2016 MB VIC Journal April/May

MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA APRIL - MAY 2016 VOLUME 71 ISSUE 02

Ducks in a row:

Print Post Publication No. 100008007

getting our priorities straight for the coming year (p.12)

It’s in the details: highlights of changes to the 2016 NCC p.8

Growing pains: the race to embrace BIM p.14

Hard yards: a builder confronts depression p.42

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Master Builder Victoria

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR

Positive strides forward At Master Builders, it’s the autumn season, much more so than spring, which we associate with concepts like renewal, possibilities and positive strides forward.

WHAT DO I MEAN? This is the time of year when we make an especially shrewd scan of what’s on the horizon for the building and construction industry, and make specific recommendations to our elected representatives in the state government for ensuring a productive and rosy future for our sector. This year we committed those items to a formal list entitled Master Builders’ Priorities 2016-17: Building for Growth – a prescription of sorts (which, by the way, you can view on www.mbav.com.au under “News Room — Submissions”).

This list helps us navigate the months ahead to ensure we’re looking after your interests and helping you get the work you’re after. By the time May arrives (or, this year as we’ve just learned, 27 April), the government has had time to respond with their own list of commitments, in the form of the state budget, and we’re off and running for the next 12 months. Accordingly, in this issue of Master Builder, CEO Radley de Silva shares what we’ve asked for and why p.12.

A critical and often neglected part of shaping a positive outlook is taking care of the most powerful tool that each of us possesses-- our mind. Too often, mental health is taken for granted, regarded as something that needs no maintenance or

special attention. As a consequence, suffering from depression and anxiety can be perceived as signs of weakness, to be as resolutely shrugged off and tolerated as the occasional headache, and kept strenuously concealed from our friends, family and colleagues. That, however, needs to change.

The building and construction industry is strong and creative, but particularly plagued with the destructive consequences of unaddressed depression, and a higher-than-average suicide rate compared to the Australian national average. We are very pleased to have Jeff Kennett AC, founding Chairman of beyondblue, contributing our guest foreword in this issue on the importance of mental health and avenues for support when these conditions have an effect on your happiness and productivity. Leanne Edwards of Master Builders also explains what we are doing to help members in this space on p.20.

We’re also delighted to have one of our members and an active participant on the Housing Sector Committee, builder Neil Coulter, share his own story of grappling with depression (p.42) and what he has been able to achieve by having the determination to combat it.

Elsewhere in the pages that follow, of course, are helpful articles about legal matters, occupational health and safety issues, insurance and financial advice. But I do hope you’ll begin with Mr Kennett’s message on p 6. Everyone can use a gentle reminder that no one should have to wrestle with depression or anxiety-- however mild or severe-- on their own. There are people ready and willing to offer help and support without judgement, and it’s a sign of strength to embrace them.

Peter Sackett Editor

Master Builder Victoria

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CONTENTS

FOREWORDS

FEATURES

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR PRESIDENT’S FOREWORD GUEST FOREWORD

MEMBERSHIP

1

FROM CEO RADLEY DE SILVA

4

Getting our priorities straight for the coming year

MEMBER PROFILES

41

BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING

Steel Blue Neil Coulter, Mortar Life Quality Builders

41 42

EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS

44

2016 MASTER BUILDERS EVENTS CALENDAR

45

MEMBER MILESTONES

47

22

NEW MEMBERS

48

24

GENERAL FEATURES

26

ATTIC LADDERS AND STORAGE

49

CLADDING SYSTEMS

53

6

The Hon Jeff Kennett AC Chairman, beyondblue

12

14

The growing pains of embracing BIM

BLSC

18

The 2015 Leadership Award winners

REGULARS NEWS ROUND UP

8

REGIONAL ROUNDUP

36

SOCIAL PAGES

38

DIRECTORY

62

WHAT’S NEW

64

MENTAL HEALTH

20

Building a better understanding

FINANCIAL SERVICES

VALUE OF MEMBERSHIP

40

Using an expert finance broker

INSURANCE Life insurance and income protection

GREEN LIVING A glimpse into the future

LEGAL

28

Method B progress payments

OHS

30

Are you looking after yourself?

TRAINING

32

Master Builders helps invest in your future

MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA 332 Albert Street, East Melbourne VIC 3002 Tel: (03) 9411 4555 Fax: (03) 9411 4591 Email: mbassist@mbav.com.au www.mbav.com.au Master Builder is the official journal of the Master Builders Association of Victoria, which was established in 1875 and is one of the state’s oldest employer organisations. The organisation is part of the Australia-wide Master Builder movement. The keynote is service: and Master Builder is produced in line with this objective of keeping all members informed of all matters affecting them. Membership of the Master Builders is open to all qualified business operatives in the building and construction industry; the basis of membership is integrity and competence, based on training and experience.

BOARD OF MANAGEMENT: Peter Picking (President) Melanie Fasham (Deputy President) Greg Zuccala (Immediate Past President) Richard Hansen (Treasurer) David Moyle, Richard Hansen, Jarrod Sanfilippo, Darren Pye and Ian Hawkey

Council of Management: Peter Picking (President) Melanie Fasham (Deputy President) Greg Zuccala (Immediate Past President) David Moyle, Richard Hansen, Jarrod Sanfilippo, Ian Hawkey Philip Robinson, Lindsay Barber, Michael Clemenger, Tom Basel, Michael Cameron, Claude Salvatore, Sandy McPherson, Nic Morgan and Paul Gardiner CEO: Radley de Silva, 9411 4501 General Manager, Commercial Services: Viviana Hood, 9411 4516 General Manager, Corporate Services: Lawrie Cross, 9411 4582 General Manager, BLSC: Marc Lyons, 9411 8001 MANAGERS: Head of Membership: Dom Butera, 9411 4598 Head of Legal: Angelo Simonetto, 9411 4593 Head of Industrial Relations: Daniel Hodges, 9411 4562 Head of OHS: John Darcy, 9411 4521 Head of Training: Corrie Williams, 9411 4544 State Manager Victoria/MBA Insurance Services: Joe Keiper, 9411 4504 General Manager/Marketing, Policy & Communications: Leanne Edwards, 9411 4515 Head of Sales, Events & Sponsorship: Tony Biffaro, 9411 4557 Head of Finance: Ron Joordens, 9411 4556 Head of Human Resources: Steven Hogan, 9411 4540 Sponsorship & Alliance Manager: Danielle Penna, 9411 4551 Head of Business Development & Strategic Projects: Julie-Anne Sheppard, 9411 8000 Magazine Editor: Peter Sackett, 9411 4534

PUBLISHED BY

Tel: 1800 222 757 Fax: 1800 063 151 Email: publications@crowtherblayne.com.au Advertising Executive: Paul Baird Tel: 1800 222 757 Email: paulb@crowtherblayne.com.au Production: Brooke Travers Tel: 1800 222 757 Email: brooke@crowtherblayne.com.au Graphic Design Team: Andrew Crabb, Michelle Triana, Danny McGirr Print: Newstyle Printing Distribution: adelaide business bureaux

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

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

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Master Builder Victoria

PRESIDENT’S FOREWORD

Melting-pot Melbourne “WHAT WE NEED IS A GREAT BIG MELTING POT. BIG ENOUGH TO TAKE THE WORLD AND ALL IT’S GOT” – Blue Mink

The lyrics of this Blue Mink song from 1969 could have set the scene for Bernard Salt’s address at our recent Members Conference at the Silverwater Resort on Phillip Island. Bernard summarised the ‘top 10 ethnicities in Victoria’ (from the 2011 Census) and explained that Australia has gradually developed an ‘Anglo-Meditation-Asian-Indian fusion’ culture. What a magnificent compliment, I reflected afterwards, to the community we serve and what an accurate reflection of our industry as well.

At the same conference we were also advised that, with Melbourne’s growth currently exceeding that of Sydney, our city is set to become the largest in Australia within 35 years.

By that time, our current apprentices and graduates will be approaching the peaks of their respective careers.

With the future in mind, Master Builders has undertaken our now-annual strategy session to determine both our immediate and future direction. The result of this practice is the production of Master Builders Priorities 2016-17: Building for Growth, and we encourage you to obtain, review and respond to the items contained in those pages over the coming months.

SO, WHAT ARE OUR PRIORITIES? It was no surprise to the Board that each of the sector committees advised us that their most important priority was to focus on securing additional apprentices and assisting those currently in place. Our industry is obviously confident that we can train them; we simply need to establish more opportunities to do so. This is clearly a significant and common issue in the building and construction industry and, as such, deserves a priority status.

One of the most helpful measures to assist apprenticeship growth is to improve business conditions such that demand for apprentices increases. Our apprentice support strategies are outlined on the Master Builders’ ALink website, www.alink.org.au, and will be reviewed in line with our priority engagement objectives.

The ‘fusion’ culture of which Bernard spoke has been evident during our Apprentice Awards ceremonies. These events are well underway across Victoria and it has been a pleasure to watch the young men and women step up and be recognised by their associates for achievement in their chosen professions.

The awards represent all regions of Victoria, in 12 categories of apprentice and Diploma of Building students.

The variety of ethnic backgrounds among award candidates exceeds Bernard’s ‘Top 10’ statistic by a wide margin. These apprentices will be using processes, technologies and worldwide supply chains which have not yet been invented and, we hope, enjoying their work as they do.

As the current generation, we have an obligation to provide the future with human resources trained in current technologies, and equipped with a keen interest in the future possibilities. The melting pot is already simmering.

Peter Picking President, Master Builders Association of Victoria

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Master Builder Victoria

GUEST FOREWORD

Building a culture to embrace mental health I was particularly pleased when Master Builders approached beyondblue for assistance with mental health initiatives for the building and construction industry, through wanting to implement the Heads Up program.

In a heavily male-dominated industry, with higher rates of suicide than the national average, the mental health of people employed in the building and construction industry is of major concern. Master Builders contacted beyondblue because they wanted to understand, collaborate and point people in the right direction if they should need assistance with stress, anxiety, depression and more serious mental health conditions.

Importantly, it’s the Master Builders’ members who are voicing their concerns and asking for help, which is vitally important.

With a strong appetite for information about how to deal with mental health issues in the workplace and the desire to help workmates if needed – this is a great opportunity to raise awareness of depression and anxiety at a grassroots level and start a groundswell of lasting change across the industry that can save lives. Typically, men don’t talk about feelings. If they are having a rough time, often they don’t seek help from their GP or other health professionals because they may be embarrassed. So if you’re worried about a mate, Heads Up can suggest ways to start a conversation that may be life-saving.

By working with the building and construction industry and with the help of key stakeholder groups, beyondblue will continue to encourage and support cultural change. Building and construction workers are a tough bunch, but depression and anxiety don’t discriminate. Workers who are stressed, anxious, and may be thinking about ending their lives need to know help is available and where to go.

It’s important to look out for your mates, but if a person has depression or anxiety, it’s essential that they consult a health professional. With the right treatment, most people recover from depression and anxiety. However, if someone has an ongoing condition, it can be treated and managed, and in

most cases, the person can return to the life they had before becoming unwell. No matter how big the problem seems or how bleak the future appears, help is available and there are treatments that work.

A strong dynamic building and construction industry is important to the economy and in many ways, it’s the foundation of a strong community - that can be literally via the built environment or economically through the jobs created. A mentally healthy building industry is better for everyone and mental health is everyone’s business.

So what is Heads Up all about? Heads Up (www.headsup.org. au) is designed to support individuals and organisations to take action on mental health in the workplace. It provides resources and interactive tools to manage a broad range of issues, such as looking after individuals’ mental health, supporting a workmate who is struggling and creating a mentally healthy workplace. All of the Heads Up resources are evidenced-based and free for people to use within their businesses.

I encourage everyone to work with their industry associations as they progress policies and plans – to support the mental health of everyone in their respective workplaces. It’s important to look for the mental health gaps in your workplace to ascertain if appropriate policies, programs and practices need to be put in place to look after the wellbeing of staff.

CEOs of all building and construction businesses should be the drivers behind creating a mentally healthy workplace within their businesses. It is socially responsible and economically beneficial.

I am very proud that beyondblue will continue to lead public advocacy and work with industry organisations like Master Builders. These industry partnerships align with beyondblue’s mission to help all people in Australia to achieve their best possible mental health.

We look forward to working closely with Master Builders over the coming years.

Jeff Kennett Chairman, beyondblue

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Master Builder Victoria

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Changes to the National Construction Code 2016 All changes to the National Construction Code for the 2 Building Codes and Plumbing Code that form part of the National Construction Code Series (NCC) 2016 will be implemented as of 1 May 2016.

Copies of the NCC are available free online via the ABCB website (www.abcb. gov.au) which was introduced to reduce costs to the industry. However, for those who would prefer to work with a hard copy of the NCC can do so by contacting Master Builders on (03) 9411 4555.

In the past the NCC was amended annually to reflect required changes to improve standards of construction. The 2016 NCC will be in place for three years before they are subject to amendments, which will allow the industry to embrace the implemented changes and provide a degree of continuity of the performance-based standards for building construction.

There have been a number of changes that are clearly described within the list of amendment tables included at the rear of each Building Code and the Plumbing Code.

The following brief summarises a number of the changes within the Building Code of Australia 2016 (Volume 1): • A number of definitions and Australian Standards within the Building Code have changed and are now self-explanatory.

• AS5146 Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete: structure has been included as a referenced document.

• A new provision has been included to allow the use of fire protected timber in Class 2, 3 and 5 buildings that do not exceed a maximum effective height of 25m, sprinkler- protected and comply with the remaining provisions of C1.13 and Section E.

• Clause D2.13 allows a concession for deviations in finished stair dimensions as a result of atmospheric moisture changes.

• Section E includes a new note that provides clarity in Class 5, 6, 7b, 8 or 9b buildings when smoke hazard management systems are applicable, and also allows a concession for smoke detector requirements in sprinkler protected areas of a Class 9a health care building to reduce spurious signals.

• A new sub-clause has been added to exempt ward areas from needing separate sanitary facilities for males and females.

• A new section H3 has been included within the Building Code which contains provisions applicable for the construction of farm buildings and farm sheds.

• The Victorian Appendix includes: • A new clause for the requirement to provide sprinkler protection to balconies in a Class 2, 3, 4, 9a and 9c buildings • The concession for buildings using fire-protected building elements has been excluded from the concession for Class 2 and Class 3 buildings The following brief summarises a number of the changes within the Building Code of Australia 2016 (Volume 2): • A number of definitions and Australian Standards within the Building Code have changed and are self-explanatory.

• The 2015 edition of AS 1670 Part 1 'Fire detection, warning, control and intercom systems - System design, installation and commissioning — Fire' has been referenced to allow for the installation of an alarm that is suitable in a Class 10a private garage • The 2013 edition of AS 1657 'Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders — Design, construction and installation' is no longer a referenced document and has been deleted.

• A new Verification Method has been inserted to verify compliance with the Performance Requirement P2.1.1 (a) (iii). V2.1.2 is a means for verifying the structural robustness of a building.

• A number of changes have been included within Part 3.5 for the design and overflow provisions of roof drainage designs.

• There has been a new clause inserted within Part 3.7 that nominates the fire separation requirements where parts of a Class 10a private garage is constructed above or below a another dwelling which is not specifically appurtenant to that garage.

• Clarity has been included in Part 3.8 that confirms a washbasin does not need to be associated with a closet pan.

• Part 3.8 also incorporates further amendments that incorporate, clarify and explain the means of calculating light and ventilation requirements.

• Part 3.9 incorporates new design requirements for safe movement and access within a Class 1 and 10 buildings: • Stairways to be designed to allow for forces in accordance to AS 1170 • The minimum height of a threshold has been increased from an adjoining surface before it is considered that a stairway is required • There is a new inclusion for the deemed to satisfy provisions requirements for ramps • An allowance for finished stair case dimensions has been included considering movement of materials due to atmospheric moisture changes.

• Considering AS 1657 has been removed as a referenced document, there are new deemed to satisfy requirements for stairways serving non-habitable rooms.

• References made in Part 3.10 for timber windows in a wind classification of N3 or C1 to comply with AS 1288 have been deleted.

This aligns with the intent that timber windows are to be constructed and installed to comply with AS 2047.

• Part 3.11 has been updated to reference requirements for: • Nail-plated timber trusses • Autoclaved aerated concrete • Post installed and cast in fastenings to concrete Hard copies of the 2016 NCC can be ordered from Master Builders on: (03) 9411 4555.

Master Builder Victoria

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to the minute news and info from the building and construction industry, 24/7 Turnbull Government to recall Parliament for ABCC vote

2016 Member Conference

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has announced that the Senate will be recalled to sit in the week of 18 April 2016 to vote on the Bills that would reinstate the ABCC and hold officers of registered organisations (e.g. union officials) to the same disclosure and transparency obligations as company directors. Importantly, passage of the ABCC Bill would also give effect to the advance release Building and Construction Industry (Fair and Lawful Building Sites) Code 2014 (Building Code 2014). Should the Bills not pass the Senate there will be a double dissolution election, most likely on 2 July 2016.

Strong black coffee was a great start to the day, but those attending the Members Conference on Phillip Island this year didn’t experience full alertness until Bernard Salt took the stage.

The announcement follows the successful passage of the Commonwealth Electoral Amendment Bill 2016 to improve the Senate voting system, the effect of which is to help ensure that the self-interest of a number of cross-bench senators is now aligned with the needs of the community they purport to represent.

Master Builders strongly supports the Turnbull Government’s position, and notes the continued progress being made to provide certainty for the industry through measures to establish the rule of law and improve productivity as expeditiously as possible.

Members seeking further information should contact the IR Department on (03) 9411 4560.

CFMEU appeals FWC right of entry decision A recent decision by Fair Work Commission VP Graeme Watson imposed restrictions on all right of entry permits held by CFMEU officials in Victoria (and Queensland). He also suspended a number of CFMEU officials’ right of entry permits, including Victorian officials Steve Long and Rob Graauwmans, for 12 and 6 months respectively.

Salt, an acclaimed demographics and social commentary expert, kicked off the program with an energetic analysis of the fast-growing ‘fusion culture’ of Melbourne and Victoria, stressing the significant ways in which immigration, interstate relocation and economic opportunity have shaped demographics in ways that have a profound effect on the market to which Master Builders members provide their services.

In arranging the line-up of speakers for the 2016 symposium, Master Builders’ goal was to select experts who had something genuinely important to share with members, to help them make the most of the coming business year. Salt was just the first in a series of industry authorities discussing some of the major issues of the day.

Angela Jurjevic, from the Planning Department, Simon Cohen (Consumer Affairs Victoria) and Prue Digby (Victorian Building Authority) discussed changes to building regulations; Boral CEO Mike Kane shared insights from front line in industrial relations; Mike de Souza from A3DMA provided a glimpse into the new frontier of three-dimensional

This was appealed by the CFMEU, with FWC VP Catanzariti issuing a decision staying key parts of the decision pending appeal. It effectively puts a hold on the effect of Watson’s decision on CFMEU Victoria permit conditions. Both permission to appeal, and the appeal, are set for 11 May 2016. Master Builders updated its Right of Entry has permit holder list.

Members are encouraged to contact the IR Department on (03) 9411 4560 for more information.

manufacturing technology; Minister for Planning Richard Wynne summarised the refreshing of Plan Melbourne; Emergent Solutions CEO Holly Ransom shed shared techniques for harnessing the talents of the millennial generation; and Steven Amendola, senior partner from Ashurst, capped off the day with a discussion of what to watch for in industry EBA discussions and code compliance issues.

Reactions from those attending were overall enthusiastic and appreciative, and we received expressions of regret from a number of members who had not been able to attend but had heard from others who had.

Master Builders thanks our sponsors, Cbus and Incolink, who made this remarkable conference possible.

Cbus – As one of Australia’s largest industry super funds, Cbus has a strong focus on building super futures for individuals and businesses within the building and construction industry. Cbus is different to other super funds because it invests back into the industry, creating jobs by developing significant buildings across the country through its $2.2 billion property development company, Cbus Property. To join Cbus – or to get answers to your super questions – please contact our dedicated customer service team on 1300 361 784 or visit cbussuper.com.au Incolink – Incolink is a joint enterprise of employer associations and industry unions, in the commercial building, construction and civil allied industries in Victoria and Tasmania, established in 1988. Incolink administers redundancy, portable sick leave and income protection insurance schemes for the commercial construction sector. Incolink’s core responsibility is to preserve and invest these funds and make severance payments on behalf of its worker members.

In addition Incolink provides a range of welfare and support services to the building and construction industry.

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Master Builder Victoria

Have you heard about Building Victoria? Visit www.mbavnews.com.au

Master Builders and the federal election Master Builders will be standing up for you at the federal election when it is held this year.

The media is awash with reports of an early election if the Parliament does not support the Government in bringing back the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC).

But regardless of when the federal election is called, Master Builders is well- placed and ready to make sure that your concerns are heard by the major parties through a communication strategy that will advocate a range of well-developed policies that champion the interests of our members for the next term of government.

The Strong Building, Strong Economy (SBSE 2016) campaign will also provide many opportunities for members to get involved.

Join Master Builders in calling on the next federal government to do what needs to be done to promote an environment where you can maintain your business’s viability and build on your success.

One of our key election messages is that Master Builders wants home ownership to remain a cornerstone of Australian life. Housing affordability is a major challenge, and so is the increasing inability of first-home buyers to enter home ownership.

Housing affordability can be improved by fixing supply issues and this demands a different public policy response.

Here Master Builders has called for competition payments to the states and territories to permanently remove blockages that slow the supply of land

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and approvals for new developments.

For first-home buyers, let’s also tackle the factors that contribute to the very large deposits that act as a major barrier to them entering the housing market.

Also high on Master Builders’ wish list is for the return of the rule of law on commercial building sites with the return of the ABCC. Restoring the ABCC provides an expert industrial relations watchdog, to regulate the actions of, and to hold to account, all stakeholders - including unions, employers and employees.

By having industrial law and order maintained, there’s is also less risk of unlawful activities becoming criminal.

Something needs to be done to stop this consistent breach of laws. There is no justification for any person to act lawlessly, and if a special organization is needed to ensure that people behave within the law, then that should be established as a matter of urgency.

As we rapidly approach dates when the federal election may be called, it is regrettable that none of the major parties have, so far, put forward any policies for tackling the major economic challenges facing our nation, such as protecting our economy from worrying global uncertainties, and the need to lower our company and personal income tax rates and polices that stimulate growth and investment. These are important policies to ensure that investment in housing, commercial building and urban infrastructure continue to flow, and that jobs, particularly for apprentices, are created.

The good news for members is that Master Builders Association of Victoria is partnering with Master Builders Australia to commence Strong Building, Strong Economy 2016 (SBSE) to put your concerns front and centre at this year’s federal election and calling for policies from the next federal government that will drive investment, productivity and jobs growth in the building and construction industry. SBSE 2016 will provide a great opportunity for Victorian Master Builders to participate and make sure your concerns are heard.

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Master Builder Victoria

R A D L E Y D E S I LVA , C E O

Ducks in a row:

getting our priorities straight for the coming year

AT THE BEGINNING OF EACH YEAR MASTER BUILDERS TAKES STOCK AND ASKS ITSELF: WHAT ARE OUR PRIORITIES FOR THE COMING YEAR? WHERE DO WE WANT TO BE IN ONE YEAR’S TIME? FIVE YEARS TIME? This year, our thinking took place against a backdrop of growth, prosperity and challenges Radley de Silva CEO, Master Builders for the Association of Victoria building and construction industry. As Australia’s fastestgrowing city, the Bureau of Statistics projects that by 2051 Melbourne’s population could double to nearly 7.7 million, which will require the construction of up to 1.6 million new homes- including around 480,000 apartments.

We know that the Victorian economy’s outlook is, for the most part, positive, with the building and construction sector making a strong contribution to its success. New housing increased by four per cent in the final quarter of 2015, with work on multi-units 22 per cent higher than a year earlier, and work on houses (alterations and renovations) up 3.9 per cent. This is forecast to increase from $8.6 billion in 2014/15 to $9.4 billion this year.

As the volume of work increases, so does the workforce. Construction experienced the third largest growth of jobs during the period 2000-2015 , accounting for 238,000 jobs, or 8.2 per cent of the total workforce , making it the state’s second-largest full-time employer. As well as building the state’s infrastructure and housing, this sector is a massive economic contributor.

Growth in building and construction is set to continue, primarily in the residential sector, in keeping with the population growth forecast for Victoria. In 2014 Victoria’s growth rate of 1.8 per cent was faster than any other state or territory, ahead of Western Australia’s 1.6 per cent and well ahead of the 1.4 per cent reached in New South Wales and Queensland.

The opportunities that come with population growth should be embraced and adequately planned for. As a major economic contributor, the building and construction industry can play a key role in delivering the homes, infrastructure and jobs for Victoria’s future.

With this in mind, we consulted the Master Builders sector committees: Housing, General Contractors, Specialist Contractors, Material Manufacturers and Suppliers, and the Country sector committees about what they consider to be priorities.

Eight priority areas were identified and brought together in the submission Master Builders priorities 2016-17: Building for Growth. These areas form an important part of our discussions with government as they clearly articulate why, how and where time, consideration and funding should be focused.

The first priority is to establish a clear strategy for planning. Builders right across Melbourne and through Victoria regularly express frustration at the excessive red tape in the planning system which delays the delivery of building and construction work. It might not surprise some readers that the Victorian Competition and Efficiency Commission (VCEC) 2010 Inquiry into Streamlining Local Government Regulation found that the total costs to business of complying with land-use planning and building regulations are between $500 million and $875 million per year.

This includes a cost of around $180 million each year due to unexpected delays in planning decisions. As well as council delays, the scope for objections in Victoria is vast and means that planning gets further entangled in VCAT appeals: Victoria 1 in 10 planning applications are appealed, compared to 1 in 83 in NSW and 1 in 1000 in Queensland . Master Builders calls for measures to reduce local council planning delays and third party appeals.

Master Builder Victoria

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R A D L E Y D E S I LVA , C E O

The cost of housing continues to skyrocket. Our figures show there has been a 21 per cent decline in housing affordability across Victoria in the past decade, and in the last 12 months the price of dwellings has increased by 11 per cent. We strongly believe that Housing affordability must be addressed as a matter of priority.

The introduction of mandatory trades registration is a priority for our members, and the broader Victorian community. The current lack of mandatory trades registration means that only 2000 trades people are registered in Victoria, compared to 40,000 in NSW and 46,000 in Queensland. We know this is a major and ongoing issue for our members and the broader community: over 1250 people signed the Master Builders’ petition calling on the government to ‘Introduce Mandatory Registration of Trades in Victoria’. Master Builders looks forward to working with the State Government on looking at how and when mandatory registration is introduced in Victoria.

As a part of any reform of the current Victorian Domestic Building Insurance (DBI) system, the State Government must consider the broader implications for the industry and ensure an efficient and effective system is maintained for the benefit of consumers and builders.

With a rapidly growing population, a strong pipeline of infrastructure and commercial investment is crucial.

An audit by Infrastructure Australia found that the annual cost of delays on Melbourne’s roads will triple to more than $9 billion in the next 15 years if the problem is not fixed . Investment in infrastructure is a priority for Victoria if we are to accommodate the expected population expansion.

In the context of the pending EBA negations, Master Builders continues to urge the government to take measures to create a sustainable industrial relations environment.

Deloitte Access Economics research has highlighted that industry EBA wage rises over the past eight years have increased the costs of delivering government infrastructure. When we add in the impact of wage rises continuing at 5 per cent, we stand to spend $806 million over the next four years — representing a missed opportunity to build 10 schools and three hospitals. And if those wage increases rise higher, to 6 per cent, then the cost totals $875 million. In 2014, entry level industry EBA labourers were earning about $144,000 a year and industry EBA carpenters about $155,000 — more than defence force members, police officers and school teachers.

A responsible construction EBA agreement needs to provide a sustainable wage increase justified by meaningful flexibility and productivity improvements.

Two new priorities this year include investing in industry training and skills development; and investing in construction technology. This reflects concern raised by members about high apprentice attrition rates, varying quality of training for our apprentices, and the availability of certain skills. We need to examine building and construction workforce training, skills and capacity.

The industry needs a greater diversity of skills to deal with the challenges associated with Victoria’s population growth and new emerging technologies in the sector.

So that the Victorian building and construction industry can keep up with the demand for housing and infrastructure, Master Builders believes it is vital that we continue to look at ways in which our sector’s workforce can evolve to work with and adapt to them.

As always, a critical part of achieving this is our continued cooperation and hard work with our elected representatives.

As your voice in government, Master Builders also encourages your feedback and involvement to make our partnership ever stronger.

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Master Builder Victoria

BIM

Growing pains: are we prepared to embrace the rapid development of building information modelling?

For three rainy days last November, in the warren of meeting rooms at the Hyatt Metropole Peter Sackett Media and Communications Hotel in Advisor/Editor London, architects, engineers and builders convened to count the achievements made in building information modelling (colloquially referred to as “BIM”) over the previous year. An international assortment of journalists had been invited to watch the proceedings, and write about them.

Defined broadly, building information modelling is a digital representation of a building’s physical and performance characteristics. Not to be confused with electronic drafting software, BIM is, instead, a process of generating a digital facsimile of a building or environment that enables component parts to be manipulated, edited, tested and documented in a virtual setting on an as-needed basic by multiple stakeholders simultaneously. Crucially, it also involves project collaboration teams working in tandem with the technology; BIM is often defined as building information management.

Dubbed “The Year in Infrastructure”, the conference and subsequent awards ceremony was the twelfth annual symposium by Bentley Systems, a software company that produces solutions for the design, construction and operation of infrastructure. Based in Pennsylvania, Bentley is acknowledged as a leader in BIM technology and has

a presence in over 50 countries around the world. As users of Bentley’s products, the hundreds attending the conference spoke English with every accent imaginable, but American and British were loudest among them.

A series of PowerPoint presentations provided a thumbnail sketch of each of the recognised projects, explaining how BIM had facilitated enormous feats of coordination and record keeping. USand UK-based projects (representing approximately 30 per cent and 22

Bentley Systems leads their annual symposium “The Year in Infrastructure” in London last November

per cent, respectively, of the winning projects) outnumbered those from other regions by a noticeable margin, a reflection of not just size and economic momentum, but the degree to which these countries have integrated BIM as standard practice.

For example, by applying BIM, a complex and unwieldy project in Minnesota became manageable—even orderly—when a hauling company was tasked with the transport of a 160-footlong, 750,000-pound “process” vessel,

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Master Builder Victoria

BIM

by barge and trailers, over a span of two years. Among many feats, BIM helped facilitate the permitting process for highway conveyance, coordination with utilities authorities and the redesign of roads and bridges that were not otherwise strong enough to bear the heavy load.

In London, architect Robin Partington and Partners used BIM to create the distinctive, curved form of the One Merchant Square office building. The technology helped to measure and specify the cladding and structural floor sections, each of which threatened to be confoundingly unique, and to design the basement to function independently a full two years prior to the second phase of construction.

Few people in this or any other industry would dispute that BIM technology has made remarkable things possible in the design, construction and operating lifetime of a building, regardless of its intended use. Building information modelling is a god-like tool in that it can organise and streamline action in any or all stages of creation, usage, maintenance and, eventually, even demolition. In essence, BIM digitises and shepherds the entire process, including the potential logistical chaos, of design and construction, which enables stakeholders to develop, test and manipulate component parts in a virtual environment. It provides unlimited glimpses into the future to see how a building is likely to perform, before committing to a plan of action.

Once construction is complete, a three-dimensional model of the project streamlines inspections, maintenance and management in the real world.

The immense potential and reality of cost and time savings with such technology has been enough to propel BIM to become standard practice for increasing numbers of design and construction companies around the globe. It is broadly accepted as the future of the industry, and the pace of uptake is quickening. But in Australia, the widespread embrace of BIM still lags behind that of many other first- and second-world countries grappling with similar opportunities and challenges.

An article on building information modelling appeared in this magazine’s June-August 2014 issue, introducing readers to the technology by profiling Aleks Baltovski, Design Manager at Probuild. A BIM advocate, he said, “In my opinion, BIM can be used during the design and documentation phase, before the construction process begins, to minimise errors and identify inefficiencies [before] and after the project is completed.”

Nearly two years on, this quote still strikes many Australian builders as a fresh insight, while overseas it’s regarded, rightly, as old news.

To be clear and fair, Australia is far from ignorant of what BIM offers. There are numerous projects, completed and underway, that take advantage of it to at least some degree, and that trend is on the rise. Even in 2014, Baltovski cited several of his own: Monash University’s New Horizons project, South East Water headquarters in Frankston and the Shrine Galleries of Remembrance project.

BIM technology and processes are already being embedded in many of Australia’s higher education and VET institution courses. It will take time for this expertise to emerge in the built environment.

Building industry educators are certain of BIM’s rise, and of the need for training that addresses the non-technical workforce that will have to interact more frequently with BIM-generated environments. Marc Lyons, General Manager of the Building Leadership Simulation Centre (BLSC), says he and his staff are poised to provide it as soon as they have the demand.

“The BLSC is in a great position to provide the kind of realistic, virtualenvironmental instruction that construction workers will encounter on BIM-created projects,” Lyons says. “That is a real need that will continue to grow.

“The BLSC will not be training people how to use the different kinds of software that make BIM possible,” Lyons says. “There are technical institutions that do that. What is most important to our sector is preparing principle contractors and subcontractors to take full advantage of the incredible utility BIM makes possible, by knowing how to use the output—plans, schedules and so forth—that make information available once they arrive at the work site. BIM is the future; we just need to prepare for it. What is truly special about the BLSC is that we can also provide immersive experiences to enhance collaboration and teamwork among all members and stakeholders on a given project.”

“We are already well equipped to respond to requests for this type of training, from general awareness and introduction sessions to more advanced courses,” Lyons says, as soon as the requests come. “Call us,” he says. “We would welcome the opportunity to work together with you to create a program that will help bring the benefits of BIM to your business.”

To express your interest in BIM-related training, contact the BLSC on: (03) 9411 8000.

Next issue: Part II: The return on BIM investment and why Australia has been slower to act.

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Master Builder Victoria

BLSC

Leadership award winners announced YOUNG LEADER AWARD This award recognises outstanding achievement by a young leader (up to age 35) who has clearly demonstrated the leadership or communication skills to inspire higher performance, exceed expectations, or achieve outstanding results.

Winners of the first-ever BLSC Leadership Awards were announced on 25 February at the Master Builders 2016 Members Conference at the Silverwater Resort, Phillip Island.

As one of the world’s foremost learning and professional development providers, the Building Leadership Simulation Centre (BLSC) is proud to recognise outstanding achievement of inspiring and successful leaders.

Congratulations to all the finalists and winners of the BLSC 2015 Leadership Awards.

BEST COMPANY LEADERSHIP AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM AWARD This award recognises companies that have utilised BLSC training as part of their leadership and professional development programs and can best demonstrate how the program has supported the achievement of company goals and objectives.

Winner receives: $5,000 professional development subsidy

This award recognises companies that have developed and successfully implemented a bespoke learning and development program in conjunction with the BLSC in demonstration of: development of workforce talent and capability; addressing of specific workplace issues or enhanced performance and supporting the achievement of the company’s goal and objectives.

RHODES MACKENZIE Construction Manager (Porter Davis Homes Pty Ltd) Winner receives: $2,000 professional development subsidy

METRICON HOMES PTY LTD Winner receives: $5,000 professional development subsidy

MATT BARRASSO Junior Project Manager (Harris HMC Interiors Pty Ltd) Special Commendation receives: $1,000 BLSC training voucher

HIGH PERFORMING LEADER AWARD This award recognises outstanding achievement by an individual who has clearly demonstrated the leadership or communication skills to create a highperforming team that consistently strives for excellence, exceed expectations and offers a model for others to follow.

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BEST BESPOKE LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM AWARD

Director (VR Builders Pty Ltd) Winner receives: $2,000 professional development subsidy

BOWENS TIMBER & BUILDING SUPPLIES Special Commendation: $2,500 BLSC training voucher

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Master Builder Victoria

M E N TA L H E A LT H

Building a better understanding of mental health IN AN INDUSTRY THAT BUILDS ROADS, HOSPITALS, SCHOOLS, HOMES AND PARKS FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS OF AUSTRALIANS, IT IS DEEPLY SADDENING TO READ ABOUT THE OVER REPRESENTATION OF MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES IN THE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION SECTOR. IN AUSTRALIA, EVERY TWO DAYS A BUILDER OR CONSTRUCTION WORKER TAKES THEIR OWN LIFE. CONSTRUCTION WORKERS ARE SIX TIMES MORE LIKELY TO DIE FROM SUICIDE THAN AN ACCIDENT AT WORK.

Whilst one in five Australian workers is likely to be experiencing a mental health condition at Leanne Edwards Manager, Policy any given time, and Communications this statistic increases to one in four in the construction industry. That means 25 per cent of people in our sector are likely to experience a mental health condition this year.

People who work in building and construction enjoy rewarding and edifying careers and feel proud about contributing to the built environment that makes up our home. Why then do we see suicide and mental health issues in this sector at rates higher than the national average? In a male-dominated industry, it’s likely that contributing factors include a reluctance to speak about these issues and a lack of information and resources about what to do and where to seek help.

Master Builders members have asked us to assist in the area of mental health awareness. We realise that we can open the dialogue on this issue and point our

members in the right direction about where to find tools and information available to help. For example, we wanted to assist employers in their search for information about creating a mentally healthy workplace; help friends and colleagues learn about how to open a dialogue with each other; and let individuals know where to find help if they need it.

We have a lot of touch points with our members that allow us to share information. For example, in 2014-15, Master Builders hosted more than 50 prominent and industry-leading events, including Member Nights and industry breakfasts - with over 5,500 attendees.

We also produce publications and circulate information throughout the year in emails, on the Master Builders news site and in Master Builder magazine to keep members knowledgeable.

With this in mind, Master Builders approached beyondblue with the aim of collaborating with an expert organisation equipped with tools and information that could help our members. beyondblue is an independent, not-forprofit organisation working to increase

Master Builder Victoria

21

M E N TA L H E A LT H

awareness and understanding of anxiety, depression and suicide prevention in Australia and to reduce the associated stigma. With the support of its founder, The Hon Jeff Kennett AC, who has written a foreword for this issue of Master Builder (page 6), beyondblue was established in October 2000. The aim was to move the focus on depression away from being a mental health service issue towards one which is understood, acknowledged and addressed by the wider community. beyondblue offers a number of program areas including the Heads Up program, developed by a range of alliance partners and which aims to promote more mentally healthy workplaces Australia-wide. The Heads Up program is a web-based resource with information and interactive tools to help businesses to take action to create workplaces that encourage good mental health. Heads Up also provides resources for individual workers to assist them look after their own mental health, weigh up the pros and cons of disclosing

a mental health condition take action, and support a work colleague who may be struggling. In addition, beyondblue has created information and tools targeted at men and, in particular, those in industries like building and construction, using a character named “Davo� to provide the interactive and relatable information online and via support services.

Addressing this issue is of crucial importance for the industry and everyone in the community. The direct financial impact of mental health conditions for Australian employers is estimated to be $10.9 billion every year due to absenteeism, reduced productivity at work and compensation claims. Of course the social costs are themselves profound, with the impact of mental health issues and suicide extending far beyond the individuals who are suffering. Husbands, wives, partners, children, families, friends, fellow community members, and work colleagues all suffer the consequences, too; the ripple effect is extensive.

One Master Builder member, Neil Coulter, shares his story in dealing with depression and provides a positive picture of what happens when you take advantage of the avenues of support, learn to openly discuss depression with people you trust and seek help (page 42).

Because depression touches numerous Australians each day, every year, we need to be able to deal with this issue. Master Builders therefore hopes that through opening the dialogue, and guiding members to available resources, our industry can move towards recognizing, understanding and addressing mental health. beyondblue: www.beyondblue.org.au beyondblue support service Phone: 1300 22 4636 email or chat online: www.beyondblue.org.au/getsupport

22

Master Builder Victoria

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Use an expert finance broker for all your lending requirements It has become a common occurrence to have members approach us after an exhaustive Harry Pontikis Manager, MBA Financial Services but fruitless search of banks for financing, leaving themselves with no further option. When you’re looking for a loan to buy a house, fund your business or develop properties, you could use an experienced finance broker (like Master Builders Financial Services - MBFS) or go direct to a bank.

I cannot think of any circumstance in which it would be more beneficial going directly to a bank, but I can certainly list numerous reasons to use MBFS. While a bank will offer you only its own products, MBFS is a finance and building industry expert that will take the guesswork out of finding the finance product that suits you and your needs from among a plethora of banks, nonbanks and private lending institutions.

Dealing with banks is often cumbersome, slow and impersonal, requiring your situation conform to the tick boxes on their forms. Dealing with MBFS means dealing with individuals focused on the needs of their clients, working hard to meet the expectation of each person, whether for their home loan or development finance and everything in between.

WHAT MASTER BUILDERS FINANCIAL SERVICES CAN DO FOR YOU PROVIDE TAILORED LENDING SOLUTIONS TO MEET YOUR OBJECTIVES By having access to the majority of the lending institutions in Australia, MBFS can find the bank best-suited to provide the solution that meets your needs, instead of going directly to a bank and having to comply with that lender’s policy.

DO THE LEGWORK AND CONTACTS MBFS brokers already know the industry, the lenders, their products and their requirements, saving you the expenditure of a lot of time and energy. The alternative is for you to research solutions and submit applications and supporting documentation when there may be no real chance of getting your loan approved with a particular lender.

Being the broker for members of the Master Builders Association for more than a decade means the MBFS team has access to bank assessors and decision makers within banks so they can ‘workshop’ applications before going through the application process.

TRANSLATE INDUSTRY JARGON MBFS finance brokers are able to make sense of what loan documents and lenders are saying. Translating industry terminology and phrases into layperson’s language helps you to understand updates more easily and in a timely manner.

HELP YOU COMPARE THE DIFFERENT LOANS / LENDERS MBFS brokers have the knowledge and tools to compare hundreds of products and lenders so you get the most appropriate and competitive loan suitable for your circumstances and needs.

FIND YOU A GOOD DEAL Loan providers are always providing special offers and these could make a huge difference to your repayments or the success of your business. MBFS knows which of the deals are on the market at any given time and are often able to negotiate better-than-standard offers for our clients.

ACT AS YOUR ADVOCATE A good finance broker wants the best for you, their client. They will be your cheer squad, middle-man and team player guiding you through the process.

Their focus is on a mutually beneficial relationship rather than selling a particular bank’s product.

PROVIDE FULL TRANSPARENCY You will receive a clearly itemized and documented quote on what the loan will cost you, including any fees or charges, and with a chance for you to question everything before signing the quote and giving your written consent for the finance broker to proceed with the solution.

THE MBFS TEAM IS IN IT FOR THE LONG HAUL A relationship with MBFS is a lasting one. We will oversee and manage your loan’s progression right through to the end on your behalf. The ‘end’, by the way, isn’t when you sign the documents and buy your property; you can expect your broker to keep track of you and your changing needs, providing assistance should you need to switch products, purchase another property or build your business.

Finally, when you deal with an expert finance broker, they will not be promoted away from your account, to another job, portfolio or department. The expert team members at Master Builder’s Financial Services have chosen their careers and are in them for the long haul!

Chocolate Money t/a Master Builders Financial Services and holds an Australian Credit License – number 387277.

Contact Master Builders Financial Services on 1300 137 539 and ask to speak to an expert finance broker or email the Director, Harry Pontikis on harry@mbafinance.com.au and he will nominate the most appropriate person to exceed your expectations.

Disclaimer: This information is not specific advice as your situation has not been taken into consideration so is merely general in nature. For a tailored solution to your situation, contact Chocolate Money t/a Master Builders Financial Services on 1300 137 539.

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Master Builder Victoria

INSURANCE

Life insurance and income protection OVER RECENT WEEKS, THE TEAM AT MBA INSURANCE SERVICES (MBAIS) HAS RECEIVED A NUMBER OF ENQUIRIES ABOUT LIFE INSURANCE AND INCOME PROTECTION COVER, WITH SEVERAL MEMBERS MENTIONING RECENT NEWS REPORTS HIGHLIGHTING CONCERNS WITH POLICY COVERAGE LIMITATIONS AND UNFAIR EXCLUSIONS.

Your future earning potential is your greatest asset, so it’s important to have the right Joe Keiper State Manager Victoria, MBAIS cover in place to protect your future earnings and lifestyle.

While MBAIS does not hold a licence to distribute Life Risk and Income Protection insurance, we have a longstanding preferred partner in Wheeler Life Insurance Advisers.

As a builder/tradesman there is a strong chance that you already have a policy for Income Protection / Sickness and Accident. However, if your policy has been running for a few years, it most likely can be improved in both coverage and cost – with a detailed assessment and review available for MBAV members, free of charge.

Wheeler Life Insurance Advisers can provide you with a simple review service on your current policy, to help you understand if you already have the best available deal, or whether there are better options to consider. The comparison will cover products, benefits and costs, all summarized in an easy to follow one-page comparison summary – with five minutes of your time being your only expense.

IF YOU ARE UNAWARE AS TO WHETHER YOUR CURRENT INCOME PROTECTION IS: • Guaranteed renewable or cancellable? … i.e. can your policy be cancelled by the insurance company if you make a claim?

• Agreed value or indemnity? … i.e. even if your future income reduces, does your monthly benefit stay the same?

• Own occupation or any occupation? . . . i.e. in the event of a claim, will you be required to work in a different job?

• Paid via your superannuation account? … Which may mean reduced benefits.

• Payable for two years or to age 65?

Or, perhaps you don’t even have an income protection policy …

Contact Ian at Wheeler Life Insurance Advisers on 1300 900 981 or admin@wheelerinsurances.com.au If you don’t fully understand what any or all of the above points mean, that’s a great reason for you to have your current policy reviewed by an experienced professional.

(Wheeler Life Insurance Advisers is an Authorised Representative of Affinia Financial Advisers Ltd – Authorised Representative No. 255785 – Affinia Financial Advisers holds AFS Licence No. 237857 issued by ASIC)

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Master Builder Victoria

GREEN LIVING

A glimpse into the future of construction Master Builders Association of Victoria has recently taken a glimpse into the future to identify the Dr. Philip Alviano Sustainable Building Advisor anticipated needs of our members. By identifying key trends and skills requirements we are able to provide advice and training to help ensure that our members are able to adapt readily to changing conditions. A Victorian government discussion paper prepared in 2015 (Victorian Government 2015) identified building information modelling (BIM), prefabrication and sustainability as key industry trends and skills development areas of the near future. These themes were also explored by an industry roundtable that took place in October 2015.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY Increased energy costs and constantly changing technologies have increased the demand for energy efficient buildings and for industry professionals with deep knowledge of the field. Sustainability continues to become an increasingly important—even vital—part of the construction process in the commercial market as indicated by the number of Green Star-rated buildings, which increased from eight in 2005 to just over 1000 by the end of 2015. There was a 40 per cent increase in Green Star-certified buildings in 2015, when 218 projects were certified compared to 156 in 2014.

A report by Dodge Data and Analytics (2016) found that companies expect global demand for sustainable buildings will double by 2018. The extent of the Australian industry’s expertise in this area is also acknowledged by Austrade as an important export market (Australian Trade Commission 2013).

There has also recently been a number of iconic projects from Lend Lease (Barangaroo) and Frasers (Brickworks retail project at Burwood) with sustainability being a central feature. The interest among members and within the residential market is indicated by more than 65,000 views of the Master Builders Green Living passive solar design You Tube animation, and attendance for the Green Living conference topping the 120 mark for the last three years in a row.

PREFABRICATION Prefabrication in construction includes a variety of systems. These range from tilt concrete panel slab or cross laminated timber (CLT) panel systems, pre-made timber frames and roof trusses, structural insulated panels (SIPs) through to prefabricated pods fitted out off site and dropped directly into place. In this case, plumbing, tiles, joinery and appliances are fitted offsite.

BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING (BIM) The need for increased productivity and efficiency in the construction sector has seen a rise in the use of BIM and prefabrication. It is expected that the use of BIM for projects will increase as the benefits become clearer. In North America the percentage of BIM users increased from 28 per cent to 71 per cent between 2007 and 2012 (Dodge Data and Analytics, Formerly McGraw Hill 2015). A number of countries, including Singapore, Finland, Hong Kong and Denmark, require the production of a BIM model for large public projects.

Many other countries have policies in place to encourage the use of BIM. The production of a 3D electronic model improves visualization of the project, increasing productivity through better coordination of construction drawings with embedded information, resulting in a faster delivery, and lower costs (Ahn et al 2015).

Figure 1: BIM Users = owners, architects, contractors, engineers. Source: Dodge Data and Analytics (2015)

Figure 2.

Figure 1.

Master Builder Victoria

27

GREEN LIVING

In Scandinavian countries, approximately 50 per cent of residential housing is largely manufactured off site; in Finland the figure is 74 per cent. In Australia, however, only 3 per cent of residential buildings are prefabricated.

But this number is growing and there is ambition to achieve 10 per cent of the residential market by 2020 (Newman and Green 2014). The increase in demand is expected to be driven by increasing construction costs and the need to reduce them by looking for the increased efficiencies gained through prefabrication. This is especially relevant in the mid-rise apartment and townhouse market.

The move to prefabrication means that more of the construction process can take place off site in a manufacturingplant environment. This produces a more controlled environment where the use of lean manufacturing techniques and BIM can result in efficiency gains.

These processes come together to improve the efficiency of the

building process, decrease material and productivity costs and increase the quality and energy efficiency of buildings. Several successful projects

by Lend Lease (Forte) and Frasers (The Green) indicate the importance to the industry in Australia. This is further backed by Lend Lease’s investment in a new prefabrication factory in Sydney (Lenaghan and Bleby 2015).

Master Builders Green Living Victoria is supported by:

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REFERENCES Ahn, Y., Kwak, Y., and Suk, S. (2015), Contractors’ Transformation Strategies for Adopting Building Information Modeling. J. Manage. Eng., 10.1061 Australian Trade Commission (2013), Green and Sustainable Building, Australian Government, http://www.austrade.gov.au/ greenbuildings/ Dodge Data and Analytics (2016), World Green Building Trends 2016, Developing Markets Accelerate Global Green Growth, Smart Market Report, Massachusetts.

Dodge Data and Analystics (2015), Measuring the Impact of BIM on Complex Buildings, Smart Market Report, Massachusetts.

Lenaghan, N. and Bleby, M. (2015), LendLease factory to spearhead 1$b construction disruption, Financial Review, Dec 10 2015.

Newman, P. and Green, J. (2014), Building a housing industry from the relics of a car industry, The Conversation, 14 February 2014.

Victorian Government (2015), Victoria’s Future Industries – Construction Technologies, Department of Economic Development, Melbourne

What is SHGC? Along with ‘U-value”, SHGC is one of the most common acronyms used when discussing thermal efficiency of windows and glass doors. SHGC stands for Solar Heat Gain Co-efficient, and refers to the fraction of solar radiation admitted through a product. This fraction is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. For example, a product that admits 58 per cent of heat from the sun has an SHGC of 0.58.

To consider the real-world application of SHGC, a low numeric figure means that the product rejects more heat from the sun than a higher one. This is particularly useful for glass unprotected by eaves in summer, or glazing to the east and west. A high numeric figure means that more heat from the sun is admitted, and this can be beneficial for north-facing glass in winter.

As with the “U-value” of a product, it’s the SHGC of the total window or door system that matters, not just the glass on its own. Total window and door ‘U’ and ‘SHGC’ are denoted by a ‘w’ suffix, and hence ‘U’ becomes “Uw” and SHGC becomes “SHGCw”.

Supplied by: Rylock Windows and Doors.

28

Master Builder Victoria

LEGAL

Method B progress payments WHEN THE OWNER FAILS TO SIGN THE WARNING, IT CAN MEAN NO PROGRESS PAYMENT In Imerva Corporation Pty Ltd v Kuna (Building and Property) [2015] VCAT 2058, VCAT Angelo Simonetto Head of Legal determined that as a result of a builder having failed to ensure the owners had signed a warning to vary the progress payment stages, it was not entitled to be paid any amount in excess of the statutory amount allowed under Section 40 of the Domestic Building Contracts Act 1995 (DBCA) FACTS The builder and the owners entered into a domestic building contract on 13 January 2013 (the Contract) to construct two units for $1,983,024 (Inc GST). Progress payments claimed by the builder were made according to a list provided with the Contract. The progress payment claims on the list varied from statutory amounts as defined under s40 of the DBCA. As work progressed, a dispute arose between the parties as to the quality of the work completed. In early April 2014 the owners engaged a building expert who prepared a defects report as well as also engaging a fire expert to inspect a party wall, which it found to be non-compliant.

The owners served a notice on the builder to remedy the breach, but after attempts to negotiate their differences failed, the builder served a notice on the owner terminating the Contract. To the date of termination, the builder had been paid $872,531.00.

ISSUE The main dispute between the parties was as to the manner in which the progress payments under the Contract were made. Under the DBCA, if the parties wish to vary the statutory amounts of the progress payments

of Base, Frame, Lock Up, Fix and Completion (the same as contained in the Method A of the Master Builders New Homes and Home Improvements contract), the owners in agreeing to change their legal rights must sign a warning as prescribed in the Regulation 12(a) in the form of Schedule – Form 1 contained in the Contract. In this case, although the owners (and builder) had initialed the bottom of each page of the contract, they had not signed the warning. Under the DBCA, unless the owner has signed the warning to vary the pre-defined progress payments, pursuant to s40(5), a builder may be ordered to refund the owners either part or the entire amount paid to it under the contract.

DECISION VCAT was satisfied that the initials at the bottom of the Contract page did not constitute a signature which would otherwise have indicated that the owners had read and agreed to the changed progress payments schedule from the statutory s40 amounts. It further rejected the builder’s contention that as the owners did not object and in fact made the progress payments in accordance with

the Contract, they should be estopped from relying upon its failure to sign the warning and calling its conduct in these circumstances unconscionable.

As a consequence and, accordingly by s40(2) of the DBCA, a builder must not retain more than the percentage of the contract price in the list, and therefore any claim for payment will be considered in accordance with the statutory progress payment amounts (i.e. Method A). This meant the owners were entitled to recover from the builder any over-payments made, being in this case an amount of $634,567.

Any future claims not already made (in circumstances where the Contract was still on foot) would have been calculated based on the statutory s40 progress payment amounts.

TAKE AWAY This decision illustrates the consequence of a builder not understanding the requirement to have the owner expressly sign the warning whenever a contract varies the standard s40 progress payment stages. The DBCA is consumer legislation and accordingly will impose harsh penalties and outcomes on builders who fail to properly understand and complete their contracts correctly.

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ESSENDON RENAULT 600 Mt Alexander Rd, Moonee Ponds / ph: (03) 8325 9339 essendonrenault.com.au ^ Offer applies to Kangoo, Trafic and Master (Cab Chassis and Bus excluded) models sold from 1/3/16 and 31/3/16. First three scheduled maintenance services free on new and demonstrator passenger vehicles, based on standard scheduled servicing from new and on normal operating conditions. If vehicle not presented within three (3) months of when scheduled service is required, right to that free service under offer is forfeited. Whilst current Australian stocks last. ◊Offer is available to approved ABN registered business applicants of Renault Financial Services. (Australian Credit Licence Number 391464) and for business purposes only. Interest is charged from the commencement of the loan. Conditions, fees and charges apply. Maximum term 60 months. No deposit for approved applicants. Offer available on new Kangoo, Trafic and Master Van models purchased between 1/3/16 and 31/3/16. Excludes Government, Rental and National Fleet customers. Renault reserves the right to vary, extend or withdraw this offer. †Five (5) year/200,000km warranty offer (which includes two (2) years Extended Manufacturer Warranty) and 5 year/200,000km Roadside Assistance both apply to all new or demonstrator Kangoo models. Warranty and Roadside Assistance valid for 5 years or 200,000km (whichever comes first) from new. Demonstrator vehicles receive balance of new vehicle warranty and Roadside Assistance. Renault reserves the right to vary, extend or withdraw this offer. Roadside Assistance terms and conditions apply. Call our Customer Service Team on 1800 009 008 or view the Terms and Conditions statement at www.renault.com.au/drivingpeaceofmind for details. †3-years/200,000km warranty and 3 year/200,000km Roadside assistance both apply to Master and Trafic III models.

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Master Builder Victoria

OHS

Are you looking after yourself?

John Darcy Head of OHS

Master Builders members can seek assistance from the OHS Unit with any safety-related enquiries they may have.

Many members are not aware they can also obtain advice in relation to workers compensation matters as part of their membership.

I recently received a call from a member who was off work with a shoulder injury and was surviving on a weekly workers compensation payment of $350. The member asked me if there was any way he could apply to his WorkCover agent to have his compensation payment increased to be more aligned to his actual weekly earnings, which were close to $1500 per week.

This member, a self-employed builder, took out a WorkCover insurance policy on the advice of his accountant who had recommended that he should declare a small remuneration figure to help ensure that if he injured himself, he would be able to make a successful claim against his own business. Unfortunately for the member concerned, his weekly

compensation payments were calculated based on his gross taxable income and not on the earnings of his business.

The member lamented that he was still responsible for paying a site supervisor $1500 per week to continue managing his construction sites whilst he was off work, meaning that he was effectively $1200 behind for each week he was off work.

Though this member had at least some level of insurance cover to protect himself, it was far from being enough.

More worrying still is the number of self-employed builders and tradesmen, particularly in housing, who have no life insurance, income protection or WorkCover insurance whatsoever.

Like builder’s warranty insurance, WorkCover insurance is a statutory insurance. Employers are required to have a WorkCover insurance policy where they have an apprentice or if their annual remuneration (i.e. wage bill) exceeds $7500 per year.

Employers are required to cover independent contractors under their WorkCover insurance policy where a person is engaged to perform at least 80 per cent of their work for that employer and where that person depends upon

that employer for 80 per cent of their income. The employer is required to include the labour component of the payments that they make to these subcontractors in their remuneration.

When providing OHS advice to employers, I will often ask them how many employees they have, only to be told “I just use subbies”. Builders and small business subcontractors will often have a small handful of workers who work for no one else and, as such, these employers are required to cover these ‘subbies’ under their WorkCover insurance policy.

Members who are self-employed are urged to seek advice from their insurance brokers so as to ensure they are adequately insured to protect themselves and their families. Accountants may be good at advising on the best financial structures, and lawyers might be good with contracts, but they cannot always offer complete advice on everything.

Master Builders also recommends that members should consult with their subcontractors about this issue.

About two years ago, a carpenter was killed on a housing construction site. A newspaper article that described the tragedy reported that his widow had been left with just five dollars in the bank. Her husband had no WorkCover insurance, life insurance or income protection.

Master Builders does not want to see anyone get hurt or suffer. We are committed to providing the best offerings and advice to help our members make their work sites safe, but we also do not want to see families having to survive without income after an incident.

For advice on WorkCover insurance obligations contact the OHS Unit on (03) 9411 4569.

For advice on insurance matters contact Master Builders Insurance Services on 1 800 150 888.

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Master Builder Victoria

TRAINING

Master Builders helps invest in your future Recently, a good deal of media attention has been directed toward training Chris Kulesza providers and Assistant Manager BLSC practices — and with good reason. As central to a strong, educated workforce and competitive economy as professional training and education is, not all providers in the market are as devoted to their students and clients as Master Builders and the Building Leadership Simulation Centre (BLSC).

While other providers spend time playing catch up, Master Builders focuses on the future, investing in offering the best training available for industry.

At Master Builders, we understand the need to have current and relevant content for you to learn from. We have received feedback and suggestions regarding this, and have taken it into consideration in working towards providing the best possible learning environments and tools for our students.

In June of 2015, the management team of the Training Department commissioned the comprehensive upgrade of all its training and learning materials. The project scope initially included updating materials for the Certificate IV Building and Construction (Building) qualification, but was soon expanded to include both the Certificate III and Certificate IV Workplace Health and Safety qualifications.

These materials are now being updated with the expert consultation of various industry professionals to ensure that what you are learning is industryrelevant and meets all vocational educational requirements. These qualifications will include both online and hardcopy reading and reference materials. But the truly exciting point of

difference we offer is the full integration of simulations, allowing Master Builders to live up to its claim as leaders of our industry. The BLSC simulation (SIM) sessions will now be incorporated into all clusters within the Certificate IV Building, as well as into the Certificate III and Certificate IV WHS qualifications.

This investment into the future of the construction industry represents a dramatic change to the way in which learning and development are delivered, both now and in the future.

As Assistant Manager at BLSC I am leading the project of incorporating these sessions in all qualifications.

Imagine the experience of taking virtual- site walks with safety managers, and complete virtual inductions with apprentices, or even explaining and signing contracts with clients; all of this will be available to members and

the wider industry alike thanks to the insight and innovation offered by Master Builders.

In a SIM session, for example, participants confront the challenges of a real work site and are given the opportunity to negotiate, solve problems, communicate and provide direction to site personnel, management and subcontractors.

This style of learning is distinct to Master Builders. While this change will mean that students may need to travel to the BLSC at South Melbourne for a couple of extra days during their training, but the benefits will certainly outweigh the inconvenience of travel.

The first changes will be scheduled to commence in the second semester of 2016, with more details to be included in further publications and online at www.mbavtraining.com.au

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36

Master Builder Victoria

REGIONAL ROUND-UP

Regional round-up GIPPSLAND The 2015 Gippsland Master Builders calendar began with the Regional Apprentice Awards held at The Premier Function Centre in Traralgon on 24 February. CEO Radley de Silva was guest speaker for the event, and the night was a great success. We had some very impressive winners who are sure to become leaders of our industry.

Our first Section Meeting was a breakfast function held in Traralgon on 2 March with guest speakers Daniel Hodges – Head of Industrial Relations, Matt Curtain – Watershed Building Consultants and Stewart Harper – Latrobe Regional Hospital. A very good turnout of members enjoyed the food, coffee and information provided.

PROUD MASTER BUILDER MEMBERS HAVE BEEN DISPLAYING OUR SITE BANNERS. Thanks to the support from loyal members we have been rotating site banners throughout the region. It offers a valuable opportunity to display that you are a Master Builder. This helps us spread a positive message to consumers.

We have placed the banners on site fences in Warragul, Traralgon, Inverloch, Cowes, Sale, Bairnsdale and Metung to name just a few.

BENDIGO For more than 25 years members of Master Builders’ Bendigo Section have successfully held an annual charity golf day, with proceeds going to their charity of choice. In earlier times, Bendigo Branch of the Make a Wish Foundation was the recipient of monies raised, receiving in excess of $60,000. This assisted in granting wishes to many children in the Bendigo region suffering life-threatening illnesses. These wishes have included overseas holiday, interstate travel, meeting celebrities and shopping trips.

This day is now very well known in Bendigo, and as interest has grown within the local community the day has become a huge success. It would not be possible without the amazing generosity of local businesses who donate goods and vouchers, and the efforts of the golf committee consisting of both members and staff of Master Builders. A big thank-you must go to two businesses in particular; without the assistance of Neangar Park Golf Club and our major sponsor for many years, Origin Energy, this day would not be the success it has become.

real estate firms, where the generosity of all present is reflected in the substantial amount of funds raised.

This year, Brendan Westley from National Heating Cooling was a major driving force in the success of the day by ensuring we had a full field of 36 teams. He also worked tirelessly to secure all donated goods for the day. We owe a huge thanks to Brendan, the golf committee and Master Builders staff for their efforts to ensure this day is successful every year.

The 2016 golf day is booked at Neangar Park Golf Course on 23 September.

Please contact Deborah at the Bendigo office on (03) 5410 2100 to book or receive more information about this day. We look forward to another success this September.

The most recent golf day event, held on Friday 18 September, raised over $17,000, a record amount. The two local charities to benefit from this were HALT (Hope Assistance Local Tradies) and SOAR adventures. These charities were chosen for the wonderful work they do in giving support to so many in our trade by enhancing awareness of mental illness, and in assisting disadvantaged youth in the region.

On the day of the golf event, representatives from each of the charities get involved providing and assisting with a barbecue for the players and providing afternoon tea at the end of the day. After play has finished, donated goods are awarded as prizes to players, raffle draws are conducted, and as an added benefit an auction of “substantial” goods is held, run by an auctioneer from one of the local

Master Builders members and staff celebrate another highly successful Bendigo Section Charity Golf day on Friday 18 September, a tradition with over 25 years of history.

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38

Master Builder Victoria

Social Pages

Apprentice Lucas Hammond with family & friends at the Ballarat Regional Apprentice Awards

Master Builders Melbourne and Ballarat staff at the Regional Apprentice Awards - Ballarat

Proud supporter of the 2016 Regional Apprentice Awards, David Healy, Assistant Sales Manager Vic Tas , Steel Blue

Jarrod Flanigan, Careers Manager, Master Builders, Apprentice John Mason and Jim Johnstone, Careers & Promotions, Incolink

Guest enjoying pre event drinks at the Geelong Regional Apprentice Awards Hamish Rose, apprentice and Patricia McCourt, Manager, Member Services, Incolink

Gippsland Section Chairman Trevor Bowler & Jarrod Flanigan, Careers Manager, Master Builders at the Gippsland Regional Awards

Xavier Hobbs with his prize from Irwin Tools at the North West Regional Building Awards

Winners – Regional Apprentice Awards Bendigo – Jarrod Cowan, Jack Shea, Chris Wild, Cody Storm

Leanne Edwards,General ManagerMarketing, Policy &Comms with Regional Apprentice of the Year -North West, Douglas Palmer.

12 months INCLUDED at Every new truck or bus now comes with no extra 12 months comprehensive insurance cost! included at no extra cost. It’s just one of the ways you get more with Fuso.

Call 1300 429 134 or visit fuso.com.au to find out more. *This offer is available from participating Fuso dealers on new orders for new trucks and buses placed between 1 April and 30 June 2016. Excludes national fleets, government and rental buyers. Insurance arranged by Fuso Financial, a registered business name of Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Australia Pty Ltd ABN 73 074 134 517 AFSL 247271 as an agent of the underwriter QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited ABN 78 003 191 035 AFSL 239545. Insurance cover cannot be exchanged for cash or a discount off the purchase price of the vehicle. Terms and conditions apply. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement and Policy Wording booklet available from participating Fuso dealers or www.fuso.com.au.

40

Master Builder Victoria

VA L U E O F M E M B E R S H I P

The value of membership:

MBA Building Services As a member of Master Builders you are offered a variety of specialised services that are not readily Ingrid Mountford Assistant Membership Manager available to those in the industry who do not belong to the Association. These services have been tailored with you in mind to suit your everyday business needs.

One of the key services available is access to our MBA Building Services unit.

This team is made up of 33 dedicated team members including building surveyors, building inspectors, technical and administration staff.

The value of a quality building surveying team extends far beyond checking your drawings and issuing you with a permit.

A building surveyor who is easy to talk to, and on whom you can rely, will be a valuable asset to your team.

Appointing the right building surveying team can be challenging, but choosing well saves you time, money and a lot of headaches throughout the construction process. You must consider the value of employing a building surveyor who carries out their responsibilities competently, which will minimise your potential risk of future litigation and

provide you with the peace of mind of knowing that their work has been carried out correctly.

Customer service is another key focus area that Master Builders is committed to delivering. We acknowledge the importance of a timely delivery and the demands of providing you and the consumer quality service within structured time frames.

We take the extra steps necessary to keep you informed of the progress of your application; picking up the phone to keep you up to date and following up with emails to confirm the status of your permit is standard practice.

MBA Building Services supports small and large building companies, on projects ranging from modest domestic alterations through to complex commercial projects.

So whether you are starting out or have many years of experience, give us a call.

We’re sure you will be impressed with what we have to offer.

We provide everything you need from a building surveying business, and there are no surprises.

THESE SERVICES INCLUDE: • Building permits and required inspections within agreed time frames • Free expert technical advice • Project consultation

• National Construction Code and building regulation performance assessments and / or determinations • Reporting authority applications • Timely turnaround times on occupancy permits • All of our building surveyors and building inspectors are fully qualified, experienced and registered building practitioners, which further protects you and your business.

This point of difference ensures that professional, independent and reliable advice is guaranteed. Our pricing structure is competitive with no compromise on quality.

MBA Building Services looks after builders throughout Victoria and along the border of New South Wales. With offices in East Melbourne, Bendigo, Ballarat, Geelong, Warrnambool, Wodonga and Shepparton, there is always local knowledge specific to your region.

Our team aims to take care of your project from start to finish. We make the process of obtaining your permits as easy as possible, to help ensure your project starts on time and runs smoothly, with no unnecessary delays.

If you already use another permit provider, why not give us a try on your next project? Call us on (03) 9411 4555.

Master Builder Victoria

41

MEMBER PROFILE

Steel Blue • MM AND S MEMBER • MEMBER SINCE 2011 Our company has experienced strong growth since operations began in 1995 with the launch of the first Steel Blue products. Our goal to manufacture and market the most comfortable safety footwear in the world is an ongoing project through our premium Steel Blue brand and is backed by our 30-Day Money Back Comfort Guarantee.

Our company success relies on the success of our people; at Steel Blue we have created an environment where our people can strive to be their best and above all, have fun. Our flexible work-place practices support our familyoriented culture and we promote a work - life balance. We encourage our people to utilise their strengths and provide a supportive environment for people to work together as one team.

Steel Blue offers an extensive range of boots to cover all industries for men and women. Steel Blue is officially endorsed by the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA). The APA endorses only products that offer a direct health benefit for the patients of physiotherapists, and that makes us the first and only work boots in Australia to be endorsed by the APA.

Parkes Zip, in wheat.

With one in nine women being diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, educating the community is paramount. Since 2007, our pink and purple boots have raised over $1,000,000, helping Breast Cancer Care WA create these education initiatives: • On average, one in eight men will experience depression at some stage of their lives and one in five men will experience anxiety.

• Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in Australia with 20,000 men diagnosed each year.

We have teamed up with Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) and beyondblue to support Australian men’s health issues.

‘True blue’ will take on new meaning as Steel Blue’s industrial safety boot, the Southern Cross, is now available in a special blue edition with $10 from each pair sold donated to support Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and beyondblue.

range of services that Master Builders is able to offer to apprentices is a credit to their dedication in providing apprentices with knowledge and every opportunity to succeed in today’s building and construction workforce.

Steel Blue is proud to be associated with Master Builders and relishes the opportunity to have apprentices being introduced to Steel Blue boots.

If you would like to know where our stores are, visit the Steel Blue website www.steelblue.com.au.

Michael Rennison VIC & TAS Sales Manager tel: 0400 504 469 email: michael.rennison@steelblue.com David Healy VIC & TAS Assistant Sales Manager tel: 0408 919 188 email: david.healy@steelblue.com

Master Builders and Steel Blue have work together for the past seven years on their annual regional and state Apprentice of the Year Awards series. The extensive

Garry Yates VIC Territory Manager tel: 0419 912 668 email: garry.yates@steelblue.com

Argyle Zip, in wheat

Southern Cross Zip, in ladies sand

42

Master Builder Victoria

MEMBER PROFILE

Neil Coulter, Mortar Life Quality Builders • HOUSING MEMBER • MEMBER SINCE 2005

It comes as no surprise to readers that builders and tradespeople work in rewarding careers, albeit ones with healthy measures of responsibility, stress and challenge attached. Days start early and run late, paperwork can seem endless, tasks are often physically demanding and minds must always be sharp. The workplace is often charged with testosterone; hardness and machismo come with the territory.

It can be a very tough place to feel low, confused or rudderless.

Men and women in the building and construction industry do, in fact, suffer from the effects of depression and anxiety more than the average Australian*. In the construction business especially, the bootstrap-bloke stereotype really does apply, with many sufferers and non-sufferers alike resisting belief that any degree of difficulty from depression or anxiety warrants reaching out for help.

Once upon a time, Neil Coulter was one of these builders. He was successful, hardworking, talented, enterprising… and acutely unhappy. In spite of his many achievements, feelings of frustration, negativity and a quickness to anger characterised every day of his life. A few years ago, however, he confronted his depression, opening himself up to Above and across: Building progress on homes in neglected areas of Nepal.

Master Builder Victoria

43

MEMBER PROFILE

help and support. Today he exemplifies someone who sees that in treating a mental ailment as a legitimate medical condition, there is nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Neil began working with his father, a plumber, during his early adolescent years, developing interest and skills that would later help launch his own career as a builder. At 18, he began a carpentry apprenticeship, and in 2006, after obtaining his builder’s DBU licence, he launched his company, Mortar Life Quality Builders, focussing on custom home construction.

Ambition and energy were in healthy supply for Neil but, he said his 20s were a tough time for him.

“I was dealing with a lot of anger and anxiety; at one point I was hospitalised with severe stomach cramps," he said.

"I can't prove those were due to the depression, but I think they were. The doctors couldn't find anything wrong."

There were plenty of other episodes that were less obscure. His outlook on life was dark, and even the smallest task could feel monumental, filling him with dread.

"I used to sit in my truck in the morning trying to force myself to turn on the ignition and drive to work," he recalled.

"I'd just fall apart."

Other events and milestones that were inherently stressful but enjoyable, such as getting married, having children and launching a new business, often intensified Neil’s anxiety beyond tolerable limits.

“I wondered what was wrong with me,” he said, “but I didn’t want to bother people with my problems. I thought it was my issue and I just had to deal with it.”

He did, eventually, but not alone.

Neil decided he’d had enough. He read about the signs of depression, how it worked, and what avenues for help were available to him. He saw a doctor, received a prescription for medication, went to counselling and started to feel better.

“Once I started feeling more like myself, I realised I had probably been suffering from depression since I was about twelve,” Neil said. “Getting help with it is one of the best things I’ve ever done.”

He also credits his wife Natalie with the support of saintly patience. “A lesser woman would have left me for sure, and I would not have blamed her,” he said.

Today, as the owner and director of Mortar Life and an active member of Master Builders’ Housing Sector Committee, Neil thrives in his work as a home builder and remains committed to a policy of exceptional communication with his clients. His impulse to be generous with his time led him recently to become active with The Big Umbrella, a Melbourne-based relief group started by a former schoolmate of his, that provides shelter and support to homeless children in Nepal and that also helps to provide meals to Melbourne’s homeless.

Neil is an active supporter of The Big Umbrella, having sponsored the construction of a new home in an earthquake-affected area of Nepal that falls outside of municipal relief zones.

He encourages other builders to join the cause, explaining that the support they can offer goes directly into helping to train the local Nepalese to build homes for themselves; the legacy of their involvement continues to provide support for the community.

Neil is equally outspoken about the importance of mental health, which is a key factor in allowing his involvement with charitable pursuits. While he doesn’t preach, he is adamant about making himself available to colleagues whom he suspects may be experiencing the symptoms of depression or anxiety.

“This is who I am. If you don’t accept me, I don’t care,” Neil says. “The best way to reach people is for folks like me to share our stories.”

Neil has come to terms with the fact that it’s possible he may be on medication for the rest of his life. It doesn’t faze him because the benefits are clear.

“Medication combined with keeping fit, staying active in programs outside of work, positive thinking and having a better understanding of depression are what help me combat the condition,” he said.

“Things aren’t perfect,” he admits.

“There will always be hard days, but now I know what to expect and have a way of coping with them. Things are a lot better than they used to be.” *See Leanne Edwards’ article “Building a better understanding of mental health”, page 20

44

Master Builder Victoria

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Master Builder Victoria

45

E V E N T S C A L E N DA R

2016 Master Builders Events Calendar APRIL

AUGUST

6

10

Members’ Night – Bendigo

Quality Resort All Seasons, Bendigo

12

Excellence in Construction Awards

Crown Palladium, Southbank

17

Members’ Night – Geelong

Buckley’s Entertainment Centre, Breakwater

HIDC Frankston

17

Ballarat Section Meeting AGM

Ballarat

Master Builders, East Melbourne

17

Mornington Group Meeting

HIDC Frankston

Bridge Hotel

24

Gippsland Section Breakfast Meeting

Warragul

26

Green Living Conference

BLSC, South Melbourne

13

Members’ Night - Ferntree Gully

Ferntree Gully Motor Group, Ferntree Gully

20

Members’ Night - Traralgon

Premiere Function Centre, Traralgon

20

Mornington Group Meeting Legal Seminar Bendigo Section Meeting

27

MAY 3

North West Section Dinner Meeting

Mildura

4

Gippsland Section Breakfast Meeting

Inverloch

Apprentice of the Year Awards (State)

The Melbourne Park Function Centre, Melbourne

10

North East Section Dinner Meeting

Shepparton

11

Members’ Night – Preston

Melbourne Polytechnic Conference Centre, Preston

18

Bendigo Section Meeting

TBC

21

Bendigo Section Meeting

Bridge Hotel, Bendigo

24

Geelong Section Meeting

Grovedale Hotel

23

Bendigo Charity Golf Day

Neangar Park Golf

25

Members’ Night – Taylors Lakes

Taylors Lakes Hotel, Taylors Lakes

Legal Seminar

Master Builders, East Melbourne

27

Geelong Section Meeting AGM

Grovedale Hotel

28

Induction Breakfast

Master Builders, East Melbourne

6

26

SEPTEMBER

Industry Breakfast

MCG, East Melbourne

Legal Seminar

Master Builders, East Melbourne

Industry Breakfast

MCG, East Melbourne

North West Section Meeting AGM

Mildura Karralyka Centre, Ringwood

14

Members’ Night – Ringwood

14

Wimmera Section Meeting AGM

Warracknabeal

20

North East Section Meeting AGM

Shepparton

21

Members’ Night – South Morang

Plenty Ranges Arts & Convention Centre, South Morang

OCTOBER

JUNE 3

Regional Building Awards – North East

Commercial Club, Albury

15

Mornington Group Meeting

HIDC Frankston

15

Ballarat Section Meeting

Ballarat

17

Regional Building Awards – South West

The Pier, Geelong

22

Gippsland Section Breakfast Meeting

Bairnsdale

Wimmera Section Meeting

Horsham

22

8 13

5

Members’ Night - Moorabbin

TBC

13

Tomorrow’s Leaders Networking Evening

Melbourne

19

Members’ Night – Mornington

Mornington Racing Club, Mornington

20

Gippsland Section Dinner Meeting AGM

Traralgon

Legal Seminar

Master Builders, East Melbourne

21

Excellence in Housing Awards

Crown Palladium, Southbank

26

Bendigo Section Meeting AGM

Bridge Hotel, Bendigo

28

Gippsland Golf Day

Traralgon

JULY 1

Regional Building Awards – South East

Premiere Function Centre, Traralgon

5

North West Section Dinner Meeting

Mildura

13

Members’ Night – Bairnsdale

Bairnsdale RSL, Bairnsdale

19

North East Section Meeting

Shepparton

Legal Seminar

Master Builders, East Melbourne

20

Bendigo Section Meeting

Bridge Hotel, Bendigo

21

Tomorrow’s Leaders Networking Evening

Melbourne

26

Geelong Section Meeting

Grovedale Hotel, Grovedale

27

Members’ Night Ballarat

Ballarat Lodge, Ballarat

Building Our Future

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With your Master Builders Association of Victoria membership, you could be eligible to enjoy the many rewards of BMW Advantage, a member benefit programme that gives you the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the Ultimate Driving Machine. The exclusive ownership benefits include complimentary BMW Service Inclusive for up to 5 years/80,000kms and corporate pricing,* to name but a few. To find out how you could start a rewarding journey with BMW Advantage, email corporate@doncasterbmw.com.au or contact Doncaster BMW or Bundoora BMW today.

Doncaster BMW 812-814 Doncaster Road. (03) 8848 0000. doncasterbmw.com.au LMCT 8560 Bundoora BMW 62 Enterprise Drive. (03) 9468 8000. bundoorabmw.com.au LMCT 8560 *Benefits apply to the purchase of a new BMW vehicle and only to the vehicle purchased. Subject to eligibility.

Terms, conditions, exclusions and other limitations apply, and can be viewed at doncasterbmw.com.au/advantage.

More mobile for your money.

As a Master Builders member, you’re right to expect we’ll bring you more of the good stuff.

That’s why we’ve launched Master Builders Connect – a service that connects you to more exclusive offers and mates’ rates from Telstra.

Call 1300 88 13 72 and connect to more. mbconnect.com.au

Crowther Blayne is an Australian leader in business-to-business online and print publications for a variety of industries worldwide. Crowther Blayne publications provide businesses with the broadest possible audience and target the most relevant decisionmakers. By providing a platform of the highest quality, products and services are presented in the best possible light to the marketplace. If you have a specific enquiry about our services, or simply want to get in touch, please contact: Trish Riley | Business Development Manager | P: 1800 222 757 | trish@crowtherblayne.com.au | crowtherblayne.com.au

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TWENTY TWO YEARS OF DONCASTER BMW

Master Builder Victoria

47

MEMBER MILESTONES

Member milestones MASTER BUILDERS VALUES LOYALTY TO OUR ASSOCIATION AND AWARDS CERTIFICATES TO MEMBERS AT MILESTONES OF 10, 15, 20 AND 25 YEARS, AND PLAQUES AT 30, 40 AND 50 YEARS OF CONTINUOUS MEMBERSHIP. WE WOULD LIKE TO RECOGNISE AND THANK THE FOLLOWING MEMBERS WHO HAVE ACHIEVED THESE MILESTONES BETWEEN 7 JANUARY AND 9 MARCH 2016.

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

40 YEAR PLAQUE

15 YEAR CERTIFICATE

10 YEAR CERTIFICATE

Coastal Constructions Warrnambool P/L T Morihovitis

Access Hardware Pty Ltd Andermer Pty Ltd Ascoat Contracting Pty Ltd Avetec Design Studio Bilic Homes Pty Ltd Brendan Nicholas C J McConville Cutlack Constructions Pty Ltd Deca Constructions Pty Ltd Dennis Family Homes Pty Ltd Ellington Design Building Excellence Pty Ltd Estruct Group Pty Ltd F D C Construction & Fitout (VIC) Pty Ltd H Clerks Ike Building Jimco Developments Pty Ltd KGA Designs Lanoff Construction Pty Ltd Pabst Constructions Pty Ltd R B & S J Gook Renew Constructions Pty Ltd RJL Prestige Builders S & L Mounsey Builders Shade Living Spaullbuild Spears Constructions TAG Constructions Pty Ltd Valley Windows Pty Ltd

Art Building Design Pty Ltd Audsley Windows Pty Ltd B & P Engineering Pty Ltd Barkly Builders Pty Ltd C A Property Group Pty Ltd Constructor Pty Ltd Davin Bake Deca Building Elevator Building Site Services Flair Cabinets Forte Signs (Australia) Pty Ltd Frank (Victoria) Pty Ltd Gracedale Constructions Pty Ltd GTE Rail Australia Pty Ltd Heritage Building Services Pty Ltd Hesel Pty Ltd Ideal Shade Solutions Intrufit Pty Ltd Lanskey Constructions Pty Ltd Latitude 37 Projects Pty Ltd Lavida Homes Pty Ltd LTC Group Pty Ltd Lu’s Developments Pty Ltd Mark Seckold McMillan Building Services Modem Construction Group Pty Ltd North Eastern Developments Outside Structures Parris Constructions Pty Ltd Pro Solid R & R Maxfield Builders Pty Ltd R A & J Nichols Builders Sam Torre Shepparton Glass Company St Trinity Pty Ltd Stairexpress Pty Ltd Timberform Building Pty Ltd Wekan Constructions Pty Ltd

30 YEAR PLAQUE A R Minahan Altmann Constructions Boral Bricks Pty Ltd Boral Construction Materials Group C M Construction Management Pty Ltd Dante Constructions Pty Ltd E T Higham Pty Ltd Harvest Building Co Pty Ltd J D Aspen Developments Pty Ltd M & B Mandic Tonykon Constructions Pty Ltd

25 YEAR CERTIFICATE Alan Nicholas & Associates Anthony S Villani Civiworks Concrete Construction Pty Ltd DDB Design Development & Building Pty Ltd Frank Ravida Gary P Straw James Constructions John W Hill M J Fitts Building Services

20 YEAR CERTIFICATE Archibald Builders Bicon Pty Ltd Brett Mc Gauchie Connellan Industries Pty Ltd Glass Brick Company Leaton Homes Melmar Constructions Pty Ltd N M & J Begg Papageorge Homes & Finance Pty Ltd Peter H T Tan Ron Florance

48

Master Builder Victoria

NEW MEMBERS

Welcome to our newest members MASTER BUILDERS IS PLEASED TO WELCOME THE FOLLOWING NEW MEMBERS WHO JOINED THE ASSOCIATION IN JANUARY AND FEBRUARY 2016.

CONGRATULATIONS FOR JOINING THE MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA.

ASSOCIATE

HOUSING PROVISIONAL

HOUSING SUB-CONTRACTOR

Mecene Pty Ltd Tina Zhang Ward & Co Legal Consultants Pty Ltd

Aaron Blencowe Allied Bricklaying Allround Waterproofing Anthony Gronow Anthony James Ferraro Beyond Green Homes Pty Ltd Big Project Management Billy Olsen BJ Builders Black Hill Plumbing Black Oak Blaine Pritchard Boston Management Group Pty Ltd Bryan Petersen Insurance C & M Building Pty Ltd CBCON Celtic Carpentry Chrome Home Hardware & Shelving Pty Ltd Daniel Saal Darren Adams Building Services David Gibson Devuono Constructions Pty Ltd FMK Construction Frank Misale Herringbone Group Highview Homes Pty Ltd Hulme Building Group Pty Ltd Ilcon Building JAK Building Jeffrey Woodall John Tanzen Justin Dickinson Loft Property Pty Ltd Luigi Piras Manoj Vishwakarma Mansher Singh Mark Essenhigh Metro Brick & Block Pty Ltd MSJ Property Developments Octagon CG Pty Ltd O’Meara Constructions Paul Devlin Plan To Build By Josh Prompt Electrics Pty Ltd Robert Garofalo Rok Developments Pty Ltd RTH Construct S Jansson Construction Pty Ltd Sean Greany Shantha Nanayakkara Steve Foss Constructions Studley Brown Pty Ltd Thang Tang Troy Harris Woodley Contracting Yellow Sash Constructions Pty Ltd Yosry Morsi

Acescon Pty Ltd BA Construction Industries Pty Ltd Duz Constructions First Flooring Foliage Landscaping & Garden Care Pty Ltd JCARR Constructions & Landscaping Jims Fencing (Burnside) Jims Fencing (Mornington) JSM Bricklaying Llewellyn Michael Phoenix SC Concreting Proform 1 Pure Food Gardens Retecon Pty Ltd Sam I Am Building & Construction Pty Ltd Steven Hanna T L G Roofing Wei Zheng

GENERAL CONTRACTOR 360 Degree Project Services Pty Ltd ADMA Group Pty Ltd AMT Design & Construction Pty Ltd CBD Commercial Fitout & Maintenance Pty Ltd Insitugroup Pty Ltd Orion Builders Pty Ltd PDM International Melbourne Pty Ltd PRO-TILT Constructions Pty Ltd

GENERAL CONTRACTOR PROVISIONAL Constantinos Sakkas Daniel Santilli Everline Connection Pty Ltd Horizon Building Services Pty Ltd Macard Built Pty Ltd Omori Services

HOUSING AJ Construction Group Pty Ltd Arca Homes Pty Ltd CLE Building Group CTBuild Deveney Constructions Pty Ltd Elmstead Group Pty Ltd Greg Wright Building Pty Ltd Holloway Building Solutions Home Builders Corp Pty Ltd I Aussie Builders JA Project Services Pty Ltd Jones Building Pty Ltd La Vintage Home Pty Ltd Mak Homes Pty Ltd MBI Australia Pty Ltd Proline Constructions Pty Ltd QCS Pty Ltd Sustainable Homes Melbourne Vicwide Construction Group Pty Ltd

MASTER TRADESMAN Jensa Building Services Merlin Homes Pty Ltd Peter George Developments RAM Construction Victoria Sac Building Maintenance & Construction Pty Ltd

MATERIALS, MANUFACTURING & SUPPLY Besco Industries Pty Ltd Novas Architectural Versa Robes

SPECIALIST CONTRACTOR Arteam Pty Ltd BWS Constructions D W Dean Pty Ltd Drysdale Garages Granite Kitchen Benchtop Pty Ltd JC Scaffolding Pty Ltd Ko Property Maintenance LG MA Construction Pty Ltd Technokleen Pty Ltd Titan Cranes & Rigging Pty Ltd

STUDENT Claire Kelly Jack Leahey Jake Donnelly Joel Galbraith Josh Houston Robert Geeves

BUILDERS’ - GUIDE & SUPPLIER

ATTIC LADDERS

Widest Range | Australian | European

PERFORMANCE

ATTIC ALUMINIUM 220

220kg load spread 160kg load spread Up to 3.25M ceiling height up to 3.66M ceiling height Anodized aluminium Also avail in metal Heavy duty hinge & spring

UPGRADE

STAIRLADDER DELUXE

COLUMBUS

220kg load spread Up to 3.66M ceiling height Knot free hoop pine Gentle angle - easy climb

410kg load spread Up to 3.5M ceiling height Knot free hoop pine Gentle angle - easy climb

410kg load spread Up to 4.3M ceiling height Lightweight alloy Easy action concertina

RESIDENTIAL | LARGE SCALE COMMERCIAL QUANTITIES

SKYLIGHTS & ROOF WINDOWS Fakro | Velux

FIXED

MANUAL OPENING

DUAL ACTION

ELECTRIC OPENING

ROOF ACCESS

For areas where only light is required

Top hung skylight includes flyscreen

Top hung and pivoting

Remote / wall switch top hung

Left or right side hinge with gas piston

IMMEDIATE QUOTES & OBLIGATION FREE ON-SITE CONSULTATION

Contact: 9575 3700 melb@atticgroup.com.au 1269 North Rd Oakleigh www.atticgroup.com.au

EASIER ACCESS TO ROOF SPACE & STORAGE

For as long the ceiling hatches in homes have been around, many people have been anxious at the thought of having to get into their roof space for maintenance or other reasons. The clunky process involves grabbing a step ladder from the garage / shed, trolling it through the house (whilst avoiding damage to walls), setting it up, climbing up to the top step and “heave-ho” pushing themselves into the roof space. Climbing down is another dilemma…

There is an easier, and safer alternative. Replace the ceiling hatch with a permanent attic ladder!

An attic ladder provides immediate access to the roof space, with a much gentler climb than the step ladder, and with the added benefit of being able to carry something whilst climbing up.

Location for the Attic Ladder The most suitable location for an attic ladder, may not necessarily be where a ceiling hatch is located. It is where easy access into the roof space is enabled; away from beams, ducts, air conditioning and heating units.

Types of Attic Ladders Attic ladders have been around in Australia for over 40 years and there are many types; from timber, alloy, aluminium, fold up, concertina, manual and electric to suit a variety of ceiling heights, room sizes, budgets, residential and commercial applications.

The most common type of attic ladder for the home is the fold away timber type (knot free pine). There are also metal versions in either alloy or aluminum. On the higher end there are the electric automatic opening and closing concertina attic ladders creating super easy access and are ideal in commercial applications as well as creating a wow factor in the home.

Considerations for an Attic Ladder Before choosing an attic ladder, one must consider the following dimensions in the room and roof where the attic ladder will be installed:

Floor to Ceiling

A/B

E = Height A/B = Opening C = Standout D = Foldout

Opening, A/B: Opening size will depend on type of roof space and whether it is a conventional or truss structure.

E

Standout, C:

Distance from back of ladder to feet when open out and on floor.

Foldout, D:

Distance from back of ladder to maximum fold out swing of ladder

Height, E:

Height: floor to ceiling height in room where the attic ladder will be located

Gradient of Climb & Load Capacity:

The frequency of use will further refine the choice of attic ladder in terms of the gradient of climb and load capacity. If it is for infrequent, light traffic use, a steeper attic ladder with a load capacity of ~115kg is commonly chosen. For more frequent use and with a need to carry things up and down, the gradient of the attic ladder should be gentler (easier climb), and with a higher load capacity, over 200kg.

D

C

Easy Access to Attic Storage The attic ladder is the perfect solution to enable immediate and safe access to the roof space for maintenance of air conditioning units, ducts and electricals.

The attic ladder also provides homeowners access to extra storage. There is up to 30% of a home’s capacity lying dormant in the roof, so many homeowners are converting their roof space to attic storage areas easily accessed via an attic ladder.

For instant, safe and easy access, replace the ceiling hatch of old and new homes with a good quality, permanent, attic ladder.

Stewart Taylor | 03 9575 3700 | State Manager VIC, Attic Group

52

Master Builder Victoria

A DV E R T O R I A L

The road to an inclusive Australia Each year, 200 Australians under the age of 50 are admitted into nursing homes.

Di Winkler Chief Executive Officer, Summer Foundation

Young people in aged care facilities have limited opportunity to make the everyday choices that most of us take for granted such as the time we go to bed and the food we eat. Their lives are characterised by boredom and loneliness, with more than half receiving a visit from a friend less than one a year.

While the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) aims to address the underfunded, unfair and fragmented disability system, many people with disability will not move out of nursing homes, simply because there are no alternative housing options for them.

The Summer Foundation is determined to change this, and are building housing demonstration projects that provide concrete alternatives to placing young people in nursing homes.

We currently have two demonstration projects that challenge thinking around housing for people with disability.

The first, in Melbourne’s Abbottsford, features six fully-accessible self-contained one-bedroom apartments peppered throughout a 59-unit private and social housing development.

The second, in the Hunter region in New South Wales, features 10 apartments for people for

disability within a 110-unit private development. An additional apartment accommodates an office and sleepover space for disability support workers.

Thoughtful design, careful specification of materials and quality household appliances, assistive technology and adaptability deliver amenity, convenience, low-cost maintenance, security and accessibility.

The apartments support easy movement for wheelchairs, and feature accessible internal spaces, generous door and corridor widths, room lengths and turning circles. Robust wall products reduce damage from wheelchairs.

Bathrooms and kitchens are designed with adaptability in mind, but don’t shout ‘disability’.

These are the sorts of features most builders would expect from an accessible design, and both projects have achieved Platinum level certification under Livable Housing Australia’s Design Guidelines.

However, our objective has been to develop housing that, while being functional and accessible, looks and feels like neighbouring apartments.

Apartments have many ordinary features and we use mainstream rather than disability-specific design, products and equipment wherever possible.

We have partnered with Monash University to evaluate the built design and tenant outcomes. Initial findings indicate improved quality of life, social inclusion, increased independence, decreased reliance on paid supports and a reduction in life time care costs.

Once fully operational, the NDIS may provide up to $700,000 million each year in funding for housing. While this funding is not sufficient to meet the demand, it could be leveraged to dramatically increase the supply of accessible and affordable housing in Australia.

Rather than continuing to build segregated specialist housing, the needs of people with disability must be incorporated into mainstream housing strategy. When private residential developments consider the needs of people with disability, we’ll know we’re well on the road to an inclusive Australia.

To register your interest in a tour of the display units at the Hunter Housing Demonstration Project or for more information visit: www.summerfoundation.com.au

Master Builder Victoria

53

CLADDING

CLADDING SYSTEMS CLADDING IS A NON-LOADBEARING SKIN OR LAYER ATTACHED TO THE OUTSIDE OF A HOME TO SHED WATER AND PROTECT THE BUILDING FROM THE EFFECTS OF WEATHER. IT IS A KEY ELEMENT IN THE AESTHETIC APPEAL OF THE HOME AND DIRECTLY INFLUENCES BOTH BUILDING COST AND PROPERTY VALUE.

Your choice of cladding has a significant effect on the environmental performance of your home.

Initial impacts of cladding, such as embodied energy, resource depletion and recyclability, must be balanced against maintenance and durability appropriate to life span.

The primary roles of cladding are to control the infiltration of weather elements and the egress of water vapour while providing a durable, aesthetically pleasing appearance. Secondary roles can include sound and thermal insulation, fire resistance, and the capacity for cleaning in dusty, polluted or vandalprone environments.

Your choice of cladding should be based on a careful assessment and prioritisation of each of these roles for each orientation of your home. By choosing cladding materials specific to an elevation or exposure, you can often achieve the best in physical performance and aesthetics.

For example, in situations where a building’s external envelope does not need to be fully ‘sealed’ (e.g. under deep verandas), highly breathable cladding can be an advantage. In areas or elevations with high exposure to sun, wind or rain, a very different approach is required.

PERFORMANCE CONSIDERATIONS Cladding is typically made from wood, metal, plastic (vinyl), masonry or an increasing range of composite materials.

It can be attached directly to the frame or to an intermediate layer of battens or spacers to prevent condensation and allow water vapour to escape.

Cladding systems include horizontal or vertical boards, sheet materials or smaller overlapping panels such as shingles and tiles. Each system uses different methods to prevent wind and rain entering through the joints, and each system’s effectiveness varies depending on wind direction and speed and the degree of exposure to rain.

Most performance characteristics of cladding materials vary substantially and are outlined in the broad, individual materials groupings in ‘Cladding options’ below.

APPEARANCE The range of textures, colours, styles and finishes available means that the aesthetic outcome is limited only by the designer’s imagination, council regulations or extreme site conditions.

COLOUR Apart from aesthetic considerations, the colour of external cladding influences its capacity to absorb or reflect heat. In most climates, it is preferable to use lighter colours or proprietary reflective finishes, especially for roofing (see Passive cooling). Well designed applications of darker cladding elements can be beneficial in colder climates (see ‘Trombe walls’ below).

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Master Builder Victoria

CLADDING

TEXTURE OR PROFILE Most cladding materials have a distinctive profile or texture that can create horizontal, vertical or angled patterns and shadow textures. Often a well designed blend of cladding materials can offer both a pleasing appearance and a better matching of materials to specific conditions (e.g. impact zones or areas requiring more frequent wash-down).

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS Cladding selection presents an opportunity to reduce the overall environmental impact of a home by choosing environmentally preferred materials and systems.

Research indicates that external walling is the most important variable element in residential construction (Treloar and Fay 2000). Research findings vary significantly because standardised methodologies and metrics are yet to be agreed or adopted, but sufficient studies have been conducted to clearly indicate the characteristics of preferred generic materials.

Life cycle assessment (LCA) considers the total environmental impact of a material over its life cycle including environmental emissions and depletions from the materials and the processes used to make it, maintain it, and dispose of or recycle it at the end of its life.

While rigorous LCA of various materials at a generic level is often available, it is seldom so for individual products.

When choosing products, apply life cycle thinking (see Embodied energy) to address the following considerations: • Appropriateness for intended life span (e.g. some high impact cladding materials have 100 year life spans when the expected life of the building might be only 40 years; a lower impact, less durable product would be preferable) • Durability and appropriateness of fixings, seals and joints: their life span should match that of the cladding material • Quantities of each material used (e.g. some high embodied energy materials such as steel or aluminium

have very thin sections, and embodied energy per square metre can be comparable to other materials with thicker sections) • Finishes such as paints and sealants, which can have a greater impact than the product itself and should be given equal consideration • Maintenance requirements over life span, which can equal or exceed the production impact of the cladding material; LCA of the whole wall system is the best approach when available • Emissions, depletions and waste rates during both manufacture and on-site installation, which vary significantly between products; ‘cradle to gate’ assessments (i.e. from resource extraction to factory gate) provided by manufacturers often examine manufacturing impacts only, whereas ‘cradle to grave’ LCA examines whole of life emissions and depletions • Designing, choosing and specifying to maximise potential for recycling or reuse (e.g. screw fixing rather than gluing can facilitate easy removal and reuse at end of life providing screw heads are not filled) • Whole system performance (i.e. effectiveness of cladding in protecting other elements from weathering and condensation) • Contribution to thermal performance (e.g. insulation, reflectance, emissivity) • Transport considerations (distance, weight, volume), which can add substantially to embodied energy.

STRUCTURAL CAPABILITY By definition, cladding is generally non-loadbearing (i.e. it doesn’t carry roof or floor loads). However, some sheet cladding systems can have a structural bracing role in lightweight framing applications when appropriately fixed to the frame (e.g. structural plywood, reconstituted timber, fibre reinforced cement sheeting). The fixing requirements for bracing cladding can have significant implications for visual appearance, waterproofing, condensation, ventilation and drainage.

INSULATION Cladding systems often contribute little to overall wall insulation values. Specific performance is outlined under ‘Cladding options’ below.

Several composite cladding products include insulation: those with higher R-values (the measure of a material’s resistance to heat flow) can eliminate the need for bulk insulation between the frame members in many climates.

With adequately designed and correctly installed vapour cavities, condensation risk can be reduced or eliminated. Note that EPS (expanded polystyrene) is a vapour barrier so it is essential to have drying and drainage cavities for these systems in condensation-prone climates.

THERMAL MASS Regardless of its mass, cladding that is fixed to lightweight insulated frames makes no contribution to thermal performance in terms of thermal mass storage because it is on the outside of the building and uninsulated.

The use of high mass cladding in lightweight framing systems (e.g. brick veneer) can actually decrease thermal performance because thermal lag can maintain higher temperature differentials across insulation layers well beyond normal diurnal cycles (e.g. west-facing brick veneer walls).

TROMBE WALLS Where the internal loadbearing element is high mass (e.g. reverse brick veneer or water-filled containers between frame elements), transparent cladding materials such as glass with high solar heat gain coefficients (SHGC) can contribute to passive solar heating. In these cases, the whole wall must be passively shaded. (see Passive solar design; Glazing; Thermal mass).

In these applications, both the insulation values and transparency of the cladding material are critical considerations, particularly in cooler climates where nighttime heat loss can offset daytime heat gain.

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Master Builder Victoria

CLADDING

Trombe walls rely on the combined action of thermal lag of the mass and insulation from the air gap. Unwanted convection is controlled with openable vents at the top and bottom of the wall.

Additional insulation can also be gained in cooler climates through the use of double glazing (higher SHGC, lower R-value) or multi-celled polycarbonate (lower SHGC, higher R-value). In temperate climates, louvred glass allows cooling breezes and night sky radiation to passively cool thermal mass.

SOUND INSULATION With the exception of brick veneer — which is a high mass, high thickness system — cladding generally provides limited sound insulation. The contribution of denser products and foam insulation backed products is usually indicated as an Rw (weighted sound reduction index) rating or STC (sound transmission class). Individual suppliers factor in these contributions to calculate typical whole-of-wall ratings.

VERMIN RESISTANCE Vermin resistance is generally dependent on construction design details rather than cladding properties. Composite cladding systems with EPS foam backing can harbour rats and birds if access for burrowing is not eliminated.

Non-timber systems and most reconstituted timber systems are not subject to termite attack but inadequate detailing can allow termites to access a timber structure undetected. All timber cladding materials are subject to termite attack unless treated.

REGULATORY STANDARDS Building Code of Australia Class 1 and 10 Buildings, section 3.5.3, Wall cladding, addresses specific aspects of cladding under Application, Timber weatherboard cladding, Fibre cement planks and weatherboard cladding, Sheet wall cladding, Eaves and soffit linings, and Flashings to wall openings.

Providing cladding meets the minimum standards within each relevant category and meets the appropriate Australian Standards, it is deemed to comply.

Innovative cladding systems may require additional testing and certification. This is common with new environmentally preferred systems.

CONDENSATION DETAILING Condensation is explained in detail elsewhere (see Sealing your home).

The following strategies can overcome condensation-related problems related to the fixing of cladding.

STEP 1 Fix a vapour permeable membrane to the outside of the frame to allow water vapour to escape. This membrane should have low vapour resistance (less than 0.5MNs/g) and high waterproofness.

It should be stretched taut to prevent bulk insulation installed later on the inside of the frame from breaching the condensation cavity.

The current industry practice of lining the frame with reflective foil insulation should be discontinued. These membranes act as vapour barriers (5.0MNs/g and greater) and commonly form the first point at which outgoing water vapour condenses.

Condensation within the wall structure creates ideal conditions for rot and mould growth, which can lead to substantial structural damage and health issues. Many reflective foil membranes currently marketed as breathable do not achieve sufficient permeability to resolve the problem.

Where reflective layers are required under cladding for fire purposes, they should be placed beneath the cladding on the outside of the vapour cavity as in Step 2 and be additional to the breathable building wrap fixed to the frame.

STEP 2 Create a cavity a minimum of 10mm deep between the outside of this membrane and the inward face of the cladding material. This cavity should allow: • downward migration of the condensation that might form when the cladding reaches dew-point • in-cavity air movement and ventilation to remove water vapour laden air as it emerges from the membrane.

Cavities should be formed with vertical spacers or battens fixed to studs through the permeable membrane in accordance with AS/NZS 4200.1:1994, Pliable building membranes and underlays.

Leave gaps in spacers to allow lateral air movement in case of cavity blocking.

Install a cavity closer at the top and bottom of the cavity (including above openings) that prevents insects and vermin from entering but allows condensate or water (bottom) and vapour (top and bottom) to permeate.

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Several proprietary systems are available but you can also use a stainless steel mesh of similar grade and opening size to that used for termite protection.

STEP 3 Fix the cladding through the battens with longer fixings that allow adequate penetration into the stud to meet the cladding manufacturer’s specifications.

CLADDING OPTIONS RECONSTITUTED TIMBER PRODUCTS Many reconstituted timber products are made from forestry waste with minimal energy or chemical input, high manufacturing waste recovery and water recycling. These products are among the most sustainable of all cladding options.

Check variations between brands on Ecospecifier. Try to ensure that forestry waste rather than saw log grade timbers are used and that the product contains no old growth forest products.

Availability: Available in most locations. Transport considerations should address the high mass, low volume of these products when transported long distances (e.g. composite loads with low mass, high volume materials).

Embodied energy: Among the lowest embodied energy cladding materials currently available in Australia. Also sequesters carbon.

Maintenance: Moderate. Requires painting. Surface and dimensional stability reduce frequency of maintenance. Usually pre-primed.

Insulation: Negligible.

Fire resistance: Good.

Toxicity: Non-toxic. Natural timber resins are used to bond particles under high temperature and pressure. Paints and sealants can have toxicity issues.

Finishes: Must be painted. Available in a diverse range of patterns, shapes and finishes.

Resource depletion: Virtually nil when product is made from forest waste.

Recycling/reuse: Generally not recycled due to finishes. Limited reuse is possible but often not implemented due to low cost of new materials.

FIBRE CEMENT Manufactured in a strict factory controlled environment, most fibre cement products have high sustainability credentials.

However, considerable variations can occur between brands and manufacturing plants depending on waste recovery rates, water sourcing and recycling, and energy efficiency (particularly the recovery of autoclave energy). These can be checked on Ecospecifier.

Typically produced as planks, weatherboards or sheets. Sheet products are generally thinner and therefore less material intensive but often have higher site waste rates — particularly on complex designs and shapes.

Availability: Commonly available due to high level transportability.

Durability: Highly durable. Suitable for sites subject to seismic or geotechnical movement.

Embodied energy: Generally low.

Varies with volume, cement content and manufacturing efficiency.

Breathability: Good (depending on finish) with low condensation risk. Can encourage mould growth (by providing nutrients) if exposed to regular condensation.

Breathable sarking with a condensation cavity is strongly recommended in condensation prone climates.

Maintenance: Low maintenance due to stability but requires painting to maintain waterproofness. Some applications in sheltered locations require one-off staining. Stamped or sawn patterns applied during manufacture can add aesthetic variation.

Waterproofness: High.

Durability: Highly durable and dimensionally stable. Suitable for sites subject to seismic or geotechnical movement.

Breathability: Good (depending on finish) with very low condensation risk.

Can be subject to surface mould growth if exposed to regular condensation.

Breathable sarking with a condensation cavity is strongly recommended in high risk climates.

Waterproofness: High. Varies according to thickness and finish. Insulation: Poor insulator. Fire resistance: High.

Toxicity: Non-toxic. Paints and sealants can have toxicity issues.

Finishes: Available in a diverse range of patterns, shapes and finishes.

Resource depletion: Plantation-grown cellulose reinforcing fibre is renewable.

Cement is non-renewable, and a finite resource with high embodied energy. Sand and fines are abundant but non-renewable.

Recycling/reuse: Generally not recycled due to finishes. Limited reuse is possible but often not implemented due to low cost of new materials and deconstruction damage.

BRICK Availability: Most common cladding system.

Embodied energy: Very high in quantities used.

Maintenance: Lowest maintenance if unpainted and not rendered; otherwise high.

Durability: Highly durable on well designed footings. Less suited to seismic loads and reactive soils.

Breathability: High with very low condensation risk when breathable sarking is used, due to well ventilated, wide cavity.

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Waterproofness: Low. Requires wide cavity and specially designed ties, flashings and cavity drainage. Cavity ties and weep holes must be cleared of mortar droppings on completion.

Joint detailing generally allows enough breathing to prevent condensation.

Breathable sarking is essential and vapour cavities are important in climates with high condensation risk.

Insulation: Poor insulator.

Waterproofness: Generally good but dependent on profile and stability (shrinkage, cupping, splitting, warping).

Vertical tongue and groove or lapped systems are more common sources of leaks because joints can open or ‘pop’. Horizontal weatherboard systems are generally more waterproof in rain exposed locations. Natural timber defects (e.g. knots) can also compromise waterproofness.

Fire resistance: Excellent but structural capacity during fires is under-utilised in non-loadbearing cladding applications (e.g. brick veneer).

Finishes: Diverse range of (unpainted) colours and finishes.

Toxicity: Non-toxic. Paints and sealants can have toxicity issues.

Resource depletion: Abundant but finite resource.

Recycling/reuse: Increasingly recycled into new bricks (cradle to cradle) or crushed for fill. Use of high strength mortars prevents reuse but bricks laid with low strength mortar are often cleaned and reused.

TIMBER WEATHERBOARDS: VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL Availability: Various products and profiles widely available.

Embodied energy: Among the lowest of all cladding materials. Embodied energy ranges from low to very low depending on manufacturing process, preservatives and termite treatment.

Provides carbon sequestration.

Maintenance: High. Timber is subject to shrinkage, swelling, cracking and rot unless well sealed. Ongoing movement requires regular retreatment.

Embodied energy: Low to moderate.

Manufacturing process and glues make embodied energy higher than natural timber.

Maintenance: Moderate to low depending on grade.

Durability: Moderate to very high depending on grade, species, glues and maintenance. Low grade ply requires similar protection to timber. While expensive, marine grade ply is among the most durable finishes available for corrosive environments (e.g. waterfront) but can contain toxic glues and preservatives.

Insulation: Varies with thickness, sealing and density. Fire resistance: Poor with the exception of a few hardwood species.

Breathability: Generally low but variable with thickness and grade. Breathable sarking is essential and vapour cavities are strongly recommended in high condensation risk climates.

Toxicity: Non-toxic if untreated. Some treatments (e.g. copper chrome arsenate, or CCA) have known toxicity issues. Paints and sealants can have toxicity issues.

Waterproofness: High depending on finish and joint detailing.

Insulation: Limited.

Finishes: Generally painted, oiled or stained. Requires regular retreatment due to natural movement and deterioration. High durability timbers (Class 1) can be left to weather naturally; however, this is not advisable in locations highly exposed to the weather or to low sun angles (particularly west), as repeated cycles of drying and wetting break down even the most durable of species.

Resource depletion: Renewable when plantation grown but when sourced from old growth forests contributes to high value biodiversity loss and the depletion of non-renewable resources. Plantation forests with their mono-species plantings often fail to establish an ecological balance and exhibit limited biodiversity.

Durability: Low to moderate depending on species and maintenance. Graded in durability classes ranging from 1 (best) to 4 (unsuitable for external use). Variations are common within these gradings due to sapwood (prone to rot) and heartwood (more durable) content and exposure during milling.

Recycling/reuse: Typically difficult to reuse due to the fixings and the additional joins required as lengths decrease with each use. Recycling options are generally limited to chipping for mulch although this is not possible for painted and treated products.

Breathability: High but can be decreased with paints and finishes.

PLYWOOD SHEETING Availability: Available throughout Australia.

Fire resistance: Poor to average.

Finishes: Generally painted, oiled or stained.

Resource depletion: Renewable when plantation grown. Recycling/reuse: Plywood cladding is highly reusable but unable to be recycled. It should be screwed, not glued.

STEEL Steel cladding comes in a wide variety of cold formed profiles with varying base metal gauge and structural capacity. New steel finishes are being trialled which rely on weathering to produce a thick rust coating that protects the steel from further corrosion and allows it to become more corrosion resistant over time.

Availability: Available in all regions of Australia.

Embodied energy: High.

Maintenance: Very low. Steel finishes are very durable and, while coloured finishes often fade, they rarely require repainting

FIELDERS STEEL

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for maintenance. Because steel expands, adequate tolerances must be left at joins and junctions.

Durability: Durability is very high: galvanised corrugated steel can last more than 100 years on a building and is a material highly sought after for decorative reuse. However, it must be installed carefully, with fixings and flashings that are compatible for corrosion and life span. Scratches, lead pencil marks and swarf from cutting can lead to early corrosion.

Breathability: Steel cladding is a vapour barrier and its excellent conductivity makes it highly susceptible to dewpoint formation and water vapour condensation. It should always be fixed via a breathable cavity (often provided by the profile).

Waterproofness: Among the most waterproof of cladding materials.

Insulation: Zero insulation.

Embodied energy: Highest of any cladding. Most appropriate in highly corrosive environments where products with lower embodied energy have a reduced life span.

include high embodied energy polymers.

These finishes often have multiple layers that can extend construction times and have varying LCA implications which should be verified before selection.

Maintenance: Low. Powdercoated finishes generally have a life expectancy of 15 years and, although fading is common, they rarely require repainting for protection.

Because buildings react to wind or soil movement and cladding materials expand and contract with changing temperature or humidity, systems that include rendered finishes or rigid joins between elements can develop cracks. While cracking in these systems is generally accommodated through control joints, it can have an impact on both aesthetics and weatherproofness.

Durability: Durability is very high due to corrosion resistance of the material itself (rather than protective coatings).

Life span and corrosion compatibility of fixings and flashings is essential. Careful installation is required.

Breathability: Aluminium is a vapour barrier and its excellent conductivity makes it highly prone to dewpoint formation and water vapour condensation. It should always be fixed via a breathable cavity (sometimes provided by the profile).

Waterproofness: Among the most waterproof of cladding materials.

Fire resistance: High in both roofing and walling applications.

Insulation: Zero insulation.

Toxicity: Non-toxic.

Fire resistance: Good.

Finishes: A range of standard colours and finishes including galvanised and zinc/aluminium corrosion treatments. A range of standard baked enamel prefinish colours is available.

Toxicity: Non-toxic.

Resource depletion: Steel is a nonrenewable resource. Recycling/reuse: Steel sheeting is highly reusable and 100% recyclable. Current products include up to 40% recycled content.

Finishes: Generally powdercoated in standard colours but for special orders any colour can be supplied. Resource depletion: Aluminium is an abundant but non-renewable resource.

Recycling/reuse: Aluminium cladding is highly reusable (if screw fixed) and 100% recyclable.

ALUMINIUM Aluminium cladding has a similar range of profiles to steel but also includes a folded weatherboard product. It is more corrosion resistant than steel. Aluminium cladding comes in a wide variety of cold formed profiles with varying base metal gauge and structural capacity.

COMPOSITE MATERIALS A broad range of composite cladding systems is available. The most common form is closed cell or EPS foam-backed composites. These are often bonded to the generic products listed above and have similar performance characteristics but offer added insulation.

Availability: Available in all regions of Australia.

Some systems fix the EPS directly to the frame and finish with a variety of rendered or site applied finishes that can

EPS usually contains high impact greenhouse gases, which can increase its embodied energy relative to other insulation materials. A small percentage of imported foams also include ozone depleting substances that are banned in Australia.

INNOVATIVE ECO-PREFERRED CLADDING PRODUCTS Innovative products using environmentally preferred materials such as agricultural waste (straw) or postconsumer waste (paper) are constantly emerging. These employ a range of methods to ensure waterproofness and durability, and typically have a lower environmental impact including embodied energy. See Ecospecifier for reviews and listings of new products.

One such product is an extremely tough, lightweight material for corrugated roofing and wall cladding, manufactured from recycled wastepaper and saturated with bitumen under intense pressure and heat. It is flexible and easy to handle, comes with a 15 year warranty, and is available in four colours.

This product acts as a reflective thermal and acoustic insulator. Being partially manufactured from recycled wastepaper, it has a lower embodied energy than other cladding materials and helps to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill. See Ecospecifier for product details and sources of supply.

Panels made from wheat and/or rice straw fibres are also now available.

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The manufacturing process combines extreme heat and compression in a dry extrusion process to form the solid panel core. A natural polymer in the straw fibre is released during the procedure, and a water based PVA (polyvinyl acetate) glue is used to encapsulate the finished core with a high strength recycled Kraft paper liner. The result produces zero toxic waste and no water or gas is used during the manufacturing process.

profiles, colours, textures and low or no maintenance finishes.

Another product uses a blend of cement and recycled polystyrene. While the cement content raises embodied energy levels, added insulation and recycled content can offset this to some extent. This product can deliver 90 minute fire ratings.

It has high embodied energy and emits toxins during manufacture and life cycle use, including end of life disposal.

Advances are being made with PVC recycling but current recycling rates remain low due to cost and complexity

VINYL Vinyl cladding (predominantly polyvinyl chloride, or PVC) is available in a range of

Fire risk is also an issue. While fire retardant additives reduce the flammability of PVC, it releases toxins

BioWood wood composite products are created using natural cellulose fibre from plantation harvested wood, and combined with resin.

Fire Resistant – CSIRO Tested: self-extinguishing – has a Spread of Flame Index of ZERO (0). Unlike solid timber, it will not continue burning when the source of heat is removed. Only Merbau/Kwila and White Mahogany have similar properties.

Labour Efficient – Easy Installation, concealed fixing, lighter than other materials, less manpower needed, long

While PVC resin production is a regulated process in Australia and emissions from the process are low by world standards, the production of vinyl or PVC for cladding relies on international supply chains and includes hazardous and toxic materials.

It is generally not considered to be an environmentally preferred application.

lengths, straight and true to shape and size, use standard carpentry tools.

Durable – water, mould, mildew, termite resistant; will not splinter, crack or warp; proven, time tested suitability for marine, intertidal and salt spray environmental conditions, even in full sun, when coated with BioWood water based coating.

Environmentally Friendly – fully recyclable, also suitable for indoor environments – very low volatile compounds emissions at an E1 Rating.

(including acidic hydrogen chloride gas) if burnt. Some types also release dioxins although this is decreasing in Australian made products.

A new certification system for PVC products that comply with best environmental practice (for PVC only) has been developed to certify products for credits available in GreenStar ratings.

These credits currently apply only to flooring, cable, pipe and conduit where alternative materials have similar environmental costs.

At the time of writing, no PVC cladding products had been approved — see www.vinyl.org.au/FindPVCProducts for up-to-date ratings.

Cost Effective – Serviceable Life Warranty – will perform for the serviceable life of the building when installed in accordance with the methods described.

Product Warranty – 15 years from date of purchase, to be free from manufacturing defects and/or faulty material, provided they are properly installed and maintained.

Virtually maintenance free – depending on foot traffic and north orientation, coating will last for 3 times longer than normal coating.

biowoodaustralia.com.au | 02 9644 6766

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WATERPROOFING

WINDOWS

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W H AT ’ S N E W

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