2014 Master Builders Victoria Magazine Feb-Mar

MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA FEBRUARY – MARCH 2014 VOLUME 68 ISSUE 6

Print Post Publication No. 100008007

What will the year ahead bring?

Big year: CEO Radley de Silva discusses policy objectives for 2014 p.16 New vision: The BLSC simulated building environments get an Aussie upgrade p.26 Awards open: Find out how to enter the 2014 Awards now p.8

forewords

Master Builder Victoria

1

A woRd FRoM the editoR

What will 2014 bring for you?

The new year is upon us and there is a lot to look forward to in 2014.

Laura Luvara

In this first issue of Master Builder for 2014, we have a guest foreword from Prue Digby, the new CEO of the Victorian Building Authority. Prue highlights the priorities for the VBA in the year ahead and provides some insight into what this means for you.

Editor

Our CEO Radley de Silva highlights the policy priorities for Master Builders in 2014. With a State Election coming up, we will be lobbying for a full, independent inquiry into the issue of housing affordability.

This is at the top of our priority list. Read more about this on p.16.

We’ve just opened nominations for this year’s awards so make sure you take a look at p.8 where we explain everything you need to know about entering these awards. Entering the awards is a very positive experience that can be very beneficial for you and your business. Make sure you enter that excellent project you worked on last year – you’ve got to be in it to win it!

Industrial Relations Manager Daniel Hodges explains what is on the agenda for IR in the year ahead. His article on p.32 is an important read for those in the commercial space in particular.

Building Services Manager Geoff Woolcock talks you through the changes to the National Construction Code in his article on p.18 It’s important to keep across these regulations so please take the time to read this too.

On p.50 you can check out the Events Calendar for the year ahead. There’s plenty in the works already so make sure you look this over and mark your calendar with all the events you plan on attending. We have revamped the former ‘Trade Nights’ into ‘Members’ Nights’ and hope these are going to be more informative and tailored to your needs.

As usual, don’t hesitate to contact me with any article ideas or feedback you have. Contact me on lluvara@mbav.com.au or (03) 9411 4534.

Enjoy this issue of Master Builder and good luck for the year ahead.

Laura.

We’re changing how we communicate with you It’s important that you know about what’s happening in our industry so you and your business are best placed to succeed.

We have listened to surveys and views from members right across the state and are changing the way we communicate with you. Members have asked us for fewer emails and more news. We are delivering that. From mid-February, a set of new email newsletters are being sent out to members that best reflect your business needs. Rather than sorting through lots of emails, you’ll now instead get fewer, more comprehensive emails detailing the latest industry trends.

You can also visit or subscribe to the new Building Victoria news desk at www.mbavnews.com.au for up to the minute news 24/7. Here you’ll find information ranging from economic and finance updates to building approval figures to OHS matters to new eco-friendly building trends. The Master Builder magazine will continue to be sent out five times a year as well to help keep you in the know. You can also stay in touch with us via Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

If you need more information about how to subscribe to either the new email newsletters or Building Victoria, contact us today on (03) 9411 4555.

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contents forewords A WORD FROM THE EDITOR

1

PRESIDENT’S FOREWORD

5

GUEST FOREWORD

7

Prue Digby, CEO, Victorian Building Authority

8

OHS 30 Is the OHS Accreditation Scheme improving safety?

INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS

32

Industrial Relations 2014

CASE STUDY CONSTRUCTION

34

Chris gets advice on bullying

FINANCIAL SERVICES

36

Your ability to access loans will change as of March 2014

Master Builders Association of Victoria 332 Albert Street, East Melbourne VIC 3002 Tel: (03) 9411 4555 Fax: (03) 9411 4591 Email: mbassist@mbav.com.au www.mbav.com.au Master Builder is the official journal of the Master Builders Association of Victoria, which was established in 1875 and is the state’s oldest employer organisation.

The organisation is part of the Australia-wide Master Builder movement. The keynote is service: and Master Builder is produced in line with this objective of keeping all members informed of all matters affecting them. Membership of the Master Builders is open to all qualified business operatives in the building and construction industry; the basis of membership is integrity and competence, based on training and experience.

Board of Management: Greg Zuccala (President) Lou Raunik (Vice President) Hedley Davis (Immediate Past President) Melanie Fasham (Treasurer) Phillip Herkess, Peter Picking, Jarrod Sanfilippo, Luke Drummond, Robert Ferrari.

3

contents

SOCIAL PAGES

42

REGIONAL ROUND UP

44

MEET THE STAFF

46

membership MEMBER PROFILE

49

Boston Group

DIRECTORY 75

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

50

WHAT’S NEW

MEMBER MILESTONES

52

NEW MEMBERS

53

EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS

55

ADVANTAGE CARD

56

46

features

regulars NEWS ROUND UP

Master Builder Victoria

FROM CEO RADLEY DE SILVA

16

BUILDING SERVICES

18

What you need to know about the National Construction Code 2014

The evolution of local building 20 GREEN LIVING

22

Judging a sustainable home and project

LEGAL SERVICES

24

general features WATERPROOFING 62 WINDOWS AND DOORS

64

TERMITE CONTROL

70

CLADDING 73

Building inspectors and rectification orders under the new VBA

TRAINING 26 BLSC develops Australian virtual training environments

26

Tailoring your computer skills within the construction industry

28

Council of Management: Greg Zuccala (President) Lou Raunik (Deputy President) Hedley Davis (Immediate Past President) Melanie Fasham, Phillip Herkess, Peter Picking, Jarrod Sanfilippo, Luke Drummond, Robert Ferrari, Michael Clemenger, Tom Basel, Lindsay Barber, John Rowe, Claude Salvatore, Michael Cameron, Brendan Liddle, Philip Robinson, Neil Grenfell.

CEO: Radley de Silva, 9411 4501 General Manager, Commercial Services: Viviana Hood, 9411 4516 General Manager, IR & Corporate Services: Lawrie Cross, 9411 4582 General Manager, BLSC: Marc Lyons, 9411 8001 MANAGERS: Membership: Dom Butera, 9411 4598 Legal: Angelo Simonetto, 9411 4593 Industrial Relations: Daniel Hodges, 9411 4562 OHS: John Darcy, 9411 4521 Training: Julie-Anne Sheppard, 9411 4544 MBA Building Services: Geoff Woolcock, 9411 4573 MBA Insurance Services: Kevin Pattison, 9411 4532 Policy & Communications: Tim Salathiel, 9411 4515 Business Development: Tony Biffaro, 9411 4557 Finance & Administration: Ronald Joordens, 9411 4556 Human Resources: Margaret Short, 9411 4540 Sponsorship & Alliances: Danielle Penna, 9411 4551 Magazine Editor: Laura Luvara, 9411 4534, lluvara@mbav.com.au

Published by

Tel: 1800 222 757 Fax: 1800 063 151 Email: publications@crowtherblayne.com.au Advertising: Paul Baird Tel: 1800 222 757 Email: paulb@crowtherblayne.com.au Production: Brooke Travers Tel: 1800 222 757 Email: brooke@crowtherblayne.com.au Graphic Design Team: Aniko Gaspar, Andrew Crabb and Byron Bailey Print: Newstyle Printing Distribution: adelaide business bureaux

Disclaimer: The Publisher and the Master Builders Association of Victoria, their employees and agents take no responsibility for any inaccuracies or omissions. The opinions are those of the contributors and not necessarily of the Publishers nor of the Association. No warranty is given and no liability is accepted. Products and Services appearing in Master Builder are not necessarily endorsed by the Publisher or the Association.

While every care has been taken during production, the publisher(s) do not accept any liability for errors or omissions that may have occurred.

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forewords

Master Builder Victoria

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pResident’s FoRewoRd

New year, new hope for growth and prosperity We start this new year with hope and anticipation that 2014 will be a year of growth, of new opportunities and of prosperity for our industry. We are at the end of the resources boom and our national economy is in transition from a resources dominated economy.

Greg Zuccala President The challenge is how effectively and how quickly the non-resource drivers of our economy pick up the slack.

The manufacturing sector continues to contract, illustrated by recent high profile retrenchments and plant closures, particularly in the car industry. Combined with the government’s implied budget cuts and an increasing jobless rate, this will tend to dampen confidence levels of economic growth.

However, the construction industry is a significant contributor to our economy and the recovery in the residential market that commenced last year will be a major contributor to growth in 2014, provided that consumer and business confidence levels in our industry continue to grow. Average household wealth is at a record high driven by both rising house prices and equity markets, and superfunds are expected to record their strongest performance for at least 13 years – all of which augers well for our industry.

History also has a lesson for us – by way of the recent timely release of the 1986/87 Hawke – Keating government Cabinet Papers; where our economy at the time was akin to a “banana republic” and we were in need of a “major fiscal consolidation” according to Treasurer Paul Keating. In an opinion article in the Australian Financial Review, journalist Craig Emerson who is a former Gillard Government cabinet minister and also a senior economic advisor to the Hawke – Keating government in

1986/87 said; “The Abbott government is in a similar situation to the Hawke – Keating Government. We are facing the prospect of slower growth and a possible recession. We are still not competitive and we still have big structural problems.”

Hawke and Keating responded at that time by reigning in wage claims and delivering productivity increases, eventually prompting Keating to famously announce his 1988 Budget that “brought home the bacon.”

Productivity was the key factor in 1986/87 and it is a key factor now, particularly in regard to our commercial construction sector, which has failed to show any recovery.

The Federal Government’s commitment to reinstate the Australian Building and Construction Commission, including its commitment to wage and productivity balance, is critical to restoring the competitiveness and viability of our commercial construction sector.

This year also sees the new Victorian Building Authority establish itself as the replacement to the Building Commission.

A restoration of confidence in the government building authority by both consumers and builders is critical to the integrity of our industry. A new Disputes Resolution procedure, including a proposed registration of trades will also contribute to a fairer and more transparent industry. Our guest foreword in this issue is by the CEO of the new Victorian Building Commissioner Prue Digby, and we look forward to working together with the Authority to improve our industry for the benefit of all stakeholders, including all Victorians.

I wish you all a prosperous 2014.

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forewords

Master Builder Victoria

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Guest FoRewoRd

VBA looks to a positive future We are now more than six months into the life of the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) as the regulator for the building and plumbing industries, and soon architects, in Victoria.

Much has already been achieved, including the establishment of a governance Board to improve the accountability of the organisation, developing a more systematic audit program across both the building and plumbing sectors and improved customer service system.

Prue Digby

CEO, Victorian Building Authority

This is only the beginning of the journey for the VBA and for the Victorian building industry, with a package of legislation that will deliver further reforms expected to be introduced into State Parliament over the coming months.

We will be strong in administering and enforcing building safety matters. To provide confidence to both the industry and consumers, the VBA is initially focusing its regulatory efforts on unregistered builders, illegal building works and unsafe practices. As an efficient, effective and responsive regulator we will play a key role to enable the building industry to continue to be a significant contributor to the state’s economy.

In the second phase of the building reform program that will unfold in the year ahead, the VBA will take on the powers and functions of the Building Practitioners Board (BPB). In the interim, the BPB has been given additional powers, effective from 1 July 2013, designed to improve the registration and discipline of building practitioners. These include personal probity checks and conditions on a registration.

Another significant change affecting practitioners is that appeals of BPB decisions are now being heard by VCAT, bringing them into line with the appeals process for plumbers and architects.

The VBA is working with the State Government on its domestic building reform package, which will bring a number of changes to the industry, including improved consumer protection and more rigorous registration and licensing requirements.

In doing so, the VBA will become the one-stop shop for domestic building consumer protection and building practitioner regulation. Our oversight of the industry will include improved builder registration standards, an ability to directly resolve disputes, a streamlined discipline process and more accessible information for consumers.

To implement these improvements, we are undergoing significant changes that involve you as members of the building industry. I look forward to updating you about these changes in more detail over the coming year.

8

news

Master Builder Victoria

news Round up

awards

The Master Builders Association of Victoria produces three highly regarded Industry Award Programs: • • •

Excellence in Housing Awards Excellence in Construction Awards and Regional Building Awards.

We are now calling for entries.

For further information or assistance please contact Master Builders on (03) 9411 4555.

Are you considering entering into a Master Builders Awards program in 2014?

Here’s five reasons why we think you should!

• To gain a competitive edge.

• A valuable self-promotion tool.

• Recognition not just within our industry, but to the general public as well.

• Benchmarking - see how you compare to your competitors.

• Motivation and reward for your hardworking employees But don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what Mark Little from Little Constructions had to say about winning an award:

“

It has been a great marketing tool, and after you win second awards it really gives you credibility. DO IT! The experience is well worth it. If you don’t win, it gives you an insight as to where you need to be at with your business.

Now what? Do you need a little help?

”

Here are some tips from our experienced judges to help you prepare for submission and the inspection process: 1. Ensure the project has been entered into the correct and most appropriate category. If uncertain, discuss with Master Builders staff.

2. Ensure all works are fully complete (to practical completion) and the property and building is presented in a clean, tidy and appealing manner.

3. The entry submission is important therefore some thought as to what the critical aspects are that make this project stand out from the rest i.e. complexities, processes innovations etc. should be documented.

4. The judges have one inspection straight after the next therefore it is important to meet on site on time and to ensure any prior access (if building is occupied) has been arranged by the builder so that the time allocated is used effectively.

5. Ensure the client or the client’s representative is in attendance during the site inspection. The judges may request a private and confidential meeting with the client during the course of the inspection.

6. Be prepared to provide a verbal briefing on the background of the project and how the builder came to be awarded the project.

7. Be prepared to elaborate on some of the key features of the project including areas of difficulty and provide details as to how these difficulties were overcome.

8. Be prepared to explain the manner in which the builder was able to add value to the project over and beyond what would normally be expected.

9. Be prepared to explain some of the innovative construction technologies that may have been introduced into the project.

10. Remember to inspect site beforehand to ensure everything is in order for the inspection – the judges often want to inspect areas you least expect.

news National licensing scheme abandoned The Council of Australian Governments has abandoned moves to introduce the National Occupational Licensing Scheme, which would have significantly burdened many builders and construction companies. The December decision comes after Master Builders continuously pointed out the significant consequences the reforms could have on our industry, particularly for small businesses. The program aimed to create a national licensing system for sectors including building and construction. It could have required builders to undertake a Certificate IV in Building in Construction and would have watered down standards and increased red tape and compliance costs for members. The Victorian Government was a strong advocate at a national level to abandon these reforms and the decision to not proceed with this policy has been welcomed by Master Builders.

Next stage of Melbourne Park redevelopment gets the green light In the lead up to this year’s Australian Open tennis tournament, Premier Denis Napthine announced a new $338 million upgrade of Melbourne Park. The announcement follows funding for the first stage of works at the Grand Slam venue, which included an extension of a concourse surrounding Rod Laver Arena, refurbishments of both Rod Laver Arena and Hisense Arena, a major upgrade to install a retractable roof over Margaret Court Arena and the construction of the new Eastern Plaza, which incorporates eight new indoor tennis courts and 13 outdoor courts. This stage of works is expected to be completed in time for next year’s Australian Open.

The recently funded second stage will include: • A new bridge over Batman Avenue from Birrarung Marr to Melbourne Park leading to a new western entrance for the precinct; • A major refurbishment of Rod Laver Arena, including a new eastern entrance; • A new 5000-seat outdoor showcourt; • A new central terrace with a state-of-the-art roof; • A new media and administration centre; and • A bigger and better garden square.

The second stage of works is expected to create 1300 construction jobs, with works expected to commence in 2015.

You can find more information via Major Projects Victoria by visiting www.majorprojects.vic.gov.au.

Master Builder Victoria

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News Round Up

In this section in Master Builder we will review useful apps that can help your business (and your life) run more smoothly.

Do you use mobile applications to do your work more efficiently and easily? These applications, better know as ‘apps’ are pieces of software that can run on the internet, your computer, your phone or other electronic device (e.g. tablets).

Cardmunch Price: Free. Category: Business.

Available on: iPhone, iPad, iPod touch etc.

Features: Converts business cards to address book contacts, and then adds them as connections on LinkedIn. View relevant LinkedIn profile info, connections in common, work history, and more, for the cards you scan.

Improved card capture experience for faster and easier card scanning. Manual transcription ensures high accuracy for scanned cards. Newly revamped user interface and visual experience

Camscanner Price: Free. Category: Productivity.

Available on: iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, etc.

Features: Turn any Smartphone into a scanner with CamScanner for Intelligent Document Management. CamScanner is an intelligent document management solution for individuals, small businesses, organisations and more. It is the perfect fit for those who want to scan, sync, share and manage various contents on all devices.

Is there an app that you love?

Let Laura Luvara know on (03) 9411 4534 or email lluvara@mbav.com.au and she will run your review here so others can hear about it too.

10

news

Master Builder Victoria

News Round Up

Master Builders calls for housing affordability inquiry The annual Pre-Budget submission Master Builders makes to the State Government has this year called for an independent review into housing affordability. Master Builders’ research shows that homes in Melbourne are less affordable than all other capital cities except Sydney and are less affordable than they were a decade ago.

The average Melbourne house cost 5.7 times the median yearly household income (before tax) in 2002/03. It has since increased 3.5 per cent, meaning the average house costs 5.9 times the annual household income. This compares to ratios of 7.0 in Sydney, 5.6 in Adelaide and 4.8 in Brisbane.

The call comes as new data shows fewer than 1700 first home buyers entered the Victorian market in November – the lowest monthly figure since early 2011.

The Victorian Competition and Efficiency Commission has previously calculated the costs to business of complying with land-use planning and building regulations are between $500 million and $875 million per year, adding significant pressure to housing affordability and reducing the competitiveness of the homebuilding industry.

Corruption gives construction a dirty name

“There are a widespread number of taxes, levies, charges and fees added to the price of new homes across multiple levels of government,” said Master Builders Chief Executive Officer, Radley de Silva.

“If government is serious about housing affordability, then we need to look at these charges and identify ways of reducing costs while promoting the benefits of home ownership to young Victorians.

“The Victorian Government has introduced reforms to encourage first home buyers including grants for newly built or off-the-plan homes and significant stamp duty discounts.

“Now it’s time to look at the underlying factors impacting home ownership with an independent inquiry so we can tackle housing affordability now and in the future.”

You can find the full Pre-Budget submission and more about what Master Builders is advocating for at www.mbavnews.com.au.

Calls for the re-establishment of the Australian Building and Construction Commission have been validated and governments are right to try to address insidious practices and bring those responsible to justice.

In the media, Master Builders has highlighted that our industry cannot stand for any form of corruption.

We have called for governments across the country to use every tool in their arsenals to take a wrecking ball to these practices.

No-one in our society wants to see fear rule in our homes, on our streets nor in our sector. As highlighted more than a decade ago by the Cole Royal Commission, commercial construction companies are all too familiar with being forced to have union endorsed EBAs in order to get work, regular abuse of right of entry laws, forced settlements for industrial harmony, hiring of staff to appease others and serious threats of violence.

It’s too soon to know what steps will be taken by the Federal Government.

There has been talk of another Royal Commission or an independent inquiry into union activity. You can be assured that Master Builders will keep members informed.

Affordability of houses Ratio of median house price to median annual pre-tax household income

Serious allegations of corruption in the building industry have been reported in the media recently. It has reinforced Master Builders’ calls for the return of a tough cop on the beat to police the sector.

9.0 8.0 7.0 6.0 5.0 4.0 3.0 2002/03 Sydney

2004/05 Melbourne

Source: Real Estate Institute of Australia

2006/07 Brisbane

2008/09 Adelaide

2010/11 Perth

2012/13 All Capitals

To keep up to date with the latest developments, make sure you regularly visit www.mbavnews.com.au. You can also see what Master Builders has been saying in the media at www. mbav.com.au by clicking on the Master Builders in the news section under News Room on the home page menu.

news

Master Builder Victoria

11

News Round Up

Victorian construction code to be amended to incorporate drug and alcohol testing Following on from recent media reports, the Victorian Government has moved to improve security and tackle dangerous work practices on taxpayer-funded building sites.

Amendments will be enacted in mid2014 to require construction companies to implement comprehensive drug and alcohol screening measures. This will both improve safety of construction workers and ensure companies are eligible to tender for State Government construction contracts. Changes to the Implementation Guidelines to the Victorian Code of Practice for the Building and Construction Industry will also require companies to demonstrate best practice security measures such as CCTV monitoring, biometric scanning and smartcard technology.

“Fraud and theft on Victorian Government construction sites has a direct impact on construction costs, which are ultimately borne by the taxpayer,” said Premier Denis Napthine.

Master Builders has previously called for the broadening of drug and alcohol testing on commercial building sites but, disappointingly, the CFMEU has opposed the government’s announcement. CFMEU State Secretary, John Setka, says there is insufficient evidence pointing to issues around drug taking on construction sites.

This, however, contradicts results of research undertaken by the Sustainable Built Environment National Research Centre, which found that 11.1 per cent of surveyed construction workers had used cannabis within 24 hours of its 2012 survey and 7.2 per cent within the previous week.

The same research also found that 4.6 per cent of construction sector workers had used ecstasy or methamphetamine type substances in the 24 hours before the survey and 9.2 per cent in the previous week.

“It’s time for the CFMEU to lift its head from the sand when it comes to drug and alcohol use in our sector,” said Master Builders’ Chief Executive Officer, Radley de Silva.

“If it really cares about workplace safety, the union will support this testing.”

Talking to the media, Radley said the construction industry isn’t being singled out, pointing to drug and alcohol testing that applies to motorists, transport workers, aviation and civil construction sectors. He pointed out that drug testing had been rolled out on Thiess’ M80 Ring Road upgrade project in Melbourne, despite the objections of the CFMEU. For further updates on this issue, make sure you are visiting www.mbavnews.com.au.

“The government will take whatever steps are needed to put a stop to this unfair impost.”

Industry and membership groups join forces over East West Link Master Builders, alongside nine other leading industry associations and membership organisations, has put forward a collective view outlining the need for the East West Link to proceed.

In response to a call for opinions from the State Government on the project, which will provide a new freewaystandard link between the Eastern Freeway and CityLink/Tullamarine

Freeway, these groups have highlighted the need to secure the 3200 construction jobs this project will deliver.

The economic cost of congestion in Victoria alone is expected to reach $6.1 billion a year by 2020. It is clear we can no longer afford to wait before action is taken to boost both road and public transport infrastructure. The project will not only generate jobs and

investment for our sector, it will benefit the countless number of builders and tradespeople who face a daily grind moving across the city to travel between their sites and home.

You can find our submission online at www.mbav.com.au. Simply locate the ‘Submissions’ option under the ‘News Room’ in the menu on our home page.

12

news

Master Builder Victoria

News Round Up

Planning strategy needs to cater for more Melburnians Master Builders has welcomed moves by the Victorian Government to create a new planning framework for Melbourne but raised concerns over how it will cater for future population growth. The Plan Melbourne strategy says the city’s population will grow to up to 7.1 million people by 2050, but new projections from the Australian Bureau of Statistics

indicate there could be between 7.6 million and 8.1 million people living in Melbourne by then. The government’s plan aims to ensure sufficient space for an additional 1.05 million homes to be built across the city over the next three and a half decades, but Master Builders estimates this would still create a shortfall of around 432,000 homes.

Melbourne’s population by 2050 9,000,000

Projected resident numbers

ABS projections 8,000,000

7,000,000

6,000,000

While supporting the majority of the strategy, Master Builders has highlighted issues that still need to be addressed.

This includes: • Supporting greater medium-high density housing in existing suburbs; • Cracking down on councils who insufficiently cater for population growth to be sent back to the drawing board and redesign their plans; • Ensuring adequate transport, health and education facilities are built for a growing population; • Reviewing the higher costs for builders to deliver new infill dwellings compared to greenfield developments; • Streamlining overly complex planning laws and providing more opportunities for code assessed and ‘as of right’ developments as well as private planning certification; • Encouraging councils to make sensible, timely planning decisions and more consistent building regulations; • Establishing an independent infrastructure advisory body to look at long-term infrastructure needs and identify innovative funding opportunities; • Developing a pipeline of infrastructure works to provide greater certainty to the construction companies who deliver city-shaping projects; and • Creating tax incentives to encourage businesses to look at relocating from the CBD to support construction jobs for new office buildings in middle and outer suburbs.

Failing to adequately cater for population growth could stifle jobs and investment in our sector, with Master Builders warning it could also lead to a dramatic escalation of home prices and costs of rent, chaotic congestion on roads and public transport and increased pressures on schools and hospitals.

The government is expected to release its final planning strategy in early 2014.

5,000,000 High Growth

Medium Growth

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics and Plan Melbourne strategy.

Low Growth

You can find out more about Master Builders’ views on the planning strategy at www.mbavnews.com.au.

news

Master Builder Victoria

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News Round Up

Victorian builders win National Awards Four builders from Victoria have taken home Master Builders National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards. The National Awards are the pinnacle of the Excellence in Building Awards conducted throughout the year in each state. We congratulate all of those nominated with a special acknowledgement for the following Victorian winners: Porter Davis Homes won National Display Home – under $250,000.

Project: Oakdale 28, Mernda.

Martin Builders won National Luxury Project Home – $1 million to $2 million.

Project – Inverloch.

FDC Construction and Fitout won National Commercial/Industrial Construction Award – $5 million to $10 million.

Project: Treasury Wine Estates, Southbank.

Watpac Construction (Vic) Pty Ltd won National Commercial/Industrial Construction Award – $10 million to $20 million.

Project: Hume Global Learning Centre, Craigieburn

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2013 Members Night prize winners Master Builders congratulates the following 2013 Members’ Night major prize winners, and thanks them for supporting their local Members’ Night!

1st Prize – Choose your own adventure - $1,500 Red Balloon Voucher.

WINNER – Mark Dolder – MD Dolder Builders – has been a member of the Master Builders for more than 16 years. (Image 1)

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2nd Prize – Metabo G4 tool kit WINNER – Neil Brodribb – has been a member of the Master Builders for more than six years. (Image 2) 3rd Prize – 1 x Business Mentoring Package from the Small Business Mentoring Service 3: WINNER –Michael Rossi – Envirosafe Constructions - has been a member of the Master Builders for more than two years. (Image 3) 3 Join us in 2014 at your local area Members’ Night for your chance to win

Cubbies for a cause The Kids Under Cover Cubby House Challenge is on again! The Cubby House Challenge is an initiative that raises funds to build homes and to provide scholarships and mentors to homeless and at-risk young people. This year’s competitors have designed, built and donated luxury, one-of-a-kind cubby houses to be displayed at the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show from Wednesday, 26 March to Sunday, 30 March 2014. The event will conclude with a live auction to be held at 3pm on Sunday, 30 March.

Visit www.kuc.org.au to find out more.

Big day: The 2013 Cubby House Challenge auction was well attended.

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news

Master Builder Victoria

News Round Up

State Opposition pledges to create 10,000 construction jobs Victorian Labor has released its Project 10,000 transport plan, which would help secure long-term jobs and activity for the state’s construction industry. Opposition Leader Daniel Andrews has pledged to eliminate 50 level crossings across Melbourne to reduce suburban congestion and improve safety at a cost of up to $6 billion, which would be funded by privatising the Port of Melbourne.

Other construction projects Labor has committed to delivering include the Melbourne Metro Rail project, which would include five new inner-city stations and significantly boost train services, widening parts of the West Gate Freeway and upgrading sections of Tullamarine Freeway. In addition, Labor says it will invest at least $1 billion a year to repair and upgrade roads and level crossings across regional Victoria and a further $1 billion for roads in the growing outer suburbs of Melbourne.

“Labor’s plan outlines an ambitious agenda to develop both public transport and road infrastructure, which would deliver more than 10,000 much-needed jobs for our sector,” said Radley de Silva, Chief Executive Officer of Master Builders.

“This strategy would create a pipeline of infrastructure projects to pump blood through the arteries of our industry for years to come and is something Master Builders has repeatedly called for.

“Importantly, Labor has guaranteed to proceed with the first stage of East West Link should contracts be signed by the State Government prior to the next State Election.

“East West Link is a vital project for Victoria’s future. It will significantly improve cross city travel patterns and enshrine our state’s status as the freight and logistics capital of the country.

“We want to see the development of a multimodel transport network, where Victorians have real transport choices. East West Link is needed to fulfil this vision, as are the range of projects identified in Labor’s new strategy.”

More information on the strategy can be found at www.mbavnews.com.au.

advertorial

Master Builder Victoria

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A dv e R t o R i A L

Medibank Corporate Health Cover At Medibank we believe in better health for all Australians. Not by pushing for big changes, but by encouraging small steps.

Master Builders has partnered with Medibank to bring its employees and members a great deal on their health insurance. With Medibank Corporate health cover you can look forward to benefits including: • An ongoing 8.3 per cent discount – that’s like getting one month of cover free each year* • Tailored packages for every stage of life • No hospital excess for kids on family memberships+ • 100 per cent back on optical items at optical retailers, up to your annual limits# • Medibank hospital cover includes access to a range of health support services, including a 24/7 health advice line.

• If you have a flybuys account, link your Medibank and flybuys accounts to start earning rewards. See medibank.com.au/ flybuys for details.

To join or switch to Medibank Corporate health cover call 131 680 ask in store or visit corporate.medibank.com.au/mbavic When getting a quote or joining remember to mention you are an employee or member of Master Builders Association of Victoria.

Note: Waiting periods apply including 12 months for pre-existing conditions. * Discount based on premiums of equivalent and eligible Medibank retail covers and applies for the life of your corporate cover. Over 12 months, the 8.3 per cent discount is worth approximately one month of equivalent retail cover. + With Corporate hospital cover. Other out-of-pocket expenses may apply. # With Corporate extras and package cover excluding For Everyday Starter package.

This information is correct at time of issue, 1 February 2014.

Medibank Private Limited ABN 47 080 890 259

NEW TAILORED HEALTH COVER PACKAGES. TO SUIT WHERE YOU’RE AT IN LIFE. ON TOP OF A PACKAGE THAT SUITS, ENJOY AN ONGOING 8.3% CORPORATE DISCOUNT – THAT’S LIKE GETTING 1 MONTH OF COVER FREE EACH YEAR.* Call 131 680, ask in store or visit corporate.medibank.com.au/mbavic UNDERSTANDING WHERE YOU’RE AT. ALL PART OF GENERATION BETTER. *Discount based on premiums of equivalent and eligible Medibank retail covers and applies for the life of your corporate cover. Over 12 months, the 8.3% discount is worth approximately 1 month of equivalent retail cover. Medibank Private Ltd ABN 47 080 890 259.

K14168_Medibank_MBA New Client Launch 1/2 page Ad.indd 1

29/01/2014 11:11 am

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Master Builder Victoria

F R o M c e o R A d L e Y d e s i LvA

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Radley de Silva CEO, Master Builders Association of Victoria

A big year of lobbying and policy priorities the year aheaD is shaping up to be a very busy anD challenging one with a state election to work towarDs. Master Builders has had a number of recent wins and made submissions to the State Budget and the Metropolitan Planning Strategy.

Among the wins are changes to the permit conditions for walls on boundaries. Builders will no longer be required to apply for unnecessary planning permits to build boundary walls on new homes, thanks to an early Christmas present from the State Government.

Having campaigned on this issue, Master Builders welcomes the changes that mean you and your clients will save both time and money - a very positive outcome for the industry.

The average height of a boundary wall allowed without a planning permit has been increased from 3.0 to 3.2 metres and requirements for a wall on a boundary from on or within 150mm of a side or rear boundary of a lot has been amended to 200mm.

We also recently welcomed cuts to red tape that will help reduce costs for you and your clients. Deputy Premier Peter Ryan and Treasurer Michael O’Brien unveiled a raft of red tape reforms including: • Removing unnecessary mandatory commercial building defects insurance requirements, bringing Victoria into line with all other states; • Ensuring building requirements for wall heights meet today’s best building practices;

features • Providing a faster, more costeffective domestic building consumer disputes process; • Opening up the construction of metal roofs, ending the monopoly plumbers alone have on this work; • Reforming prequalification requirements and contracts for companies delivering construction work funded by taxpayers, so they are more consistent across government departments and local councils; and • Modernising WorkSafe forms so builders can access them online, print them and save information for use in other forms.

These reforms will save our industry millions of dollars and countless hours of unnecessary paperwork. They will also help reduce costs and delays in building projects and support housing affordability while upholding rigorous standards for site safety and building quality.

On the topic of housing affordability and looking to the future, one of the key planks of our State Budget submissions is for an independent review by the Victorian Competition and Efficiency Commission (VCEC) into housing affordability.

Housing affordability is a key issue for our community and new data shows fewer than 1700 first home buyers entered the market in November 2013, the lowest monthly figure since January 2011.

There are a large number of taxes, levies, charges and fees added to the price of new homes across multiple levels of government. VCEC previously calculated that the costs to business of complying with land-use planning and building regulations are between $500 million and $875 million per year.

While the measures already taken by government have gone some way to addressing the issues, there is still so much to be done. We need to look at these charges and identify new ways of reducing the costs of new homes while promoting the benefits of home ownership to young Victorians.

Master Builder Victoria

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F R o M c e o R A d L e Y d e s i LvA

Other key priorities of our Budget Submission include calls to: • Invest in infrastructure and establish an independent infrastructure advisory body to identify Victoria’s long term infrastructure needs and new funding opportunities to help ensure they are delivered; • Introduce mandatory registration of tradespeople in Victoria; • Provide incentives to councils who ensure planning matters are handled by local councils in an effective and timely manner.

• Retain Victoria’s AAA credit rating; and • Participate in the Productivity Commission’s review into infrastructure and construction costs, in partnership with industry.

THESE REFORMS WILL SAVE OUR INDUSTRY MILLIONS OF DOLLARS AND COUNTLESS HOURS OF UNNECESSARY PAPERWORk.

The other main submission Master Builders has made recently is to the Metropolitan Planning Strategy – Plan Melbourne. Although we welcomed the strategy and a number of initiatives within it, we believe it needs to address future livability.

In our submission, we highlighted new figures suggesting population growth may be much higher than first thought. While Plan Melbourne seeks to cater for Melbourne’s population to grow to between 6.3 million and 7.1 million by 2050, new projections released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicate Melbourne could be home to between 7.6 million and 8.4 million by the same time.

While the government’s plan seeks to ensure 1,046,000 new homes are provided for in Melbourne, we estimate a further 432,000 homes above and beyond this will be required by 2050.

Our submission to the planning strategy details a number of policies to help accommodate for this growth including: • Requiring councils to apply new residential planning zones to ensure there is sufficient space for up to 1.5 million new homes; • Extending the VicSmart initiative to help reduce costs and delays added to sensible, logical building projects; • Reviewing the comparative costs between Greenfield and infield developments; and • Supporting the idea of the ’20-minute city’ where work opportunities and amenities are within 20 minutes of all Melbournians.

Our economic growth relies largely on strong population growth and we can continue to grow and enhance our living standards, provided we get the planning right.

There will undoubtedly be many more issues to tackle in the year ahead. At the time of writing this article, all major news outlets were reporting on widespread corruption within the building industry, reenlivening calls for the return of the Australian Building and Construction Commission. We waded into this media frenzy and our comments can be found on www.mbav.com.au on the ‘Master Builders in the news’ page. This will also feature in our talks with the Federal Government in 2014.

I hope this year is a successful and enjoyable one for you all. Myself and the staff at Master Builders will be focusing on these and other issues in an effort to make your business lives as efficient and prosperous as possible.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any issues you have on (03) 9411 4555.

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BuiLdinG seRvices

What you need to know about the National Construction Code 2014

Geoff Woolcock Building Services Manager

THE 2014 EDITION OF THE NATIONAL CONSTRUCTINO CODE (NCC) WILL BE EFFECTIVE FROM 1 MAY 2014 IN VICTORIA. THE MAIN CHANGES TO VOLUMES ONE & TWO – BUILDING CODE OF AUSTRALIA (BCA) ARE OUTLINED BELOW.

Slip resistance The BCA references to slip resistance for stair treads, landings and ramps will be quantified by inclusion of a new Table that designates levels of slip resistance in dry and wet locations. These levels of slip resistance are based on AS 4586.

Accordingly, suppliers of finishes, especially tiles used on stairs, will need to provide evidence of testing for slip resistance. In houses, this will apply only to stair treads. We believe the new provision seems unnecessary for private stairs. Furthermore, there is no guidance as to concrete stairs constructed in-situ.

Overflow from gutters Overflow measures for eaves gutters will be added to the BCA deemed-tosatisfy provisions. The options as found in AS 3500.5, include slotted gutters, lower front edges, a gap between the fascia, and cut outs at ends of gutters.

Hose reels Hose reels will no longer be required for residential buildings. Additional requirements for portable fire extinguishers will be introduced.

Exit signs Photo-luminescent exit signs will be a new alternative to illuminated signs. A new specification sets out minimum illumination, luminance and duration for the performance of photo-luminescent signs.

Smoke alarms Within houses and sole occupancy units of residential buildings, smoke alarms will be required to be interconnected so that when one alarm is activated, all other alarms will be activated.

Ceiling height Explanatory information referring to the finished floor level will clarify that ceiling

height should be measured clear of floor finishes such as carpet or floating timber floors.

Hardboard cladding New provisions will be added for hardboard wall cladding, with reference to AS 1859.4 in the deemed-to-satisfy provisions.

Essential safety measures Part I of BCA Volume 1 containing the maintenance provisions for essential safety measures will be removed. Instead, the Building Regulations (Part 12) will be amended to include a list of essential safety measures.

If you have any questions please contact the Building Services Department on (03) 9411 4555.

new heights: This diagram helps explain changes in how to measure ceiling heights.

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F e At u R e

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The evolution of local building kelly ambrose ponDers the changes anD innovations that have shapeD the melbourne builDing inDustry. she finDs that master builDers have playeD a significant role in this history anD will continue to Do so for many years to come.

Since the inception of Melbourne in 1837, domestic and commercial building has changed considerably from the daub and wattle huts that lined the Yarra to the present day suburban sprawl.

Over the 139 years of the Master Builders Association of Victoria, many buildings, both commercial and domestic, have been constructed by our members. These Master Builders have shaped skylines and moulded suburbs into what we now recognise as the City of Melbourne and beyond.

Kelly Ambrose

Member Relations Consultant

In the early 1800s, Australian dwellings were very primitive, and ranged from bough shelters with only a roof, bark huts, thatched and sod huts and log cabins. This housing was built by the settlers themselves using the same techniques of their pioneering predecessors in Sydney and abroad.

During the period of 1834 to 1843, many early Melbourne pioneers imported pre-fabricated residences, one of the most prominent being the house of Superintendant Latrobe which was situated at the present site of Jolimont.

In 1856, the Stonemasons of Melbourne were the first group of organised workers in the world to win an eight hour day, supported by members of the Builder and Contractors Association, which was the precursor to Master Builders.

Stone was used earlier in the major settlement of Sydney but in Port Phillip it was not until the gold rush of the 1850s that more permanent buildings were established, mainly from bluestone, sandstone and bricks.

Now in modern day, our city skyline and our suburban housing is dominated by our members both commercial and domestic. In the rush for urbanisation work; there are many practices in the industry that are no longer used or ‘dying out.’

100 years ago, to build a house was a huge venture requiring extensive man power and fine skills. Construction in this period required the tradespeople and builders of the day to construct nearly every aspect of the build onsite.

The site had to be levelled; a procedure that has been around for thousands of years and is still in practice today. The stumps and bearers were then put into place and this required extensive digging onsite and apart from the labour involved, the builder had no control over the amount of concrete used. Very rarely are stumps and bearers used by the modern builder, this practice has been replaced by concrete slabs, and waffle pods, the latter can be used on sites and does not require digging.

In the past, one of the common timbers used for frames was Ordinary Builders Hardwood (OBHW). The frame would have had to settle for a couple of months, to minimise movement and cracking of the finished building. Now we use timbers with more stable moisture content, such as Machine Grade Pine (MGP).

Brick making was a huge industry in the 1900s with nearly every suburb having a brick making kiln. A common feature of the old style brick was the ‘frog’- the indentation on the brick which allowed for a secure bond on the mortar bed end, now solid bricks are hard to find. Most 21st century bricks have hollows and no longer require the ‘frog’.

The builders of the past had skills in shingle making, thatching, and used materials such as wood, corrugated iron or terracotta/concrete tiling for roofing. Corrugated iron was the material of choice for its cost effectiveness and ease of installation, terra cotta had a limited lifespan and shingles required regular replacement.

Even the way we heat and cool a house has changed we no longer require vents in the brickwork to release heat or condensation. Wood fires, hydronic and kerosene heating have been replaced by gas heating and more recently split systems. Although hydronic heating is coming back in vogue, it remains too pricey for most consumers.

Modern manufacturing has made life much easier for builders, not only can they offer a wide variety of materials colours and finishes, but they are safer to use as well. Builders no longer use asbestos or fibrous plaster, electricians have to use residual current devices (RCD) and plastic piping has

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A selection of building advertisements and cover art from the Master Builders Magazine.

replaced copper. Safety practices have also evolved with scaffolding and other safety measures required for jobs over two metres.

The style of housing has changed, we no longer require cellars to prevent the spoilage of food, or open fire places for heating and cooking. Cabinetry skills are no longer required as most cabinetry is made in a factory and then is flat packed and easy to assemble. Ceilings have been lowered and the addition of rosettes to light fixtures gone. Modern sewer systems allow for more than one toilet in a house and for that toilet to be inside.

With progress comes many changes and we could take up this whole magazine with the changes to the industry.

As in the case of previous generations of members we can only hope that this is to the benefit of the industry, and ponder as to what skills will be redundant in another 139 years time.

Master Builder Victoria

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Master Builder Victoria

GReen LivinG

Phillip Alviano Sustainability Adviser

judging a sustainable home and project Master Builders recently announced the opening of nominations for the 2014 awards. These annual awards showcase and award members for demonstrating exceptional craftsmanship, commitment to building excellence and upholding the professional standards of Master Builders members.

Being a judge of the Best Sustainable Home and Best Sustainable Project awards is an honour and a privilege not taken lightly. Careful thought and analysis goes into the final selection of the winners from what is often a group of high quality entries and the quality in the sustainable categories continues to grow. All the entries in the 2013 Best Sustainable Home and Project categories

could easily have been winners in previous years.

I also describe it as a privilege because I get to view some fantastic projects and liaise with some passionate people who really care about what they do and are committed to building excellence. I get to talk to the owners of the houses who love their homes and the manner in which they have been constructed. It would be fantastic to be able to take people through to experience what a sustainable home and building really offers. A nice light filled environment, warm in winter without massive heating and with good indoor air quality. They may think twice about specifying a home theatre room over the double glazed windows.

These projects are also inspiring to us as trainers and educators at Master Builders. It shows that the service we provide is helping to make a real difference, to real builders, who are delivering real projects, to real people that are making a real difference in reducing our environmental impact.

The judging process commences with the use of a scoresheet that helps to jog the memory about the features contributing to energy and water efficiency and the environmental impact of the materials. These include information like the National House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) for houses and the GreenStar and National Australian Built Environment Rating

features Beautiful building: Grocon’s Pixel Building, winner Best Sustainable Project 2011.

System for commercial buildings. The building features that are not considered in these ratings are then also used to calculate a basic score. These generally include features like the types of materials used and their environmental impacts and indoor air quality through the use of low emission paints and manufactured timbers.

The list and scores are only used as a guide to the final decision. Generally a number of other factors are then used to separate a group of the top scoring projects. These include a consideration of : • The level of achievement within the price range. Is it an affordable sustainable home?

• The level of achievement within the site restrictions. Did they achieve a good energy rating despite a poor site orientation?

• Did the works include site remediation or revegetation?

• How can the achievements at this site benefit the greater good?

This provides a common or community benefit.

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Green Living

• •

Can the lessons learned here be applied to other sites?

Does the building look normal? In the case of a commercial building, does a sustainable building not look any different?

The final decision may then involve consultation with a number of other people working in the area of sustainable construction. While it would sometimes be nice to be able to award multiple awards, unfortunately only one can be chosen.

More information about the awards, the various categories and how to enter can be found in the Green Living section of www.mbav.com.au

Master Builders Green Living Victoria is supported by:

Previous winner: Sutton Constructions, winner of Best Sustainable Home 2011.

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LeGAL seRvices

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Building inspectors and rectification orders under the new VBA Reforms proposed under the new Victorian Building Authority (VBA) seek to improve consumer protection, Angelo Simonetto dispute Solicitor/Legal Manager prevention and be the single point of governance for building practitioners, plumbers and architects.

These changes are due to come about in mid 2014 (subject to being tabled in parliament) and follow the VBA replacing the Building Commission.

The VBA will also become a one-stop shop for domestic building consumer protection and building practitioner regulation. Planning Minister Matthew Guy labelled the move as “a critical step to ensure that the ad-hoc approach to industry regulation over the past decade is brought to an end.�

A key element of the reform is to empower the VBA building inspectors to resolve building disputes between consumers and builders quickly and effectively if the dispute is unable to be finalised through the VBA conciliation service. This service replaces that run by Building Advice and Conciliation Victoria.

An important power the inspector will have is to be able to issue a binding rectification order (RO) based upon the inspector’s assessment. The inspector will also have powers to deal with matters in contention, whether they arose from issues to do with building standards or contractual requirements such as plans and specifications. The exception to this will be if the inspector is required to assess matters which are beyond their skill and competence, such as the legal interpretation of a complex contractual provision. In such cases the inspector will be able to determine all other aspects of

the dispute but will allow the aggrieved party the right to take the disputed matter directly to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).

It is important to note that the RO issued by the inspector will be binding on all parties, whether or not one of the parties agreed to the conciliation. Further, not only will the RO be able to compel the builder to do something (say in rectifying a defect), but will include the capacity to require the consumer to pay an amount of money into a trust account for release to a builder on completion of rectification of defective building work. In addition the RO will also be able to direct a consumer to make payments owing to the builder where the allegation of defective work is not upheld or does not justify the amount being withheld.

Inspection reports requested by parties to a dispute under the VBA conciliation service may be free of charge, but will only be so at the discretion of the service.

A party to which the inspector finds is at fault can be required to meet the cost of the report and service. The inspector will also have the discretionary power to apportion the costs between both parties if they deem it just to do so in the circumstances.

Moreover, an RO may specify a date by which a party must comply. If either party fails to comply by that date, and not sought a review by VCAT, in certain circumstances, a right to terminate may arise. This ability to terminate is designed to release the builder from an underperforming consumer that has failed to pay substantial amounts to the builder as directed by the inspection under the RO. Although the RO is binding, either party can seek a review by VCAT within the specified time limit. But a review of this type is considered a judicial review and only available to the aggrieved party in

circumstances where that party considers the VBA has acted unlawfully. Some examples of where unlawful conduct may arise is if a party considers irrelevant considerations were taken into account, the decision is manifestly unreasonable or discriminatory, or the decision was beyond the power of the VBA to make.

An important change to a review by VCAT is that where a party can show that the other has conducted the appeal in an inappropriate or vexatious manner, VCAT will be able to exercise its discretion to award costs if the outcome at VCAT is not better for the applicant than the RO. Finally, the reforms also foreshadow that domestic building insurance may be triggered where a project is incomplete or there is a defect and the VBA has certified that a RO has not been complied with or successfully appealed to VCAT and the building contract has been suspended or terminated. In some circumstances, depending on what arrangements are in place, the insurer will be able to pursue the builder to recoup its costs.

Builders should therefore be acutely aware that new consumer protection laws are on their way and onus is on you to be informed and prepared for the changes that they will bring to the way you handle disputes with consumers. The changes are expected to reduce the number of building disputes and when they do arise, to help them be resolved quickly, fairly and cost effectively. Only time will tell if the changes do what they promise.

Should you have any questions, contact the Legal Department on (03) 9411 4593.

Pressed bricks are back in style.

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Widely acknowledged by discerning architects, builders and home owners, they will maintain their appeal for many generations to come.

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Master Builder Victoria

tRAininG

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Marc Lyons General Manager BLSC

BLSC develops Australian virtual training environments last year was monumental at the builDing leaDership simulation centre but 2014 looks to be even better with the neXt stage of our Development imminent.

In addition to teaching in excess of 600 participants, the BLSC successfully tendered and secured funding for $2 million under the National Resources Sector Workforce Strategy (NRSWS) grant. This funding was critical in ensuring the successful transition of our current United Kingdom based training materials to our very own Australian environment. This transition will allow trainees to experience virtual sites similar to those on which they will work in Australia.

The three sites that were successful in their bid to host the Australian virtual training environment included: • Commercial: Istana by Hickory Group at 218 A’Beckett Street, Melbourne. This is a 25-storey, single tower, residential apartment block. Project managed by Adam Folino and Laura Staples.

• Residential: Strathmore Site by Metricon at 77 Carnavon Road, Strathmore. Project Managed by Michael Nikolovski.

• Residential: Point Cook Site by Metricon at Lot 302 Broadstone Way, Point Cook. Project Managed by Michael Nikolovski.

A handpicked team of international and Australian specialists was then chosen to manage the project, including: • SPM - Simulation Training Experts from the Netherlands.

• Makemedia – Virtual reality software developers from the UK. • Simon Buultjens – Project Manager for the overall project.

• Adam Folino – Commercial construction consultant.

• Michael Nikolovski - Domestic construction consultant.

• Stuart Hoxley – Training Program consultant.

new world: Some of the new virtual environments based on Australian projects.

Every week, the project team would attend site visits, collate substantial masses of data and carry out interviews to ensure that the project sites were extensively followed, recreating the progress of each project at each stage in its entirety.

With testing recently completed in November 2013 for all three sites, including the new 25 commercial and 25 domestic scenarios, the BLSC is extremely excited to be able to now transition over to the Australian training environments with completion scheduled for June 2014.

Further enquiries can be made by calling the team at the BLSC on (03) 9411 8000 or info@blsc.com.au A special thanks goes out to Rino Colaci, Trevor Wilkes and Laura Staples from The Istana project at Hickory Group and also Merril Hotchkin, Adam Siegel, Mark Langdon and Simon Gisbson from Metricon. The support and dedication from these individuals was paramount in ensuring the successful completion of the project throughout the year.

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Master Builder Victoria

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Tailoring your computer skills within the construction industry Many members tell us that they are adept at their day-to-day jobs but find working on the computer challenging.

Because this is such a pivotal part of running a business, Master Builders Training has introduced two new courses Anna Olijnyk Events Planner and to help you master the basic personal Promotions Analyst computer skills you’ll need to succeed: Basic PC Skills and Microsoft Office Skills, both starting in February 2014.

Throughout your working day you may be required to undertake any of the following tasks (and more): • Send and receive emails; • Create, format and print documents; • Create and save a simple spreadsheet; • Search the internet; and, • Understand computer related terminology.

The Basic PC Skills course is suitable for people who are both new to computers or have little experience. Alternatively, the

Microsoft Office Skills course is suitable for those who may be using computers regularly in their work role, but have found they are in need of skills beyond their current level of expertise or perhaps are unfamiliar with the key features specific to Microsoft Office 2010.

Both courses will offer hands-on training under the guidance of an experienced instructor. You will be able to practise skills relevant to your workplace and improve your knowledge and confidence around computer usage. At the completion of these courses, you will receive a comprehensive course manual covering all aspects of the courses and a VIP card giving you access to three months of help desk support.

In the future, all Master Builders training courses will require a greater level of computer literacy from participants. Going forward, our classes will also incorporate the usage of computer tablets. For those who require assistance with their computer skills before undertaking any of our other courses, we would strongly suggest undertaking one of these new courses to consolidate your computer knowledge and enhance your training experience with Master Builders.

Training day: Trainer Chris Kulesza provides support to students during a Master Builders course.

LEDlux Infinity Mini Downlights INFINITE STYLE AND VERSATILITY Lucci LEDlux 11W Infinity Mini downlights offer amazing versatility, energy efficiency and style. With an IP44 rating and 38mm profile, they’re the perfect fit for bathrooms, alfresco areas, under eaves and in restricted ceiling cavities. Also available with a 316 marine grade stainless steel frame – great for coastal locations.

Infinitely flexible, the LEDlux Infinity Mini range is available in dimmable, non-dimmable and low glare options with an outstanding light output of 600 lumens. And because they have an extra wide beam spread, you need fewer downlights to light the same area.

All LEDlux Infinity Mini 11W downlights come with a 5-year warranty, so you can be assured of their superior quality and reliability.

Choose square or round face, brushed chrome or white finish, 3000k and 4000k warm and cool white.

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COMMERCIAL

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Master Builder Victoria

ohs

regulars

Is the OHS Accreditation Scheme improving safety?

Master Builders will join an advisory panel of key industry stakeholders to guide a review of the Australian John Darcy Government OHS Manager Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme.

On 20 December 2013 the Commonwealth Department of Employment announced that it would conduct a review of the the Scheme in the first half of 2014.

The Department will consult with an advisory panel comprising representatives of key industry associations, unions, government agencies that fund building works, and the Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner (OFSC). The review will consider options to reduce red tape and modernise the Scheme while maintaining safety standards.

Master Builders would prefer any review of the Scheme to be comprehensive, conducted externally and to be totally independent. We will play a significant role in the review just the same as the Department will rely upon Master Builders to coordinate submissions and feedback.

There are currently just 296 companies accredited under the Scheme nationally.

The number of accredited companies has not continued to grow. Master Builders has long held concerns that the scheme is inaccessible for smaller commercial construction companies. 40 per cent of accredited companies have not undertaken government funded work.

For companies seeking entry into the Scheme it takes an average of 2.3 audits for a company to become accredited.

First time accreditation audits produce an average of 33 corrective actions.

These corrective actions relate to the OHS systems of the companies seeking accreditation, not to site related hazards or to the safety capability or performance of the companies. Time and effort expended by contractors building and then readying their OHS systems for audit is expensive once, let alone two or three times.

One of the biggest criticisms of the Scheme is the lack of consistency between the Federal Safety Officers (FSOs) who are the independent consultants hired under contract by the Department to audit the scheme. Such a significant number of average corrective actions suggests that the expectations of what is required to achieve accreditation is not clear enough. Access to the Scheme should be made easier by having the expectations made clearer.

The goal posts have to be kept in place for both accredited companies and those seeking accreditation.

The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner suggests that the worker’s compensation premium for accredited companies is 20 per cent lower than non-accredited companies.

It should be noted however that many of these companies are large commercial contractors with resources to manage both their OHS and worker’s compensation risks. Much of the premium risk is actually borne by the subcontractors.

The review into the Scheme will focus on cutting red tape, streamlining and modernising the Scheme.

One of the most contentious issues related to the Scheme has been the excessively bureaucratic and complex nature of the Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) that subcontractors have been expected to produce to satisfy the scheme requirements. The complex SWMS templates have been given the name ‘FSC SWMS’, as they have become synonymous with the Scheme.

A model Work Health and Safety Code of Practice has been developed by Safe Work Australia (also a Commonwealth Government Agency) and endorsed by OHS regulators from across Australia and by industry. The Code of Practice includes an ‘easy to use’ SWMS template which has also been endorsed.

When Master Builders suggested to the OFSC that this template should be used by accredited companies and that this template should satisfy the expectations of the Scheme, the response was that “it does not represent best practice.”

The OFSC needs to realise that what represents ‘best practice’ on paper does not necessarily equate to best OHS practice on the ground.

Master Builders will keep members abreast of the progress of the review throughout 2014.

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i n d u s t R i A L R e L At i o n s

Industrial Relations in 2014 2014 shapes as another busy year for industrial relations. From 1 January, legislative changes relating to antibullying, right of entry and consultation all started to take effect – as well as higher rates for award-covered apprentices commencing their Daniel Hodges Manager Industrial apprenticeships on or after 1 January.

Relations 2014 will also see a review of modern awards by the Fair Work Commission (FWC), further changes to the Fair Work Act and a Productivity Commission Review of the Fair Work Act. Master Builders will make submissions on behalf of members on each of these matters. The prospect of a Royal Commission into the union movement also looms large.

In the construction industry, a key focus will be on the return of the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC) and the reintroduction of specific legislation regulating conduct in the industry. Under the

Bill, the ABC Commissioner will have increased powers to investigate and enforce breaches of the law. Industry specific penalties have been re-instated under the Bill, with maximum penalties rising to $34,000 for individuals (currently $10,200 under the Fair Work Act (FW Act)) and $170,000 for corporations (currently $51,000 under the FW Act). In addition to re-instating industry specific prohibitions against unlawful industrial action, coercion and discrimination, the Bill also introduces a new statutory unlawful picket civil contravention. Master Builders will continue to lobby in support of the Bill, including making submissions to a Senate Committee Inquiry in March.

Also at the federal level, a new Building Code is being developed by the Abbott Government to replace current requirements applying to contractors tendering for federally funded work. Master Builders will engage closely with the Department of Employment and Fair Work Building and Construction (FWBC) in this regard and will hold member briefing sessions once the details of the changes are known.

At the state level, Master Builders will continue to work with the Victorian Government to ensure the effective implementation of any revision to its Implementation Guidelines to the Victorian Code of Practice for the Building and Construction Industry and Workplace Relations Management Plan (WRMP) requirements, as well as the introduction of its proposed Health and Safety Management Plan (HSMP). The potential review of the Implementation Guidelines follows the December 2013 decision of the Full Court of the Federal Court, which upheld the Victorian Government’s appeal that it had not infringed the Fair Work Act through its administration of the Guidelines. Any such review will also likely take into consideration the likelihood of a CFMEU appeal to the High Court as well as steps being taken by the Abbott Government to reinstate the ABCC and to reinvigorate the federal code and guidelines. Master Builders will keep members advised of developments.

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Against this backdrop of legislative and regulatory change aimed at improving productivity and introducing the rule of law into the construction industry, Master Builders will also engage with commercial members holding the standard industry enterprise agreement, to discuss their needs and expectations in the lead up to the nominal expiry of their agreements on 31 March 2015. Master Builders encourages members to actively participate in this process given that it is aware that for a growing number of members, the standard ‘industry’ agreement with its current wage outcomes and restrictive work practices has become unsustainable in its current form.

Members seeking further information or assistance should contact the IR Department on 9411 4560.

NEW RENAULT MASTER CAB CHASSIS BUILT FOR WHATEVER YOU BUILD.

> 2.3L TURBO-DIESEL ENGINE > AUTO OR MANUAL TRANSMISSION > UP TO 2.5 TONNES PAYLOAD & 3 TONNES TOWING > DRIVE ON A CAR LICENCE > SINGLE CAB OR SEVEN-SEAT DUAL CAB

The new Renault Master Cab Chassis has a seriously tough chassis with a huge range of uses to manage your heaviest jobs with ease.

It looks after you and your load with ESC, Traction Control, ABS and dual airbags standard across the range, plus Differential Lock for better traction on Dual Cab models. Like all Renault commercial vehicles, the Master Cab Chassis comes with a 3-year/200,000km warranty and Capped Price Servicing* for lower ownership costs. VISIT RENAULT.COM.AU FOR MORE INFORMATION. *Scheduled services capped at $349 per service for 3 years or 45,000kms (whichever comes first) on new or demonstrator Kangoo and Trafic models only and 3 years or 90,000kms (whichever comes first) on new or demonstrator Master models. Offers based on standard scheduled servicing from new and normal operating conditions. If the vehicle is not presented within three (3) months of the due date for the scheduled service, the vehicle forfeits the right to that capped-price service under the program. 3-year/200,000kms warranty applies to Renault light commercial vehicles.

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c A s e s t u dY c o n s t R u c t i o n

Chris gets advice on bullying Chris from Case Study Construction was absolutely furious as he read the email sent to him by the Fair Work Commission Chris from Case Study Construction informing him that one of his employees had lodged a complaint of bullying and that he would need to participate in proceeding before the Fair Work Commission with the employee to resolve the issue.

Chris was straight onto the phone to Simone Scott in the Industrial Relations Department at Master Builders.

Just a week earlier Chris’ site foreman, Keith, had given a warning to one of Chris’ carpenters, Scotty for poor work performance. Scotty had now decided to lodge a complaint with the Fair Work Commission, available to all workers from 1 January 2014.

Chris had previously instituted a bullying policy and he knew that he had the policy and the records of the toolbox meetings in which he had disseminated the policy so he was off to a good start in defending the bullying complaint.

With the assistance of the OHS Unit, who have had extensive experience in assisting members with workers compensation claims for bullying, Simone talked Chris through the process of conducting a comprehensive and timely investigation into Scotty’s bullying complaint.

Simone explained to Chris that the definition of bullying for the purpose of a complaint to the Fair Work Commission covered ‘repeated unreasonable behaviour that creates a risk to health and safety.’

Simone also explained that bullying did not include reasonable management action taken in a reasonable manner.

Chris was concerned that he would not have the skills or experience to conduct his own investigation and asked if Simone or one of the OHS Unit team members could conduct the investigation for him. The OHS Unit assisted Chris to conduct his investigation, helping Chris to come to an informed position of what was actually going on.

From his investigations Chris found that Keith was totally justified in talking to Chris about his work performance and that he had done so appropriately.

He also found that there had been no previous unreasonable behaviour exhibited towards Scotty by Keith or any of his co-workers.

Chris readied himself for the Commission proceedings with confidence, open to the idea that if Scotty had any concerns that steps would be taken to address those issues, but also with the knowledge that at all times his foreman had conducted himself professionally and respectfully.

With Simone’s assistance, Chris was ready and equipped to put this problem to bed.

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FinAnciAL seRvices

WARNING You need to be aware of big changes which are happening in finance this year which will affect your ability to borrow money.

Harry Pontikis Manager Financial Services

As part of reforms to the Privacy Act, new kinds of credit– related personal information can be collected about you and provided to banks, non-banks and other credit licensed organisations. This includes whether you have made or missed a consumer credit payment.

During the implementation period of these new reforms, my expectations are that banks will be more conservative until they understand and implement how

Your ability to access loans will change as of March 2014.

these changes affect them, their legal obligations and their customers.

In March 2014, lenders will have access to your Repayment History Information (RHI). Currently they only have access to credit defaults, bankruptcies and other major credit-related blemishes. By having access to this additional information, lenders will need to assess whether your late payments for credit cards, loans or any other debt obligations (as a consumer to a licensed debt provider), are indications of your credit worthiness; and consequently whether they should approve or reassess your debt situation.

There is no information available as to how many days late payments will constitute an unacceptable risk or whether banks will implement their policies to their existing clients.

Furthermore, we don’t know how lenders’ automated credit assessment programs will decline applications which have a late payment history by no defaults or bankruptcies.

Even though the information will be provided to lenders in March 2014, this information has been collected as far back as December 2012. Furthermore, the information stays on your credit report for two years.

Do not risk your financial well-being to strangers as you may not have a second opportunity to secure the finance you require.

We have been serving members for more than 11 years and will delight you with our experience, knowledge and credit advice.

For further information contact Master Builders Financial Services on (03) 9411 4555.

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37

A DVE R TO R I A L

How to specify sophisticated, modern cabinetry without the PC cost nightmare These days, when a project is being tendered and the joinery is estimated, sadly because of its cost, many builders find themselves way out of kilter on this critically important part of the project.

Due to the variety of internal and external fittings available today, such as, but not limited to soft closing hardware, all manner of pull out fittings, fancy corner treatments, electrified cabinetry, an extensive array of LED lighting and stone of all sorts, joinery has become a minefield to negotiate when estimating, and even worse when attempting to provide a sensible PC cost allowance.

So what do you do?

Talk to tldkitchens.com. They have been manufacturing and designing for the mid to high-end marketplace for 40+ years.

tldkitchens knows what works and what does not, they have made it fairly easy, understandable and cost effective for builders to accurately cost a job.

Most builders, because of their heavy workload cannot expect to be across everything where cabinetry is concerned, and that’s dangerous. However, it’s also where tldkitchens might be able to assist.

Should you have a client who wants all the bells and whistles, tld’s qualified Interior Designers can - should you wish them to, even before you reach the estimating stage - sit down with your client, discuss their needs, even design the cabinetry with them. A meaningful quote can be arranged for you once the design is finalised, giving you the peace of mind that comes from knowing it’s all

done and dusted. No concerns regarding PC costs, the client gets what they want and understands what the cabinetry will cost - ultimately helping you retain existing clients and win new business, at the same time protecting your margins.

All that is needed is for you to pick up the phone and tld will do the rest for you as an extension of your design services to your client, with a promise to make you look good. Be successful in these challenging times, do just that little bit more than the other guy. It is the extra 1 per cent that gets you there.

Well, tld is your extra 1 per cent.

For more information contact: Phone (03) 9706 3188 Email: info@tldkitchens.com Website: www.tldkitchens.com

If you can draw it, we can make it.

tldkitchens is a multi-award winning wholesale cabinetmaker, supplying and installing custom cabinetry to high-end builders & architects and some of Melbourne’s best-known kitchen retailers.

We also build in-store displays for major appliance manufacturers at various retailers, including David Jones, Harvey Norman, Elite Appliances and E&S Trading.

If you require design assistance, our Interior Designers can work directly with you and/or your clients, while still reporting directly to you.

With 40+ years of experience, nothing fazes us – we get the job done and move heaven and earth to ensure your and your clients’ total satisfaction. We would welcome the opportunity to quote on your upcoming projects.

To chat further, please contact: Ron Macfarlane on 0439 669 122, email: ron_macfarlane@tldkitchens.com or Rex Hirst on 0412 874 739, email: rex_hirst@tldkitchens.com or call the factory direct on 03 9706 3188. www.tldkitchens.com

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A dv e R t o R i A L

advertorial

ACRS – eliminating breaks in the ‘Chain of Certification’ Quality construction projects require quality materials with demonstrated compliance.

Selecting construction materials based on price alone can end up costing significantly more than using materials that are selected on the basis of quality and performance – particularly if it is determined that fault in law could be found.

Put simply, it doesn’t matter how well you build if you have built in a high risk of structural failure through using unverified materials from an uncertified supplier.

ACRS certification from the mill to the end supplier gives you the simple tool to manage this risk - the supplier's ACRS certificates.

Steel reinforcement, prestressing steel and structural steel are integral parts of any building or structure. While to the casual observer, all steel may look to be created equal, in reality this is far from the case.

Whether as a result of inferior raw materials, contamination during manufacturing, incorrect or inappropriate manufacturing processes, or manufacturing to alternative Standards, there are steel reinforcing, prestressing and structural steel products which quite simply do not meet the requirements of the relevant Australian and New Zealand Standards.

Notwithstanding the potential safety issues that can result from using substandard construction materials, in these days of widespread litigation and strict ‘chain of responsibility’ legislation, the use of non-compliant steels can spell disaster for engineers, certifiers, specifiers, suppliers and builders in more ways than one.

ACRS – expert third party steel assessment With these issues and risks in mind, the Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels (ACRS) provides fully independent, non-biased, expert third party assessment and verification of steel construction materials supplied to the construction industry, to ensure that they meet Australian and New Zealand Standards.

Quite simply, ACRS certification reduces the risk of buying and using steel which does not meet minimum requirements, and enables feedback and corrective action in case problems arise.

• AS/NZS 3678 – Hot-rolled plates, floorplates and slabs • AS/NZS 3679.1 – Hot-rolled bars and sections • AS/NZS 3679.2 – Welded I sections

Major construction clients, designers and contractors worldwide, recognise and even specify ACRS and its product certification scheme to confirm the technical competence of suppliers and gain assurance of consistent product quality.

WARNING Just because the steel originally came from an ACRS certified mill, does not mean the end product is “ACRS certified.”

ACRS is the expert, independent, third party product certification scheme for construction steels supplied to AS/NZS Standards. ACRS was created in 2000 as a not-for-profit body to provide a cost effective, but credible means of verifying through direct, factory and in-market assessment, that the construction steels supplied to building sites consistently meet the requirements of engineers, specifiers, builders, building certifiers and customers.

Independent of any commercial interests, ACRS assessors, auditors and management are all experienced engineers, certifiers or metallurgists with extensive experience in steel manufacture, supply, design and construction.

ACRS provides a centralised, streamlined certification process for: • Reinforcing bar, wire and mesh • Prestressing bar, wire and strand • Cold-formed steel hollow sections • Hot-rolled steel plates, bars and sections • ACRS currently certifies over 150 manufacturing locations, in 15 countries around the world, and has undertaken more than 700 technical conformity assessments to AS/NZS steel Standards. These include: • AS/NZS 4671 – Steel reinforcing materials (Manufacturing and processing of materials) • AS/NZS 4672 – Steel prestressing materials • AS/NZS 1163 – Cold formed steel hollow sections • AS/NZS 1594 – Hot-rolled steel flat products

When it comes to ACRS certification, there are only ever two options, either: The supplier is ACRS certified and all of its materials are declared, assessed and verified to AS/NZS standards; OR The supplier is not ACRS certified (and therefore the onus is on the customer to verify the supplier’s claims of conformity).

It is fraudulent for a supplier to claim that a product is “ACRS certified” simply because the end product used materials from an ACRS certified mill.

The full ‘chain’ must be ACRS certified.

Failure to verify that the products are from an ACRS certified supplier may result in you using non-compliant materials for which you may be held liable.

ACRS certificates – quick and easy webbased verification ACRS also gives you real choice. ACRS certifies not just domestic suppliers, but also world-class overseas manufacturers, giving Australian and international customers the widest choice of products complying with Australian & New Zealand Standards.

With ACRS it’s easy for your suppliers, easy for your customers and easy for you!

For further information about the validity of supplier certification for any materials being supplied into your project contact ACRS. Be safe – be sure – only use ACRS certified products.

For more information contact: Phone (02) 9965 7216 Website www.steelcertification.com Email info@steelcertification.com

REPUTA TION. CAR EER. INCO ME. HEAL TH. LIVELI HOOD. Non-compliant steel can do more damage than you think.

• Every time you build with non-compliant steel you risk not only human safety, but your reputation and livelihood are also in jeopardy.

• The damage will start if the integrity of your structure fails – you could be liable and the outcome could result in heavy personal losses.

• How do you know your building or construction is safe if you don’t know if the materials are compliant?

• Understanding how you can protect yourself is critical. You have the power to refuse to use non-compliant steel.

• Demand ACRS verified materials and ask for the ACRS Certificate of Product Compliance to help check compliance to the required Codes and Standards.

• Protect yourself, your family and your business, and ensure every project using reinforcing, pre-stressing and structural steels has an ACRS Certificate.

Don’t let compliance slip through the cracks.

Demand the ACRS Certificates of Product Compliance.

Contact ACRS on (02) 9965 7216 or info@steelcertification.com or visit www.steelcertification.com ACRS – The Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels Ltd ABN 40 096 692 545

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We know margins and deadlines are tight. The allocation and management of risk and ensuring progress payments are made are key elements to the success of all projects.

We work with all forms of construction contracts and subcontract agreements, new developments, design and construct project and project management agreements. No project is too big or too small.

Our expertise include: Pre signing contract • contract negotiations

Contract disputes • Payment claims • Liquidated damages / prolongation claims • Extension of time

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Master Builder Victoria

41

A dv e R t o R i A L

Building Estimation and Management Software If the software system you are currently using isn’t working for you, the time to update is now.

When it comes to evaluating building costs, it can be hard to calculate, but with Building Estimation and Management Software (BEAMS), cost estimation has become easier. With BEAMS, there is no need to switch between other programs when working out development expenses. BEAMS was originally designed for builders in 1993 and the software is now used by many companies in the construction sector. It was designed originally for builders but is now used by almost every trade within the construction industry.

When selecting software, business owners need to know it will accommodate a growing company. Updating or changing at a later date can be costly and time consuming. BEAMS, is continually being developed and ensures it is the leader in functionality and performance. Our large user base and their feedback means we

post two updates each year. If a function or feature is required and BEAMS doesn’t have it, it is usually available on the next update. BEAMS CRM system also has a range of add-on modules, which can be purchased separately.

BEAMS Prospects focuses on presales where the relationship between a company and the customer is managed. This includes capturing leads from the website, emails and other correspondence and tracking them until they are closed. As a complete CRM, the system will enable your business to put prescribed practices in place along with procedures and requirements to ensure that the company captures the appropriate amount of data to maximise conversions. BEAMS Administration is where backend office work can be managed, allocated and tracked. Once a lead is won, administration work begins

BEAMS NOW WITH CRM Beams Prospects focuses on presales where the relationship between a company and the customer is managed. This includes capturing leads from the website, emails and other correspondence, and tracking them until they are closed.

Beams Administration is where the backend office work can be managed, allocated and tracked. The system will enable you to put in prescribed practices, procedures and requirements to ensure clients are managed in a consistent manner.

Beams Customer Portal is where all the communication between a customer and the company is managed.

Customers are given a username and password so that they can check their job status and request more information.

on that lead and it can be tracked as the job progresses to on-site construction.

The software allows as many processes as necessary to cover different business requirements, with the ability to customise. The system guides staff through to the completion of the duties allocated to them, within a predefined completion time to avoid delays.

The BEAMS Customer Portal is where all the communication between a customer and the company is managed.

Customers are given a username and password so that they can check their job status and request more information. The portal allows clients to see the progress of construction and get updated photos or documents upon request.

For more information contact: Phone: 08 9454 7760 Website: www.BEAMSbuild.com.au

ESTIMATING: estimates an entire job in minutes produces specs, quotes and contracts, auto updates variations and addenda, pre-contract client diary and job tracking.

CONTRACTS: prepares variations, updates quantities, raises purchase orders,creates construction timelines, tracks quotes, scheduling and progress tracking.

ACCOUNTS: processes creditor/debtor transactions, issues progress claims, pays invoices, maintains and tracks BAS, GST and payroll provides full financial reporting.

P.O.BOX 2373 HIGH WYCOMBE LPO WA 6057 PHONE: (08) 9454 7760 FAX: (08) 9454 7782 www.beamsbuild.com.au

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s o c i A L pAG e s

regulars

THE PAST FEW MONTHS HAVE SEEN THE COMPLETION OF THE 2013 AWARDS CEREMONIES AND SOME SUCCESSFUL INDUSTRY BREAkFASTS AND TRADE NIGHTS. CHECk OUT ALL OF THE ACTION HERE. happy team: The team from MBA Insurance Services enjoying themselves at the 2013 Housing Awards.

catching up: Michael Gooden, Work Safe Representative, Joe Groves, and Ron Swann catch up at the Bairnsdale Trade Night.

big win: Celebrating a win for Botanic Homes at the 2013 Master Builders Excellence in Housing Awards.

Winning team: The team at Morcon Developments celebrate two wins with Sponsors David and Liz Zonta of Zonta Group.

Fun times: Enjoying the entertainment at the 2013 Excellence in Housing Awards.

Great entertainer: Singer Shannon Noll puts on a show at the Excellence in Housing Awards

social pages

hot act: Mary, the lead singer for Every Avenue, working the stage at the awards

If you have any photos you’d like to submit for the Social Pages, please email them to lluvara@mbav.com.au naming who is in the photo and where was taken. Likewise, please contact us on (03) 9411 4555 or visit www.mbav.com.au if you’d like to know what events are happening in your area.

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AvAilAble iN 36° & 60°

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Master Builder Victoria

R e g i o n al R o u n d U p

Regional Round Up Ballarat The past year provided some challenges for building industry members in the Ballarat region with varying workloads due to the fluctuating demand for commercial, and to a lesser extent, residential activity.

However, the year finished off in the traditional rush with permit applications and demand for building handovers prior to Christmas. Industry feedback from members indicates that demand in the next twelve months appears strong, and we are looking forward to a busy year with the anticipated increase in activity.

Once again we are endeavouring to establish regional training for members in our Ballarat Office but take-up has been slow. It is important for members to advise of courses they wish to have available locally and to achieve this goal we would request that anyone who is interested in training to contact us.

Geelong CERT IV TRAINING IN GEELONG The Geelong Office will be conducting the Induction for the Cert IV Course in Building Construction on the 30 May 2014.

Please contact the Training Department on (03) 9411 4555 and register your interest to attend.

Welcome Dylan Dylan de Silva has joined the team at the Geelong Office as a Building Services Assistant/Cadet Building Inspector. Dylan is welcomed support to Carolyn, Alex and Tony who have had a busy schedule over the past six months.

Gippsland 2013 finished with a bang in Gippsland with one of our local members having success at the National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards.

Martin Builders won Best National Luxury Project Home ($1-2 million) at the National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards held in Canberra. A wonderful effort for a regional builder and it has been a great positive story for our region which has had a very tough year.

Traralgon Golf Club held the 15th Annual Gippsland Golf Day on 8 November.

The Golf Day was a raging success with most of the good size field completing their round before the thunder, lightning and heavy rain arrived. The few groups that got very wet provided a great source of laughter for the rest who were enjoying a beer in the warm comfort of the clubhouse (even Dom and Lyn Butera got drenched doing the last drink run in the golf cart).

Ballarat Office (03) 5320 9999 or the Training Department on (03) 9411 4555.

Welcome Dylan: New Cadet Building Inspector Dylan de Silva has joined the team at the Geelong Office.

Dylan is currently studying the Diploma of Building Surveying. His appointment to the Geelong Office will benefit his knowledge of the Building Industry and place him in good stead for registration as a Building Inspector with the Building Practitioners Board in the future.

Drinks crew: Dom and Lyn Butera kept the teams hydrated all day.

regulars

Master Builder Victoria

45

R e g i o n al R o u n d U p

Regional Round Up Shepparton Shepparton held the first North East Members Christmas party at the Shepparton office on Tuesday, 17 December. Starting at about 4pm and finishing up around 6.30pm.

Golf buddies: (l-r) Jim Johnstone (Incolink), Kerry Mory, Alan Robertson and Jamie Murphy.

Thanks to all the members that dropped in for a drink it was great to see you all.

Thanks also to Michael McLinden, Steve Donaghey and Dom Butera for coming to spend time with our members and have a Christmas drink.

Shepparton staff David Green and Melanie Jackson also attended some members’ Christmas parties on 20 December and received some really positive feedback on the way the Shepparton office is progressing.

Happy golfers: (l-r) Jamie Martin, Russell McGlade, James Holmes and Paul Davis who enjoyed the Gippsland Golf Day.

The best nett score went to a team from Neilson Builders, including Mark McNair, Peter Ezard, Trevor Doultree and Geoff Blackman with a score of 53 ½ . The very popular Mystery Score was decided by a coin toss with Jamie Martin’s Team, including Jamie Martin, Russell McGlade, Paul Davis and Jamie Holmes winning a set of four golf bags. The Golf Day would not be possible to run without the support of the many sponsors, and we would like to acknowledge the contributions from our major sponsors: Traralgon Automotive Group Harvey Norman Traralgon Dahlsen Incolink Apprenticeships Group Australia All players, members and MBA staff enjoyed the day and look forward to next year’s event.

The first North East Section meeting will be held on Tuesday, 4 February at Sebastian’s, Shepparton. We are looking forward to a great turn out on the night.

To all members, don’t forget the 2014 Master Builders Regional Building Awards. Your entry submission closes on Friday, 7 March 2014 with the winners to be announced in June and July.

If anyone is interested in training please do not hesitate to contact us at the Shepparton Office on (03) 5822 4980.

Wimmera The Wimmera Wanderers had their last Section Meeting and Christmas Breakup on Wednesday 4 December. This was held at the Horsham Golf Club. It had recently been superbly rebuilt by Locks Constructions after the devastating bushfires of 2009. We all enjoyed a lovely meal in the dining area and finished off in one of their fine conference rooms.

The night was attended by Peta Kortum from MBA Insurance Services, who provided an insight into where the industry is at and outlined some exclusive member offers. Ballarat Building Surveyor Wayne Cooper and Area Manger Ash Nichol were also in attendance. It was a very enjoyable night to cap off a challenging year.

The first section meeting for 2014 will be held in Stawell on March 19. We look forward to seeing you all there.

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regulars

Master Builder Victoria

M e e t t h e s tA F F

Name: Angela Harvey Position: MBA Insurance Services Account Executive (SME) Location: East Melbourne

Name: Robert Andrew Landman Position: Building Inspector / Certifier (VIC/NSW) Location: Wodonga

How long have you been with Master Builders?

Three years.

How long have you been with Master Builders?

21 months.

What does your job entail? I work among the Small and Medium Enterprise team. We specialise in assisting businesses and individuals with turnovers up to $5 million, with their insurance needs including Public Liability, Contract Works, Tools, Home, Car, and Professional Indemnity.

What does your job entail? Applying legislative requirements for NSW and Victoria in a wide variety of construction projects. Reporting to the building surveyor on construction matters, completing preliminary surveys of building permits, complying development certificates and construction certificates, and conducting critical stage building inspections on residential and commercial projects.

What’s one thing members may not know about your department? Even though we work closely with Master Builders, MBA Insurance Services is owned by a number of the Master Builders Associations around Australia and all money we make goes back to the associations to help fund initiatives for members.

How do you help Master Builders members? I help Master Builders members by offering tailored advice for their business relating to Insurance. Also, with my history and relationships, I’m able to direct them to other departments and people that can help with non insurance related questions.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job? Being a part of Master Builders and an ever changing industry always keeps things fresh.

What’s the most challenging part of your job? The insurance market is always changing and there is always something to learn or update so keeping on top of the changes in the market to keep my clients informed would be one of the most challenging aspects.

What do you enjoy most about working for Master Builders? I can honestly say I enjoy getting out of bed and coming to work at Master Builders. The opportunities that have presented themselves within the business means my career continues to progress, and staff opinion is always asked for and heard which proves we are all valued within the business. It’s nice to not just be a number.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time? I attend a lot of concerts and festivals and am a closet metal head.

When the footy season is around I attend at least one game a week whether my team is playing or not.

Tell us one interesting or surprising fact about yourself?

I was born in Tasmania (and don’t have two heads) and am a die hard St Kilda fan.

What’s one thing members may not know about your department? We provide a 10 per cent discount on building permit fees for members.

How do you help Master Builders members? By providing consultation on building and construction related matters and a professional inspection / certification service that allows builders / clients to obtain a Building Permit or CD/C Certificate to commence construction works. Providing a timely and informative building approval process.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job? Inspection of the final product and the interaction between builders, clients and myself, and providing assistance throughout the construction process, whilst maintaining a high level of quality and service.

What’s the most challenging part of your job? Concretors!

And the constant structural and regulatory changes within the building approval system, especially the differences between NSW and Victoria.

What do you enjoy most about working for Master Builders? The interaction between my fellow colleagues and the opportunity to use my knowledge and skills to provide assistance with technical building and construction matters to members.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Spending time with my family, gym, swimming, renovating, touch football, and playing rugby (soon to be footy).

Tell us one interesting or surprising fact about yourself?

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Master Builder Victoria

MeMBeRship

membership

WHat is tHe Value of your MeMbersHip?

We are out tHere proMoting you

you

did you KnoW?

may be just starting out or hoping to grow your business. Perhaps you are part of a larger business, or you may be part of the all-important back-of-house crew. No matter what role you play in the construction industry, or what stage you are at in your career, you don’t need to go it alone. Think of Master Builders as an important member of your team.

that businesses and the public contact us to check whether you are a member? Master Builders promotes you as a builder of quality and integrity through television and radio, signage, magazines and our annual expo. Consumers trust Master Builders.

eXpand your opportunities tHrougH registration applying

for builder registration can be complex and time consuming. We can help give you the best chance of success through the Master Builders Program. We will review your skills, address any gaps with training at member rates, provide detailed advice, review your application and help you prepare for your interview assessment.

if you HaVe been putting it off, ContaCt our friendly teaM. We Would loVe to Help.

WWW.MbaV.CoM.au

(03) 9411 4555

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Activate your card now at: www.incolink.org.au/activate Incolink’s dedicated membership card activation team is available to assist on (03) 9668 3025

membership

Master Builder Victoria

49

M e t R o p o L i tA n M e M B e R p R o F i L e

Boston Group • Based in Vermont South • Member for 29 years • Housing member

Boston Group head Glenn Jones first became a member of Master Builders in 1984 and commenced operations building ultra modern project homes around the inner Melbourne suburbs of Camberwell, Hawthorn and Glen Iris. Glenn was born into the building industry and is a second-generation builder with his father Barney Jones also being a long serving member as Construction Manager for Larwin Shiff Homes and Glenvill Group. At first Glenn wanted nothing to do with the building industry, as all he wanted to be was a car mechanic. Barney put an end to that thinking pretty quickly by making him visit the Larwin Shiff Estates with him on his rounds.

Award winner: Glenn being presented with Victorian Fair Trading Award by Attorney General Jan Wade

speech Maker: Glenn giving a speech at Master Builders Awards in 1997.

“The industry has changed in a vast way over my 29 years as a member,” Glenn says.

“Housing affordability, quality for your buck and incorporating energy consumption reforms are still consumers biggest concerns in the market place no matter what price bracket you operate in.”

Over the years Glenn has served Master Builders in many ways including: • 1995-Elected to Housing Sector Group Committee.

• 1995-Member of the House Contracts Committee.

• 1995-Member of the Domestic Specifications Housing Committee of which those documents are still in service to members today.

• 1996-Elected to Master Builders Association of Victoria Council of Management .

• 1996-99-Deputy Chairman of the Building Practitioners Board, Builder Registration Sub-Committee.

• 1997-Acted as an advocate for the Building Practitioners Board with appeals and submissions to the Building Appeals Board.

• 2007-Excellence in Housing Awards Judge.

Winning project: Rosella Complex Richmond, winner of the Master Builders Pride in The Job Award 1992.

Glenn admits that he is still more of an advocate for being trained ‘on the job.’

“There are many improved training opportunities now since the days I started out and I am even more delighted to see that Master Builders is now a leader in the industry in training and education arenas,” he said.

“There is still no greater thrill from my perspective than having designed, constructed, managed and handed over a building from the start to the finish to a client and seeing them enjoy their new project. I still get real satisfaction from doing that, it’s a real buzz.”

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membership

Master Builder Victoria

2 014 M a s t e r B u i l d e r s E v e n t s Cal e n dar

2014 Master Builders February 4

North East Section Meeting

Shepparton

11

North West Section Meeting

Mildura

11

Mornington Group Meeting

Mornington

12

Tra de Night – South Melbourne

BLSC, South Melbourne

19

Bendigo Section Meeting

Bridge Hotel, Bendigo

ALink Road Show

TBC

25

Geelong Section Meeting

Grovedale Hotel, Grovedale

25

Trade Night – Warrnambool

The Carmichael, Warrnambool

26

Regional Apprentice Awards - Gippsland

Premiere Function Centre, Traralgon

Master Builders Members Conference

The Pullman Melbourne, Albert Park

5

Trade Night – Albury

Commercial Club, Albury

5

Gippsland Section Meeting

Traralgon

ALink Road Show

TBC

5

Regional Apprentice Awards – North West

All Seasons Swan Hill Resort, Swan Hill

6

Regional Apprentice Awards – Ballarat

Mercure, Ballarat

12

Regional Apprentice Awards – Bendigo

Quality Resort All Seasons, Bendigo

12

Ballarat Section Meeting

Ballarat

13

Regional Apprentice Awards – North East

Raffety’s, Benalla

19

Regional Apprentice Awards – Geelong

Skilled Stadium, Geelong

19

Wimmera Section Meeting

Stawell

20

Industry Breakfast

MCG, East Melbourne

20

Regional Apprentice Awards – Warrnambool

The Carmichael, Warrnambool

25

Geelong Section Meeting

Geelong

26

Trade Night - Ballarat

Mercure, Ballarat

27

Tomorrow’s Leaders Networking Evening

Melbourne

ALink Road Show

TBC

7

Mornington Group Meeting

Mornington

9

Trade Night – Caulfield

Caulfield Racecourse, Caulfield

16

Trade Night - Traralgon

Premiere Function Centre, Traralgon

16

Bendigo Section Meeting

Bridge Hotel, Bendigo

22

Geelong Section Meeting

Grovedale Hotel, Grovedale

27-28

March

April

23

Gippsland Section Breakfast Meeting

Inverloch

ALink Road Show

TBC

6

North West Section Meeting

Mildura

9

Apprentice of the Year Awards (State)

Pullman Albert Park, Melbourne

13

North East Section Meeting

Shepparton

14

Trade Night – Preston

NMIT Conference Centre, Preston

21

Bendigo Section Meeting

TBC

22

Industry Breakfast

MCG, East Melbourne

27

Geelong Section Meeting

Grovedale Hotel, Grovedale

28

Trade Night – Taylors Lakes

Taylors Lakes Hotel, Taylors Lakes

ALink Road Show

TBC

Careers Expo

MECC, Melbourne

May

membership

Master Builder Victoria

51

2 014 M a s t e r B u i l d e r s E v e n t s Cal e n dar

Events Calendar June 4

Trade Night – Wonthaggi

Wonthaggi Workmans Club, Wonthaggi

ALink Road Show

TBC

10

Mornington Group Meeting

Mornington

13

Regional Building Awards – North East

The Cube, Wodonga

18

Wimmera Section Meeting

Horsham

20

Regional Building Awards – South West

The Pier, Geelong

24

Geelong Section Meeting

TBC

25

Gippsland Section Breakfast Meeting

Sale

25

Ballarat Section Meeting

Ballarat

ALink Road Show

TBC

Regional Building Awards – North West

Quality Resort All Seasons, Bendigo

4

Regional Building Awards – South East

Premiere Function Centre, Traralgon

8

North West Section Meeting

Mildura

ALink Road Show

TBC

27

July

15

North East Section Meeting

Shepparton

Building & Home Improvement Expo

MECC, Melbourne

16

Trade Night – Shepparton

Sherbourne Terrace, Shepparton

16

Bendigo Section Meeting

Bridge Hotel, Bendigo

17

Tomorrow’s Leaders Networking Evening

Melbourne

22

Geelong Section Site Visit

TBC

ALink Road Show

TBC

August ALink Road Show

TBC

8

Excellence in Construction Awards

Crown Palladium, Southbank

11

Mornington Group Meeting

Mornington

13

Trade Night – Bendigo

Quality Resort All Seasons, Bendigo

ALink Road Show

TBC

22

Green Living Conference

BLSC, South Melbourne

20

Trade Night – Geelong

Buckley’s Entertainment Centre, Breakwater

20

Ballarat Section Meeting AGM

Ballarat

27

Gippsland Section Breakfast Meeting

Warragul

3

Trade Night – Ringwood

Karralyka Centre, Ringwood

ALink Road Show

TBC

9

North East Section Meeting AGM

Shepparton

10

Wimmera Section Meeting AGM

Warracknabeal

11

Industry Breakfast

MCG, East Melbourne

16

North West Section Meeting AGM

Mildura

17

Trade Night – South Morang

Plenty Ranges Arts & Convention Centre, South Morang

17

Bendigo Section Meeting

TBC

Geelong Section Meeting AGM

TBC

ALink Road Show

TBC

23

Please Call Master Builders Assist for information on all upcoming events on: (03) 9411 4555

52

Master Builder Victoria

MeMBeR MiLestones

membership MeMber Milestones

master builDers values loyalty to our association anD awarDs certificates to members at milestones of 10, 15, 20 anD 25 years, anD plaQues at 30, 40 anD 50 years of continuous membership.

We would now like to recognise and thank the following members who have achieved these milestones between 10 October 2013 and 8 January 2014.

We appreciate that many members have continuous years of service that fall between these milestones and hope that you understand that we award certificates and plaques only for the milestones mentioned. If you are a long term member we thank you for your commitment and look forward to recognising your loyalty when you receive your next milestone certificate or plaque.

10 year CertifiCate

15 year CertifiCate

25 year CertifiCate

Adam Hall ADG Prestige Builders Pty Ltd AQ (Aus Quality) Fences B M G Plumbing Pty Ltd Base Reblocking Pty Ltd Bendix Building Services Pty Ltd Bert Otten & Co Pty Ltd Broussard’s Commercial Interiors Cabinet & Furniture Manufacturers PL Dalton Coastal Builders Envirobuild (Vic) Pty Ltd Geotechnical Engineering Hamer Access Pty Ltd Jims Fencing - Coburg Jims Fencing - Donvale Jims Fencing - Montrose Jims Handyman - Croydon Jims Handyman - Epping LBM Quality Fencing M R & A Burns MCJ Building Group Pty Ltd Moore Construction Group Pty Ltd N F & W A O’Mara Qualitom Quicklift Reblocking Pty Ltd R & L Burke Pty Ltd Rare Property Pty Ltd Todd Newman Victorian Parks Constructions Pty Ltd Walker Construction Pty Ltd Winra Constructions Pty Ltd

B J & M F Liddle Pty Ltd Brixton Builders Pty Ltd Charles R Ohlson D Zagami Des Rix Homes Pty Ltd Everclear Constructions Pty Ltd F V P Constructions (Vic) Pty Ltd Gilnorth Homes Izhak Salomonovitch K V Johnson Constructions Pty Ltd Mackkcon Homes Mansfield Design & Construction Maurice Chiarilli On The Level Pty Ltd R A D Enterprises Pty Ltd Rain City Industries Tony Preiato & Associates Tormax (Vic) Pty Ltd Tymad Pty Ltd Universal Contracting Services (Vic) Pty Ltd W A K Carpenter & Joinery Pty Ltd

Artform Builders Pty Ltd Australian Engineering Pty Ltd Bennett & Moar Pty Ltd Christos Minou Pty Ltd Evolve Living Pty Ltd Graceline Pty Ltd Impel Holdings Pty Ltd Ivan Bowers Home Renovations Jorant Pty Ltd M G Construction

20 year CertifiCate

50 year plaQue

Alan R Cuthbertson & Assoc Pty Ltd Devine Homes Pty Ltd Mark Mulheron N Charles Underpinning Pty Ltd Pasquale J De Magistris Tamreb Pty Ltd

Jack A McLeod Pty Ltd

30 year plaQue Ace Contractors Group Pty Ltd Bartucca Tiling & Construction Glen Akers Kanellos Building Contractors Pty Ltd Malbac Pty Ltd R J & L M Wilson R I & B A Street S J Gadsden Homes Pty Ltd

membership

Master Builder Victoria

new MeMBeRs

WelCoMe to our neWest MeMbers master builDers is pleaseD to welcome the following new members who JoineD the association in october, november anD December 2013. congratulations for Joining the master builDers association of victoria.

assoCiate John H Van Dyk Pty Ltd M3 Building Services Robert Buckerfield

general ContraCtor Darjelyn Constructions Pty Ltd Good As Gold Construction & Consulting Pty Ltd Integrated Construction Management Pty Ltd NVGP Construction RPF Building Pty Ltd Tandem Building Group Pty Ltd

general ContraCtor proVisional AC Construction Group Pty Ltd Brendon Allman FRR Cinel Nominees (Vic.) Pty Ltd George Margaritis Project Resources Group Pty Ltd

Housing B A Building Services Bayview Constructions (Vic) Pty Ltd Beechworth Building & Construction Pty Ltd Bursian Builders & Engineers Pty Ltd Cavalier Homes Goulburn Valley Pty Limited C-Built Properties Competent Builder & Developer Pty Ltd D & V Homes Pty Ltd Dalmatian Constructions Pty Ltd DCS Built Pty Ltd Diamond Builders Dream Haven Builders Pty Ltd Dynamic Design and Construction Exton Developments Pty Ltd Giovanni Villani Grant Construction (Vic) Pty Ltd Grant Way IM & KM Currie Jellis Designer Homes Pty Ltd L Brewer & WJ Brewer Lombardi Homes Pty Ltd Lossi Construction Group Pty Ltd MID Constructions Milne Builders & Plumbers Pty Ltd

Molloy Building Solutions Pty Ltd MPR Building Paul Dwyer Building Services Pty Ltd Power Partners (Aust) Pty Ltd RK Design & Build Rock Solid Homes Pty Ltd Seascape Constructions Pty Ltd Trend-Craft Property Services Pty Ltd Unik Constructions Pty Ltd Waltcon Constructions Pty Ltd Winning Homes Group Pty Ltd

Housing proVisional Abdul Saraya Acecrete Victoria Pty Ltd Alek DT Constructions Alex Construction Alexander Stojanov Alexander Van Amana Homes Andrew Tziavaras Andrew Winter Ardcon Arne Sorensen Banney Family Trust Benjamin Kerr Blake Chadwick Boze Vukadin Bradley Condon Brent Williams Buildway Constructions Pty Ltd Burriss Builders BYW Constructions Cameron Arthur Carlo Barbaro Chris Harmer CJM Developments Conquest Plumbing Solutions Pty Ltd Construction Associates Pty Ltd Corowa Home Improvements Courage Design Pty Ltd Craig Materna D & KT Carpentry & Renovations D C Bradley Builders Pty Ltd D G Rash Constructions Daniel Reilly Danina Design and Construction Pty Ltd David Kovacevic

53

Davor Borovnica DBW Developments Pty Ltd Demcom Group (Vic) Pty Ltd Diggers Carpentry Services Pty Ltd Drago Szemeti Dugald Campbell Emsteel Property Group Pty Ltd Excelsior Master Builder Exclusive Construction Management Flexi Developments Pty Ltd Frameworks Construction Frank Cosentino Fulham Building Services GEJ Coastal Constructions Pty Ltd George Kokkinakos Hammertime Constructions Hanckel Services Harshminder Singh Hasan Heidari Hossain Mozafari Iain McCleary Impressive Homes & Development Jack Reilly James Dimitrovski Jamie Lovett Jaycon Development Joseph Moon K L A D Property Maintenance Kenneth Robert Tuder Khalid Saraya Kyle Parker Local Excavations Pty Ltd Loving Constructions M & R Building Management Pty Ltd M Property Group Victoria Pty Ltd Main Projects Australia Pty Ltd Matt Hickey McFee Construction MDT Construction Group Melba Building Services Pty Ltd Melvic Homes Pty Ltd Metro Property and Building Service Michael Adrian Rocca Modern Fit Group Pty Ltd Nailed Down Renovations Nicholas George Charalambakis No.1 Building Services Padarc Pty Ltd Patrick Michael McGuinness

54

Master Builder Victoria

N e w M e mb e r s

Pecina Homes Pty Ltd Peter Scholer Philadelphia Trading Pierce Constructions PJA Project Management Pty Ltd Rebuild Tiling & Construction Pty Ltd Reggio Home Maintenance & Repairs Remedial Contractors Australia Pty Ltd Rhinoscapes Richard Glenn Right Angle Project Services Robin Mackenzie Rosewood Building & Joinery Russell Living Spaces Santino Carbone Saroj Koirala Sheng Yi Yu SMLX Pty Ltd South East Constructions (Vic) Southern Victorian Plumbing T H Ceilings & Partitions Toby Moran Topp Constructions Tricastle Construction Troiano Building Services Welisarage Fernando Zaccariah & Co Zafer Khodr

Housing Sub-Contractor A1Trades Pty Ltd Brettford Industries Bruce Brown Charles Howkins Cordin Building Company Create Build Live Pty Ltd CS & MT Constructions Devin Grant Eyers Rocks Pty Ltd Fernhill Frames Grant Weighton Gutter-Resto (Vic) Pty Ltd Home Fixit Hybrid Steel Engineering Pty Ltd JADU Landscape Construction Jims Fencing (Avalon) Jims Fencing (Doncaster East) Jims Fencing Echuca/Moama Jims Fencing Mooroopna Jims Fencing Winchelsea Joshua Pearson Landspace Constructions Matthew Hallam Melbourne Bathrooms Nicholas Ruff Oakland Landscapes O’Haire Carpentry & Construction Ormeno Enterprises Pty Ltd P R W Carpentry Paul Vella Peter Farrell Concreting Pty Ltd Proreno Pty Ltd Ruben Provenzano

membership Smick Build Pty Ltd Solid Concrete Services Travis Hill Vladimir Mocevic Window Cover Solutions

Master Tradesman Bayside Pools and Paving Franklin Landscape & Design Pty Ltd

Materials, Manufacturing & Supply HVG Pty Ltd Sitetech Solutions Pty Ltd

Specialist Contractor Abseal Pty Ltd A-Line Construction Group Pty Ltd Aluform Window Shutters Pty Ltd Atex Steel Blueprint Group Australia Trust Built Strong Constructions Pty Ltd Complete Aluminium Installations Pty Ltd Complete Steel Roofing CV Interiors Pty Ltd Edric Chang Franchise Fitouts Australia Pty Ltd Guido John Romano H & A Products Pty Ltd Heco Services Pty Ltd HRC Melbourne Pty Ltd Hutchinson Construction Pty Ltd John Grant KruCon Pty Ltd La’Brooy Constructions Pty Ltd Linkfire Pty Ltd Mabi Group Pty Ltd Melben Construction & Landscape Pty Ltd Melbourne Facades Pty Ltd Milton Painting Services Mohammad Mashayekh NM Civil Pty Ltd Reza Bolouri SuperGrind Pty Ltd Technokleen Pty Ltd V-Trac Zig Built

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Master Builder Victoria

55

e Xc L u s i v e d i s c o u n t s

IF THERE’S SOME PLACE YOU’D RATHER BE, LET US TAKE CARE OF YOUR FUEL EXPENSES. SHELL CARD HELPS MASTER BUILDERS MEMBERS TO SAVE TIME AND MONEY. As a member of Master Builders Association of Victoria, you can enjoy a special discount off the pump price of Shell quality fuels as well as reduced monthly card fees.

To discover more visit www.shell.com.au/shellcard and call Master Builders Assist on (03) 9411 4555 to take advantage of this special offer.

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Receive a 16% discount off the recommended retail price of the entire range of work wear and safety clothing and a 10% discount on other products, such as camping gear, outdoor furniture etc. Apply for your discount card today. Call Master Builders on (03) 9411 4555 for an application form.

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58

Master Builder Victoria

A dv e R t o R i A L

advertorial

How much is your driver’s licence worth?

Mobile phones are an important means of communication, especially for people in the busy building and construction industry. With limited downtime, it’s tempting to catch-up on things when you’re driving, but doing so can increase the risk of an accident.

Research conducted by the Australian Government shows that making a voice call on a mobile phone while driving increases the risk of being involved in a motor vehicle accident by as much as four times. Shockingly, sending a text message while behind the wheel can increase this risk to 23 times.

So, there is little wonder why all Australian states and territories have outlawed the use of a mobile phone while driving. But, did you know that ‘using a device’ includes holding a mobile phone or resting one in your lap, resting it in the cup holder of your car, even if you’re at traffic lights or not even engaged in a phone call?

Updated legislation in Victoria means that a driver caught breaching mobile phone rules while driving will face a $433 fine and the loss of four demerit points – this is an increase of $144 in fine and one extra demerit point.

Smart drivers are preparing themselves by installing a car kit for their mobile phone. As a member of Master Builders, you have access to a great range of car kit and install options for most handsets.

Don’t risk a fine, or worse, an accident. Keep your licence and stay safe by installing a car kit for your mobile phone.

Call the Master Builders Telecommunications helpdesk on 1300 88 13 72 for details.

MC Labour MC continues to be a market leader in providing labour and personnel solutions across a broad range of industries. To support industry into the future, MC has continued its focus on the up skilling and cross skilling, to allow us to move with innovation and shifts in the market.

MC Labour is committed to understanding the unique needs of each individual project and client. This ensures that our clients receive efficient, cost effective and quality labour hire solutions, tailored specifically to suit the exact job requirements.

Combine this with the MC database of more than 20,000 experienced personnel who can be mobilised at short notice across a broad range of industries.

MC is a specialist provider in: • Construction • Rail • Civil • Security • Traffic • Industrial • Natural Resource Sectors In addition MC can supply industrial relations, human resources and safety specialists as well as site and project managers. MC has developed strategic alliances with a number of premium business partners. Supported by our AS4801 accreditation, MC can provide more personnel solutions than ever before.

For more information please visit ww.mclabour.com.au or call our 24/7 National Customer Service Centre on 1300 101 214.

Warleigh Grove, VIC

When it comes to super, you can rely on

At Cbus, we make meeting your super obligations easy: We have a range of online contribution payment options, including the Cbus Clearing House which will allow you to pay your employeesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; super into multiple funds using the one system.

Access to financial advice for Cbus members.

Regular communication with members and employers.

At Cbus we invest back into the building and construction industry as part of our investment strategy, thereby creating jobs.

Read the relevant Cbus Product Disclosure Statement to decide whether Cbus is right for you. For a copy: call Cbus on 1300 361 784 or visit www.cbussuper.com.au Cbusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Trustee: United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 Cbus ABN 75 493 363 262.

60

Master Builder Victoria

A dv e R t o R i A L

advertorial

Residential screw pile specialist Foundation Technologies Australia is the leading residential steel screw piling installer in Victoria. The business was founded after the realisation that the residential builders needed a screw piling contractor that understands the demands of building.

• Improved efficiencies in the way screw piles are installed giving quicker build time.

• A range of machines that get on any job.

• Working closely with builders and engineers to look at faster, better, cheaper ways to build.

• Research and development that looks at new types of screw piles and new ways to install to help improve the quality, speed and cost.

Foundation Technologies Australia is committed to helping the residential builders throughout Victoria create clients dreams.

To find out more about how we can help you, contact Steve Hassett on 0477 977 800 or visit www.foundationtechnologies.com.au

Looking for an apprentice?

AGA is one of the most experienced and respected Group Training Organisations in Australia.

We have been successfully hiring high quality apprentices and trainees to industry for more than 30 years. We can help you to find and train the right apprentice or trainee for your business.

Providing apprentices and trainees in the following trades and vocations: -Building and Construction -Business Administration trainees -Electrical -Plumbing AGA currently employs over 800 apprentices and trainees in these industries and places them with host businesses. We take care of all the recruitment, employment, salary, training and induction requirements, so our apprentices arrive at your business trained, capable and ready to go.

Placements can be as short as a few weeks or as long as the full duration of the apprenticeship. A dedicated AGA field officer will work with you and your apprentice and is on call at any time to assist with any issues that arise.

We partner with your business to understand what you expect from your apprentice or trainee, and can tailor training to suit.

If you are interested in hiring an AGA apprentice or business administration trainee or would like further information on apprenticeships in general, please contact AGA on (03) 9307 4900 or visit agaustralia.com.au

WATERPROOFING SOLUTIONS FROM BASEMENT TO ROOF

Sikaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique and comprehensive product portfolio provides a complete waterproofing solution for your project. In combination with our expertise and application know-how, a Sika system guarantee becomes a real added value for your application.

Sika Waterproofing Solutions for: Basement and Concrete Structures Pond, Pool and Tank Linings Waste Water Treatment Plants Drinking and Clean Water Storage Wet Rooms External Balconies

Sika Australia Pty Ltd aus.sika.com 1300 22 33 48

62

Master Builder Victoria

wAt e R p R o o F i n G

general features

Damp Assessment What Causes Rising Damp?

Rising damp is found naturally in most masonry structures as the moisture in soil and masonry tries to achieve equilibrium. This equilibrium occurs in nature and is evident in many forms such as temperature – where heat spreads from hot to cold; electricity – where a positive charge flows to the negative; and in water – where dampness invades a dry area. That’s why the Building Code of Australia requires that a dampcourse is installed to prevent ‘undue dampness or deterioration of building elements’ and it’s also why builders install a dampcourse below the timber floor bearers.

As moisture rises from the earth by capillary action through the wall’s pore structure it creates an electrical potential, (Zeta Potential), between the wall and the moisture. This potential causes more and more water molecules carrying damaging ground salts to travel from the positive (the earth), towards the negative (up the walls). Rising damp can be caused by the absence of an effective dampcourse or by bridging of the dampcourse. During bricklaying, excess mortar often falls down behind the brickwork, into cavities where it sticks to brick tiles and lands in the gaps between the floor joists, bearers and brickwork. These mortar droppings can create a moisture bridge – a direct path for moisture to creep from damp masonry to your floor bearers and joists, perimeter timber framing, plaster and timber trims.

As the moisture content varies within the masonry it induces a wetting/ drying cycle causing the salts to expand and contract accordingly, hence the breakdown and deterioration of the plaster, brick/stonework and mortar. As excess moisture evaporates a surface salt residue is left behind.

Damp Assessment Guide Rising damp is ground moisture that creeps up through the pores and capillaries of masonry structures. This

moisture contains varying amounts of dissolved soluble minerals such as nitrates, chlorides, sulphates etc. commonly referred to as ‘salts’. This salt contamination creates a saline solution within and on the surface of masonry walls.

Saline solutions are a deterrent against the growth of mould and are hostile to mould spores. The capillary moisture will affect the full thickness of the wall – not just the inside or outside. As the exposed masonry surfaces are subject to the surface evaporation of the capillary moisture surface salt deposits will accumulate on the wall’s surface efflorescence. As moisture contents vary, the internal salt content will go through a wetting/drying cycle which causes the salts to expand and contract within the wall. This expansion can cause the surface of the masonry to flake and fall off and the mortar to become very powdery sub-florescence.

Rising damp is a natural phenomenon hence the requirement of a damp-proof course. When a damp-proof course is either missing, failed or been improperly installed the dampness will continue to rise often to heights occasionally exceeding one metre. Damp-proof courses are installed to protect the full thickness of masonry walls; it would be extremely rare to have ‘rising damp’ affecting only the inside and not the outside of a solid masonry wall. Similarly brick cavity walls would also have a dampcourse extending through the full thickness of the brick wall below the start of the brick cavity and a timber floor structure. It would also be extremely rare to have ‘rising damp’ affecting only the inside brick leaf and not the outside.

The volume of capillary moisture is fairly minimal and would never be seen to run down the surface of a damp wall similar to moisture running down the inside of windows. Rising damp does not smell – but rotting timbers supported by wet masonry do.

Where the damp symptoms are confined to the internal faces only, (surface dampness), of exterior masonry walls the most likely causes are condensation and/ or sub-floor dampness.

Condensation occurs when warm moist air comes in contact with cooler surfaces.

The water vapour cools and condenses back to a liquid state and can often leave run stains on painted wall surfaces.

Water vapour cannot carry salts and condensation from it will support the growth of moulds. Condensation occurs as a surface dampness only and often will affect one side only of a masonry wall, especially when a heated room is separated from the cooler outdoor surface by an uninsulated wall (similar to a single glazed window).

Sub-floor dampness can also cause problems not only with painted masonry surfaces but can cause serious decay of the structural floor timbers. Suspended timber floors require sufficient air flow to prevent moisture building up from under the floor from the exposed soil.

Insufficient air movement allows the humidity to increase and the vapour will impregnate and raise the moisture content of floor boards, joists, bearers and even wooden stumps. As the damp moist air rises to the underside of the floor boards it will spread horizontally under the whole floor area. Masonry walls, internal as well as external, impede the sub-floor ventilation and can lead to moisture seeping up around the perimeter of the timber floor, behind the skirting boards until it is able to evaporate from any exposed porous surface. ‘White set’ plaster will absorb this moisture will become soft and swollen – this may be mistaken for efflorescence cause by rising damp. Obvious signs are increased dampness higher up the walls in the internal corners of rooms, blistering paint and cracks around the top of the skirting boards. Mould will often be

general features evident as this moisture is formed from condensation and does not contain ground salts. Exposed polished timber floors will often be swollen and ‘cupped’ and will appear to have a ‘rippled’ appearance. Signs of black spots or stains around the nail heads will also indicate high humidity levels under the timber floor as the saturated timbers cause the nails to rust.

Easily Identified Symptoms Assuming that the damp areas are not related to leaking drainage, leaking shower recesses, plumbing fixtures and the like, materials or sheds piled or built

Elastic mortar for sealing joints subject to movement.

In concrete, prefabricated and ceramic elements.

to ‘bridge’ existing damp-coursing, the following symptoms may be determined by a quick visual inspection – consider multiple causes): • Rising Damp – Surface salt deposits, flaking deteriorating brick or stonework, symptoms apparent on both surfaces of the wall, (inside and out including brick cavity walls), and usually no mould due to the presence of salts.

• Condensation – Mould on exposed wall surfaces, normally more concentrated along lower area corners, mould behind furniture, bedheads, paintings and wall hangings located on external walls. Surface

Flexible waterproof coating against positive and negative pressure for concrete and masonry.

Scientific Waterproofing Products Supplies the most comprehensive range of cement based waterproofing coatings and repair products

Scientific Waterproofing Products AD DIR.indd 1

Master Builder Victoria

63

wAt e R p R o o F i n G

run stains. Normally restricted to the internal face only of external walls.

• Sub-Floor Dampness – Blistering paint, soft swollen plaster surface, occasional mould, cracking along the tops of the skirting boards, height of dampness increasing in internal corners, musty earthy damp smell evident, swollen rippled timber floor surface with accompanying rust staining around nail heads.

With external walls, it is restricted to forming on the inside face only.

Article by Ausmotic Pty. Ltd reproduced with kind permission

Quick-setting hydraulic mortar for stopping leaks under pressure.

COMPANY PROFILE

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Scientific Waterproofing Products Pty Ltd was incorporated in 1993 as a product distribution company to establish markets in the ASEAN region for Drizoro Products. Our long-standing association with suppliers and users means Scientific Waterproofing Products Pty Ltd has unrestricted access to technical knowledge. It is our mission to provide product and technical solutions to problems encountered in the protection of masonry and masonry repair, utilizing the Drizoro Products Repair and Coating Systems.

Drizoro cement-based waterproofing products are non-toxic, and are suitable for all concrete surfaces, bricks, blocks, AAC panels and blocks. These products are ideal for repairing and sealing cementitous surfaces against water penetration and as a protective coating for all concrete and mortar based construction surfaces.

RECENT PROJECTS NSW Underwater escape trainer HMAS Albatross Nowra NSW Regents Place swimming facility Sydney NSW Used by: John Holland; Leightons Contractors; Hornibrook; Bolderstone

29/01/2014 4:44 pm

64

Master Builder Victoria

windows And dooRs

general features

Make Sure You Have the Right Windows and Doors Gary Smith AWA Marketing and Communications Manager

At the Australian Window Association, we get many questions each week from consumers, builders, certifiers, thermal performance assessors, architects and designers about a whole range of things that are not clearly understood about windows.

When I started in the industry around 28 years ago, things were very simple and there were no real performance requirements for windows and doors.

Provided they opened, closed and had 3mm float glass in them, everything was fine. In fact, I even remember people not being too worried about a bit of water coming through them into the home.

totally different beast from those I first encountered when I started in the industry.

Things have changed now when it comes to windows and doors, they have to meet multiple performance requirements and this has added complexity to what was once a simple choice.

Today’s high performance windows have to meet not only the client’s aesthetic needs, but be able to: > Withstand wind and rain, > Be energy efficient, > Offer sound attenuation, > Survive bushfires, > Provide safety and security, > Comply with the Building Code of Australia and Standards, and > Adapt to emerging sustainability trends.

Through the continual evolution of standards and regulations, improvement to construction methods and greater consumer expectations, windows are a

This checklist makes sure window and door products meet today’s requirements when specifying, supplying, selecting, purchasing, certifying and installing.

CHECKLIST 1. Correct wind loads for the site and construction type

5. Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) assigned.

6. Selected materials meet all requirements.

2. Selected windows meet the site conditions.

7. BCA provisions met for windows.

3. Thermal comfort requirements.

8. Verification/validation documents on file.

4. Selected windows meet the energy values.

9. Installation requirements noted.

It is important to have an understanding of what these items mean and how to ensure windows meet all the requirements.

1. Correct wind loads for the site and construction type Wind Loads - Every site for every building in Australia should be assessed for wind load requirements according to AS/NZS 1170.2 Wind Actions or AS 4055 Windloads for Housing (a simplified document for housing). The wind loads are a deciding factor for the type of window and door system that will be used as they need to structurally withstand the loads that are present on the site. The two loads are serviceability limit state (SLS) and ultimate limit state (ULS). They are given in AS 2047 or calculated from AS/NZS 1170.2 or, if the construction is housing, AS 4055 can be used to obtain the N or C ratings.

These site ratings should be calculated and supplied by the site engineer for the project or the architect, designer or builder.

Construction Type – The requirements for windows change as the construction type changes. Have you ever considered why windows in commercial buildings have such big sections? This is because windows in commercial buildings are not allowed to deflect as much as windows in a house. There are three different construction types used for windows. a. Housing Housing has a deflection limit of ℓ/150 where ℓ is the height. This means if you have a window with a mullion or meeting stiles 1500 mm high the calculation would be 1500 ÷ 150 = 10mm or 1mm of movement for every 150mm. So, in this case, 10mm is the maximum deflection the mullion is allowed. The pressure that causes themullion to deflect to 10mm is the maximum serviceability (SLS) wind pressure of the window.

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b. Residential Residential has a deflection limit of ℓ/180.

This means if you have a window with a mullion or meeting stile 1500mm high the calculation would be 1500 ÷ 180 = 8.3mm or 0.83mm of movement for every 150mm. So 8.3mm is the maximum deflection this mullion is allowed. The maximum serviceability (SLS) wind pressure for the window is the pressure required to deflect the mullion by 8.3mm. c. Commercial Commercial has a deflection limit of ℓ/250. This means if you have a window with a mullion 1500mm high the calculation would be 1500 ÷ 250 = 6mm or 0.6mm of movement for every 150mm. As 6mm is the maximum deflection the mullion is allowed, when the mullion deflects at 6mm the pressure is the maximum serviceability (SLS) wind pressure for the window.

DIAGRAM 1 The AWA has a key message ‘Building Classifications’ that explains the different types of constructions and window requirements in more detail, visit www.awa.org.au

ℓ/150 = 10mm max deflection

ℓ/180 = 8.3mm max deflection

2. Selected windows meet the site requirements Now that the site requirements have been determined we must make sure the windows being selected meet these requirements. Windows need to be tested for a number of conditions that will impact on their performance and durability.

Windows are tested in accordance with the requirements of AS 2047, the tests completed are: 1. Structural- Measures deflection of the window (SLS).

2. Operating Force- Confirms opening force is within the set limits.

3. Air Infiltration- Measures air leakage through the window or door.

4. Water Penetration- Measures water penetration resistance.

5. Ultimate Strength- Confirms the window meets ULS requirements.

Windows are tested for combinations of wind loads (SLS & ULS) and WPR for all three classes of building types.

The performance results dictate where the windows and doors can be used based on the requirements for the type of construction and site.

3. Thermal comfort requirements The BCA has provisions that relate to energy efficiency for all classes of buildings and there may also be state variations to these requirements. The energy efficiency provisions have a significant impact on window selection. Compliance is achieved by the prescriptive measures found in the BCA, or through performance based solutions using simulation tools such as AccuRate, FirstRate, BERS Pro and BASIX. A report or requirement from either of these compliance solutions will specify both the window performance for total window U Value (Uw) and total window

Solar Heat Gain Co-efficient (SHGCw).

Refer to diagram 2.

4. Selected windows meet energy values This is a key step to ensure that the products you are installing meet the BCA requirements. Energy efficiency provisions state that external glazing performance (total window system performance) data must be determined in accordance with the guidelines of the Australian Fenestration Rating Council (AFRC).

The Window Energy Rating Scheme (WERS) follows the guidelines of the AFRC which means that WERS ratings are compliant with the BCA. Performance requirements from energy efficiency reports are given to the window supplier, who will match or exceed the requirements with their WERS rated products. In some cases, it will be easier to select the windows first then supply the performance data to whoever is rating the building.

Warning - Ensure window ratings have been done in accordance with the guidelines of the AFRC. If it hasn’t been done to those protocols then it does not comply. Visit www.wers.net for more information.

5. Bushfire attack level (BAL) assigned Many construction sites now fall within bush fire prone areas. This will have a significant impact on the types of windows and glass that must be used.

AS 3959 is the standard that specifies the requirements to assess the site, then specifies building requirements.

It is important to give the BAL rating to the window supplier so they can ensure they are providing you with a compliant product.

DIAGRAM 2 SHGCw is a measure of solar radiation entering through the window system

ℓ/250 = 6mm max deflection

Uw value is the measure of heat transfer due to different temperature

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6. Selected materials meet all requirements There is a need to comply with all of the known material Standards and regulations when designing, manufacturing and selecting windows and doors. Once all of the window specific requirements- including the finishes and hardware, have been determined your window fabricator will be able to provide options. The more information that is provided the more fit for purpose (and cost effective) the product will be.

7. BCA provisions met for windows Volumes 1 & 2 Make sure you can tick off that your windows and doors meet all of these BCA provisions: a. Section 3.6 and Section B of the BCA Products are structurally adequate to meet site requirements for SLS and ULS. (Window manufacturers must be capable of verifying performance claims.) b. Section 3.6 and Section F of the BCA Products have a water penetration resistance that meets the site requirements. (Window manufacturers must be capable of verifying performance claims.)

the systems which significantly reduces energy efficiency.

8. Verification/validation documents on file A range of items should be supplied by window companies to verify performance claims and enable validation of compliance to standards and regulations.

These items should be requested and kept on file.

They include: a. Performance labels attached to windows (a requirement in housing). b. Compliance certificates. These should only be deemed acceptable if the company providing the certificate is a part of some type of accreditation scheme such as the AWA independent third party NATA accreditation scheme. c. Test reports should be requested if there is any doubt about the validity of labels or certificates supplied. d. Website listings can be a useful source of information to confirm if the company is a member of an industry association that has an accreditation scheme and audit program.

9. Installation requirements noted Problems such as no flashings, smothered or missing weep holes or loss of continuity in the water barrier are prime causes of leaks in window assemblies.

Severity of exposure to wind is the most important factor in specification and installation. Practices for sheltered situations may quickly fail when exposed to the full force of the wind and rain. a. Top hung products such as bifold doors require structural assessment to minimise deflection. b. Packing is crucial to avoid distortion through settlement. c. Adequate fixings should be used. d. Follow the window manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s installation specification for the appropriate Terrain Category and height of building.

There are AWA guides to fixing and installation available at www.awa.org.au all three classes of building types. The performance results dictate where the windows and doors can be used based on the requirements for the type of construction and site.

c. Section 3.3.4.9 and Section F of the BCA Flashing required to window and door systems to prevent water penetration around the system. d. Section 3.6.4.6 of the BCA Manifestation required to glass doors and panels that could be mistaken for a door or unimpeded path of travel. e. Section 3.7.4.7 and Section G of the BCA Bushfire requirements. f. Section 3.9.2.2 and Section D of the BCA Balustrades and barriers, this could include restricted openings.

COPYRIGHT AUSTRALIAN WINDOW ASSOCIATION www.awa.org.au

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‘Build-out’ Do you remember when it was routine to spray for termites before pouring a slab? It was only 20 years ago, but how things have changed.

Probably the biggest change of all was the acceptance in the termite Standard that a concrete slab itself could form part of a termite barrier. At the same time, the long lasting ‘organochlorine’ chemicals being used were withdrawn and replaced with the safer termiticides that we have today, but these are registered with a service life of about 10 years only. This raised concerns about the lack of termite protection beyond 10 years in non-accessible building parts such as under slabs.

An additional concern has been the indication that the traditional system of ‘free-hand spraying’ of termiticide had a poor track record of performance. Where was the evidence?

In 2005 the CSIRO produced a termite risk map of Melbourne, based on a limited survey by Termite Action Victoria. The map and tables clearly showed that the council areas where preconstruction termite protection was mandatory were also those that suffered the highest rates of termite infestation. In fact 25 percent of all termite infestations occurred within four council areas, all of which required pre-construction termite protection.

Perhaps the protection helped, but it certainly did not bring home the bacon.

What was behind this poor performance is not clear, but most experienced termite specialists will tell you that the chemicals used are effective when applied fully and correctly. The blame is more likely to be the invisible nature of sprays, and the difficulty in inspecting and certifying that an application has been made to all stages of an often-complex building. Parts of buildings were probably not treated. Furthermore, treated areas such as garden beds and pathways, were liable to be compromised by the subsequent landscaping and paving works that often follow the termiticide application.

We are fortunate that the dismal landscape painted above has been brightened by a new way of doing things. There is a growing range of termite protection products that can be seen, touched and inspected and the builder is spoilt for choice in picking a method that suits the building.

by

These products have some common features: • They often integrate with part of the building structure such as a concrete slab, which together with the product, form a ‘termite management system.’

• These systems are ‘built-in’ and can at some stage be inspected, confirmed to be complete, signed off and certified. In an imperfect world, this is a big advantage over the invisible ‘spray’ method.

• A ‘built-in’ system is generally not as easily compromised when a new home owner makes new garden beds or lays new paving around the home.

• They provide longer-term protection, often with an expectation of 50 years of service.

They typically come with a warranty, which is subject to the building being inspected annually by a termite specialist. This is in line with the termite Standard, and apart from inspecting for termites, it provides an excellent opportunity for home owners to be informed by the inspector about maintenance of things such as landscaping levels, ventilation and replenishment of chemical in reticulation systems (where fitted).

Generally, ‘built-in’ products are applied so as to integrate with building parts to form a single termite barrier. It would be unusual today to underlay a termite protection product under the entire building. Instead, the design of the building must be understood, building plans provided, and the qualities of structures such as a concrete slabs and sub-floor clearances must be specified prior to planning a termite protection system that will utilise the building components as part of the termite barrier. For example: Concrete slabs Concrete slabs must be designed and constructed so as not to have a 1mm crack through the slab. AS 2870 and AS 3600 are ‘deemed to satisfy.’

Concrete slabs with abutments to other structure, such as ‘in-fill slabs’, require protection at those margins.

Potential holes/joins/and gaps in the slab should be independently protected.

The external perimeter, typically at the edge rebate, should be independently protected.

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teRMite contRoL

‘building-in’ protection Suspended floors Suspended floors must be 400mm clear of the ground to permit local barriers such as stump capping to comply.

Concrete/steel stumps require no further protection. Masonry footings and timber stumps require protection, such as with capping/strip shielding.

Examples of product types Non chemical These were the first of the new wave of ‘built-in’ products after the old chemicals were withdrawn, and include the well established stainless steel mesh and graded stone methods.

The companies providing these products did not just supply the material, but they established for the first time a comprehensive system behind the product, and trained their

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people to install it, inspect it and warranty it. They undertook extensive research and testing and developed a range of adhesives, sealants and fixing methods that became part of their ‘systems.’ They also had to coax the building industry away from treating termite protection as an afterthought and ‘quick spray,’ and into a scheduled stage of the building process, and they provided industry training and seminars accordingly. These methods remain available today, and have the advantage of being well known as being chemical free.

Reticulation This is a method of convenient re-application or termiticide via an irrigation system similar to water irrigation. Some of these products were developed as the old chemicals were going and have become very well established. They are cost effective and simple to install and simple for the builder to schedule-in.

They are an improvement on hand spraying chemical, and are particularly useful to enable re-application where concrete/tiled paths/patios surround a building. They require replenishment every few years, typically by the supplier, who may also provide an on-going warranty.

Impregnated membranes These are typically plastic strips that have been loaded in some way with an insecticide. Brands vary in technology, some membranes sandwich a treated textile material between two thin plastic sheets, and another brand actually includes insecticide within the plastic itself during manufacture. The result is a range of products that are generally expected to last the lifetime of a building, can be readily inspected and can be installed into buildings in a range of convenient ways. They are cost effective to supply

and once installed they tend to be left undisturbed to do their job for the long haul without any service requirements.

Impregnated membranes are repellent to termites, which cannot contact or explore the membrane. This provides a feeling of confidence that if a membrane is inadvertently damaged during the building process, termites may not be able to find the breach. An additional security is the range of adhesives and sealants that come with most brands.

These are mostly today ‘active,’ meaning that they also contain insecticide, and increase the flexibility and security of these systems.

There are many other methods available, and the number of methods is increasing continually.

So what should a builder do?

• Provide proper building plans including those for elevations and footings.

• Include termite work into the building schedule and give plenty of notice of your requirements.

• Respect the specialist’s work, and ensure that following trades do the same.

• Once the termite system is installed, ensure that the provider fixes a ‘durable notice’ in the SEC box (or sub-floor frame) and that you pass on the certificate of installation with your hand-over pack to your purchaser. This will allow the new owner to contact the termite company and register for annual inspections and warranty. Once this is done, you can sleep easy knowing that someone else’s phone will ring if termites rear their ugly heads over the long years ahead.

Article by Alex Fayers, Termite Specialist alex@termitespecialist.com.au

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Cla d d i n g

Cladding and Membranes Vinyl (or PVC) cladding is designed as a long life product requir ing no painting and little maintenance. Vinyl's durability, high thermal insulation and excellent weathering performance (good resistance to UV light and ozone), mean that cladding can remain in place for many years.

In overseas markets, especially the US, vinyl cladding is a hugely popular and respected choice for both renovating old homes and building new. In Australia it has traditionally been used for refurbishing older homes yet quality cladding is an ideal durable, low maintenance option for siding new homes.

Vinyl roofing membranes are easy to install, highly waterproof and maintenance free. They are naturally fire retardant, have long service lives and can have dirt-resistant coatings. Vinyl membranes are typically reinforced with a woven fabric such as polyester or glass fibre making them extremely durable. They can provide as much as 80% solar reflectivity reducing building air conditioning demand and â&#x20AC;&#x153;heat island effects.â&#x20AC;? As light weight structures, they offer excellent characteristics for Australian climatic conditions.

What makes PVC such a useful polymer in building and construction Polyvinyl chloride, commonly called vinyl or PVC, is probably the most important polymer used in building and construction applications. It has been a material of choice for over 60 years because of its technical versatility, performance, design flexibility and cost effectiveness.

PVC makes a major contribution to the quality, safety and cost-effectiveness of construction materials, as well as helping to reduce the environmental impact of completed projects.

Over 60% of Australia's annual PVC production is used in this sector. PVC has a versatility that helps it meet modern and future design needs. In

addition to new projects, PVC is also widely used in refurbishment where it often replaces traditional materials such as clay and wood.

Key Benefits Strength and light weight PVC's abrasion resistance, light weight, good mechanical strength and toughness are key technical advantages for its use in building and construction applications. Its applicability for light weight structures such as roofing, is especially suited to building in Australia's tropical zone. It can also be made scratch resistant, sunlight resistant and of almost any colour.

Fire resistance Due to the chlorine content of the polymer (57%, derived from sea salt), rigid PVC is inherently difficult to ignite and stops burning once the source of heat is removed. Vinyl will not readily spread flames on its own, nor does it exhibit sustained flaming when tested with a radiant heat energy source. For construction in bushfire prone areas, vinyl cladding fixed over a flame retardant sarking is permitted under the Australian Standard AS3959 for use on external walls 400mm above the ground or other surfaces, in bush fire attack levels up to and including BAL-19. It could also be used above BAL-19 or below 400mm where it is fixed over a non-combustible substrate such as fibre-cement sheet, itself fixed over a flame retardant sarking.

Affordability PVC has been a popular material for construction applications for decades due to its physical and technical properties as well as costperformance advantages.

Safety PVC is a socially valuable resource that has been used safely for more than half a century. It is also the world's most researched and thoroughly tested plastic.

It meets international standards for safety and health for both the products and applications for which it is used.

Good insulation properties PVC is a very good insulator and is therefore an excellent material to use for applications such as insulation sheathing for electric cables, or for window frames. PVC window frames provide high thermal efficiency and can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by reducing building heating and cooling requirements.

Versatility The physical properties of PVC allow designers a high degree of freedom when designing new products and developing solutions where PVC acts as a replacement or refurbishment material.

PVC can be cut, shaped, welded and joined easily in a variety of styles.

Its light weight reduces manual handling difficulties and adds to the ease with which many of its applications can be installed.

Environmental Credentials Relatively low energy content Because 57% of its feedstock is derived from salt, PVC has a lower feedstock energy requirement especially compared to other polymers and common building materials. It is the least energy intensive of all thermoplastics and

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consumes proportionately less nonrenewable resources.

Design for durability and long life 90% of PVC applications are designed for medium or long term use. PVC is resistant to weathering, chemical rotting, corrosion, shock and abrasion.

Some applications, such as pipes and permanent formwork wall construction systems have life expectancies of over 100 years.

Low maintenance Vinyl products such as cladding, flooring, wall coverings and windows require very little maintenance over their lifespan - a benefit both environmentally and economically. PVC windows and cladding, for example, do not require painting, reducing potential emissions.

Combined with durability, this makes for very useful and affordable products.

Health and safety PVC is lightweight and easy to install in most of its applications. These factors offer occupational safety advantages over some traditional materials and its light weight also means less energy is required for transportation to site.

Best Environmental Practice Manufacturing The vinyl industry has implemented a Best Environmental Practice certification program for product manufacturers and suppliers. The program is based on best practice PVC manufacturing criteria developed by the Green Building Council of Australia after extensive review, and independent verification of compliance with the criteria by suppliers. A register of verified compliant products is maintained at www.vinyl.org.au / FindPVCProducts.

Recycling PVC is recyclable and recycling of PVC products - such as pipes, cable, flooring, bottles, medical products occur in Australia.

A growing range of PVC products are available containing recycled content, for example: • commercial floor tiles • stormwater pipe and fittings • plumbing DWV pipe • roadside guideposts At the end of a PVC product's useful life, if not recycled, it can be safely deposited in landfill.

Further information on PVC in building and construction applications can be found on: www.vinyl.org.au

RMAX External Insulated Finishing System (EIFS) Products are now BAL Compliant.

After extensive testing by EXOVA Warringtonfire, a NATA accredited testing authority, the RMAX range of Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS), comprising of ThermaWallPlus®, Thermawall®, ThermaSilver® and Orange Board® have all been assessed as being BAL–29 compliant.

The BAL-29 rating covers increasing levels of ember attack and burning debris ignited by windborne embers together with increasing heat flux between 19 and 29 kW per sqm.

For more information on the suitability of our EIFS products in bush fire prone areas, call RMAX on 1300 888 972 and talk to our technical experts or visit our web site – www.rmax.com.au

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Master Builder Victoria

W h at ’ s N e w

PROFILE INTEGRATION GERMAN CHAIN DRIVE Today’s modern tastes favour slim profiles that are intelligently equipped without visible mounting or drive components. Due to its minimal size, the new German made and profile-integrated CDi actuator with corrosion resistant stainless steel chain is ideal for the concealment of the actuator into various window framing systems. This innovative and modular drive technology (for single or tandem operations) allows for great natural ventilation with an opening of up to 800 millimetres and corresponding accessories which can also be integrated into the window frame. Various configurations from 24V to 240V are available to suit your application.

The full range of STG-Beikirch actuators and control systems are also readily available with local warranty.

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what’s new

The Renault Master range gets smaller

RMAX Orange Board® – BAL compliant exterior insulated cladding system.

Renault is launching a new urban-friendly version of the big Master van aimed particularly at couriers and the trades.

The new SWB is shorter and lower than its bigger brothers, but still packs nearly 1.7 tons of payload into its generous 8m3 cargo area. Tow load is a handy 2.5 tons.

The RMAX Orange Board® external insulated cladding system has been specifically designed as a complete system to provide architects, builders and specifiers with a fully compliant cladding system that can be specified with confidence.

“New Master has been very successful for Renault, and we hope the SWB continues to build on that record,” says Lyndon Healey, Renault LCV Model Line Manager.

The system comprises all the necessary specifically designed components including primer, render, wall mesh and fixing accessories to produce a BCA compliant exterior wall.

A vast range of options and accessories are available, and the Master is highly customisable, making it suitable for most building trades. With three-abreast seating, Bluetooth connectivity, speed limiter, anti-lock brakes, ESP stability control and dual airbags the Master SWB is a safe, capable and flexible package.

The RMAX Orange Board® system is BAL-29 compliant as tested by EXOVA Warringtonfire to the Australian Standard AS 1530.8.1 - 2007.

The BAL-29 rating covers increasing levels of ember attack and burning debris ignited by wind borne embers together with increasing heat flux between 19 and 29 kw per sqm.

Like all Renault Master models, the SWB has 150hp of power and 350 Nm of torque on tap from its 2.3 litre direct injection diesel engine, delivered with excellent fuel economy and low emissions. Service intervals are 12 months and up to 30,000km.

The new SWB Master goes on sale in February, priced below $40,000 drive away to ABN holders, and will be available from the growing network of 37 Renault dealers nationwide.

For more information: www.renault.com.au

The RMAX Orange Board® BAL compliant insulated cladding system is the smart choice for building professionals seeking efficient and cost effective exterior cladding system.

For information on how RMAX Orange Board® can assist you to build in bushfire prone areas talk to the RMAX technical experts – call 1300 888 972.

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