2015 MB QLD Magazine Jun-Jul

June / July 2015

NATIONAL CONSTRUCTION CODE THE CHANGES YOU NEED TO KNOW

On the horizon Queensland projects making their mark invites out soon!

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Message from the Executive Director

Grant Galvin Executive Director

Products that don’t comply: a collective approach Non-conforming products have been a hot topic in the media lately. And with good reason.

Not only do these products pose a risk to life and limb, they also have the potential to threaten the financial livelihood of all who use and install them. It’s a tragedy waiting to happen.

Unfortunately non-conforming products have tainted almost every supply chain in Australia.

Most don’t comply with regulatory, Australian or safety standards. Others are not fit for purpose, not of acceptable quality, contain false or misleading claims, or are counterfeit.

The harsh reality however, is that people will have to die before anyone takes note. So now is the time to act. This is an issue that can only be addressed collectively. And we need everyone on board.

Not a single member I’ve spoken with remains untouched by the issue of non-conforming products. And around half of businesses have reported lost revenue, reduced margins or lower employment numbers due to nonconforming products.

The two most common areas are plumbing and drainage (21.6%) and metal fixings such as screws and bolts (18.4%). Worryingly, electrical non-conforming products, were also common (17.6%).

In addition, solar roof panels that cause fires, asbestos taps, exploding glass that shatters without warning, unstable wall systems and cladding that burns too fast, such as that used in Melbourne’s 23-storey Docklands apartment complex, are also on the market.

The cladding is an aluminium and polyethylene composite panel called Alucobest, imported from China.

The CSIRO recently released a report which said their tests on the cladding lasted only one minute and had to be prematurely terminated half an hour early because of excessive flames and smoke which would damage their equipment. The product is being advertised for sale in Brisbane, but there is no way of knowing how extensively it has or has not been used in Queensland.

The above examples are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to non-compliant building products being sold in Queensland and the rest of Australia. Other than China, these products are coming from a number of countries. There are also products being built in Australia that are failing to meet industry standards.

In March 2014 Master Builders surveyed members to determine the extent and nature of non-conforming products in the building supply chain and the impact this issue is having on the building and construction industry.

It found just over 40 per cent of respondents reported that they have had experience with non-conforming products on their projects.

These were most likely to be sourced from Australian-based retailers – with 50 per cent coming from large retailers, and 30 per cent from a specialist construction industry supplier.

A legal opinion obtained by Master Builders warns that builders face damages claims for any losses suffered, including “consequential loss, such as damage to property and personal injury”.

Master Builders, which has also been alarmed at the wide-spread use of another dangerous product, Infinity cable, has urged its members to try to manage their legal exposure by identifying all cases in which it was installed, and responding to the ACCC’s compulsory product safety recall notice for it to be removed or made safe.

Infinity cabling does not comply with safety criteria and will deteriorate over time, posing a dangerous fire hazard and creating a high risk of electric shock from direct contact.

Infinity cable was used widely throughout the building industry by electrical contractors.

At the moment there are no robust protocols around the suitability of products. We need a comprehensive approach; not a patchwork approach to the issue.

With this in mind, Master Builders recently convened a meeting of building and construction industry bodies and Federal Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry and Science, Karen Andrews MP, to discuss introducing a coordinated state and national effort. This is required to prevent serious injury or death, as well costly rebuilding caused by non-compliant products.

We need to ensure that all building products sold to the industry are fit for purpose. And it is important for the laws surrounding products that do not comply with Australian standards to be closely policed, and for penalties to be applied for non-conforming products and accompanying false documentation.

To learn more about what Master Builders is doing and how you can protect yourself from non-conforming products, visit www.masterbuilders.asn.au/ nonconformingproducts

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Images: courtesy Gold Coast Tourism

BUILDING AUSTRALIA Master Builders National Conference ®

Jupiters, Gold Coast,12-14 November 2015

Register Super Early and Save $300 The Master Builders biennial National Conference is heading to the Gold Coast in November, for what will undoubtedly be the industry event of the year once again.

Unlike many traditional industry conferences that have a program full of just technical sessions the Building Australia conference stands out amongst the rest.

The Master Builders National Conference ‘Building Australia’ focuses on leadership and assisting members to make informed decisions in continuing to grow their business whilst developing and maintaining strong leadership attributes within their business ethos. With high profile speakers that will examine the building industry outlook and topics relevant to today’s building and construction industry.

The conference program and registration including partners and social program will launch in mid-May along with a Super Early Bird end of financial year special registration price.

Super Early Bird $770, 20 May to 30 June, Save $300 on the Standard rate by registering super early! www.masterbuilders.com.au/Events/national-conference The Master Builders Excellence in Building and Construction Awards will be presented as part of the National Conference on the Saturday evening as the grand finale to an exciting conference on the Gold Coast…………We look forward to seeing you there!

PLATINUM SPONSOR

volume 54 NUMBER 6

Published by Master Builders Queensland 417 Wickham Terrace, Brisbane Queensland 4000 Phone: 3225 6444 Fax: 3225 6545 Email: ask@masterbuilders.asn.au www.masterbuilders.asn.au Editor: Christine Buzzard, editorial@masterbuilders.asn.au Graphic Design: Keira Foster, keira.foster@masterbuilders.asn.au Advertising: Craig Flenley, Crowther Blayne Media Specialists, (03) 3602 6600 craig.flenley@crowtherblayne.com.au Print: Newstyle Printing Distribution: Adelaide Business Bureau Master Builder is the official magazine of Master Builders Queensland. Master Builders is the peak industry association representing building and construction in Queensland since 1882. We are the voice of the industry. Our services support members to operate professional and profitable businesses that deliver superior quality outcomes to their customers.

46

All advertising and editorial material must adhere to the Master Builders Advertising & Editorial Policy. A copy of the policy can be found at www.masterbuilders.asn.au.

Privacy: Master Builders Queensland has adopted the Australian Privacy Principles published by the office of the Australian Information Commissioner and operates in accordance with those principles.

A copy of Master Builders privacy policy can be found at www.masterbuilders.asn.au.

Disclaimer: Any advice or information included in the publication is given in good faith, but strictly on the understanding that neither Master Builders nor the Editor or any other person or organisation contributing to the publication are to incur any responsibility or legal liability whatsoever (including liability for negligence) should the advice or information be incorrect, incomplete, inappropriate or in any other way defective and all liability is therefore disclaimed. Articles published in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of Master Builders, its officers and staff. Š This publication is copyright. No part of it may be reproduced, copied, stored on a computer, published, broadcast, rewritten for broadcast or publication, or redistributed directly or indirectly in any medium without prior permission from the Queensland Master Builders Association.

20

26

Projects on the horizon

42 Spotlight on

Tradies Corner

48 Mateship matters tour

54 The Sandman

Contents Buildcentre

Employment & wages

8 Introducing Buildcentre

37 Starting a new employee

Policy & advocacy

38 Getting your head around Long Service Leave

14 Policy & advocacy agenda launched

Reports & statistics 16 Survey of Industry Conditions reflects uncertainty in Queensland 18 Industry snapshot

Housing & Construction Awards

Contracts & disputes 40 Directions to rectify 41 Defining the scope of work

Members

22 Invitations out soon

44 Collaborative approach a winner for Larian

Feature

Health, safety & environment

24 Boral’s leading man

46 IPaM reaches milestone

Tradies corner 27 Ask an expert

Training & licensing 50 Get qualified to build larger projects

28 Manage a better small business

Building & planning 30 National Construction Code 2015

People & events 60 Did your photo make it in?

34 Prefab set to revolutionise Australian construction 36 Queensland first to adopt third party certification scheme

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Opinion

Wilhelm Harnisch Chief Executive Officer Master Builders Australia

Let’s have a proper housing debate It is no surprise that former Prime Minister, John Howard, labelled housing affordability as a BBQ stopper. The dream of home ownership matters a great deal to Australians and it remains a hot topic today.

So it is deeply disappointing that the housing affordability debate has been hijacked by side issues, such as the impact of foreign buyers, lax foreign investment rules and negative gearing as a cause for the house price increase, when instead the debate should be properly focussed on the real problem; a lack of supply, or more correctly, the lack of land supply.

Seasoned house builders, who have seen many housing cycles come and go, know that house prices increase more rapidly during residential upturn. Builders also know that a house price boom does not last forever and that house prices also subside.

The latest upturn is highlighting that, as with previous upturns, housing supply is unable to keep up with housing demand.

Master Builders’ research shows Australia’s population growth and continued high levels of immigration, combined with demographic changes, are major drivers of increasing demand. These findings are backed up by similar findings by the Reserve Bank of Australia, the Federal Treasury and various Parliamentary inquiries.

The undersupply of housing has led to, as in all cycles, a jump in house prices, but the

current media commentary on this issue is not necessarily helping to get our politicians focused on the real problem.

A complex array of structural impediments are standing in the way of supply being able to meet demand. These structural barriers are well known and include the full gamut of development approval processes for residential zoning, higher density developments, unreasonable developer charges, and the third party appeals process, and so on.

What is the solution?

There is no simple one-size-fits-all solution.

The supply side problems that lead to deterioration in housing affordability are different between states and territories.

Accordingly, Master Builders has called for the reintroduction of National Competition Payments (NCP) as one of the core reforms to free-up housing supply.

The NCP proposal would have the Federal Government pay state and territory governments for the permanent removal of the structural impediments to housing supply that will lead to significant improvements to housing affordability.

Tinkering with foreign investment rules and negative gearing is, at best, tinkering at the edges and simply misses the point.

Master Builders Australia has developed a multi-point, package approach to improve the housing affordability challenge in Australia. In addition to NCP payments, the plan calls for: • A rigorous and enforceable building code and regulatory system to ensure the development and continuation of an efficient and competitive building industry.

• A commitment by federal, state and local governments to implement a coordinated and proactive housing affordability agenda.

• S treamlined and simplified development approvals processes.

• L ocal councils to develop practical and achievable residential land release plans over a ten-year ahead rolling time horizon.

• A nnual publication of a national stocktake of developer/infrastructure charges levied by all local councils on both greenfield and brownfield developments.

Importantly, Master Builders’ housing supply reform proposals are designed to ensure that the intergenerational home ownership gap does not widen for first home buyers.

Home ownership is an essential social and economic pillar that must be protected.

Making sure that households have access to appropriate and affordable housing must remain a policy priority for all politicians, both at the federal and state levels.

Access to appropriate and affordable housing should also be a priority for public and social housing where there is an equal urgency for fundamental reforms about how housing is delivered in these sectors.

Master Builders Australia is calling on all politicians and commentators to bring the focus of the debate back to the main game: housing affordability and how best to increase the housing supply.

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Opinion

The Hon. Leeanne Enoch MP Minister for Housing and Public Works

Here to listen to industry It’s been a busy few months since being sworn in as Queensland’s new Minister for Housing and Public Works following the election earlier this year and a key priority for me as Minister and for the government as a whole is helping grow industry and deliver jobs for Queenslanders.

Our building and construction industry employs around half a million people and contributes approximately $60 billion a year to our economy. It is essential that we keep this sector strong.

An important part of that is the review of the Building Act 1975 (the Act) that has been underway.

The department has had a great response from industry during this process, and has so far: •

Received over 380 submissions regarding the discussion paper

•

Met with over 250 people as part of the roadshow events

•

Received 43 submissions regarding the Wallace Report and its 122 recommendations.

In the meantime I encourage anyone with concerns to continue providing your feedback to the Department.

As we go through the process, I want to make sure we get the balance right.

We need to have measures in place – including regulation if required – to protect consumers.

But on the other hand, we need to give the industry enough freedom to respond to the market and prosper.

Ultimately, I hope that through this process we will: •

Make the Building Act more user-friendly

•

Improve accountability for all involved in the industry

This suggests to me that the industry feels that the Act and building certification needs this review, and also that many of you out there are invested in the industry’s future and want to have your say.

•

Increase the standard of building certification

•

Reduce disputes

While there seems to be support for the majority of the recommendations, I know that there have been some concerns raised about a few of the recommendations.

•

Deliver compliance with the building codes.

The department will be investigating these concerns further and will be seeking some detailed feedback to better understand these.

I’d like to thank everyone who’s been involved in the review so far.

This will help us create jobs, strengthening the building industry, and provide a better service to customers.

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Opinion

Steve Griffin Commissioner, Queensland Building and Construction Commission

Subcontractors accountable for defective work After lengthy consultations with industry associations, including Master Builders, the Commission will use its existing powers to direct subcontractors to rectify defective building work.

As you are no doubt aware, head contractors are generally held responsible for the defective work, as they are responsible for supervising the work of the subcontractor.

However, industry associations and the Commission want to ensure that all contractors are held accountable for the work that they do.

The changes are sensible ones, and I’m sure the majority of industry members are supportive of subcontractors taking more responsibility for their work.

From 1 June 2015, the subcontractor responsible for the defective work must rectify it or face disciplinary action, which could result in suspension or cancellation of their licence.

Because of this, I want to emphasise that the direction will only be issued if the contractor responsible for the work is unwilling to fix it.

In the event that a subcontractor fails to comply with a direction to rectify a defect, the head contractor will be required to rectify the defect or have another subcontractor rectify it, at the head contractor’s cost.

The Commission would then take disciplinary action against the subcontractor, while the head contractor would be required to take action against the subcontractor to recoup their costs.

I want to thank industry associations, including Master Builders and its Deputy Executive Director, Paul Bidwell, for their advice on this issue and their support of the Commission’s decision.

The Commission will always attempt to assist the parties in a dispute to reach an agreement to rectify any identified defective work.

Where agreement can’t be reached and the Commission assesses the work to be defective, then the Commission must then consider issuing a direction to rectify to the contractor.

The changes to accountability for defective work are further evidence of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to improve our industry, and another example of how we are more than happy to listen to what industry associations and their members are saying.

As I’ve said previously, I’d prefer we didn’t have to issue any directions to rectify defective work but errors will occur and defective work will result from them.

However, these changes will even up the playing field and reduce the burden of responsibility faced by head contractors, which is ultimately good for them, good for the consumer and therefore good for the whole industry.

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Buildcentre

Introducing Buildcentre Master Builders’ cutting edge new job management tool for builder and tradie members is here. And we’re so confident it will transform how you do business, we’re offering a 30-day free trial.* We’re excited to announce the launch of Buildcentre – our brand new, web-based job management system allowing builders and tradies to work through the end-to-end build process.

Over the past 12 months we’ve listened to your feedback on our eDocs system and, as part of our strategic focus on investing in new products for members, this product will fill a gap in the market for builders and tradies.

Our aim was to find the right balance between simplicity and functionality, and we’re thrilled to announce that Buildcentre is now available!

What is Buildcentre?

Developed by Master Builders to help members save time on paperwork and admin, and to present a professional image to clients, Buildcentre is a fully hosted, web-based job management system, accessible through any browser or mobile device, where an internet connection is available.

It offers small to medium-builders the flexibility to use individual components, or a combination, to manage and consolidate a whole project in one convenient location.

Translation: you can get on with the job of building your business, not your paperwork!

For a small, monthly subscription users get access to all* residential contracts and WH&S documents, along with all of the system components, including estimating, quoting, ordering and client management.

Buildcentre has a huge range of features that will help you to run your business, streamlining systems and processes, saving you time and money.

Import your own inventory lists from suppliers or access Master Builders’ extensive database of inventory items, which you can modify to suit your business.

Developed by industry, for industry, it speaks your language, with a local support team on hand to provide extensive assistance. And all of this is stored in the secure, Australian-based Master Builders’ Cloud.

Quoting

Buildcentre provides access to all of your contract needs to make managing your business easy.

Price up your jobs on the fly by using Buildcentre’s quick quote tool, with access to your full inventory list. Your quote can be completed and presented in a matter of minutes.

The benefits: in a nutshell

Complex estimates can also be converted into client-friendly quotes, showing enough detail to provide them with comfort and assurance, whilst not needing to go into the nitty gritty.

Estimating

Contracts

When tackling your bigger jobs, present your business in a professional capacity by developing comprehensive estimates with the ability to work out the cost of your job, from start to finish, including all the ins-and-outs.

Client’s accepted your quote? Get started on your contract in the same convenient location and consolidate all of your job documents into a single job file.

Managing your contracts all in the one place has never been simpler! *30 day free trial includes access to Core plan

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Buildcentre

WH&S

Client management

Maintain compliance in your business with easy access to Safe Work Method Statements (for all subscription plans) and for larger jobs, access to Work Health & Safety Management Plans, which can also be purchased on an as-needs basis.

Communicate with your client by inviting them to access the client portal for their job, that’s managed by you.

All of your WH&S documents are accessible while on site, using your mobile devices, assisting you with any potential audits that may occur.

Use this component to share important information with your client in a convenient and transparent way, throughout the entire build process, from the quoting and contract stage, right through to sharing images to support progress of the job and payment claims.

This allows you to ensure your business is compliant with up-to-date documentation.

The client portal will open up interaction between you and your clients, improving your working relationships.

Ordering

Custom branding

Generate a consolidated list of supplies for your job and submit orders to your suppliers directly.

Want a consistent business name across all of your documents?

No more trawling through company inboxes to find orders and receipts; keep all correspondence with suppliers in the one, easy to access place within each job.

Once you have uploaded your business logo, your contracts in Buildcentre will be branded accordingly. ‘Plus’ subscribers are also able to brand all contracts, quotes, invoices, client portal and watermarked photos.

Want to know more? Visit www.buildcentre.com.au or call 1300 762 252

Access Ideal for small operators or contractors looking for expert presentation and WH&S protection on approximately two contracts per month.

$60

per month

1 user | 1GB data 2 contracts* 2 SWMS Free supporting docs Personal branding included on all contracts

Core Makes admin easier for small to medium businesses generating up to five contracts per month. Perfect for businesses with admin, estimators or support staff.

$80

per month

2 users | 2GB data 5 contracts* 5 SWMS Free supporting docs Personal branding included on all contracts

Plus For larger-sized businesses generating around 10 contracts per month requiring access for multiple team members including admin, estimator or support staff.

$95

per month

6 users | 6GB data 10 contracts* 10 SWMS 1 WH&S Management Plan Free supporting docs Personal branding included on all contracts, quotes, invoices, client portal and watermarked imagery

* A number of contracts are included in your subscription with the option to purchase more contract packs on an as needs basis. Unused contracts automatically rollover and add to your monthly contract allowance.

Free 30-day trial – subscribe now!

Want to try before you buy? Gain Core plan access for 30 days, at no cost, with no catches.

If you love what you see, convert from the free trial to a paid subscription, without losing data.

Visit www.buildcentre.com.au or call 1300 762 252 to sign up now! june/july 15

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News

Kokoda on your bucket list?

Looking for a powerful team experience?

Experience our military history first hand and do something practical to reduce suicides in the construction industry.

Learn more or sign up by visiting www.matesinconstruction.org.au/ kokoda-track-2015

Kokoda challenge makes a return Following on from the success of last year’s trek, MATES in Construction is once again calling on industry to join in the adventure.

The 2015 MATES in Construction Kokoda Trek will take place from 4 –13 September, where the values of sacrifice, endurance, courage and mateship, will be the top of trekkers’ minds.

MATES in Construction is a national, industry-based charity, standing with construction workers who are struggling and ensuring they get the right help when they need it. The charity also supports the families of these workers.

Once again, they will partner with Aurora Adventures to take workers and their mates on a Kokoda challenge, aiming to raise $150,000 to continue their important work.

Last year saw the trek raise enough funds to continue the employment

of Amanda Edwards as a field officer in the Surat Basin and Darling Downs region – an appointment that has already saved lives!

While raising essential funds for MATES, this trek is also a powerful adventure, challenging trekkers both physically and emotionally. It is held in a spectacular landscape with some of the most beautiful scenery imaginable. Perhaps more remarkable than the scenery, is the personal transformation and leadership development that occurs through working as a team to support each other.

Aurora conduct a 12-week pre-adventure training program, where age is no barrier. They also set it up for people in regional areas or capital cities in other states from Queensland.

Don’t sweat it – tax deadline extended The ATO has listened to business concerns about the difficulty in lodging the Taxable Payments Annual Report on time and have extended the due date to 28 August for this year onwards.

Each year, businesses in the building and construction industry that pay contractors for building and construction services are required to lodge a Taxable Payments Annual Report with the ATO.

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In previous years the report was due 21 July, but from 2015 the report will be due 28 August.

The change in the due date was made after listening to concerns from people in the industry about the difficulty in lodging the annual report by 21 July.

The extended due date was also a recommendation of the recent Board of Taxation review of tax impediments facing small business.

For more information, visit www.ato.gov.au/taxablepaymentsreporting

Can you take the risk that you might be using non-compliant steel?

Liable. (adj.) Legally obliged or responsible; answerable. Liable to happen.

• • • • •

As construction professionals using non-compliant steel could be your worst decision.

Engineers, certifiers or suppliers have the responsibility and power to refuse the use of unidentifiable or non-compliant steel.

You manage the risk to human safety, reputation, livelihood and cost. Control your risks of non-compliance.

Reduce your liability through simple web downloads of ACRS Certificates at www.steelcertification.com Check your steel products’ compliance to AS/NZS Standards and building codes.

ACRS rigorously certifies steel product compliance at over 150 locations in 15 countries and is accredited

by JAS-ANZ For more detail, register for STEEL CERTIFICATION NEWS at www.steelcertification.com

Non-compliance is just not worth it. Get the facts.

Demand the ACRS Certificates of Product Compliance.

Call ACRS on (02) 9965 7216, email info@steelcertification.com or visit www.steelcertification.com ACRS – The Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels Ltd ABN 40 096 692 545 june/july 15

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News The Work Shop – Annual Report 2014 Sunshine Coast Public University Hospital construction site

The Work Shop celebrates 200 jobs

200 JOBS IN 200 DAYS!

The Work Shop (TWS) has published its latest employment statistics for the Sunshine Coast Public University Hospital construction site, plus the economic impact these statistics have made on the Sunshine Coast.

With 200 jobs in 200 days, the TWS has assisted in the generation of $42 million in local wages and salary to the Sunshine Coast region.

85%

11% Young people (15-25yrs)

19% Previously unemployed

LOCALS

Sunshine Coast economic impact of 200 construction jobs

651

$42m

Additional jobs in the region

$67m

Local wages and salaries

Gross regional product (GRP)

Source: National Institute of Economic and Industry Research (NIEIR) Š2014

Each week The Work Shop team averages:

280 phone enquiries

220 jobseeker registrations

30 jobseeker meetings

12 employer/ contractor meetings

6 industry events / meetings

For more information on The Work Shop and the funding partners please visit: www.myworkshop.net.au

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5 successful placements

News

Master Builders to take on Tokyo Billions of dollars in Asian investment are flowing to Australia each year and Master Builders Tokyo Networking and Study Tour will open the door to opportunities for Master Builders’ members in Australia.

Building relationships is the key to doing business in Asia, so don’t miss this invaluable opportunity to meet the region’s leading building and construction experts and practitioners.

Master Builders has been intimately connected to Asia for more than 60 years. As the host of a Business Forum at the event, Master Builders will introduce you to the key construction industry players in the Asia Pacific Region and delegates from 15 nations.

IFAWPCA Tokyo 2015 gives you the opportunity to get ahead of the competition with first hand access to the latest technology, trends and insights about products and services.

Promotional opportunities Join Master Builders in Tokyo this November at the premier construction event in the Asia Pacific region and: • B e introduced to the ‘movers and shakers’ driving investment and construction in the Asia Pacific.

• G et ahead of the game; be informed about the latest technology and trends coming to our industry.

• J oin the Master Builders Networking and Study Tour with one of the targeted tour packages offered to our members.

• C hoose from the Platinum, Gold and Silver Tour Packages tailored to your business needs and designed to offer amazing value to small and large builders and contractors.

Don’t miss the Master Builders Tokyo Tour 2015.

Contact Keith Stubbs on 03 411 4553 or register your interest via email at tokyotour@masterbuilders.com.au

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Policy & advocacy

Policy & advocacy agenda launched With the theme, Charting a course for growth, Master Builders’ official Policy & advocacy agenda 2015 was officially launched in May in conjunction with a visit from the QBCC Commissioner, Steve Griffin.

since

1882 8500+

MASTER BUILDERS HAS BEEN THE VOICE OF THE QLD BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

MEMBERS

#1

THE INDUSTRY IS #1 CONTRIBUTOR TO GROSS STATE PRODUCT AND #1 PROVIDER OF FULL-TIME JOBS

$29.5

CONTRIBUTION TO GROSS STATE PRODUCT

billion

nearly

220k+

1 in 5

JOBS FOR QUEENSLANDERS

QUEENSLAND SMALL BUSINESSES ARE IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY BUILDERS BRING US HOMES, WORKPLACES, SCHOOLS, HOSPITALS AND SHOPS ESSENTIAL FOR OUR COMMUNITIES

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Reports & statistics

Survey of Industry Conditions reflects uncertainty in Queensland Master Builders’ latest Survey of Industry Conditions for the March 2015 quarter shows business confidence in the Queensland economy and the building and construction industry weakened compared to the previous quarter, but the outlook remains positive.

The results reflect a period of uncertainty in Queensland during and immediately after the state election. This uneasiness is also a product of the continued scaling back of mining investment and the worsening unemployment rate. While the low interest rates have been welcome, they will not be enough to see the economy through.

The level of business activity held steady during the March quarter. Two thirds of respondents reported their level of work in progress remained the same or improved.

Of concern, was an increase in the number of respondents reporting weaker work in progress – up from 19 per cent to 33 per cent.

The good news for the construction sector is that relative to the wider economy, it is expected to perform strongly. And within the industry there are a significant number (43%) of respondents who maintain a positive outlook for the future.

The majority of respondents (55%) reported that average contract prices remained the same. There is little evidence of upward pressure on contract prices as the industry continues to be driven by strong competition for available work and budget-conscious consumers.

In spite of the broader pessimism, conditions in the residential sector held steady. The commercial sector returned to negative territory after a period of positive growth.

Turnover and profitability fell away, returning to negative territory for the first time in a year. Material costs were stable, while average wages dropped away slightly.

Employment levels remained at the same level for the past 12 months. Encouragingly, an improvement in the coming June quarter

is expected, with 18 per cent of businesses anticipating an improvement in employment levels. The story is much the same for apprentices, with demand flat over the past 12 months.

The lacklustre level of demand continued to be the most critical constraint on business growth. Labour costs and the related constraint of labour availability are also of primary concern.

Infrastructure charges are another major constraint, with reports that the cost of bringing land to the market has increased, causing frustration among builders and developers. The outlook for housing affordability deteriorated slightly during the March quarter.

For the most part the south east corner continued to drive growth, with the Gold Coast being the standout performer across the state.

Previous leaders, Darling Downs & South West Queensland and Far North Queensland, returned more muted performances this quarter. Respondents in Cairns expect this to only be temporary while those in Toowoomba are less confident.

North Queensland and Burnett Wide Bay, which have only ever experienced a tentative recovery, have slipped back, while the Sunshine Coast also cooled after a strong run.

There continues to be little good news for the industry in Mackay & Whitsunday but they remain optimistic for the future.

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Reports & statistics

Building industry outlook

Turnover

Profit

Employment

Average wages

Capital Expenditure

Level of work

Greater Brisbane

58.8

53.0

49.6

50.8

55.8

50.2

56.0

Gold Coast

70.5

52.6

48.7

51.3

53.7

52.9

57.2

Sunshine Coast

63.3

44.8

39.7

47.1

50.0

41.3

49.1

Darling Downs & South West Queensland

44.8

38.0

39.1

46.3

48.7

45.2

43.8

Region

Burnett Wide Bay

52.1

40.6

39.1

46.1

48.3

46.3

42.7

Central Queensland

56.9

39.1

34.4

48.4

45.0

40.6

48.5

Mackay

44.8

37.5

36.5

47.7

52.1

38.0

30.4

North Queensland

47.9

30.2

28.1

43.5

41.3

36.4

25.0

Far North Queensland

50.0

42.1

38.2

41.7

43.1

44.1

38.2

Queensland

56.7

46.2

43.2

48.5

51.5

46.4

48.4

APE_MasterBuilderMag_half-page_.indd 3

june/july7/05/2015 15 [ 17 4:29 ] mb pm

Reports & statistics

Industry snapshot

Queensland building approvals

HAVE INCREASED BY 15% over the last 12 months.

The growth is largely in the south east corner with Greater Brisbane, the Gold and Sunshine Coasts making up 80% of all approvals. (ABS)

Regional: dwelling approvals REGION (Original Data)

March 2015

February 2015

% Change Over Month

Total Current 12 Months

Total Previous % Change 12 Months Over Year

Greater Brisbane

2,699

2,125

27.0%

24,429

19,536

25.0%

Gold Coast

230

242

-5.0%

5,336

3,511

52.0%

Sunshine Coast

367

288

27.4%

3,293

2,663

23.7%

Darling Downs & South West Qld

163

123

32.5%

1,934

2,018

-4.2%

Wide Bay

123

135

-8.9%

1,432

1,419

0.9%

Central Qld

57

45

26.7%

979

2,022

-51.6%

Mackay

53

29

82.8%

771

1,791

-57.0%

North Qld

96

97

-1.0%

1,642

1,905

-13.8%

Far North Qld

97

94

3.2%

1,139

999

14.0%

Regional: new dwellings approved percentage change 60.0% % change over Quarter

% change over Year

40.0%

20.0%

Multi-unit (Qld)

House Qld

Far North Qld

North Qld

Mackay

Central Qld

Wide Bay

Darling Downs & South West Qld

-40.0%

Sunshine Coast

-20.0%

Gold Coast

0.0% Greater Brisbane

THE RESOURCE REGIONS CONTINUE to struggle, DESPITE A RECENT SPIKE IN APPROVALS

-60.0% Source ABS and Master Builders

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Reports & statistics

DID YOU KNOW? Much of the growth in approvals has been in multi-unit construction

NOW

up to

47%OF

The demand for detached housing has been growing but at a more modest rate.

ALL DWELLING APPROVALS. A record high!

12 month rolling total

Houses – 12 month rolling total

multi-unit – 12 month rolling total

Jan 15

Sep 2014

Jan 2014

May 2014

Sep 2013

Jan 2013

May 2013

Sep 2012

Jan 2012

May 2012

Sep 2011

Jan 2011

May 2011

Sep 2010

Jan 2010

May 2010

Sep 2009

Jan 2009

May 2009

Sep 2008

Jan 2008

May 2008

Sep 2007

Jan 2007

May 2007

Sep 2006

Jan 2006

May 2006

Sep 2005

Jan 2005

May 2005

Sep 2004

Jan 2004

May 2004

Sep 2003

Jan 2003

May 2003

Sep 2002

Jan 2002

May 2002

Sep 2001

Jan 2001

May 2001

Sep 2000

Jan 2000

May 2000

Dwelling unit approvals: 12 month rolling total

Source ABS and Master Builders

Non-residential: construction work done

$B

Private Sector, Non-residential

Public Sector, Non-residential

TOTAL Non-residential

Current 12 months

5.38

1.36

6.74

Previous 12 months

4.98

2.18

7.16

% Change over 12 months

8.2%

-37.7%

-5.8%

$$$ Demand for non-residential construction has slumped as government pulls back on investment. june/july 15

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On the horizon

Projects ahead for Queensland

Aquis – like nothing you’ve seen before The Aquis Great Barrier Reef Resort at Yorkeys Knob will be Australia’s largest, most exciting, world-class integrated resort in the Asia-Pacific region, competing on the world stage for international and domestic tourists, turning Cairns into one of the world’s top destinations.

The plans include two casinos, 7,500 hotel rooms in eight luxury hotels, restaurants, a 23,000² convention and exhibition centre, two theatres, an indigenous cultural centre and a large aquarium.

The total site area of 340.6 ha comprises 11 freehold titles. The vast majority of the site is currently utilised for cane farming and is predominately surrounded by remnant coastal vegetation and marine areas, much of which is protected by legislation.

The two-stage project, which is separated into three main precincts, has a total capital budget of more than $8 billion and represents the largest investment ever in Australia’s tourism infrastructure.

Construction is scheduled to start after the next wet season in about May next year with the first stage expected to open in 2020.

On completion, Aquis will attract more than 1,000,000 visitors per year to Cairns and Far North Queensland, injecting billions of dollars into the local economy.

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Aquis at a glance ➔ 340.6 ha total site area ➔ 7,500 total rooms across 8 luxury hotels ➔ $8.15 billion total budget across two stages from 2014-2024 ➔ 2020 scheduled opening date ➔ $55.4 billion

economy wide value added by 2030 ➔ $18.5 billion

total tax contribution to governments from 2014 – 2030 ➔ 3,750

total jobs at peak construction in 2017 ➔ 20,000 total operational workforce ➔ $1.4 billion

increase in Gross State Product (GSP) in 2017 ➔ 91% support for the project from community submissions ➔ 4,000

number of pages in Environmental Impact Statement

On the horizon

Sunshine Coast Public University Hospital surges ahead The $1.8 billion Sunshine Coast Public University Hospital project, being undertaken by Lend Lease, is a state government initiative to address the growing health service needs of the Sunshine Coast community.

The hospital will open with approximately 450 beds in 2016 with the remaining capacity expected to be commissioned by 2020/21, which will see all 738 beds utilised.

The hospital has been planned to allow further expansion up to a total of 900 beds.

The Sunshine Coast Public University Hospital is one step closer to completion with the final slab poured on the hospital’s main building at the end of April 2015.

Queensland Health Minister, Cameron Dick, visited the project recently to review progress on-site and to celebrate the ‘topping out’ of the main structure.

The main hospital building forms the centre of the new hospital campus, and is split over six functional levels, plus roof top plant rooms and helipad. It will ultimately house emergency, medical, cancer, renal, intensive care, obstetric, paediatric and clinical support services, as well as the 450 inpatient beds

April Sky Aerial supplied by Lend Lease of the Kawana Health Campus, featuring the Sunshine Coast Public University Hospital construction site (April 2015)

Completion of the main hospital building structure transitions the project to the next phase where construction workers will grow from the current 1,200 onsite to 1,800 midyear, across trades like structure, services and finishes – all who will help bring the building to completion.

The main hospital building includes approximately 74,780 cubic metres of concrete from local concrete supplier, Holcim, and is reinforced with approximately 7,460 tonnes of steel. Once complete the building will include 6,300 doors, approximately 5,900 rooms and 15 stairwells.

General Manager of Lend Lease’s building business in Queensland, Tony Orazio attended the topping out ceremony and acknowledged the efforts of the Lend Lease team, contractors and construction workers involved in the structural completion.

The new tertiary facility is being delivered through a Public Private Partnership contract with Exemplar Health, a consortium comprising Lend Lease, Siemens and Capella Capital, with partners Spotless Facilities Services. This consortium will design, build and finance the public hospital as well as maintain it for 25 years.

“I’d like to thank the team for their hard work.

Sunshine Coast University Public Hospital is a large project which has been welcomed by the local community,” Tony said.

‘The new hospital will mean up to 10,000 patients each year will no longer have to travel to Brisbane for complex treatment, so this project genuinely fulfils the Lend Lease vision of creating the best places.”

The main hospital building has taken two years to reach structure completion, and has taken between 900,000 and 1.2 million work hours, from a structural team of over 600 workers across trades such as form working, steel fixing, concreting, scaffolding, concrete pumping, plumbing, electrical, hydraulics and waterproofing, as well as operating five tower-cranes.

Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Board Chair Emeritus Professor Paul Thomas AO, Minister for Health Cameron Dick, LLB General Manager QLD/NT, Tony Orazio and Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service, Chief Executive, Kevin Hegarty celebrate the structure completion of the main hospital building with the presentation of a commemorative concrete float from Lend Lease Building.

Commonwealth Games venue goes for gold Construction at the $122 million Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Carrara Sports Precinct is officially underway.

design and construction, but also ensure the local community; local business and local industry reap long term benefits from the event.

The first cab off the rank is the new $101 million Carrara Sports and Leisure Centre, which is one of four projects to be delivered in the next two years.

While Carrara has undergone a series of redevelopments over the years, this project will transform the area around the stadium into a truly world class sports precinct.

This is a key Games venue that is generating 400 jobs during design and construction, becoming a major piece of infrastructure for the Gold Coast and accommodating a wide range of court sports including basketball, netball, indoor soccer and badminton.

As a major hub for both elite and community-based sports, the Carrara Sports Precinct will be the premier location for high-performance training and competition, major events, and local sports development.

The Commonwealth Games infrastructure program is an important investment in the region that will not only generate 1,000 jobs during

$320 million will be invested in venues infrastructure ahead of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, including $154 million in Commonwealth Government funding. june/july 15

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Invitations out soon Save the date – the 2015 Housing & Construction Awards are just around the corner!

With entries now closed and judging underway in most regions, it’s not long until the 2015 winners are revealed at prestigious events across the state.

To make sure you don’t miss out on your local Awards night, keep an eye out for your email invitation offering tickets for purchase, hitting your inbox soon.

Region

Award ceremony event date

Venue

Brisbane

Friday, 10 July

Sofitel Brisbane

Downs & Western

Saturday, 18 July

Armitage Centre & Heritage Bank Auditorium

Gold Coast

Saturday, 25 July

Jupiters Hotel and Casino

Burnett Wide Bay

Friday, 31 July

Beach House Hotel

Sunshine Coast

Saturday, 1 August

Novotel Twin Waters Resort

North Queensland

Friday, 14 August

Jupiters Townsville Hotel and Casino

Far North Queensland

Saturday, 15 August

Cairns Convention Centre

Central Queensland

Friday, 21 August

Rockhampton Heritage Village

Mackay & Whitsunday

Saturday, 22 August

Mackay Convention Centre

State

Friday, 9 October

Brisbane City Hall

Share your photos on the night The #mbawards photo competition is back!

Run in conjunction with the 2015 Housing & Construction Awards program, the competition is the perfect opportunity to showcase your experience of the Awards and give those Instagram filters a good work out!

To enter, simply upload your photos to Instagram, Facebook or Twitter, and ensure you include the competition hashtag: #mbawards and that your account is set to public so we can view them.

While you’re at it, why not give us a follow and tag us as well?

Your photo entry can be of projects (i.e. houses and projects entered), people (i.e. getting ready, group shots at the event) and on the night (i.e. winner photos, award plaques, location and group shots); basically, anything that sums up your #mbawards experience!

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[ 22 ] june/july 15

Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place, and announced after the State Awards on Friday, 9 October.

For full competition details, plus terms and conditions, visit www.masterbuilders.asn.au/photocomp

Are your showers ticking time bombs?

Despite builders best efforts, leaking showers are consistently listed in the QBCC’s 10 most common defects. Sadly, sometimes this is due to sub-standard workmanship, but most of the time it is the design of the shower itself which is creating the potential for disaster.

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

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

Waterstop Streamline provides: •

Positive connection between screen and membrane

•

Maximises floor area

•

Provides a template for following trades

•

Ensures correct fall to waste

•

Complies with and exceeds AS3740

•

Modern, cost effective, one-piece design

•

20 different shapes and sizes

•

Minimum change for maximum benefits

My business has expanded rapidly since we star ted using th e Waterstop Streamline ho b and I now have tilers recommending the Watersto p Streamline system – and me – to other builders.

Everyone that uses it loves it.

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

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

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

It has to be, because this produ ct is designed to dictate placement of all of the other components to make up a complete shower. It’s virtually impossible to stuff it up.

Mr Glen Whitehead, Managing Direct or BJM Developments

Water escapes shower enclosure

Tile

Screen ‘sealed’ to tiles with silicon Tile Water path

Bed

Hobbed shower

Bed

Water escapes shower enclosure

Membrane

Waterstop Streamline Screen ‘sealed’ to tiles with silicon

Screen

Screen

Rebated or flow-through shower

Water path

Streamline

Screen Screen sealed to membrane with silicone

Keyway to trap liquid membrane

Tile Tile height gauge

Tile Hob

Bed

Bathroom floor tile height optional Substrate

Bed Membrane

Membrane

For more information, visit www.waterstopstreamline.com.au Phone 07 5426 3700 • Fax 07 5426 3711 • Email sales@gleda.com.au june/july 15

[ 23 ]

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Feature

Boral’s leading man Master Builder staff recently caught up with Boral CEO Mike Kane, to discover more about his career, vision for the future and his fight against the illegal boycott of Boral products.

What have been your career highlights prior to joining Boral?

I joined Boral in February 2010 as the President of Boral USA and became CEO and Managing Director in October 2012. I came to Boral with 40 years of experience in building products and construction materials, including 24 years in senior roles with US Gypsum, Pioneer/Hanson Building Materials, Johns-Manville Corp and Holcim. It’s been a great opportunity for me as CEO to bring my career experience together in one role – I’ve run operations similar to Boral’s businesses in gypsum, cement, concrete, aggregates, bricks and roof tiles throughout North and South America, Asia, and Europe. Before joining Boral I also spent time as CEO of Calstar Products Inc, a Silicon Valley Clean Technology start-up, reinventing exterior building materials for sustainable construction, which reflects my passion for innovation in our industries.

You have been CEO of Boral for two years and have previously worked in Asia, North and South America, Europe and now Australia. Are there any fundamental differences in the way the building and construction industry operates internationally as compared to Australia?

My experience across four continents tells me that safe and productive outcomes in the building and construction industry is what people strive for – an environment where the requirements of the customer are balanced with genuine requirements of site safety, environmental compliance, product and service quality, and cost effectiveness.

In Australia however, there are some unique challenges. You only have to follow the media articles that started coming out last year following the Royal Commission into Union Corruption – there is plenty to embarrass anyone associated with the major construction industry in Australia. We need to band together to remove hurdles to productivity that we find in our industry.

What is the most memorable lesson you have learnt from working in the industry and what kind of advice would you give someone wanting to enter the industry?

In four decades of business I’ve learned how important it is to approach work as a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time to execute a change management program. It is easy to get discouraged and frustrated when progress is slow or other factors interfere. If you are applying tried and true management practices, willing to be decisive and execute on your convictions while making sure that nothing you do contradicts your values – the right outcomes begin to appear.

The great advantage of experience is that you develop a pattern recognition that informs your decision making. I saw this most pronounced in Silicon Valley where I was asked to stand up a green brick business from a laboratory sample to manufacturing, distribution and everything in between.

The great advantage I had (and perhaps the only advantage on some very bright young PhD’s on the team) was that I knew what good looked like and how each piece of the puzzle should fit. I called on a network of experts to help me accelerate commercialisation and remained confident that with a sound product and good execution, progress will follow.

In the last three years we have seen that play out in a similar exercise within Boral as we launched a new to the market lightweight, high recycled content wood replacement trim, bead-board and siding product to the US market which will be profitable in the 2016 financial year. While age brings many things – not all pleasant – experience and know-how are invaluable.

My only advice to anyone starting out in business is – be a lifelong learner.

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[ 24 ] june/july 15

Feature What is the most disruptive threat to the industry that we should be taking note of?

For manufacturers of building products the high cost of manufacturing in Australia could ultimately lead to less choices for Australian consumers.

We have seen lower cost imported materials replace locally manufactured products and this will probably continue. But in some cases products just won’t be imported into Australia because it’s not cost effective to do so. Take clay bricks for example. We have worked hard to create a more sustainable business in bricks by forming a joint venture with CSR on the East Coast, but ultimately if bricks can’t be produced locally to compete cost effectively with alternate cladding materials, then Australia won’t have the same range of brick products to offer consumers.

Will the way we build change fundamentally in the future? How? What do we need to do to meet these changing future demands?

I believe we will be less reliant on resource-rich and energy-intensive building products. Lighter weight materials and construction methods will displace heavier, higher cost products. We have already seen this playing out in the bricks industry where there has been a 46 per cent decline in brick production in Australia since it peaked in 1981.

“

“

I believe we will be less reliant on resource-rich and energy-intensive building products. Lighter weight materials and construction methods will displace heavier, higher cost products.

You have turned around Boral, decreasing debt by $1 billion. What would you say contributed the most to this success?

We have focused on cash, costs and capital. We have realigned the cost structure of the business and this is an ongoing focus to offset inflationary cost impacts. We have tried to conserve cash including constraining capital expenditure. For example, we faced up to the reality that it was no longer sensible to invest capital into cement manufacturing into our sub-scale cement kiln in Victoria. Instead we saved that capital and focused on bringing in reliable, quality, cost-effective supply from Asia.

What are the biggest challenges facing Boral during the next few years?

Our biggest challenges are the macroeconomic impacts on the markets in which we operate. For example, the pace of recovery of the US housing market, which to date, has been slower than expected, need to continue to improve. In Australia, the pipeline of infrastructure work is very promising but there is often uncertainty around the timing of these projects starting and there are risks around some markets coming off before others pick up. But these are timing issues. In general, the next few years will be exciting for Boral – in Australia, the USA and in Asia.

What are your plans for the company in the future?

To continue to improve our financial performance so that we are delivering acceptable returns for our shareholders. In addition, continue to work on transforming the business for the longterm so that Boral has well-developed technologies and a product portfolio that delivers what our customers need for the future.

What is the latest development in regards to Boral’s participation in the Royal Commission intro Trade Union Governance and Corruption?

The recommendations of the Royal Commission in relation to the Boral case were detailed in their interim report in December 2014. The Royal Commission referred allegations of bribery and corruption to the Victorian DPP for investigation. Meanwhile, the ACCC has brought charges in relation to the secondary boycott. We also have our own legal proceedings before the courts including a damages claim to recover some of the ongoing costs and financial impacts on our business.

Frustratingly, despite the legal processes we have pursued and the injunctions granted, Boral is still not back delivering concrete to the CBD of Melbourne – the illegal secondary boycott imposed by the CFMEU on Boral remains in place.

june/july 15

[ 25 ]

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Tradies corner

MARK PORTER

Environpest I currently work as…

I am a Master Builders member because…

A termite consultant and inspector.

Of an introduction by an incredible gentleman, Ces Fritz. I first met him while doing a pre-purchase inspection on a home he was selling to a previous Premier. I’ve been a proud member ever since. When it comes to the issue of termites (as in any other issue), I’ve found Master Builders to be an incredibly ethical organisation.

My first job was…

A concreter working for my father on the Sunshine Coast. We were doing 50 homes a year. If things were quiet on the concreting, I used to get grabbed by the other trades, so life was never boring.

Dad would only ever build in hardwood from one particular mill, and as pine took over as the major framing, we started to get costed out on jobs. Dad took the view that if people wanted homes that wouldn’t stand the test of time, he was going to find something else to do, and went down more of a development road. We built some housing estates in Nambour, and then Arana Hills. Later Dad moved into some commercial work, and then the financial side of building. In 1979 I first became involved with termites. Sometimes I just have to pinch myself when I think of where I’ve ended up.

The benefits of being a member that I use include…

The access to the wealth of knowledge available through the technical division. Membership benefits have also been added (like the Telstra phone deal), but to me, that’s just icing on the cake.

I would spend my last $100 on…

A decent bottle of wine and a meal to share with my wife.

I love my job because…

I get to see some pretty incredible buildings and meet some fantastic people. There’s a real sense of satisfaction in being positively involved in things like the government Termite Working Group that produced the January, 2001 Building Code amendments, and now the Australian Standards. I guess I don’t mind handing something back to an industry that’s been pretty kind to me.

If I wasn’t a termite consultant/inspector I would be a…

A builder, working with my son (he’s a carpenter/shopfitter).

In my spare time I… Like to fish, go boating, and camp on North Stradbroke Island, Inskip Point, Fraser Island, etc. I also have a few trail bikes in the shed that I manage to get out for a run from time to time as well.

NEED A CONCRETE POOL SHELL? Call us and let us do the hard work for you.

Wholesale Pool Shells is a specialist subcontractor to the swimming pool and building industries. We offer pool shells which include engineering, certification, excavation, reinforcing, concrete and plumbing. We offer fixed prices and two day construction time in most cases, with a network of other licensed pool trades available to you.

We can also have excavators, bobcats, tip trucks and concrete pumps available for hire.

Call us now for a quote on your next project.

Rob: 0418 748 255 | Fax: 07 3803 3022 | Email: rob@wholesalepoolshells.com.au

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[ 26 ] june/july 15

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WHOLESALE POOL SHELLS BSA License 1172793

Tradies corner

ASK AN EXPERT

with Karen Haworth

Karen Haworth is Master Builders Manager for Planning Services. Since her appointment in 2009 she has assisted countless members in resolving issues of planning, technical and/or contractual-related matters.

Here are some common questions she gets from tradies: Do I need a building approval to build a deck?

Decks are ‘Class 10b’ (non-habitable) structures under the Building Code of Australia. The Building Act 1975 defines a ‘structure’ as: ‘a wall or fence and anything fixed to or projecting from a building, wall, fence or other structure’.

According to the Building Regulation 2006, you will need building approval if the deck is: • M ore than 1m above the natural ground surface • M ore than 10m² in area after building work is completed • M ore than 2.4m high (with an ‘average mean height’ of no more than 2.1m)

As highlighted in this example, there is not always an Australian Standard tolerance to rely on. Therefore with no clearly defined tolerances the argument will be is it ‘fit for purpose’ or ‘best industry practice’?

We actively encourage both parties to reach an amicable agreement to resolve their issues; contractors should always make a commercial decision. Remember if a problem or dispute arises, make sure you give us a call.

I’m having an issue with a client over the floor tiling, with my client saying they are not to Australian Standards.

How can I check?

We’ve helped many members to get advice on planning requirements – in fact, this kind of advice comes free as part of your membership, so make sure you take advantage of it.

Surface flatness of some large format ceramic tiles can cause lipping problems, particularly when rectangular tiles are laid in a brick pattern. Often, large tiles laid with a brick pattern sees the highest part of any curvature correspond with the lowest part of adjoining tiles, therefore accentuating lipping.

Where can I find the standards and variances acceptable for a free form rollover pool (interior rolls on outside of pool), if the pool does not have a coping tile?

The allowable curvature for first quality ceramic tiles whether plain, polished or honed, according to AS4459 and the ISO standard, remains at 0.5%. This allows a 600mm x 300mm tile to curve up to 3mm in its length and still be considered first quality.

There is no definitive tolerance. The Australian Standard 3600 – 2009 for concrete structures states the deviation from any specified height, plan or cross-sectional dimension, shall not exceed 1/200 times the specified dimension or 5mm, whichever the greater.

The tile installation standard states that lipping allowances of between 1mm and 2mm, depending on whether the tiles are ground flat or have cushion edges, can have the curvature in the tiles added to the lipping tolerances.

The deviation in the width of the bond beam (coping) could be argued as aesthetics. You might have an argument that if the finish around the pool was going to be landscaped with plants and rocks the deviation would not be as noticeable. If the finish around the pool is a hard landscape i.e. concrete or tiles, the deviation could be very noticeable.

Few large tiles come near this allowance, therefore contractors (in particular tilers) need to check the tiles before they commence laying them.

• Longer than 5m along any side

Got a question for Karen?

Email: askanexpert@masterbuilders.asn.au and you could see the answer in the next Tradies Corner.

june/july 15

[ 27 ]

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Tradies corner

Manage a better small business Here’s another new nationally accredited course designed to support tradies.

Unique to Master Builders, Master Tradies is a series that develops non-technical skills and knowledge that are important if you want to grow a successful and profitable trade contractor business.

You can complete the entire course over six months, or enrol in the modules that suit you.

Module 1 – Business planning & finances (two days) • BSBSMB402A Plan small business finances • B SBSMB404A Undertake small business planning Gain the skills and knowledge required to develop financial plans and integrated business plans for your business.

communicate information and how to use that information to develop and maintain effective working relationships and networks.

It also covers the implementation of administration processes relating to residential and commercial construction projects.

Call 1300 13 60 02 or visit www.masterbuilders.asn.au/training

Module 3 – Estimating Essentials (two days) • C PCCCM2003B Calculate and cost construction work Module three provides the skills and knowledge required to estimate materials, labour and time requirements and establish costs for provision of services or products in basic construction work.

Module 2 – Supervising & leading people (two days)

Module 4 – Building applications & approvals (one day)

• C PCCBC4008B Conduct on-site supervision of building and construction projects

• C PCCBC4026A Arrange building applications and approvals

• B SBWOR401A Establish effective workplace relationships

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Building & planning

National Construction Code 2015 The annual changes to the NCC were recently announced. Here is a snapshot of the most important changes relevant to builders and trade contractors in Queensland.

The National Construction Code Series (NCC) is an initiative of the Council of Australian Governments developed to incorporate all on-site construction requirements into a single code.

The 2015 edition will take effect from 1 May 2015 in Queensland and is published in three volumes.

Volume One: Volume Two:

Standardising the process gives a clear pathway to use a performance solution.

To assist with this, two new Verification Methods for ‘structural reliability’ and ‘weatherproofing’, to verify compliance with the performance requirements, are now available.

Building Code of Australia Class 2 to 9 buildings

Structural reliability Verification Method

Building Code of Australia Class 1 and 10 buildings

The structural reliability of a building is dependent upon its ability to resist structural failure.

Volume Three: Plumbing Code of Australia / Technical Provisions & Product Certification The Building Code of Australia (BCA) and Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA) are given legal status in Queensland by reference in the Building Act and the Standard Plumbing and Drainage Regulation. The changes will improve clarity of provisions, upgrade referenced documents and reflect the results of research and improved technology.

Both Volume one and two contain a listing of structural actions which a building may be subjected too. The codes contain Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions that provide building solutions to resist these actions by using a Limit State Design method.

Building designers choosing to quantify structural reliability outside of these provisions must develop Alternative Solutions, assessed by using one/a combination of

Failure to comply with the applicable version is a breach of statutory and contractual obligations.

•

Documentary evidence

•

Verification methods

What’s changed for 2015?

•

Expert judgement

Free access

•

Comparison to the Deemed to Satisfy Provisions

The NCC is now available free online, providing access to all current and previous editions. From 1 May 2016 the NCC will change to a three-year amendment cycle.

The new structural reliability verification method provides the minimum resistance targets for structural components and connections, helping engineers develop Alternative Solutions that provide new and innovative options for building design.

This direction was taken by the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) to reduce economic burden, increase productivity and improve building outcomes.

Hard copies will no longer be produced, with digital files available for self-printing.

Performance-based Code The performance requirements are the only legal requirements of the NCC. Contractors can apply the deemed to satisfy provisions, the acceptable construction practices and manuals to comply with the performance requirements.

You can also use a Performance Solution (alternative solution) to satisfy the NCC performance requirements.

An assistance handbook about the calculation methodology has also been developed.

Weatherproofing Verification Method The external envelope of buildings exposed to the elements can readily allow water penetration into the building.

The design and installation of building products and systems must prevent the penetration of water that could cause unhealthy or dangerous conditions, or loss of amenity for occupants, and undue dampness or deterioration of building elements.

In Australia, the potential exists for water penetration to occur undetected for many years, causing substantial damage to the building.

The NCC now includes new resources to assist in using a performancebased approach, which can reduce construction costs and deliver new solutions for building issues.

The waterproofing verification method within Volume one of the code will now be referenced within Volume two. This will supplement the existing deemed to satisfy solutions in Volume two and give options to verify whether or not a proposed external wall will meet the Performance Requirements.

A new Performance Guidance Document outlines a consistent process for this which involves:

There is also a new reference to AS/NZS 4284: 2008 ‘Testing of building facades’ to specify the test procedure for water penetration.

•

Preparing a design brief

•

Carrying out analysis, modelling and/or testing

•

Collating and evaluating results

•

Preparing a final report covering all aspects of the process.

The Verification Method is limited to external walls which are to have a risk score less than 20, for factors such as wind region, number of storeys and eaves width. The test specimens are subjected to a test method, depending on whether the external wall is classified as a direct fix cladding wall, a cavity wall or a unique wall system.

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Building & planning

New definitions for the purpose of the new verification method V2.2.2 include: •

Cavity wall – a wall that incorporates a drained cavity

•

Unique wall – a wall which is neither a cavity wall nor a direct fix cladding wall

•

Direct fix cladding wall – a wall with cladding attached directly to the wall framing, without the use of a drained cavity.

Mandatory sprinkler protection The ABCB recently commissioned research into causes behind residential aged care building fires, with consideration to introducing sprinkler protection.

Findings indicated that behavioural factors were a major contributor to the fires, but that mandatory sprinkler protection to all classes of residential aged care buildings would provide higher protection levels for vulnerable persons within these buildings.

This has resulted in expanding the mandatory sprinkler protection provisions to include Class 3 and Class 9a residential aged care buildings to align with the Queensland Development Code MP 2.2 – Fire Safety in Residential Care Buildings.

Ramps and landings The terms “Ramps and landings and the like” have now been included in the Ceiling Heights provisions where the height of the ceiling above a ramp or a landing must be 2m, measured vertically above the floor surface of a ramp, landing or the like.

Swimming pool definition The definition has changed to resolve ambiguity around swimming pools not needing to meet pool safety standards because they were not principally used for swimming.

The new definition clarifies that any excavation or structure containing water and principally used, or designed, manufactured or adapted to be principally used, for swimming, wading, paddling, or the like, including a bathing or wading pool, or spa, is considered to be a swimming pool for the purpose of the NCC.

Termite management systems The reference to termite barriers in Volume two was changed to termite management systems in 2014. This aligned the term “management system” with the review of the AS 3660 series of Australian Standards for Termite Management.

The purpose being to clarify that methods of termite management within the standard are systems that require regular inspections and maintenance.

Where a chemical termite management system is used the chemical must be included on the appropriate authority’s pesticides register (currently the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority registration scheme).

There are new Acceptable Construction Practices in the code for the installation of sheet materials, granular materials and chemicals, as per the new terms and systems noted in the standard.

For example, sheet materials now include reference to PVC sheeting and chemically treated sheets tested in accordance with AS 3660.3 – Assessment criteria for termite management systems. The new granular materials section includes requirements for graded stone particles and other granular materials, tested in accordance with AS 3660.3.

The NCC will adopt a two year phase-in period for the new standards, whereby the existing 2000 edition of AS 3660.1 will remain as an option for satisfying the Termite Risk Management provisions.

The specific Queensland requirements for a termite management

system 50-year design life, inclusion of door jambs, window frames and reveals, architraves and skirtings as primary building elements and the need to install two durable notices, remain unchanged.

Part J5 – Air-conditioning and ventilation systems Part J5 has been restructured and includes some technical changes and expanded guidance material, including clarification of the exemptions allowed in the defined term ‘air-conditioning’. A service that actively cools/heats the air within a space does not include a service that directly cools or heats cold/hot rooms, or maintains specialised conditions for equipment, such as an IT server room.

New specification, J5.2a –Fans, states the Deemed to Satisfy Provisions for air-conditioning and mechanical ventilation system maximum fan power requirements to various locations and situations.

Barriers to prevent falls Balustrade provisions have now been simplified and restructured, with all references to ‘balustrades and other barriers’ now ‘barriers’.

In line with this restructure, all the openable window barrier provisions within Volume one have been relocated into section D2.24 – Protection of openable windows.

Smoke alarms The NCC now references the new standard for smoke alarms AS 3786 -2015 with the 1993 edition being retained for a transitional period ending 30 April 2017 The new standard specifies requirements, test methods and criteria for smoke alarms that operate using scattered light, transmitted light (Photoelectric) or ionization, intended for household or residential applications.

It sets out functions for all smoke alarms covered by this standard including for optional functions, such as sound output patterns and extended temperature-range tests for smoke alarms installed in areas subject to a greater temperate range.

Window standard republished The new version of the window standard AS 2047:2014 Windows and External Glazed Doors in Buildings is now referenced.

It covers structural performance (serviceability and ultimate strength), operating force, air infiltration and water penetration resistance for housing, residential and commercial buildings. It provides information on framing, finishes with sections covering glazing and components.

The new 2015 edition includes information for: •

Hinged, pivot and bi-fold doors will be subject to the same tests as windows and sliding doors.

•

Wind pressures for housing updated to align with AS 4055 Wind loads for housing.

•

Higher performing windows will be required in some corner situations

•

Window energy ratings is now part of the standard to align with the NCC

•

Updated requirements for windows made from unplasticised PVC

QDC MP 2.4 & NASH On 14 April 2015, draft Queensland Development Code Mandatory Part 2.4 – Construction of buildings in bushfire prone areas (QDC MP 2.4) was published on the Department of Housing and Public Works’ website It is proposed to amend the Building Regulation 2006 to commence QDC MP 2.4 on 1 May 2015 and overcome an anomaly in the Queensland variation for construction of buildings in bushfire prone areas in Volume two of the code. june/july 15

[ 31 ]

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Building & planning The National Association for Steel-framed Housing (NASH) Standard 2014 – Steel Framed Construction in Bushfire Areas and Part 2 Design Solutions are new referenced documents in NCC 2015.

QDC MP 2.4 will ensure the NASH Standard 2014 is available for use in Queensland.

Allowable encroachments Volume two of the code provides acceptable construction practices for fire safety and allowable encroachments for parts of a building within 900mm for a boundary or within 1.8m of another building on the same allotment.

An unroofed terrace/pergola are allowable encroachments under the code.

quantification of slip resistance for stair nosing’s, stair treads and ramps is included in NCC 2015.

The requirements were applied to all class 2 to 9 buildings from 1 May 2014.

In Queensland the requirements will not be applied for class 1 and 10 buildings until 1 May 2016. This will allow industry to familiarise themselves with the new requirements.

The use of a particular product will require documentary evidence/test report to indicate code compliance.

The Building certifier will require reference to the documentary evidence within a form 15 and 16 to comply with the building permit requirements.

Plumbing Code of Australia – PCA

In response to confusion around where a deck is an allowable encroachment, the following explanatory information is provided:

PCA 2015 contains a number of improvements to the code which are being introduced to harmonise building and plumbing requirements between NCC Volumes.

‘A deck is not considered an unroofed terrace and is therefore not permitted as an allowable encroachment under 3.7.1.7(b) whether combustible or not.

This year, NCC harmonisation becomes a reality for PCA users, with each part of the code now including new information outlining critically important elements of the BCA that can have an impact on plumbing and drainage works, saving time.

The term pergola is a reference to an unroofed structure.’

Energy efficiency In Volume two of the code the minimum R values for roofs have been adjusted to reflect research findings on the effect of roof solar absorptance levels.

In conclusion

Table 3.12.5.1 and explanatory information have been amended to provide more representative piping insulation R-values for target values and product availability. Where piping has a ‘significant’ inherent R-value, it may be used to offset the pipe insulation requirements.

Slip Resistance AS 4586 - 2013 Although introduced in 2014 and deferred in most States and Territories,

NCC compliance is a statutory requirement, and you should always review and check that works will comply with the applicable sections of the code.

If in doubt, ask Master Builders first and avoid a costly mistake on code specific issues.

For more information on the NCC, call Master Builders on 3225 6419, email technical@masterbuilders.asn.au or download your free copy at www.abcb.gov.au

The Employer’s Lawyer Workplace Health & Safety

Employment Law

Electrical Safety

Commerical Litigation

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[ 32 ] june/july 15

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Brisbane Office

Level 7, 231 George Street, Brisbane QLD 4000 GPO Box 74, Brisbane QLD 4001 T: +61 7 3013 2700 F:+61 7 3003 0788

Contact Andrew

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WWW.KADENBORISSBRISBANE.COM.AU

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Building & planning

Prefab set to revolutionise Australian construction Having achieved widespread results across mainstream Europe, Japan and the US, the broader take-up of prefabrication is set to transform how we think about the construction industry, what project efficiency really means, pre-assembled components and supply chain management.

It has profound implications for how projects will in the future be initiated, how they will be procured and how they will best be managed to capture the significant cost, efficiency and quality advantages that will become available.

Warren McGregor, CEO of Australia’s peak industry body for off-site construction PrefabAUS, promotes the financial and convenience factors of prefab for developers, builders, clients and consumers alike.

According to McGregor, the industry holds huge for potential for builders to be constructing more projects every year, with less disruptions throughout due to the short installation period required.

Because the vast majority of construction occurs off-site (up to 85 per cent) the amount of waste and clean up required is significantly reduced, along with any distraction to the community.

This process also encourages increased quality control processes to individually suit each project, shaking off the stigma that prefab buildings are simply ‘temporary’ or a ‘second rate’ structures.

Currently, Australian companies are lagging behind their international competitors, but McGregor sees potential for radical change in the coming years, particularly in light of Brisbane and Melbourne’s rapidly growing population.

Australian companies who have been quick to embrace the industry include The Moloney Group, developers of apartment building One9 in Melbourne’s Moonee Ponds in 2013.

The project was designed by architecture firm, Amnon Weber and constructed by Vaughan Constructions in just five days, using 36 unitised building modules.

In Sydney suburb Clovelly, a $3 million home was factory-built by Melbourne company, Prebuilt, and installed on site in just 12 weeks.

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The prefab method allowed the client to move into their home within six months of project commencement, an estimated 10 to 12 months quicker than if traditional methods had been used.

These projects not only help to promote the benefits of prefab, but demonstrate its ability to produce complex architectural concepts for a range of clients.

These concepts were further explored in PrefabAUS’ recent national lecture series, featuring an address from US property expert Amy Marks, President and Owner of XSite Modular.

In Marks’ opinion, Australia’s emerging prefab sector is at an advantage, being able to learn from lessons abroad to produce safer, higherquality and financially sustainable buildings.

“I am yet to find a building type that would not benefit from the use of some element from the off-site continuum,” Ms Marks said.

In fact, many prefab projects go unnoticed due to its vastly more efficient processes. The full spectrum of Australia’s housing typologies can be fulfilled with the new prefab approach.

Just like prefab, Supply Chain Management is still somewhat in its infancy stages. However, it is an overall look at the production of products and system that reduces waste and costs overall.

More controlled environments undoubtedly increase productivity, and the production of products and elements offsite ultimately yield better workflow results.

Article supplied by PrefabAUS

Building & planning

Amy Marks on pre-fab housing Amy Marks runs prefabrication consulting firm XSite Modular and is an advisor to the Singapore government’s Building and Construction Authority.

Speaking at a Pre-fab AUS lecture series in Brisbane recently, she said Australia would soon be squeezed out of opportunities in the pre-fabrication industry unless something was done about it now, and that there are three main issues conspiring to change the face of the industry as we know it.

“You have an aging workforce, you have a high rising cost of construction, and you have pressure from outside countries importing into Australia,” Ms Marks said.

The housing sector’s response to date has generally been around improving business effectiveness and different products – smaller houses on smaller lots.

The trick is to get to the smaller builders spread across Queensland – to encourage them to take up new construction materials and methodologies to reduce completion times, drive down costs and help address housing affordability.

“You have to innovate to keep up,” Ms Marks said.

“Pre-fabricated products are already being imported into Australia, so there is already pressure to innovate.

“I’m hearing a lot of talk (from the industry) with people saying the products don’t

conform. But guess what – there are groups of people who will figure out how to make it conform and this will not be a barrier to them entering the country.

“I think Australia has their eyes closed to the issue. If you think ‘Oh if it doesn’t conform, they’re just going to go away,’ then that is just not going to happen.

“And if you don’t think the quality is where it should be, then believe me they’ll figure out how to get better quality; they’ll figure out how to get it approved; they’ll figure out how to get it in here because that’s what they do.

They’ll work harder, they’ll work smarter.”

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Building & planning

By Dr Peter Key – National Technical Development Manager, Australian Steel Institute

Queensland first to adopt Australia’s new third party certification scheme A Queensland steel company is the first to join a national certification scheme designed to overcome problems associated with non-conforming products.

Queensland took the lead when the new National Structural Steelwork Compliance Scheme (NSSCS) went live in recent months, with a Brisbane-based steel fabricator now certified and the first project to be specified to one of the scheme’s risk-based construction categories located at Toowoomba.

Brezac Constructions, a steel fabricator located in Crestmead, south of Brisbane, became the first company to complete the audit process and achieve certification under the new compliance scheme.

Nationally, another seven fabricators have since been certified, with a further 20 or so at various stages of the auditing process. It’s estimated that 50 will be certified by the end of 2015.

construction products within Australia are non-compliant.

We’re now aware that non-compliant construction products have caused the collapse of structures, affected the integrity of glass panels and windows and through fraudulence resulted in engineered timber product delaminating.

Distinct from safety aspects, the building and construction industry has been calculating the cost of rework, disruption and commercial risk associated with non-compliance. And as has been found with many construction products, the traditional regime of self-inspection and certification for structural steelwork (selfcertification) demonstrably does not work.

Responding to risk

Knight Consulting Engineers was the first engineering practice (that we know of ) to specify to the NSSCS for the steelwork being supplied to a Toowoomba waste management facility development. The NSSCS is underwritten by the Australian Steel Institute (ASI) as the peak body for the Australian steelwork supply and design chain and is based on the principles of the European Standard EN 1090 to ensure risk-based safe compliant steel construction.

The NSSCS third party certification program covers buildings, structures and components designed to Australian Standards AS 4100 (structural steelwork), AS/NZS 5100 (bridges) and supporting Australian Standards, including those for welding, bolting and corrosion protection.

The need for a quality compliance and certification system for supply, fabrication and erection of structural steelwork supported by independent, third party, assessment has been mounting, as the building product risk for construction projects becomes more apparent.

The fabrication and erection Code of Practice (CoP) published by the ASI provides the definition of ‘good practice’ against which a compliance body can check.

A recent Australian Industry Group survey indicated that up to 50% of building

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It encompasses a holistic approach supported by four pillars, which are:

Fabrication Standard

The CoP has been submitted to Standards Australia and is in the process of becoming AS/NZS 5131, the first Australian Standard for fabrication and erection of structural steelwork.

In the interim, the CoP is being used as the technical basis for the NSSCS. The new Standard is expected to be released in early 2016.

Conformity assessment Conformity assessment provides, at a project level, guidance on the information required to demonstrate conformance.

Construction categories The CoP (and upcoming Standard) require projects (or parts thereof ) to be classified into a ‘Construction category’ of which there are four levels.

This is a risk assessment matrix approach based on safety and complexity of construction. It provides for an assessment of compliance based on risk and will be determined by the engineer broadly based on Building Code of Australia (BCA) building importance levels (Part B1, B1.2).

Steelwork Compliance Australia (SCA) The auditing authority recently established providing certification services to ensure that a fabricator has the capability for the required construction category.

A dedicated SCA website is fully resourced as a portal for booking workshop audits, acting as custodian of the CoP, assessing compliance and will provide industry with access to lists of certified fabricators. Visit www.scacompliance. com.au to learn more.

For further details about the ASI’s product compliance work, visit www.steel.org.au/key- issues/compliance

Employment & wages Mikki Richardson – Senior Advisor – Workplace Relations

Starting a new employee?

With minimum wages increasing from 1 July 2015, now’s a great time to check your recruitment processes to ensure you’re meeting obligations, and protecting your business from unwanted claims and disputes.

New starter paperwork Upon commencement, all employees should be provided with: •

Contract of employment

•

Fair Work Information Statement

•

Super Choice Form

•

Tax File Declaration

•

Employee/Personal Details Form

•

QLeave Membership Form (if an eligible worker) – see more about this on page 38

Contract of employment A contract of employment is an agreement between the employer and employee that sets out the minimum terms and conditions of employment. In particular, it should include: •

Type of employment (full-time, part-time, casual, daily hire)

•

Classification level/job title

•

Start date

•

Modern Award (if applicable)

•

Location of work

•

Ordinary hours of work

•

Termination provisions, and

•

Leave entitlements

It is important that the contract of employment is signed by both parties as an understanding of the terms and conditions that will govern the employment relationship.

Fair Work Information Statement

Employee/Personal Details form

The Fair Work Act 2009 (the Act) requires employers to provide to all new employees (in person, by mail, by email, or by fax) a copy of the Fair Work Information Statement.

An employee details form is an internal document that you can use to capture key information, such as employee address, qualifications, next-of-kin and bank details.

This Statement summarises the NES, the right to request flexible working arrangements, modern awards, making agreements under the Act, individual flexibility arrangements, freedom of association and workplace rights, termination of employment, right of entry and the role of the Fair Work Ombudsman and the Fair Work Commission

For a Master Builders template form, contact our Workplace Relations team on 3225 6407.

For a copy of the Fair Work Information Statement, visit the Fair Work Ombudsman website at www.fairwork.gov.au or call us on 3225 6407.

Super Choice form Superannuation reforms have allowed for employees to nominate their own superannuation fund to which you are required to contribute on a quarterly basis.

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) have published a super choice form for employers to offer eligible employees their choice of superfund. You must fill in the details of your nominated super fund, also known as your default fund, before giving the form to employees.

For a copy of the Super Choice Form, visit the ATO website at www.ato.gov.au or call us on 3225 6407.

Tax File Declaration

QLeave Membership Form QLeave is a portable long service leave scheme for the building and construction industry.

If you employ eligible workers you must register them with QLeave. Upon commencement always confirm whether they have an existing QLeave membership number and provide them a copy of a QLeave Membership Form, which is available on the QLeave website at www.qleave.qld.gov.au.

For more information regarding QLeave and your obligations, refer to page 38.

WorkCover All employees are required to be covered by a Workers Compensation Policy.

Ensure that you keep WorkCover Queensland informed of any significant changes to your policy arising from new recruits, or if you don’t have an existing policy and are engaging your first employee, ensure you contact them to arrange cover.

Call WorkCover Queensland on 1300 362 128 to learn more.

Information provided on an employee’s tax file declaration will allow you to work out how much tax to withhold from payments made to your employee.

Tax File Declarations can be ordered through the ATO online ordering system at www.ato.gov.au, by calling 1300 720 092 or are available from most newsagents.

A contract cannot contain any provisions that are less favourable then a Modern Award or the National Employment Standards (NES).

For a Master Builders template contract, contact our Workplace Relations team on 3225 6407.

june/july 15

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Employment & wages Chantal Putter – Workplace Relations Advisor

Getting your head around Long Service Leave Portable long service leave in the building and construction industry can be confusing, and often leaves both employers and employees baffled about their obligations and entitlements.

Entitlement Under the Industrial Relations Act 1999 all employees are entitled to 8.67 weeks’ long service leave upon the completion of ten years’ service with an employer.

The transient nature of our industry means that many workers will not complete 10 years’ service with just one employer.

However, the Building and Construction Industry (Portable Long Service Leave) Act 1991 (the Act), administered by QLeave, allows for long service leave payments to be made to workers in the Queensland building and construction industry, regardless of whether they have worked for more than one employer during that ten-year period.

Who is covered by QLeave?

Eligible workers who are covered by QLeave include: a) T radespersons, trades assistants and/ or labourers who perform building and construction work in Queensland and who are engaged: •

As a trainee or apprentice

•

As a casual, part-time or full-time employee

•

As a sole trader subcontractor (providing substantially labour only)

•

By a labour hire company

•

A foreperson or sub-foreperson (performing building and supervision work).

Under the Act ‘building and construction work’ has a broad definition and can include the

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[ 38 ] june/july 15

constructing, deconstructing, reconstructing, renovating, altering, demolishing, relocating, maintain or repairing of buildings, structures, fixtures and other works whether they be carried out on or off-site.

How does the scheme work?

Companies who engage eligible workers must register with QLeave and advise the scheme when workers start and finish with the company.

At the end of each financial year each company is provided with a list of workers registered with QLeave, and an annual workers service return identifying the number of days the worker was engaged in that financial year must be submitted.

QLeave register one service credit for every day worked up to a maximum of 220 credits in any one financial year. After 2,200 service credits are recorded, workers will be entitled to 8.67 weeks of long service leave paid by QLeave.

As an employer continues to have an obligation for long service leave under the Industrial Relations Act 1999 after 10 years’ service (or seven years in some instances), if a company has a long-term employee who has reached 10 years’ service, Master Builders recommends that payment for long service leave is made by the employer, who is then reimbursed by Qleave.

How is QLeave funded?

QLeave is funded by a levy, payable by the client on all building and construction work (including maintenance work), carried out in Queensland, where the total cost of work is $150,000 or more (excluding GST).

Employment & wages Chantal Putter – Workplace Relations Advisor

•

0.25% – Portable Long Service Leave Levy

•

0.125% – Work Health and Safety Levy

•

0.1% – Construction Skills Queensland Levy

Employers or employees do not contribute financially to the levy unless they are also the building and construction work owners (the person for whom the work is being done).

Know your facts •

Only workers who are registered with the Scheme will be able to claim Long Service Leave through QLeave

A worker is taken to have a year’s service for every 220 credits recorded

•

Once a worker has 2,200 credits recorded (which will take roughly 10 years to accrue) they will be entitled to 8.67 weeks of long service leave paid by QLeave

•

Once a year (generally in October), a statement will be available for workers outlining their recorded service for the financial year

•

•

A worker cannot claim long service leave through QLeave if they are already claiming it through their employer A capped weekly rate of pay was introduced for claims on the Long Service leave Scheme in 2009. The cap rate is reviewed annually and is currently capped at $1,940 per week for the year of 1 July 2014 – 30 June 2015.

For more information visit the QLeave website at www.qleave.qld.gov.au or contact Master Builders on 3225 6407 or email workplacerelations@masterbuilders.asn.au

Fast • Easy • Convenient

When an eligib le worker commences, co nfirm whether they have an existing QLe ave membership number At the end of each financial year you must submit an annu al Workers Service Return

31 JULY E U

3 1 JULY

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Lodge

If you employ eligible workers you m ust register them with QLe ave

15 20

worker service return

E mployer checklist

.au

The levy paid by the client is comprised of the following:

•

D

The current levy (for work under $1 billion) is 0.475% of the total cost of work and must be paid prior to the issue of a development permit for building work, plumbing and drainage work, or operational work. If no development permit is given, the levy must be paid before the work commences.

lea ve.qld.gov

Complete your 2014-15 QLeave Worker Service Return at www.qleave.qld.gov.au/employerlogin

www.qleave.qld.gov.au june/july 15

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Contracts & disputes Darren Ho – BCCS Law

Directions to rectify When does the limitation of six years and three months commence?

The recent decision of the Supreme Court of Queensland in Terry Barry Builders Pty Ltd & Anor v Queensland Building and Construction Commission [2015] QSC 50 has highlighted a need for builders who engage in the design of buildings or other structures to ensure that the completion of contract administration tasks for which they are responsible is not contingent upon the prior completion of tasks by the owner, and is achieved as quickly as possible after the end of physical construction (other than rectification work).

In this case, the Court had to determine whether the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) had given a direction to rectify to the builder within the relevant statutory time period, being six years and three months after the building work to which the direction relates was completed or left in an incomplete state.

The builder relied on a decision of the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal in Torea Pty Ltd v Queensland Building Services Authority to argue that this time period commenced from the completion of the physical construction of the deck, which was the subject of the direction.

The QBCC argued that as the builder had designed the deck and was required under its contract to obtain a final inspection certificate in respect of it, the time period commenced when the final inspection certificate was issued some eight months after the completion of the physical construction of the deck, notwithstanding that the owner, who was contractually responsible for the installation of the glass balustrade for it and occupied the adjacent dwelling throughout, delayed such installation and therefore the ability of the builder to seek and obtain the final inspection certificate.

In determining that the building work was only completed by the builder on the issuance of the final inspection certificate for the deck, and that therefore the direction had been given within time, the Court gave the following reasons:

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•

‘Building work’ is a defined term in the Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act 1991 (Qld)(QBCC Act) and includes ‘contract administration carried out by a person in relation to the construction of a building designed by the person’;

•

‘Contract administration’ is also a defined term in the QBCC Act and in relation to building work designed by a person, includes ‘arranging for certificates, including certificates from a local government, to be issued’;

•

The use of the word ‘relates’ does nothing more than ‘simply identify the whole of the building work that is to be completed’;

•

As ‘completed’ is not a defined term in the QBCC Act, the term takes its ordinary meaning of ‘to make complete; make whole or entire’, ‘to make perfect’, and ‘to bring to an end; finish; fulfil’; and

•

As the builder was required under its contract to obtain a final inspection certificate in respect of the deck, the building work to which the direction relates included ‘not just the physical construction of the deck but also arranging for a certificate to be issued’’.

What does this mean for you?

Regardless of whether the building work is domestic or commercial, if you are a design and construct contractor, or other person involved in the design of any part of a building or other structure, and are responsible for any contract administration (for example, arranging for on-site inspections and the issuance of certificates) in relation to the building work designed, then completion of the building work for which you are responsible cannot occur unless your relevant contract administration tasks are complete.

You may readily program and manage such contract administration tasks as the arranging of on-site inspections, and for the issuance of certificates, so that they are completed in a timely way throughout the course of a project in circumstances where your contract provides you with control over all aspects of the project that may impact on the timing of such inspections and the issuance of such certificates.

However, during negotiations for a building contract, it is not uncommon for an owner to require that other contractors or consultants be engaged separately by the owner to perform certain contract administration tasks

Contracts & disputes Michael Panayi – Industry Lawyers

or building work for a project that is required to be completed prior to relevant inspections being conducted, and relevant certificates being issued in respect of the overall project.

If a proposed contract seeks to allocate the responsibility for such inspections and certificates to you, the terms allocating that responsibility should be amended to either: •

•

Allocate the responsibility for such inspections and certificates to the owner; or Allow you to avoid a relevant responsibility in the event that the owner fails to ensure that required contract administration work or building work has been performed by the other contractor or consultant within a defined timeframe or timeframes.

Failure to so amend a proposed contract will expose you to the real possibility of the impact of delay by those other contractors or consultants.

If such delay should eventuate and prevent you from seeking and obtaining in a timely way any required final certification, the QBCC may be empowered to give you a direction to rectify or remedy in respect of the relevant building work for a considerably longer period than that equating to six years and three months after the completion of the physical construction.

Such an outcome is obviously undesirable because, from a risk exposure and management perspective, your objective should be to minimise that period in which you are exposed to a direction to rectify or remedy from the QBCC exceeding the six year limitation period for the commencement of a proceeding for breach of contract against the subcontractor responsible for the relevant defective or incomplete work.

For more information contact Darren Ho at BCCS Law on 3106 7210 or dho@bccslaw.com.au Disclaimer: The contents of this article are in the nature of general comment only and do not purport, and are not intended to provide advice to any person or class of persons on any matter whatsoever. A reader of this article must not rely on, or act on the basis of, any of its contents, and should always obtain appropriate legal advice specific to his or her own particular circumstances.

Defining the scope of work Have you excluded things not contemplated in your price?

When a contractor enters into a contract to carry out construction works, their obligation is to perform those works in the manner and to the extent prescribed by the contract.

Those works can only be varied by a variation which, for residential work, must contain a price, how it’s calculated and be signed in writing prior to the variation being done.

Work not expressly included What about those works that you thought were excluded but the owner thought were included in the original contract sum (and wants that work to be done without paying for it)?

Court decisions have consistently found that the contractor not only has an obligation to complete the work as expressly described in the contract, but also other work which, although not described, is necessarily required.

In Williams v Fitzmaurice the contractor undertook to build a house, dry and fit for occupation. The specification expressly noted floor joists but failed to expressly mention flooring.

The contractor argued that the provision of flooring constituted a variation.

The Court held that although flooring was not specifically mentioned, “it was clearly to be inferred from the language of the specification that the plaintiff was to do the flooring and this was necessarily included in the obligation to complete a house dry and fit for occupation.”

Similarly, in Walker v Council of the Municipality of Randwick, the Court held that works comprising the construction

of a concrete retaining wall also required the removal of a sand bank prior to the construction of the retaining wall. The Court held: “…..wherever it can reasonably be inferred from the contract description that other undescribed work will be necessary to achieve completion or a satisfactory and effective result within the terms of the contractor’s express or implied obligations as to design, workmanship and materials, then in the absence of some indication to the contrary the undescribed work will be included in the price.”

So care must be taken to ensure that items not intended to be included in the original contract sum are made clear or better yet, are expressly excluded.

Excluding work One of the easiest ways to exclude items not intended to form part of the original contract sum is to explain that in the contract. To achieve this, the contractor could: 1. P lace at the bottom of the quotation/ tender words to the effect: “Our scope of work includes all of the items listed above, and excludes anything else not expressly listed.”

2. In the Contract, ensure the ‘description of the works’ includes words to the effect: “The scope of work under the contract is exclusively described in the quotation tender dated #.”

That way, you are far more likely to be protected in the event the owner seeks additional work which you have not allowed for.

For more information about defining the scope of work, call Master Builders on 3225 6419 or contact Michael Panayi at Industry Lawyers on 3371 3690

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Spotlight on

Farewell to two of Master Builders’ finest...

Tony Ryder Toowoomba’s rock Having been part of the Master Builders family as the Downs & Western Regional Manager for the past 10 years, Tony Ryder’s last day will definitely be a sad one.

During his time with us, Tony has seen a lot of changes – both at Master Builders, and the industry as a whole, and has met many talented people, including fellow staff and members.

“The biggest changes in the industry over the years have been the increased regulation, increased professionalism of local builders and trades, and the ever-increasing quality and innovation that is occurring,” Tony reflects.

“While it’s a little clichéd, it really is about working smarter not harder. Building trends are cyclical, with many members having their own style that identifies their projects as unique but branded.”

Tony also believes that Master Builders has really come into its own in the last five years as the industry “go to” organisation for all things important and relevant to its members, but also the industry broadly.

“Master Builders is more a leader than a follower – we have respect, integrity and credibility.

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“One thing that has remained consistent though is that without members we are nothing.

“I have been blessed to have a membership base who has loyalty, integrity and professionalism.

“Our members trust us and it is this trust that has been the key to our relationship and my success.

“I have seen members grow personally and professionally and consider Downs & Western members to be the best in the state, if not the nation, and will miss them a lot.

“I’ll also miss the friendship of the other regional managers, as well as Team Toowoomba – Julie and Linda.”

Tony describes his biggest achievement as seeing the region flourish and grow, which has been made possible by the tremendous team effort of the Downs & Western office.

“While our builders, in my mind, are the best, winning national awards has been a tough gig. I was extremely proud in having assisted Millennium Homes in achieving that result in 2011.

“I am also extremely proud of being able to leave Master Builders knowing I have done everything I possibly could to assist members be the best they can.”

Moving forward, the sky is the limit for Tony, who plans to get even more use out of his collection of motorbikes, with a trip around Australia, and potentially America and Europe on the cards.

Tony will finish up on Thursday, 25 June.

If you would like to join us in saying goodbye, come along to the Spotted Cow in Toowoomba from 4.30pm–7.30pm as we send him off!

Spotlight on

The corridors of Master Builders just won’t feel the same anymore as we bid farewell to two of our dedicated regional managers.

Michael Hopkins Canberra calling Since coming on board three years ago, Michael Hopkins has watched his regions grow and prosper, and his new role with Master Builders ACT will give him an even greater opportunity to do this.

Managing both the Sunshine Coast and Burnett Wide Bay regions has come with its challenges, but these have been met equally with their rewards.

“Major projects like the Sunshine Coast University Hospital have had a big impact on the local industry, with small subcontractors growing to secure work on these major projects,” Michael said.

“Fortunately over recent years, we have also seen the local industry recover from its worst downturn in a generation, which has been a welcome change.”

Throughout his time with Master Builders, Michael has seen the Association evolve rapidly to maintain its position as the peak body for the construction industry, by increasing the range of services on offer to members, embracing technology as a way of engaging with members, and significantly increasing building industry training.

These changes have helped achieve strong membership growth over the past three years, especially in Burnett Wide Bay where membership has increased by 16 per cent.

“We have also trained many new members, assisted them to obtain their contractors or builders licence, and helped start their careers in the building industry”

When it comes to his favourite part of the job, Michael hinted that hitting the road in May each year with the Housing & Construction Awards’ judges was always a highlight.

“The awards provide the perfect opportunity to engage with members, visit their best projects, and provide a great way to see our industry at its best.”

Michael took up his new position as Deputy Executive Director with Master Builders ACT last month and is excited to continue his career with the Association.

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Members

Collaborative approach a winner for Larian

Family-owned and operated construction business, Larian, prides itself on being there for their clients at every stage of a project.

After taking some time off to slow down and renovate his beautiful Queenslander, Ian returned to the workforce in Queensland, with a focus on a smaller client base of blue chip global brand companies in Brisbane, offering them client-focused project management and construction services.

Behind this mantra is company Director, Ian Billerwell, who started the business in Western Australia in 1993, before the bold move to Queensland in 2011.

Through word of mouth, Larian’s cohesive approach gained them exposure to other areas of the construction market, and they now complete additions, alterations and fit-outs for the residential and commercial sectors, with their services designed for every stage of a renovation or new build, including the briefing, design, costing, tender and construction phases.

The rigorous pace of his previous role, as a Managing Director of a Canberra-based construction company, found Ian stuck behind a desk overseeing operations, rather than having one-on-one personal interactions with the clients, which he sorely missed.

Getting the company to this point in south east Queensland was no easy feat though, and it’s an achievement Ian is extremely proud of.

“Starting from scratch again in a new location and state was a massive decision and getting our name out there in the marketplace was the biggest challenge,” Ian reflects.

“I’ve always maintained that we are in a customer service industry. It really is all about your customer… listening to them, getting them involved, making them feel that they have made the right decision and chosen a

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true professional that has their best interests constantly in mind, whether it’s finishes, budget or timing. Without them there is no business.

“Some of the key ingredients that make up our business include building strong relationships with clients, architects, consultants and trades, exceeding expectations, having an eye for detail, defect-free delivery, and sound business practices, like invoicing and paying trades and suppliers on time.”

With these ingredients in place in their business, Larian has celebrated many accomplishments over the years, including helping to design and deliver Australia’s first Four Star Green Star fit-out for the Australian Research Council.

Working with the National Trust architect on the renovation of Margaret River’s oldest homestead, heritage-listed ‘Walcliffe House’, and to have the workmanship recognised by them as one of the finest examples of period restoration they had seen, was another major project of which they are extremely proud.

However, the project closest to Ian’s heart is the construction of Leeuwin Estate Winery’s buildings, in the Margaret River region of Western Australia.

Members

“The then-manager of Leeuwin Estate Winery asked me to complete the next stages of construction of the winery by opening his request with “Ian, I hear you’re the best builder in town”,” Ian remembers.

“I thanked him for his compliment and advised him that unfortunately I was committed to other projects for the next nine months, to which he replied that he was prepared to wait.

“He did, and it’s now one of my most cherished projects and he remains a friend to this day.

“One year, as a surprise to him, his wife requested she would like a jetty and water feature built over the main dam of the estate for his birthday, which was in five days’ time, and coincided with the spectacular world-renowned concert they stage each year.

“Long story short, it was designed, built and certified in time and to my great pleasure James Morrison and Dame Kiri Te Kanawa performed on the jetty I built.

“Ten years later I was at Le Gare du Nord station in Paris, where I struck up a conversation with a Welsh fellow who had just left the French Foreign Legion.

“He was showing me photos of his family, and his most treasured was one of his mother standing on that same jetty with his brother, who now lives in WA.” Looking to the future, Ian is excited about the challenges that lie ahead, and has some steady advice for all those starting out in the industry.

“Firstly, get your qualifications.

Always make sure your insurances are in place and don’t undersell yourself by “buying” a job, because it’s only detrimental to your livelihood and the future of the industry.”

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Health, safety & environment

IPaM reaches 500 milestone The Queensland Government’s Injury Prevention and Management Program (IPaM) has passed a major milestone in working with its 500th business.

A joint initiative between Workplace Health and Safety Queensland and WorkCover, IPaM assists businesses to develop better workplace health, safety and injury management systems.

The IPaM program works with employers whose work-related injury and claims performance is worse than employers of similar size and nature to improve their injury prevention and rehabilitation and return to work systems through a 24-month case management model.

The primary function of the program is to build capacity, facilitate and sustain change in businesses.

One of the major successes is Brisbane builder Gay Constructions. The company overhauled

its work safety record with help from IPaM and went on to be a major winner at last year’s Queensland Safe Work Awards.

Another success, the Holy Cross Laundry, was able to slash its claims by 85 per cent in just two years.

experiencing safer work environments with improved hazard management and incident management processes, while saving money on their workers’ compensation premiums and other business costs.

Since it started, IPaM has recorded exceptional results for many businesses involved in the program.

Most importantly, fewer workers are being injured, and for those that are, there are more supportive and effective return to work processes in place.

The 2012–2013 figures showing an 8.4 per cent reduction in claim numbers, a 14 per cent reduction in days off work, and a 7.4 per cent reduction in costs for participating businesses.

Whilst the IPaM program is an invitation-only program, there is plenty of support available to organisations who wish to implement their own work health and safety improvement initiatives.

The 2013–2014 figures continued this trend with participating businesses experiencing a 12 per cent reduction in claims numbers, a 3.5 per cent reduction in days off work, and a 12.1 per cent reduction in costs.

These key tips will assist you to make a start on your safety journey.

Many businesses noted additional benefits, including improved communication, improved staff morale, reduced operating costs and increased productivity. They are now

For safety tips and systemic measures that can be easily incorporated into many workplaces, visit www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/injuryprevention-safety and www.worksafe.qld.gov. au/rehab-and-claims

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Community projects

Youngcare share house on the home stretch

Master Builders Foundation helps Noosa Men’s Shed Master Builders Foundation has donated $1,000 to the Noosa Men’s Shed in a bid to help renovate the Noosa Arts Theatre.

The Master Builders Foundation is the fundraising and community support arm of Master Builders, with a mission to provide support to Queensland’s community-based projects and programs, including those that align with the building and construction industry.

Construction is nearing completion at the Youngcare Share House at Wooloowin.

This unique development reflects a culmination of the generous support and hard work from Youngcare’s development partners, corporate supporters and the community.

For many of us, living in a share house is where we make the transition into adulthood.

Brisbane-based company and Master Builders’ member, Beebe Constructions are undertaking the construction, with an expert eye to detail that ensures the building supports the functionality needs of its residents. Established in 2007, Beebee Constructions is well-respected for their ability to coordinate and deliver the concepts of design, style, function, space, light and lifestyle.

But for thousands of young Australians with high care needs, they are forced to make a devastating transition that skips over this exciting chapter and so many other important life stages. Why? These young people have no choice but to move out of home and into aged care, simply because there are few other options.

However, with the support of the Master Builders Foundation, charity Youngcare is working to develop viable and replicable models of supported accommodation, to solve the problem once and for all.

One of these is the Youngcare Share House at Wooloowin, currently under construction and due for completion in mid-2015; proof that an alternative exists for young Aussies with high care needs.

The four-bedroom, architecturally and accessibility designed share house will provide residents with their own space complete with ensuite and kitchenette, as well as beautiful, light communal areas to socialise with friends and family, and around-the-clock care specifically suited to the individualised needs of a young person.

“The excitement is truly building as this project nears completion – and the best news is that four young people with high care needs will get to live life with choice, independence and dignity,” said Youngcare Chief Executive Officer, Samantha Kennerley.

Money donated went towards tools and equipment used in completing an extension to the Noosa Theatre which included a Box Office, Cafeteria and Servery, plus storage.

Other building materials and labour were donated by Master Builders’ member, Damien Davidson.

The Men’s Shed is a non-profit organisation which provides advice and support to improve the overall health of males, particularly former members of the building and construction industry.

The Noosa Men’s Shed Association is based in the Noosa Arts Theatre and primarily builds the sets and props for the theatre, as well as undertakes maintenance to the building.

“These four young people are looking forward to the next chapter of their lives, and all the independence, choice and freedom of share house life.

“It drives the cause home in a big way when you see what age-appropriate accommodation means to a young person with high care needs who would otherwise face a future in aged care.”

For more information, visit www.youngcare.com.au/lives-changed/ wooloowin/

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Community projects

Mateship Matters Tour hits right note “Solidarity not Sympathy” Earlier this year, John Brady from MATES in Construction led a tour of internationally renowned speakers on suicide prevention, to Tropical North and Outback Western Queensland.

The speakers included Sean McCarthy, who has been working with suicide prevention in Ireland for many years, undertaking innovative work with sports coaches around suicide prevention, and Kevin Briggs from San Francisco, an ex-motorcycle policeman who was known as the “Guardian of the Golden Gate Bridge” for his work in helping people not to jump from the bridge.

“We made a choice to simply tell our stories as briefly but as honestly as we could – a good mixture of tragedy and humour with some simple lessons thrown in for good measure,” John said.

“We also steered clear of psychological jargon. We wanted them to hear our stories of struggle, survival and hope so they could then feel free to tell their own stories.

Each event went for about one hour but the people stayed and talked with us for hours afterwards.

Kevin Briggs was even invited to a station down the road from Stonehenge (50 minutes on dirt in a 4WD) to pat a pet kangaroo.

They were joined by Kevin Hines, who survived a jump from the Golden Gate Bridge.

Sean, Kevin and Kevin were blown away by the hospitality, resilience, and tragic stories of these people and their communities.

Northern Queensland was chosen for the tour in response to a number of recent suicides in the local construction communities, according to John.

“Cairns and Townsville were looking for ways to raise community awareness of suicide and some effective preventive strategies, so they approached MATES in Construction,” John explained.

“In Barcaldine, we had 60 people come to a night session under the Tree of Knowledge. In Jundah we shared breakfast with 30 workers in a shed who faced an uncertain future. In Stonehenge, we had lunch in the centre with the Flying Doctor – every family from the area was represented. At Longreach we had over 100 people at the Jumbuck Motel, with more than half still there talking two hours later. The support was phenomenal.

“We linked with local networks in the construction community, including Master Builders, BUSSQ, the Queensland Building and Construction Commission, Construction Skills Queensland, and with local groups, such as the Suicide Prevention Network, Edward Koch Foundation and Standby.

“It could only have happened with key community people getting behind it and inviting the community to participate,” John said, obviously moved by the experience.

“By doing this we were able to create a simple event where both support and inspiration could be found. Both events were well attended and we are still getting positive feedback,” he said.

The tour then headed to Western Queensland for quite different reasons.

“The Uniting Care Community had asked if we could combine with their networks to support the communities in Barcaldine, Longreach, Jundah and Stonehenge.

“They are experiencing the ravages of a long drought and all that goes with that, as well the plight of a locust plague.”

Sean McCarthy commented that the tour gave him a new understanding of isolation, while both Kevin’s were taken by the desolation of the drought upon the land and the wildlife – thousands of dead kangaroos!

The eventual theme of “Solidarity not Sympathy” came from discussion with the local community.

“The community was sick of “city do-gooders” coming out to lecture them on what they needed to do to look after their mental health, saying “we don’t need sympathy, we need solidarity”,” John said.

This then changed how the events were approached and where they were held.

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Sean McCarthy from Ireland, Kevin Hines from the US, John Brady from MATES in Construction and Kevin Briggs from the US, under the Tree of Knowledge in Barcaldine.

Community projects

Jane Williams, a key organiser from Longreach/Barcaldine commented that she had never seen such numbers at anything to do with mental health; the tour obviously hit the right nerve.

MATES supported and Master Builders State Council member, Martin Brooke, with local QBCC representative, Master Builders North Queensland Regional Manager, Melissa Coulter and Glen Owens from BUSSQ.

When asked what the tour had taught him, John’s reply was emphatic.

“People matter and people’s stories matter – each story is unique – who will listen for that uniqueness? This is the lesson we have learnt at MATES in Construction and has been reinforced during this tour.

“We don’t need sympathy; what we need is a mate who can see we are struggling and then has the courage to listen to our story without trying to fix us.”

Positive feedback from the community continues to come in on a regular basis.

MATES in Construction is a community development organisation aimed at reducing suicide and improving mental health and wellbeing within the Australian construction industry.

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Training & licensing

Get qualified to build

larger projects

Our Diploma of Building and Construction is a course designed specifically for residential builders and commercial site supervisors and foremen who want to build larger projects.

Delivered over 10 months (or 6 months RPL), our Diploma of Building and Construction provides students with the qualifications required to apply for a Builder Medium Rise licence, which allows for building work up to a maximum of three stories.

This course is delivered as a series of modules that cover all aspects of building and construction including managing health and safety risk, tendering, estimating, project planning, selecting and managing subcontractors, material selection, and applying building codes and standards.

Maximilian Claxton is a 23-year old Brisbane local who works for Hutchinson Builders and is currently undertaking the Diploma.

Here’s a little bit about him...

When did you get involved in the industry?

For what reasons?

I started in the construction industry back in 2007, when I was in grade 11 at St Joseph’s College Gregory Terrace and doing a school-based apprenticeship of four days of school and one day of work a week. This is was a carpentry apprenticeship and I was doing it with Hutchinson Builders.

Once I graduated from school I went straight into full-time work with Hutchinson’s and I haven’t looked back since. From a very young age I was interested and fascinated with building/construction and the way buildings come together. I always knew that I wanted to go down this path.

I currently work as a site foreman for the John Berlese team at Hutchies and I couldn’t be happier and proud to work for such a great organisation

Why did you decide to enrol in a Diploma of Building course?

Even though I don’t plan to start my own business I decided to enrol in the Diploma of Building and Construction, because I want to further my knowledge in the industry and potentially create more opportunities for the future, ideally progressing through the ranks of Hutchinson Builders.

What were the most challenging and rewarding aspects of the course?

The most challenging aspect of the Diploma is trying to find a balance between working full-time, attending classes and completing all the

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necessary assessments. Coming from an on-site position I found the estimating, tendering and the contracts side of things challenging, yet extremely rewarding as it is all new to me. It will also be rewarding to have my Diploma and my own Builder Medium Rise licence.

Any advice on the process/ things you wish you’d been given?

All of my expectations have been met. I was advised there was a lot of hours and assessment to be completed, however I was more than happy to put the effort in to obtain the additional knowledge and qualifications.

For anyone looking to further their knowledge and qualifications within the building and construction industry, I would highly recommend this course. The trainers and resources provided by Master Builders have been excellent.

To find out more about the Diploma of Building and Construction, call us on 1300 136 002 or visit www.masterbuilders.asn.au/training

Training & licensing

Upcoming courses RESIDENTIAL SECTOR Course

Why enrol

Region/s

Dates

Business Management for Trade Contractors

Apply for your Trade Contractor’s licence.

All regions

Courses run frequently – call for the next enrolment in your region

Certificate III *

Become a tradesperson

All regions

Enrol any time

Certificate IV in Building & Construction *

Become a low-rise builder

Far North Queensland, Brisbane, July – Cairns Downs & Western, Mackay October – Brisbane, Toowoomba and Mackay & Whitsunday and Central November – Rockhampton Queensland

Master Tradies *

Manage a successful trade contractor business

All regions

Modules run frequently throughout the state – call for the next enrolment in your region

All regions

Modules run frequently throughout the state – call for the next enrolment in your region Modules run frequently throughout the state – call for the next enrolment in your region

Small Business Foundations *

Set-up and develop a successful small business – great for people working behind the scenes

Business Management for Builders *

Become a better business manager

All regions

Diploma of Building & Construction *

Get qualified to build medium-rise projects

Brisbane and Gold Coast

Completed Residential Building Inspectors Course

Become a residential building inspector

Brisbane and Sunshine Coast

August – Brisbane

Asbestos Awareness

Understand your legal obligations around asbestos

Brisbane

August and November

Electrical Testing & Tagging

Test and tag your own electrical equipment

All regions

Courses run frequently – call for the next enrolment in your region

Course

Why enrol

Region/s

Dates

Diploma of Building & Construction *

Get qualified to build and supervise large projects

Brisbane and Gold Coast

September

Asbestos Awareness

Understand your legal obligations around asbestos

Brisbane

August and November

Electrical Testing & Tagging

Test and tag your own electrical equipment

All regions

Courses run frequently – call for the next enrolment in your region

Building Leaders in Construction (Diploma of Management)*

A professional learning pathway for handselected students

Brisbane

March 2016

September

November – Brisbane and Sunshine Coast

COMMERCIAL SECTOR

* Nationally Recognised Training For specific course dates, further information or to book visit www.masterbuilders.asn.au/training or call 1300 136 002.

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Display villages

Master Builders Display Village Manager, Andrew Rockley, sees the enormous potential for Master Builders’ members to benefit from this growing demand for acreage.

Give me land, lots of land...

Master Builders’ latest display village in Jimboomba is set to capitalise on the increased demand for acreage living.

“Many developments are shrinking their land sizes, especially in neighboring catchments. Jimboomba Woods offers an alternative to these smaller lots, with around 60 per cent of enquiries coming from families interested in the larger acreage lots”.

“Acreage is a market niche which thrives in Queensland, with a growing number of buyers looking for a larger footprint,” he said.

The display village itself is a unique proposition, with five homes that are specifically designed and built for acreage blocks and acreage living. These homes are carefully constructed with the potential buyer in mind.

“Jimboomba Woods caters to people who are seeking larger land sizes and more space,” Mr Rockley said.

Set on 1,200 acres of beautiful rolling former cattle grazing country, Jimboomba Woods is one of the last classic acreage estates available in south east Queensland.

The 550 allotment estate is setting a benchmark for quality acreage estates. Its location, with access from Mundoolun Road to the east, provides Gold Coast and Beenleigh commuters a handy and affordable acreage alternative.

The display homes at Jimboomba Woods by Stroud Homes, GJ Gardner Homes, Metricon, Newstart, and Oracle Platinum Homes all cater for those who want bigger blocks and homes, with more living spaces, more family and entertaining areas, and bigger rooms.

Visit Jimboomba Woods at the corner of Mundoolun Road and Peppertree Drive, Jimboomba, or learn more about the village at www.qlddisplayvillages.com.au

With NBN Broadband, and full pressure town water, those looking for affordable acreage do not need to sacrifice the conveniences of city living at Jimboomba Woods.

With Jimboomba Woods now officially open, this unique venture with QM Properties is proving to be hugely successful, with a large number of visitors to the village in its infancy.

The demand for more land and bigger homes is growing and QM Properties and Master Builders are keen to capitalise on this opportunity for its members.

LOOK UP

FOR YOUR MATES

Contact with overhead powerlines can kill.

So for your sake and your mate’s, please look up and live.

For electrical safety information specific to your industry, visit ergon.com.au/outdoor-workplace

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Superannuation

BUSSQ making SuperStream compliance easy BUSSQ works hard to keep you up-todate with everything you need to know about super.

SuperStream legislation comes into effect from 1 July 2015 and BUSSQ is on hand to assist you to make the changes necessary to become compliant.

SuperStream is a package of reforms the government has introduced to improve the processing of everyday superannuation transactions.

All employers will be required to send their super contribution data and payments in electronic format to their employees’ superannuation funds, to ensure they receive their super payments in a consistent and timely manner.

To comply with the new laws, if you are still paying your employees’ super to any super fund by cheque, you will soon be required to switch to electronic payment, such as EFT, BPay or authorised bank transfer (ABT).

BUSSQ offers two different SuperStream payment portals to help you become compliant.

A

EmployerAccess – where you can pay contributions for BUSSQ employees only.

•

SCH Online – a clearing house which allows you to pay to multiple super funds in one payment.

SCH Online can be accessed by employers who select BUSSQ as their default fund, and allows payment of super contributions to multiple funds from one central location.

Using it is easy! All you have to do is enter the details and super fund for each of your nonBUSSQ employees – this is a one off process.

Then, it’s simply a matter of making a single payment each superannuation cycle and the clearing house does the rest.

A payment and remittance advice will be

MOBILE PHONE OFFER BUILT • Massive

To find out how the Federal Budget affects you and your business go to bussq.com.au

•

provided on your behalf to each of the super funds you have made payments to.

If you choose BUSSQ as your default super fund, you can access the SCH Online clearing house at no extra cost.

Let BUSSQ help you get SuperStream compliant today!

For more information call a friendly BUSSQ representative on 3369 1111 or visit bussq.com.au.

FOR YOUR BUSINESS.

5GB of data

• Range of included handset choices *Some models may incur additional monthly charges

• Unlimited in Australia

*Standard National calls, SMS & MMS to most fixed & mobile numbers

• Data sharing in Australia for greater savings • 2 months port in credit when moving services from another provider • Dedicated support team from a local MBT helpdesk

PLUS receive a bonus Universal Powerbank to keep your phone charged for longer! * Available to the first 1000 subscribers to this plan only.

WE’VE BUILT A MOBILE PHONE PLAN OFFER TOO GOOD TO REFUSE. Master Builders & Telstra have joined forces to build the perfect mobile phone plans exclusive for you and your business.

More data and great value on Australia’s best mobile network.

Call

1300 881 372 to take advantage of this Master Builders only offer

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW: Minimum total cost is $2,160 ($90/mth) over 24 months. Monthly repayment options (MRO) for the handset vary in price depending on handset and plan chosen. If you cancel early the remaining handset payments will be higher as you’ll no longer receive a discount to offset your handset cost. Ultimate Plan: Some usage is excluded; such as calls/text/MMS to Premium numbers (e.g. 19xx numbers). 1234, 12455, 12345 numbers and to some satellite numbers, content changes and use overseas. Unused allowances expire monthly. For new connections the total of your minimum monthly fee (excluding any device payments) and charges for eligible calls over your included calls/text/MMS allowance will not exceed $90 per month. Android, Google Play and other marks are trademarks of Google Inc. The Android robot is reproduced or modified from work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License. The Spectrum device and TM are trade marks and ® are registered trade marks of Telstra Corporation Limited, ABN 33 051 775 556 june/july 15

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Product innovation

The Sandman

Sandstone tile is a new Queensland product designed to make building with the stone up to 90 per cent cheaper than traditional sandstone methods.

Inventor, Allan Payne from Rock Trade Industries, said the tiles were made by adhering a layer of sandstone to traditional tile, making them comparable to the cost of quality brick veneer construction.

Mr Payne said the tiles were created after significant research and development. The end result provided builders with a manageable, sustainable and stable product ideal for both the housing and commercial sectors.

“Where previously the installation of sandstone would once have required a highly-skilled stone mason, now a qualified tiler, with just a small amount of training, could handle the job,” Allan said.

The sandstone tile can be used for external cladding on new homes, providing an alternative to standard brick veneer or rendered finishes.

Allan’s company also provides sandstone products for retaining walls, pool and fireplace surrounds, and kitchen benchtops.

from 1883 when much of the sandstone was used to construct state buildings such as the Treasury Casino and The University of Queensland in St Lucia.

Allan said what sets his mine apart from others is that they use 100 per cent of the materials taken out of the ground to develop a variety of products. The process makes it environmentally friendly and sustainable.

In fact, it is so unique that Allan says the team from The University of Queensland Business School want to work with him.

“Sandstone has wonderful insulation properties. It is also cool because the air pockets in sandstone don’t retain heat,” Allan explained.

The final processing for the tile is done by hand overseas. In future, Allan plans to build a factory to do everything onsite locally, but he says the move would have to be led by demand.

“Around 85 per cent of the world’s surface is covered in sandstone.

But most of it crumbles and cannot be used for sandstone buildings because it wouldn’t be strong enough.”

Allan has had requests from America to release the product there, but he has chosen to do a controlled release in Australia first. As such, he is offering it to Master Builders’ members first.

The sandstone used in the tile comes from Allan’s mining site at Helidon, in the Lockyer Valley. The area was originally a government quarry

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To contact Allan to learn more about the product, email allan@scotbar.com.au

Product innovation

Wondercap revolutionises industry The Wondercap Company was established to develop solution plumbing products for the building industry and has implemented a unique, yet simple, system for building projects that provides quality assurance as well as saving time and money.

The Wondercap Drainage System, which is manufactured and distributed throughout Australia and internationally, is a revolutionary anti-bacterial fitting designed to make a builders, plumbers, water proofer and tiler’s job accurate, easier and hygienic, providing total protection of the drainage system until the floor waste grate is installed.

The patented product features a protective cap, an adjustable base and puddle flange which together remove the chance of blockages caused from excess construction rubbish and materials entering the drainage system.

The Wondercap provides a clean hygienic connection from the grate to the waste pipe, patented weep holes to prevent pressure on the waterproofing membrane and, combined with the puddle flange, adds extra strength and protection to this area.

What sets it apart from other products is that it improves workplace health and safety with no protruding pipework, provides protection from construction waste entering the drainage system, allows for a free flowing drain with a quality clean finish, and improves waterproofing practices.

The product range also eliminates bad odours and post completion blockages caused by soap, hair and dirt build up on construction excesses left in the drainage system.

It’s these features that have earned The Wondercap Company Silver Awards for Best Environmental and Best New Product from DesignBUILD Australia You’ll find the Wondercap Drainage System in Australian buildings such as the Cairns and Perth Base Hospitals, Melbourne Royal Children’s Hospital, EQ Tower in Melbourne, Q1 in Surfers Paradise and Sanctuary Cove developments on the Gold Coast. The product has also been widely accepted and installed in many projects throughout the United Emirates.

The man behind Wondercap The Wondercap Company is the brain child of Les Howson, who for more than 30 years has successfully operated Les Howson Plumbing Service in the Gold Coast and Brisbane regions.

The concept evolved from Les’ vision to improve installation standards for floor and shower wastes. He could see that accepted

methods were inadequate and resulted in downtime and regular call backs, which proved to be unnecessary expenses for the tradesmen, primary contractor and, ultimately, the customer.

Once the idea came to fruition, the main challenge was getting the message out to the industry.

“Over time we have gained acceptance by major Australian and overseas construction firms, as well as plumbers, tilers and waterproofers, to include our innovative range as part of their quality assurance practice in their projects,” Les reflects.

“This year we were even chosen to represent and promote our product range as part of the Gold Coast City Council tradeshow delegation to Arab Heath in Dubai.”

Starting out as an apprentice plumber and drainer more years ago than he cares to remember, Les has always thrived in the challenging environment of construction, as well as enjoying the camaraderie within the industry.

“My enjoyment for and within the industry has not wavered and is only increasingly highlighted by the people I meet and the friendships kept along the way,” Les said.

“Looking back I cannot remember one day where I have said that I do not want to go to work. There are so many challenges, people to meet and things to do that makes this industry so very fulfilling for me.”

Excitement over the years has grown from selling their very first Wondercap system, to now being recognised nationally and internationally for its innovation.

But if there’s one piece of advice Les has for people in the industry, it’s that “you cannot take yourself too seriously”.

“Build relationships with your workers, your builders, your clients and everyone around you.”

Learn more about the Wondercap Drainage System by visiting www.wondercap.com.au

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Member Benefits

Trailers 2000 joins Master Builders We’re excited to announce our new partnership with Trailers 2000 that will bring a great new deal to members.

A family business that began in 1993, Trailers 2000 is now the largest Australian trailer manufacturer of superior quality, fully galvanised trailers, featuring exclusive designed and manufactured profiles and innovative self-piercing riveting technology. They also offer a full range of options and accessories.

Built and bred in Australia, Trailers 2000 have developed a reputation for consistent quality and competitive pricing by designing new technology, including high-speed manufacturing processes and stateof-the-art automated machinery.

Trailers 2000 has a distribution network covering all of Queensland, providing access to a large range of trailers, including tradesman’s trailers, tandems, off-road and a custom design service.

With a long list of innovations and achievements, including winning the Enterprise of the Year on the Sunshine Coast and two Telstra Business Awards in 2014, including the Queensland Regional Business Award and Medium Business Award, Trailers 2000 backs its products with two

industry firsts: Two Years Roadside Assist and Two Year Warranty, which are offered with all their award-winning trailers.

Trailers 2000 recently came on board the Master Builders Member Benefits program with their exciting ’Rent Then Buy‘ offer, which is proving popular across the state with tradies and builders.

If you need a new trailer but don’t have the cash to spend up front, this offer allows you to rent for only a few dollars a day, particularly enticing when rentals are 100% right off. There’s no application fee and the cost is free from interest charges. It’s easy, quick and affordable.

As a Master Builders member, you can get 10% off any outright purchases from Trailers 2000 and the same deal if you sign up for the Rent Then Buy offer. Just quote your Master Builders membership number in store!

To learn more about how to take advantage of this great offer, visit www.masterbuilders.asn.au/trailers2000

Master Builder ProtectionPLUS™ Construction Works Insurance that delivers QUALITY PRODUCT… Insurance designed by Master Builders, for Master Builders.

Extensive scope of policy protection, automatic – always.

ON TIME… Fast turnaround for all documents and claims.

UNDER BUDGET...

Discounted premiums for Master Builders members.

Call your nearest Master Builders Insurance office on 1300 13 13 26, or email insurance@masterbuilders.asn.au mb

[ 56 ] june/july 15

a division of Queensland Master Builders Association AFS Licence 246834

QMBA-11926 09_10

Insurance by Master Builders for Master Builders

Memberbenefits benefits Member Member benefits

Master Builders strives to secure a range of exclusive benefits to enhance the value of your membership.

Master Builders strives to secure a range of exclusive benefits to enhance the value of your membership.

Withover over130 130years’ years’ experience delivering solutions to both commercial and residential builders, and trade contractors across With experience delivering solutions to both commercial and residential builders, and trade contractors across Queensland, Master Builders uses its collective buying power benefit all Put simply, workyou to save Master Builders strives to secure a range of exclusive benefits totoenhance themembers. value your membership.

Queensland, Master Builders uses its collective buying power to benefit all members.

Putof simply, we workwe to save time you and time and moneywherever wherever and however we Our current member benefits haveselected been selected to help improve theline bottom money and however we can!can!

Oursolutions current member benefits have to helpand improve bottom of line of With over 130 years’ experience delivering to both commercial andbeen residential builders, trade the contractors across your business or most important asset, you! your business or most important asset, you! buying power to benefit all members. Put simply, we work to save you time and Queensland, Master Builders uses its collective money wherever and however we can! Our current member benefits have been selected to help improve the bottom line of your businessRental or most important asset, you! vehicles Rental vehicles

Get toto your next jobjob for for lessless withwith Europcar!

Take Take advantage of corporate rates and discounted damage liability Get your next Europcar! advantage of corporate rates and discounted damage liability Rental vehicles fees for commercial vehicles, or receive 15%* off the best retail rate of the day for all passenger vehicles. vehicles. fees for commercial vehicles, or receive 15%* off the best retail rate of the day for all passenger *2 day booking, holidays excluded, standard retail Damage Liability Fees apply.

Get tominimum your next job school for school less with Europcar!

Take advantage of corporate rates and discounted damage liability *2 day minimum booking, holidays excluded, standard retail Damage Liability Fees apply. fees for commercial vehicles, or receive 15%* off the best retail rate of the day for all passenger vehicles.

Mobile, landline & internet *2Mobile, day minimumlandline booking, school& holidays excluded, standard retail Damage Liability Fees apply. internet

Save money on a wide range of mobile, landline and internet products with Telstra’s 4G and 3G-enabled Save money on a wide range of mobile, landline and internet products with Telstra’s 4G and 3G-enabled Mobile, & internet coverage –landline meaning greater reliability and faster speeds in more places, so you and your workers are in range and coverage – meaning greater reliability and faster speeds in more places, so you and your workers are in range and contactable oftenrange than not!

Save money more on a wide of mobile, landline and internet products with Telstra’s 4G and 3G-enabled contactable more often than not! coverage – meaning greater reliability and faster speeds in more places, so you and your workers are in range and Motor vehicles contactable more often than not!

Motor vehicles Get further faster and let us take care of all your motor vehicle needs – sourcing, purchasing, finance, Get further faster andand letfuel. us take of all your motor vehicle – sourcing, purchasing, Motor vehicles maintenance, servicing Fleetcare discounts are also offered!

You needs name it, we’ve got it covered. finance, maintenance, also needs offered!

You name it, we’ve got it covered.

Get further fasterservicing and let usand takefuel. care Fleet of all discounts your motorare vehicle – sourcing, purchasing, finance, Health insurance maintenance, servicing and fuel. Fleet discounts are also offered! You name it, we’ve got it covered.

Health Get a betterinsurance deal with Master Builders and Medibank Corporate Health. Receive 8.3% off health cover for you Health insurance and staff. Medibank tailored packages for betterCorporate health at every stage of life. 8.3% Plus, gain accesscover to a for you Getyour a better deal with offers Master Builders and Medibank Health.

Receive off health 24/7 advice lineMaster to meet yourtailored busy Make the better choice Get ahealth better deal with Builders andlifestyle.

Medibank Corporate Health.

Receive 8.3% off health you and your staff.

Medibank offers packages for better health attoday. every stage of life.cover Plus, for gain access to a and your staff. advice Medibank offers tailored packages for better health at everychoice stage of life. Plus, gain access to a 24/7 health line to meet your busy lifestyle.

Make the better today.

Tyres 24/7 health advice line to meet your busy lifestyle. Make the better choice today.

Beaurepaires offers members 15% off Goodyear and Dunlop passenger, 4WD or light truck tyres*. Race onto our Tyres Tyres member benefits web page to receive this podium deal.

Beaurepaires offers members 15% off Goodyear and Dunlop passenger, 4WD or light truck tyres*. Race onto our Beaurepaires offers members 15% off Goodyear and Dunlop passenger, 4WD or light truck tyres*. Race onto our member benefits web page to receive this podium deal.

Fuel card member benefits web page to receive this podium deal.

Get more bang for your buck with a Caltex StarCard. Members can save more than 50% off the monthly fee on Fuelcard card Fuel StarCard plus 3.5¢/L off the pump price for unleaded fuel and 4¢/L off the pump price for diesel. Plus you will be Get more bang your buck Caltex StarCard.

Members canmore savethan more than off the monthly posted anbang ATO compliant tax invoice fora your convenience.

Get more for for your buck withwith a Caltex StarCard.

Members can save 50% off 50% the monthly fee on fee on StarCard plus 3.5¢/L off the pump for unleaded fuel4¢/L andoff4¢/L theprice pump forPlus diesel.

Plusbe you will be StarCard plus 3.5¢/L off the pump priceprice for unleaded fuel and the off pump forprice diesel. you will Stationery posted ATO compliant tax invoice for your convenience. posted anan ATO compliant tax invoice for your convenience.

You can keep the office budget under control thanks to OfficeMax - get special pricing on a range of stationery Stationery Stationery items, office supplies, and office equipment that are exclusive to Master Builders members plus get free delivery on orders over $50.

You can keep the office budget under control thanks to OfficeMax - get special pricing on a range stationery You can keep the office budget under control thanks to OfficeMax - get special pricing onof a range of stationery items, office supplies, andand office equipment that are exclusive to Master BuildersBuilders members plus get plus free delivery items, office supplies, office equipment that are exclusive to Master members get free delivery Workwear onon orders over $50. orders over $50.

Get into the latest ‘kit’ with Totally WorkWear (TWW). Exclusive vouchers are available to members offering a Workwear fantastic 15% discount on Hard Yakka, Stubbies and King Gee clothing, and Oliver steel cap boots. Vouchers will Workwear be distributed to members twice aWorkWear year, but call us if you wouldvouchers like any more!

Get into the latest ‘kit’ with Totally (TWW).

Exclusive are available to members offering a Get into the latest ‘kit’ with Totally WorkWear (TWW). Exclusive vouchers are available to members offering a fantastic 15% discount on Hard Yakka, Stubbies and King Gee clothing, and Oliver steel cap boots. Vouchers will fantastic 15%hire discount on Hard Yakka, Stubbies and King Gee clothing, and Oliver steel cap boots. Vouchers will Equipment be distributed to members twice a year, but call us if you would like any more! be distributed to members twice a year, but callwho us ifopen you would like any more!

Kennards Hire is offering new and existing members an account at least 10% discount on equipment Equipment hire will have the opportunity to take advantage of other great exclusive promotional offers. hire. Plus, all members Equipment hire withand Use the latest Kennards Hire.

Kennards Hireequipment is offering new existing members who open an account at least 10% discount on equipment Kennards Hire is offering new and existing who open account at least 10% discountoffers. on equipment hire. Plus, all members will have the opportunitymembers to take advantage of an other great exclusive promotional Go to masterbuilders.asn.au/member-benefits 50 10 for more.great exclusive promotional offers. hire. memberswith will have the opportunity take 30 advantage of other Use thePlus, latestallequipment Kennards Hire. or callto1300

Use the latest equipment with Kennards Hire.

Go to masterbuilders.asn.au/member-benefits or call 1300 30 50 10 for more. *Visit website for info, T&C’s apply.

Go to masterbuilders.asn.au/member-benefits or call 1300 30 50 10 for more. *Visit website for info, T&C’s apply.

MB-19374 03-15

*Visit website for info, T&C’s apply.

MB-19374 03-15

june/july 15

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MB-19374 03-15

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What’s on

Innovative building show for builders, trades and designers Pre-register for FREE to attend the SEE Expo – a new and innovative event that will showcase the latest products, solutions and techniques for use in residential and commercial projects.

As well as being able to talk with some of Australia’s leading suppliers about their products, attendees can take part in educational seminars delivered by industry professionals – a great way to build up your CPD points for FREE!

You will be able to hear about updates on the Building Code of Australia Section J for 2015, including drainage considerations, continuous insulation and thermal bridging.

You’ll also hear the latest on heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), the cost effectiveness of using green building products and how to maximise energy efficiency, with case study examples.

Master Builders is proud to be a supporting partner of this important industry event, which will impact how homes and buildings are designed and constructed in Queensland now and into the future.

Thursday and Friday 10am to 6pm, and Saturday 10am to 4pm.

Why not bring your clients with you and keep them in the loop as well. The general public are also welcome.

Pre-register for free at www.seesustainableexperience.com.au We look forward to SEEing you and your colleagues there!

SEE Sustainable Experience 2015 is being held at the Brisbane Showgrounds (The Marquee) from 18–20 June 2015. Opening hours are

IBC Boral site visit The Institute of Building Consultants (IBC) recently visited USG Boral manufacturing site at Pinkenba.

On arrival the IBC members were taken on a guided tour of the site, giving them useful insights into the manufacturing of plasterboard and how it is prepared for site.

Attendees were also presented with technical information on: •

Partiwall – class 1a separation walls, fire, acoustics and design

•

Multiframe – class 2 separation walls, fire, acoustics and design

•

Ceiling Grid and tiles – fire, acoustics and design consideration

•

Sheetrock – USG Lightweight board a nd its performance - industry changing

Everyone enjoyed pizzas and drinks with some of the staff from USG Boral, including Wayne Kennedy, Boral’s Multi-Residential Accounts Manager Qld/NT. For more information about the IBC or future conferences, call Master Builders on 3225 6419 or email ibc@masterbuilders.asn.au

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Wayne Kennedy from Boral with IBC Chairperson, Mike Decman.

What’s on

JUNE Sunday

Monday

1

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Gold Coast, Mackay & Atherton Industry Update

Cairns Industry Update

2

3

Mission Beach Industry Update

Bowen & Innisfail Industry Update

4

5

6

8

9

10

11

12

13

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

7 14

Beaudesert Industry Update

Brisbane Economic Breakfast Brisbane New Member Evening

Townsville Industry Update

Bowen Bay Golf Day

JULY Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

1

2

3

4

10

11

5

6

7

Rockhampton Industry Update

Yeppoon Industry Update

8

9

Gladstone Industry Update

Brisbane Housing & Construction Awards

12

13

14

15

16

17

19

20

21

22

23

24

26

27

28

29

30

Central Queensland Women in Building

Saturday

18

Downs & Western Housing & Construction Awards

25

Gold Coast Housing & Construction Awards

31

Burnett Wide Bay Housing & Construction Awards

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People & Events

Win an Apple iPad Mini competition All members who pay their membership renewal by the due date to go in the draw to win an Apple iPad Mini each month.

Congratulations to all of our latest winners.

Glenn Blanco from Blanco Building Townsville, with daughter Milla

North Queensland Golf Day 100 keen golfers took to Rowes Bay on Friday, 15 May, where more than $1,800 was raised for the Endeavour Foundation, through the Auction of Carts, putting competition and raffle.

Congratulations to W & F Constructions, champions of the day, and Briggs Concreting, for taking out last place.

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Diana from Qld Timber Industries and Platinum Pots plans on using it for both businesses so that they can exchange images with clients and purchase new inventory.

People & Events

Roadshow The Master Builders BUSSQ Roadshow made a return in 2015, traveling the state to provide industry information and updates, encouraging members to get excited about the future and have their say on local issues.

A massive thank you to the sponsors and exhibitors who made this travelling event possible, including our state-wide partners, BUSSQ, CSQ and Enviropest, along with the Building Designers Association of Queensland, for joining us on the road.

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Master Builders

Office Locations BRISBANE 417 Wickham Terrace, Brisbane, QLD 4000 Ph: 3225 6444 | Fax: 3225 6545 ask@masterbuilders.asn.au GOLD COAST John Duncalfe - Regional Manager Master Builders House 18 Central Park Ave Ashmore, QLD 4214 Ph: 5582 7100 | Fax 5597 7044 DOWNS & WESTERN Tony Ryder - Regional Manager 166 Hume Street, Toowoomba, QLD 4350 Ph: 4659 4200 | Fax: 4641 7854 SUNSHINE COAST Will Wilson - Regional Manager Level 1, 91 King Street PO Box 1458, Buderim, QLD 4556 Ph: 5456 9800 | Fax: 5453 4670 BURNETT WIDE BAY Will Wilson - Regional Manager 162 Boat Harbour Drive Hervey Bay, QLD 4655 Ph: 4303 2400 | Fax: 4124 7235

CENTRAL QUEENSLAND Dennis Bryant - Regional Manager 35 Derby Street PO Box 631 Rockhampton, QLD 4700 Ph: 4923 1900 | Fax: 4921 3235 MACKAY & WHITSUNDAY Malcolm Hull - Regional Manager Suite 2, 40 Evans Avenue PO Box 3188 North Mackay, QLD 4740 Ph: 4969 4500 | Fax: 4829 4184 NORTH QUEENSLAND Melissa Coulter - Regional Manager Master Builders House Unit 1(B), 316 Sturt Street Townsville, QLD 4810 Ph: 4417 1800 | Fax: 4422 0094 FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND Ron Bannah - Regional Manager 310–314 Gatton Street Manunda, QLD 4870 PO Box 806, Earlville, QLD 4870 Ph: 4042 8800 | Fax: 4041 7663

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Join Trade Builders Buying Group for competitive prices and excellent service.

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www.tradebuilders.com.au

Heat-Ceil Under-Slab Insulation System Our insulation systems are perfect for: � Ground Slabs � Suspended Concrete Slabs � Under Joist Flooring � Factory Roofs Heat-Ceil is a lightweight rigid board made of a high-grade polystyrene core with pure aluminium foil laminated to both sides that reflects 97% of radiant heat. Heat-Ceil can be directly fixed to the underside of suspended concrete slabs or using our poly clip system for under joist flooring or factory roofs.

Heat-Ceil combines the exceptional thermal qualities of EPS and reflective air films into one easy to use product that requires no special masks or clothing for installation.

Sheeting Sizes up to 5000 x 1200mm Thickness from 10mm to 75mm Under suspended concrete slab using Heat-Ceil (silver foil both faces)

Heat-Ceil is fire retardant (AS/NZS 1530.3:1999) and is water resistant.

www.ceilite.com.au

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call for your free quote today 1300 663 755

PLACING STARTER BARS IN CONCRETE FOOTINGS HAS ALWAYS BEEN A VERY TIME CONSUMING JOB Having to tie-wire each bar to the mesh, then tie-wiring horizontal steel lengths to hold them together. Then avoiding all the props, that are outside the trench holding the starters in place, with your wheel barrow or concrete pump lines.

Entire lengths of starter bars falling over from props being hit is definitely not good, especially when concrete is pumping.

NOT ANYMORE! WITH

QUICKFIT STARTER BAR HOLDERS YOUR JOB WILL ALWAYS RUN SMOOTHLY, SAVING YOU TIME AND MONEY – THAT IS WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT • Simply slide the QUICKFIT down the starter bar and rest it in the cradle • A zip tie connects the starter to the cradle for extra support • With the QUICKFIT and starter bar together, it simply clips to the mesh • This system takes approximately 1 minute for each starter bar placement • With a simple measurement on the steel to locate each starter bar, you are guaranteed perfect spacing and alignment.

JOB DONE. DESIGNED, DEVELOPED AND MADE IN AUSTRALIA

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1300 500 337 april/may 15

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W H AT ’ S N E W What’s new

BOSCH BLUE’S POWER READY WIRELESS CHARGING THE FUTURE OF CHARGING TODAY • Charge batteries while still connected to the tool – making charging your tool as simple as putting it down • Allows you to work continuously without interruption • Save time and money, working with only one battery • 100% compatible with all existing Bosch Blue Li-Ion Power Tools*

compatible wireless battery is placed on it, the charger detects the presence of the battery in under a second and starts emitting a magnetic field. The wireless charging battery also comes equipped with CoolPack technology (standard with all new Bosch Blue 18V Li-Ion batteries), which protects your battery from overheating, overdraw and deep discharge – extending your battery’s lifetime by up to 100 per cent^.

It’s hard to imagine a single product redefining an entire industry, but every now and then a game changer comes along. This year Bosch Blue is changing the game and leading the charge, both literally and figuratively with its world first Power Ready Wireless Charging Technology. Due to hit the Australian market mid May, this new technology is compatible with the entire 18V Bosch Blue Li-Ion power tool range* and will revolutionise the way tradies work on site or in the shop, giving them the flexibility to charge their batteries in between tasks without disconnecting it from the tool – making charging their tools as simple as putting them down.

The Power Ready Wireless Charging system will not only make tradies more efficient, but it’s compact, and saves them both time and money. The applications are nearly endless; today’s trade professional can now use their Bosch Blue power tools with ease and confidence that they are “Always Power Ready.”

Bosch Blue Power Ready Wireless Charging Technology not only eliminates the need to have a heap of partially charged batteries, in many instances it eliminates the need for multiple batteries at all; the days of worrying about whether a battery will get you through the task at hand are gone. Whilst all Bosch batteries feature an LED charge indicator, the need to check it will be a thing of the past.

Tradies Australia wide will be able to pick up a tool with confidence, knowing it’s always charged and power ready.

For more information check out www. bosch-pt.com.au/professional

This industry revolutionising technology is based upon the concept of ‘inductive charging’ and is similar to the technology being integrated into smart watches, stovetops and even electric toothbrushes.

When the charging station is plugged in and a

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There are also further enhancements yet to come. Launching later in 2015, Bosch Blue’s Wireless Charging Technology will give tradies the ability to conveniently charge the new wireless batteries on the go; while driving in between job sites. Watch this space.

*Excluding GML 18 V-LI Soundboxx ^Comparison of batteries with/without CoolPack cooling technology

THE BAYER PROTECTION PROGRAM OFFERS HOMEOWNERS TOTAL TERMITE PROTECTION A first for the termite industry in Australia, the Bayer Protection Program offers homeowners total termite protection -- a combination of regular termite inspections (e.g. annually) to detect the presence of termites; and a physical barrier (Kordon®) to prevent entry via areas that can’t be inspected.

The Bayer Protection Warranty starts with an inspection of the home by a Bayer Accredited Timber Pest Inspector. If the home is termite-free, and possible conditions which may be conducive to termite attack are addressed, your Bayer Protection Warranty can be renewed. The same inspection takes place each year to give the homeowner total termite protection. This warranty can be renewed annually (fee applies) for the life of the structure.

The Bayer Protection Warranty covers homeowners for up to $1 million worth of termite damage due to product failure or any other means of termite entry.

To activate your Bayer Protection Warranty visit www.kordonwarrantycentre.com.au or for further information contact the Bayer Protection team on 1800 552 802.

MORE PO WER • M O R E TO R Q U E BETTER FUEL ECONOMY

Single Cab*

Club Cab*

Double Cab^

4x2 and 4x4

4x4

4x2 and 4x4

MA S TER B UIL DER S MEMB ER S R E CEI V E NATI ON AL F L EET DISC O UNTS BUYAMITSUBISHI.COM.AU | 1300 13 12 11 Exceed model shown with optional Action Accessory Pack, including nudge bar, 17” diamond alloy wheels and hard tonneau cover. All product illustrations and specifications referred to herein are believed to be correct at the time of publication approval. Vehicle specifications are for current models available to purchase as at 24/04/15. Subject to any applicable Federal, State or Territory Laws or ordinances, which may apply from time to time, Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited reserves the right, without notice, or obligation, to discontinue or make changes to designs, specifications, colours and materials of the options and products referred to herein at any time without incurring any liability to any purchaser thereof. *GLX Single Cab and Club Cab shown with optional tray accessory. ^Exceed model shown. © Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited. ABN 53 007 870 395 MIT0900/MBA/FP

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