuss local current and emerging safety issues. Derek Pryor and his team covered safety topics including mental health, scaffolding and silica dust safety. These breakfasts continue to be a great way to connect and share ideas on improving safety matters concerning local industry.

All in all, it’s been a busy few months, but it’s great to be back catching up with members, just like old times.

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

Brian Burns receiving his 50 Year Certificate of Recognition from Brian Seidler.

REGIONAL ROUNDUP

PORT MACQUARIE

Esteemed industry representatives on hand O

n March 8, 2022, the Port Macquarie office hosted a dinner with David Chandler OAM, NSW Building Commissioner, Matt Whitton, Director of Building and Construction Compliance, NSW Fair Trading, Laurence Richey, Director of Construction Service Regional, SafeWork NSW and Brian Seidler, Executive Director of Master Builders Association NSW. The dinner was held at Sails, Port Macquarie, with over 100 people from the local construction industry in attendance. It is the first time the Building Commissioner, NSW Fair Trading, SafeWork NSW & SIRA have collaborated in such a way and the focus is to improve compliance, build quality and site safety in the construction industry.

The new Yellow Card Initiative to identify skills and knowledge gaps was announced, and Fair Trading showed they are committed to lifting the standards and ensuring trustworthy developments are being delivered to the people of NSW. SafeWork NSW explained they have a zerotolerance for unsafe working conditions and fines will apply to those people and companies, who risk their workers and the public safety, with unsafe work practices.

The event was held on International Women’s Day, so it was appropriate for local woman, Lisa Warwick, the winner of the MBA High Achiever Award, to share her journey of completing her Bachelor of Construction Management with Honours through Newcastle University.

She is in a male dominated industry, working fulltime as a Contracts Manager with AW Edwards and raising a young family. Impressed

by Lisa as a role model to all the talented women working in our industry, David Chandler celebrated this by presenting Lisa with his Vintage Rabone Wooden Yardstick (36 inch) Rule. The rule was bought for David by Austin Edwards, when he was an apprentice carpenter with AW Edwards in the 1960s, as it was one of the first tools required for his tool kit.

To finish the night, we held a panel, where our attendees were invited to ask questions and interact with our speakers. It was an honour to host these esteemed representatives of our industry in our town, and we look forward to it happening again.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

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REGIONAL ROUNDUP

NEWCASTLE NEWCASTLE

‘A night to remember’ delivered encouraging messages of overcoming, resilience and gratitude

I

t is safe to say that you could hear a pin drop, and quite possibly not a dry eye in the house and leaving with a heart full of gratitude. Life Beyond Fear was presented

by Mark Matthews, a professional big wave surfer and now inspirational speaker.

Life Beyond Fear was an event organised by the Hunter Committee, held at the Master Builders Office in Newcastle on May 5 and boy, what a fantastic night it was! Around 120 members and guests heard first hand his incredible story of rising to become a professional big wave surfer, his personal insight on strengthening your mindset to face challenges, overcome adversity, sustaining long term performance and personal growth.

Not only did we hear from Mark and his life changing story but there were a number of other talents showcased during the evening; the first few hours of the event were spent observing the incredibly talented artist, Daniel

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

Joyce, who airbrushed a portrait of Mark Matthews on a surfboard, we heard delicate and acoustic tunes performed by John Larder and we had a Screaming Jets drummer, Craig Rosie Rosevear, run the auction to raise funds for Jenny’s Place.

Jenny’s Place, Women’s Domestic Violence & Homelessness Support, a Newcastlebased not for profit charity was chosen by the Hunter Committee to raise funds for, which in turn raised $3000 from prizes including the airbrushed surfboard, a dolphin swim experience in Nelson Bay, and a couple of lucky door prizes.

Mark Matthew’s story touched everyone in that room, you could feel the highs and lows of his

story through a visual presentation, snippets of riding those big waves and becoming immersed in his story when he overcame the lowest point in his life. Mark committed to answering the crowd’s questions about the younger generation tackling their goals and without a doubt everyone reaching out to their loved ones with their own gratitude message.

A night to remember, thank you to everyone who bought this event to life! A big thank you to our sponsor, Newcastle MBA, Slimes Boardstore and Dolphin Swim Australia.

REGIONAL ROUNDUP

Newcastle Master Builders Apprentices Scheme Update N ewcastle MBA Group Training has had an extremely busy start to the year with our “New start Apprentice/Trainee” intake.

This has been quite an achievement for all and is great to see that the industry is booming.

has found that “recruitment has been strong and consistent throughout this year so far and we have been fortunate enough to gain and maintain quality clients wanting to take on apprentices through our Group Training Scheme.

In light of this, our apprentice and trainee numbers are approaching the 200 mark, with the help of the Government Boosting Apprentices/Trainee Wage Subsidy, that commenced in September 2021.

“If you’re looking to grow your team, now is still a great time as the Government 50% Boosting Wage Subsidy has been extended till June 30, 2022 (to be reviewed).

It is great to see some different apprenticeships and traineeships being utilised again, such as Glass & Glazing Apprentices, Air-conditioning Apprentices, Concreting Trainees and Accounting Trainees. These trades haven’t been seen in our GTO for over a decade!

The MBA team are working hard behind the scenes to ensure all Host Employers, Apprentices and Trainees are receiving our full attention ie: administration, payroll, recruiting, mentoring, field officing and WHS site inspections in these busy times.

Gabrielle Harden, our Recruitment Officer

“A sincere thank you to all our Host Employers, previous and new, that have given a young person an opportunity to build themselves a career as a tradesperson within our industry!”

The Newcastle Master Builders Apprentices are specialists in supplying the building and construction industry with apprentices and trainees.

If you are interested in becoming a Host Employer or know anyone that is wanting to gain entry into the building industry to start a future career, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly MBA staff today on 02 4979 0170.

Remember with a GTO, you’re Good to Go! Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

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THE WAY WE WERE

What the MBA said… March 1976

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

THE WAY WE WERE

T

he average cost of building a house, townhouse or apartment in Australia increased by 59.5%, 70.9% and 49.1% respectively between 2005 to 2019.

These figures are now higher due to increased construction costs amid COVID related supply chain issues and rapidly rising material costs.

In April 2022, figures from the ABS suggested that, on average, building a home cost around $473,000 (including houses and unit data).

In this ‘What the MBA said...’ feature, we catch a glimpse at what the average costs to build were in early 1976.

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

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WHAT’S NEW

Protection

against termites

Still the Australian Standard in Termite Protection Kordon is a physical termite management system and can be used for perimeter or full under-slab protection. It is quickly and easily installed in all building applications by the Bayer Accredited Kordon Network and is certified by the Australian Building Code.

GOT A NEW OR INNOVATIVE PRODUCT OR SERVICE?

PROMOTE IT HERE. Julie Marshall: 07 4690 9349 julie.marshall@news.com.au

CMA-CM40182

Bayer CropScience Pty. Ltd., Environmental Science, Level 1, 8 Redfern Road, Hawthorn East, Vic. 3123 Technical Enquiries: 1800 804 479 es.bayer.com.au Kordon® is a Registered Trademark of the Bayer Group

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MBA NSW | Issue Two | April-June 2022

© 2021

Mary-Ann Zammit: 07 4690 9370 mary-ann.zammit@news.com.au

DIARY DATES

2022 CPD Seminars Manly Ballina Liverpool Rosehill

Wednesday 20 July Wednesday 10 August Wednesday 21 September Wednesday 16 November

2022 2022 2022 2022

2022 Building Awards Newcastle Western Regions Southern Regions Excellence in Housing & Pool Awards Excellence in Construction, Safety & Apprenticeship Awards

Friday 9 September Saturday 15 October Saturday 29 October Friday 11 November Saturday 12 November

2022 2022 2022 2022 2022

Luncheons Top 50 Builders Luncheon Friday 26 August Florence Luncheon Friday 16 September

2022 2022

Refer A Mate to join Master Builders and receive a $50 eGift card to spend at over 130 retailers.

Scan QR code or go to mbansw.asn.au/refer-mate

Want to promote your business in this magazine?

Contact our Custom Publishing Team Julie: 07 4690 9349 julie.marshall@news.com.au

Mary-Ann: 07 4690 9370 mary-ann.zammit@news.com.au

Brittany: 07 4690 9316 brittany.douglas@news.com.au

Deb: 07 4599 3804 deborah.phillips@news.com.au

Issue Two | April-June 2022 | MBA NSW

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SRIA MEMBERS MUST HAVE 3RD PARTY PROCESSOR CERTIFICATION TO GUARANTEE THE QUALITY OF REINFORCEMENT SUPPLIED TO YOUR PROJECT Support the processors who invest in the safety of Australia’s building and construction industry, not the ones who simply want to extract profits from it.

LOOK FOR THE SRIA LOGO IT’S YOUR GUARANTEE OF REBAR PRODUCT CONFORMANCE TO AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS

sria.com.au Lighthouse-SRIA-3rd-Party-MBA-188X272mm-April2022.indd 1

7/4/2022 10:53 am