Master Builder magazine – April - June 2020

April - June 2020

BUSINESS ENDURANCE

Let's get your business through COVID-19 together, get the resources you need

YOUR TIME TO SHINE

Get the recognition you deserve and get your entry into the Master Builders 2020 Housing & Construction Awards

KEEP THE KIDS BUSY Keep your sanity sorted with this fun challenge for the kids

CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION LIVESTREAM WORKSHOPS 50

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FOR ELIGIBLE SMALL BUSINESSES - PAY JUST

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(inc. GST)*

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MEMBERS SAVE $ 230!*

Whether you are a builder, subcontractor, or a contract administrator, this one-day livestream interactive workshop is for you.

CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION LIVESTREAM WORKSHOPS We’ll break down the ins and outs of contracts, how they’re interpreted and how they apply to common situations in the building and construction industry.

Our livestream, interactive workshop will use real life examples of contracts and disputes to cover:      

Meaning of contract terms and the restrictions placed on contracts by legislation What to do if a dispute over payment arises What to do if a dispute over defective or incomplete work arises What to do if the project is delayed, or the owner interferes with the work What to do if a subcontractor is in breach of the subcontract What to do if a client wants to impose a back-charge on a builder or a builder on a subcontractor.

Enrol in a livestream, interactive workshop today and learn from specialists in their field.

Find dates and enrol at mbqld.com.au/training Or call 1300 13 60 02 *Eligibility criteria applies. Visit mbqld.com.au/BIFworkshop or call 1300 13 60 02 to check your eligibility and find out more. ^Eligibility criteria applies – enrolling student must be a small business owner, or an employee (directly involved in the day-to-day running of the business). A small business is defined as less than 20 employees in the building and construction industry. Visit mbqld.com.au/training or call 1300 13 60 02 to check your eligibility and find out more. RTO NO. 30097. This is not a Nationally Recognised Training course.

BIF LIVESTREAM WORKSHOPS WITH LEGAL SPECIALISTS 20

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Three vital, livestream workshops to help you now and to get you ready for upcoming changes to the BIF Act.

Avoid hefty fines and penalties - get up to speed now on current legislation and prepare for upcoming changes.

Workshops and spots are limited - book now.

BIF CHAPTER 3 WORKSHOPS: PAYMENT CLAIMS & SCHEDULES LEARN WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PROTECTING YOUR RIGHT TO PAYMENT AND HOW TO RESPOND SO YOU AVOID HEFTY FINES. Our 4-hour, livestream interactive workshop has been specifically designed for builders and subcontractors.

BIF CHAPTER 3 WORKSHOPS: ADJUDICATION APPLICATIONS & RESPONSES REDUCE EXPENSIVE LEGAL COSTS: LEARN HOW TO WRITE AN ADJUDICATION APPLICATION, OR AN ADJUDICATION RESPONSE. In our 4-hour livestream interactive workshop, you’ll learn how to best prove your case - whether you’re trying to get or defend a payment claim.

BIF CHAPTER 2 WORKSHOPS: PROJECT BANK ACCOUNTS AVOID SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES (INCLUDING FINES AND PRISON): LEARN WHAT YOU NEED TO DO TO COMPLY IN OUR -HOUR, LIVESTREAM WORKSHOP. Get savvy about Project Bank Accounts (PBAs) and what you need to do to comply with the numerous obligations for head contractors for a PBA project.

APRIL - JUNE

15

BUSINESS ENDURANCE

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Did you catch our latest business endurance webinar series? Didn't get to make it, or would like a refresher. We're here for you - get the information you need.

4

President’s Message: Why essential status matters so much

6

CEO Message: Stimulus to combat

COVID-19 RESOURCES HERE

30

Not sure what signage or compliance you need on your site?

Check out these free resources for members to ensure your site is meeting the requirements.

COVID-19 fallout 8

Industry Voice: Paul Bidwell

10

In the loop

12-13

Regional Profile: North Queensland

BUSINESS ENDURANCE 16-17

Finance + HR

18-19

IT + Workplace, Health & Safety

21 Contracts 22

Self Endurance

SERVICES & ADVICE PICTURE-PERFECT

42

Through torrential rain in inclement weather conditions, find out what it took to pull off the Yeppoon Lagoon - now known as the jewel in the crown of the region.

ZIELKE IS CHANGING LIVES

46 56

Identifying a gap in the Bundaberg disability market, Jesse Zielke could have never imagined the joy he could bring to someone's life with his latest business venture.

2020 HOUSING & CONSTRUCTION AWARDS It's time to have your hard work and quality craftsmanship recognised, get your entry in now.

Published by MASTER BUILDERS QUEENSLAND 417 Wickham Terrace, Brisbane, Queensland, 4000 Phone: (07) 3225 6444 Web: mbqld.com.au Editor: Leah Kidd editorial@mbqld.com.au Graphic design: Ben Miller

© This publication is copyright of Master Builders Queensland.

Master Builder is the official magazine of the go-to peak industry association, Master Builders Queensland. All advertising and

editorial adheres to Master Builders Advertising & Editorial Policy at mbqld.com.au Disclaimer: Advice and information in this publication is given in

25-27

Ask our experts

30-32

COVID-19 resources

33

Do you pay your employees an annualised salary?

34-35

Understanding insurance risks when quoting and visiting sites

36

New villages on the horizon

37

Display villages are open - inspection by appointment

MEMBERS CORNER 41

Tradie: Steve Dobson

42-45

Member Profile: Woollam Constructions: Yeppoon Lagoon

46-49

Member Profile: JRZ Homes, Zielke is changing lives

50

The real deal – Member discounts

WHAT'S ON 56-57

Master Builders 2020 Housing & Construction Awards

58-61 Social Scene 62-65

Small business training + what's coming up in training & events

Advertising: Brooke Gardner NRM Custom Publishing brooke.gardner@newsregionalmedia.com.au (07) 4690 9309 or 0407 406 518 Print and distribution: News Regional Media Cover photo: The Yeppoon Lagoon at Yeppoon, built by Woollam Constructions (image, Nathan White) Image digitally altered. good faith, on the understanding that any contributing person or organisation are not to incur any responsibility for negligence or legal liability if content is incorrect, incomplete, inappropriate or defective. All liability is therefore disclaimed.

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Why essential status matters so much IDENT

In the face of the uncertainty that has been placed on the building industry and community as a whole, we have been busy ensuring members are armed with the information and knowledge they need to protect themselves, their business and their workforce. As an industry association, we take our role of representing and supporting members very seriously.

In the first weeks when COVID-19 started to emerge, our focus was firmly on getting our own business ready – being capable of going virtual if we needed to and keeping our staff safe to ensure we remained on hand to provide members with the advice they need.

Our core service teams have been inundated with calls and questions. In response, we 4 | Master Builder

ES

WE KNOW LIKE MANY INDUSTRIES, THERE’S SOME SERIOUS PRESSURE ON BUILDERS AND TRADIES RIGHT NOW. THAT’S WHY WE’VE TAKEN OUR ROLE EXTREMELY SERIOUSLY AND NEVER WAIVERED IN OUR CALLS TO KEEP BUILDING AN ESSENTIAL SERVICE.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

developed a dedicated COVID-19 area of our website, that includes all the information you need, ranging from social distancing and hygiene requirements, resources and FAQs, contract and employment conditions information, as well as an outline of the relief available from federal, state and local governments.

We have delivered out to members daily updates with the essential COVID-19 information that’s relevant to our industry.

We’ve been overwhelmed and humbled by the positive feedback we’ve received regarding these updates. It’s so important for us to know that they have helped you keep on top of the changes that relate to our industry and answer the many question in such a confusing time.

We also made the necessary adjustments to our scheduled events and training – we quickly changed things up and switched to livestream mode to ensure you can still stay in touch and get the information you need during this time.

We were quick to develop a Business Endurance webinar series that covered industry specific topics that relate to keeping your business going during COVID-19. The free, live, 45-minute webinar series provided expert advice to help you through COVID-19 business challenges – particularly on topics like finance, HR, IT, contracts, health and safety and self-endurance. If you missed the webinars, they are available as recordings on our website at mbqld.com.au/coronavirus or check out the feature on page 15.

We’ve also lobbied extensively for industry during this time – you can read more about these efforts over the page in our CEO, Grant Galvin’s column that covers the stimulus measures we’re calling for.

As the situation continues to evolve, we’ll continue to keep members and the industry at the forefront of everything we do. We’ll also continue to think outside the box and develop different ways of doing things to ensure we are there for you, and to keep building going.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

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Stimulus to combat COVID-19 fall out W

A RECENT COVID-19 IMPACT SURVEY HAS CONFIRMED WHAT EVERYONE IN THE INDUSTRY KNOWS: WE FACE A LOOMING CRISIS THAT WILL IMPACT OUR INDUSTRY FAR BEYOND THE CURRENT IMPACTS OF COVID-19, AND GOVERNMENTS NEED TO ACT NOW TO ADDRESS IT. While lockdown restrictions have already started to bite for the industry, the true impact is yet to be felt; but this could be mitigated with swift and decisive action from the Queensland Government.

We have been pushing for Australian and Queensland Governments to consider stimulus measures that go beyond the current relief packages and these survey results only reinforce our calls.

Nationally, the industry is facing thousands of job losses and a significant reduction in building activity, while in Queensland, builders and tradies are set to run out of new work in the next few months if nothing is done.

Ironically, right now the industry has been fortunate to remain open and is facing no 6 | Master Builder

major product supply issues or COVID-19 related delays; but it’s the lack of confidence that’s starting to creep in combined with state of building activity before COVID-19 even hit that are of concern.

boost new home builds, a program to fund home renovations to make homes more energy efficient and bring forward public spending on buildings, like schools and hospitals.

Building activity figures show Queensland is sitting at 31,100 commencements to December 2019 – which represents a drop of 26.5 per cent on the same period in 2018.

Many businesses were already struggling on the back of a slow 2019.

Measures such as these will help bring back confidence for consumers and businesses and hopefully turn the tide on the current wave of contract and tender cancellations or withdrawals.

We know the Queensland Government is aware of just how vital an employer we are – the job losses and impact on small business would send catastrophic waves through the community, particularly in the face of the job losses we’ve already seen in hospitality and retail.

We want to safeguard thousands of jobs and small businesses and we’re calling on the Queensland Government to supercharge and fast-track their stimulus measures even further.

Let’s get creative with a new look grant to

This situation is dangerous. At risk is the viability of nearly 78,000 building and construction businesses, the jobs of 247,000 Queenslanders and the industry’s capacity to aid the economic recovery.

The experience from past downturns in Queensland’s building industry over the past forty years could see a 45 percent decline in work, which takes us to a level not seen in the thirty-six years that dwelling starts have been counted.

We understand the enormity of the challenge the government faces, but these stimulus measures cannot wait.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

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Sensible regulation in the face of Covid-19 Y CEO

From where we sit, introducing new legislation or forging ahead with changes to existing legislation, or regulation will spell disaster for an industry already grappling with a drop in demand and reduced capacity.

We’ve asked the Queensland Government to delay the proposed changes to the Building Industry Fairness laws that were scheduled to commence on 1 July. Given the Queensland Parliament is currently confined to dealing with COVID-19-related matters, it’s highly likely that these changes will be pushed to the back end of 2020 – if at all this year.

We’re hopeful that Queensland regulators will take a softer approach to enforcement.

It seems that Workplace Health & Safety Queensland are taking that line by winding back proactive inspections and providing 8 | Master Builder

inspectors with more discretion in issuing infringements. They are acutely aware that people are stressed and stretched and generally trying to do the right thing.

Sensibly, the QBCC is right now considering their administration and enforcement actions in response to COVID-19. Their response will, in no small way have implications across the industry.

First of these will be dealing with complaints where monies are owed. Where a builder can show that they have not been paid by their client as a result of COVID-19 and that nonpayment in turn means that a subcontractor is paid late, what action will the QBCC take?

Second will be enforcing the Minimum Financial Requirements (MFRs). There are still tens of thousands of licensees who have yet to lodge their financial information.

The QBCC is taking action against some of these in the upper categories (Categories 3 to 7). However, they are taking a more lenient approach with the smaller end of the industry. The 20,000 SC1 and SC2 licensees

UT

AS INDUSTRY GRAPPLES WITH THE FALLOUT OF THIS GLOBAL PANDEMIC, WE ARE URGING THE QUEENSLAND GOVERNMENT TO DELAY OR RECONSIDER ANY CHANGES TO BUILDING INDUSTRY LEGISLATION OR REGULATION.

who haven’t yet lodged will be given beyond the end of 2020 to provide the necessary financial information.

And there’s a big question mark around how the QBCC will respond to the approximate 3,500 Category 1-3 licensees who, on early indications, won’t meet the MFRs. They have until 31 December 2020 to comply. But what happens then? Contractors’ Net Tangible Assets will drop through the floor in the next six months as a result of COVID-19.

Now is not the time to continue to wield a big stick.

The stark reality is that the climate for our sector will only get worse. We need governments to step into the breach with a package of stimulus measures to create demand and inject confidence back into the community to encourage consumers and investors to build new homes or invest in new projects.

Read more about the stimulus measures we’ve been calling for on page 53.

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HiLux Rugged X shown

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Master Builders Association membership details required to redeem Gold Fleet Discounts.

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Speak to your Toyota Fleet Dealer for further details. 2 Towing capacity subject to regulatory requirements, towbar and vehicle design and towing equipment limitations.

Ask your dealer for Toyota Genuine Towbar capacity and availability details.

T2020-01435 MBA QLD 04/20

1

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

in the loop SIX CENTRAL THEMES TO ACHIEVE FAIR, REASONABLE AND BALANCED REGULATION Over the past two years, Queensland’s building and construction industry has been subjected to a wave of regulatory reform that by and large has had a massive negative impact on the industry, creating a high level of unrest amongst members.

As an industry that is the number one

The Queensland Government’s big stick approach to reform has only served to beat our industry down. New laws like BIF, MFRs, PBAs, and extra costs like the waste levy and land tax, along with the influence of the CFMEU, have all served to wear the industry down and increase the cost of doing business.

approach to regulating our industry. To achieve

DRIVE CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY

SHAKE UP THE QBCC

IMPROVE SECURITY OF PAYMENT

The total amount of building work available is sliding, leaving large parts of the industry out in the cold. Regional areas are especially hard hit: they have seen little to no improvement from the record lows.

The QBCC must wield their sweeping powers fairly and consistently. They should hold those who operate outside the rules to account; but not stand in the way of those running their businesses properly and according to the rules.

While recent reforms will ease some of the burden , there is no evidence that Project Bank Accounts (PBAs) have played a part in ensuring that the 1,000+ subbies involved in current PBA projects were paid in full, on time, every time.

PBAs have added to the cost of new construction and represent a cost to principals, builders and subcontractors.

SAFEGUARD BUILDING QUALITY

SCRAP IMPRACTICAL TENDER PROCESSES

BALANCED APPROACH TO SAFETY

10 | Master Builder

Queensland, addressing these issues must be a priority.

We need a fair, reasonable and balanced this, our priorities centre around six central themes, with a number of actions required to address problems, drive reform and boost the building industry.

Government work is being overlaid with unrealistic requirements adding unreasonable cost to new construction.

A positive safety culture on worksites is best achieved with a proactive, rather than punitive approach. There should be no scope for the misuse of workplace health and safety laws for industrial relations agendas.

Source: Master Builders Queensland

While Queensland’s building industry has the most robust and effective regulatory regime in the country, issues with non-conforming products have been felt across the industry. It is important that we continue to strive to maintain the community’s confidence in the sector.

provider of full-time jobs and the second largest contributor to gross state product in

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t’s fair to say that Townsville has had a rough few years, from droughts and floods to a global pandemic. However, the future is bright for the un-official capital of North Queensland.

In February 2020, one year after the floods that caused $1.23 billion of damage, Sir Elton John opened the $250 million Queensland Country Bank Stadium. I was proud to say I was there along with 24,999 other Townsvillians enjoying our new facility. The hospitality, tourism and retail sectors all reported record numbers for the weekend and we hope to attract many more events such as this to our city.

Major federal and state government investment in Townsville has seen projects such as the stadium come to life with an aim to revitalise the CBD. Added to this, an expansion of the Port of Townsville, additional projects at James Cook University and Sun Metals, an airport upgrade and several major highway projects and the future is shaping up to be very bright indeed.

With continued investment from government, we hope to see an improvement in building approvals and more positivity for the future.

Our members were already reporting an up-turn in work and we very much hope to continue this upwards trend after COVID-19.

Emma Peters Master Builders Regional Manager, North Queensland

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North Queensland

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

If recent times have proven anything, it's that the city of Townsville is resilient beyond measure and while we will inevitably have our own challenges ahead of us throughout the recovery of COVID-19, I believe the Townsville region is well positioned to bounce back from this global pandemic in great strides.

Over the past term, Townsville City Council has invested heavily in vital, job-creating infrastructure projects throughout our city, projects that have ensured a vision for the future and enabled our city to grow. With the newly completed Queensland Country Bank Stadium situated within the CBD, What Townsville and North Queensland has faced over the past few years has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Between natural disasters, economic downturn, and now the dual health and economic crisis of Coronavirus, our region has faced its fair-share of adversity.

These next six months are critical; which is why we delivered an Economic Action Plan to our state and federal governments in the first week of restrictions outlining a clear focus on economic recovery. This plan identifies the immediate, medium and long term projects and policies that will support the region through the initial impacts of Coronavirus, as well as look to the future and at North Queensland’s major

PRESIDENT - TOWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

MICHELE FALCONIERI

Located in the thirteenth largest city in Australia, the Townsville Chamber of Commerce has the potential to be the central focus as the regions around the state start to rebuild and enter the recovery phase post COVID-19.

Our region has a diverse economic base with Australia’s largest military base, an international port, two universities, strong agriculture and resource sectors and a growing relationship with Singapore Defence. It is these pillars that will continue to give us strength through challenging times and continue to provide our region with strong foundations for future growth.

Townsville has great potential, there are several large projects that have

Townsville witnessed a glimpse of what it will bring to our unique lifestyle and economy during its debut NRL match in early March.

The region’s broad economic foundation will be the catalyst which allows Townsville to flourish again socially and economically. Whether it be the long list of projects currently under construction or in the pipeline, as a base for industrial manufacturing, agriculture, export, the service industry, home to defence or tourism to name a few.

We continue to see renewed business interest in our city, with council taking on a major role at the forefront of fiscal recovery for our region. projects that could lead the nation’s economic recovery.

We have since launched the second phase of that economic recovery plan, the ‘Locals Building up Locals’ initiative, which aims to generate local jobs and stimulate a regional economic injection in small projects, that will complement the larger projects, at a time needed more than ever.

Whilst there is great uncertainty as to how long our nation will be in the grips of this crisis, we will leave no stone unturned to ensure jobs and economic opportunities return to our region and the north fires as soon as the health crisis abates. just been waiting for the right time to start, such as the Port Channel Upgrade Project, Mount Isa to Townsville Rail Upgrade, the Hells Gates Dam Project, the Adani Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Project and the Singapore Military Training Initiatives.

It is my hope that as clarity around infrastructure recovery packages and projects are revealed, innovations, initiatives and industries that have been quietly getting underway or using the hibernation period to prepare themselves for the recovery will carry North Queensland and its business community into a new age of prosperity.

$1,733 Median mortgage repayment per month

$387,000 Median new house price

$160,000 Median vacant land price

$35,722 Median personal income per year

$87,303 Median family income per year

7.3% of total employment from building & construction industry

577 New dwellings approved in the region during the past 12 months

Master Builder | 13

Source Queensland Government Statistician’s Office, Queensland Treasury, Queensland Regional Profiles

CEO - TOWNSVILLE ENTERPRISE

PATRICIA O’CALLAGHAN

TOWNSVILLE MAYOR

JENNY HILL

Townsville is the jewel in the crown that is North Queensland.

Palmerin Street, looking towards the clock tower on the Town Hall, Warwick, c.1918 Image: State Library of Queensland

BUSINESS ENDURANCE FEATURE

BUSINESS ENDURANCE S I X - PA RT S E R I E S Finance | HumAn Resources Information Technology Workplace Health and Safety Contracts | Self Endurance

Please note: Information correct at time of publication. As COVID-19 restrictions and regulations are ever-changing, please visit mbqld.com.au/coronavirus for more information.

Master Builder | 15

BUSINESS ENDURANCE FEATURE

Finance T

he COVID-19 outbreak is impacting superannuation causing super fund members to ask some key questions of

their funds.

BUSSQ BALANCED GROWTH UNIT PRICE 2008-2020

WHAT DOES THE MARKET VOLATILITY MEAN FOR MY SUPER? Since the Coronavirus outbreak, market volatility has impacted super balances and we understand how concerning this can be.

Market volatility is a normal part of the economic life cycle. Many of you would have experienced this during the GFC from 2007 and the bounce back from 2009.

Super is a long term investment, and as the graph (right) shows, markets typically bounce back over time. It’s important to remember this when making a decision about your super.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT BUSSQ.COM.AU OR CALL TROY WOLTER ON 0417 702 822.

I

n uncertain times, being able to reduce costs and manage cashflow efficiently can be the difference between surviving to fight another day and becoming another failed business statistic.

Between government stimulus packages, the recently announced mandatory code for commercial tenancies and bank offers, there has never been so many avenues to consider.

Gold Coast-based accounting firm, Gold Group Consulting have put together a list of strategies every business should consider to reduce costs and manage cashflow: • Negotiate reduced rent with landlord

(even if for only a short time) • Approach your bank regarding repayment pauses, capitalisation of interest or unsecured loans up to $250,000 partially underwritten by the federal government • Stand down employees as needed and apply for the JobKeeper package, if eligible • Lodge your March 2020 Business Activity Statement early if it results in a refund due to the PAYGW cashflow boost stimulus package • Defer payments with the ATO including

PAYGW, GST, FBT and income tax. Most arrangements will not be subject to interest and can be used to conserve cashflow • Consider varying PAYG instalments for the March 2020 quarter to zero and requesting credit for instalments paid for the September and December 2019 Business Activity Statements. The ATO has stated this can be done without the risk of penalty or interest.

Talk to your own accountant about measures you can take that will suit your business or contact Master Builders and we can point you in the right direction.

* The information supplied in this article is general advice only and does not take into account or consider your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting, you should review the relevant Product Disclosure Statement to ensure you have all the information about the relevant BUSSQ product and how it works and consider the appropriateness of the information to your needs or seek independent advice from a properly qualified professional. Prepared by BUSS (Queensland) Pty Ltd (ABN 15 065 081 281, AFSL 237860) as Trustee for BUSSQ (BUSSQ Fund, ABN 85 571 332 201).

16 | Master Builder

BUSINESS ENDURANCE FEATURE

Human Resources W

e know navigating the COVID-19 HR challenges can be stressful and overwhelming. As part of our Business Endurance webinar series, Master Builders HR specialist, Emma Kirkby recently broke down the legislation and answered some key questions.

CHANGING WORK HOURS There are options to allow for some temporary changes to award provisions, as well as making agreements to change hours (contract or leave, as well as using accruals).

For those employees able to access the JobSeeker payment, you may be able to issue directives changing hours of work or standing down employees.

As part of these considerations, you must consider public holidays and leave during changes of hours.

REDUCING RATES OF PAY If you are considering reducing rates of pay for workers, it's very important to note that these must always be agreed. There are some specific things to keep in mind when it comes to salaried employees and you must pay attention to award minimums. We recommend considering changing hours, which is a generally more acceptable solution and has some support in recent award and

Q

Leave supports Queensland’s building and construction industry with a portable long service leave scheme for workers. As long as a worker continues performing eligible work, their long service leave moves with them.

If you’re an employer, there’s a few things you need to do to make sure you’re meeting your obligations.

REGISTER YOUR BUSINESS You need to register with QLeave if you: • employ eligible workers in Queensland

Fair Work Act changes.

ATTENDANCE AND WORK FROM HOME The government is urging all employers to consider employees who may be considered vulnerable, such as those who are 70 or over, Torres Strait Islanders over 50, and those who are 65 or over with compromised immune systems to stay at home. Visit the federal government's health website for more information on those who are vulnerable. You cannot instruct any employees, including the vulnerable to stay home unless you are willing to pay their normal wages. You should use your usual risk-based approach when assessing these employees.

For employees who are unwilling or unready to come to work, you need to consider when sick or carers leave is payable, whether work from home is possible, what access they have to annual or long service leave, as well as unpaid leave. Consideration should be given to possible discrimination claims where a request to accommodate carers or family responsibilities are rejected without solid justification.

REDUNDANCIES If you are considering redundancies within your workplace, the normal consultation process must apply. You should consider

• are a sole trader or member of a partnership and employ workers on wages to perform building and construction work in Queensland.

You can register at qleave.qld.gov.au. Once you’re registered, you can add your workers and keep your contact details up-to-date using the online portal.

if small business provisions apply to the particular employee you are making redundant, noting there is no small business exemption for on-site and joinery awards.

You will need to pay long service leave out on termination where the employee has been with you for seven years.

APPRENTICES If you employ apprentices, you can consider either the 50 per cent wage payment or the JobKeeper payment depending on which you may be eligible for. If you consider reducing hours, remember part-time must be a minimum of 15 hours to maintain the training contract.

You can stand down apprentices by agreement for up to 12 months where the stand down meets the requirements of the Fair Work Act - but you must suspend the training contract (if you don't, the time component of the apprenticeship will continue, which could see an apprentice move to the next year's pay bracket while on stand down).

CONTACT MASTER BUILDERS ON 1300 30 50 10 TO DISCUSS THE OPTIONS AVAILABLE FOR APPRENTICES AND THE CORRECT PROCESSES TO FOLLOW.

QLeave will send you a reminder to do this by completing a service return online by 31 July.

The details provided on the return are recorded against each worker’s QLeave membership and count towards their overall long service leave benefit.

LOOKING FOR MORE INFORMATION?

COMPLETE A SERVICE RETURN BY 31 JULY

You can find out more about QLeave and your obligations at qleave.qld.gov.au.

At the end of each financial year you need to give details to QLeave of the employment periods for all of your workers. Each June

YOU CAN ALSO CONTACT 1300 QLEAVE OR MEMBERS@QLEAVE.QLD.GOV.AU IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS. Master Builder | 17

BUSINESS ENDURANCE FEATURE

Information Technology

D

uring this unprecedented time, not only is remote connection and work necessary, but it needs to be efficient with minimal disruption to productivity.

As part of our Business Endurance webinar series, Master Builders IT expert, Simon Spencer has provided the tools and tips you need to help keep things humming along with minimal roadblocks. Here we’ve got some remote office working tools and tips and info on how to protect yourself and your business against the increase of cyber security threats.

WORKING REMOTELY – TIPS AND TRICKS With the health directives forcing us to change the way we work, the lack of faceto-face interaction is being overcome with collaboration technology platforms.

Globally, there has been a huge surge in the uptake of web-based video and messaging systems. While these are not as favoured as face-to-face communication in many situations, these options do provide the next best alternative for effectively communicating with your staff, suppliers and customers in these unprecedented times.

Consider options like Zoom (video conferencing), Slack (staff collaboration tool), Microsoft Teams (staff collaboration and good if you already use Microsoft products), Skype/FaceTime (video conferencing), Signal (highly secure messaging).

exploit vulnerabilities. Now is the time to be extra cautious and vigilant, particularly when handling emails.

Phishing and scam emails remain the number one avenue for a hacker to gain access to your data. Here we’ll focus on tips to increase your awareness in spotting a phishing/scam email.

PHISHING Phishing involves a sender who masquerades as a well-known business – someone like a government agency, a bank, a telco like Telstra, or Australia Post.

These emails are designed to look like the brand and will ask you to complete an action (often to login to your account) via a link they provide.

The website that the URL link goes to looks almost identical to the real thing and if you enter your login details, the hacker captures it and uses it to access your account on the real website.

TIPS TO AVOID BEING PHISHED It’s rare for legitimate businesses to ask you to click and log-in to your account and none will ask you to handover your details via email, SMS, over the phone or in person.

Before you click on a link, hover your mouse and display the URL link – if it looks suspicious (for example, has a letter missing or grammatical error), it probably is, do don’t click on it.

The principal is the same as being phished.

You click on a link which takes you to a website that might look legitimate, but in the background it is pushing malicious code (virus) through your internet browser and onto your device.

TIPS TO AVOID GETTING A VIRUS Always check links before clicking on them and do not open attachments on emails you aren’t sure of or aren’t expecting.

Make sure you have an up-to-date anti-virus application on your PC/MAC which will catch most threats as they attempt to infiltrate.

CYBER SAFETY RESOURCES • staysmartonline.gov.au • esafety.gov.au • australia.gov.au/information-andservices/public-safety-and-law/onlinesafety • cyber.gov.au • qbcc.qld.gov.au/security Make sure your cyber insurance policy includes ‘criminal cyber attacks’ such as the ‘BEC scam’ and ensure you’re covered for Criminal Financial Loss.

CYBER SAFETY

VIRUSES

Don’t be caught out – our insurance team can give you the facts and help you pick the right cover.

With so many people now working from home, hackers are out in force looking to

The most popular method for hackers to get a virus onto your PC or device is via email.

CALL 1300 13 13 26 OR VISIT MQLD.COM.AU/INSURANCE

18 | Master Builder

Workplace Health & Safety O

ur Workplace Health & Safety team have been fielding calls left, right and centre as the Coronavirus pandemic moves through our communities. We understand how hard it can be to sift through the latest updates to get the information you need.

Workplace Health & Safety manager Melanie Roberts has wrapped up why it's important to follow the rules, how to socially distance on site, practical hygiene measures you can use, how to manage risk for clients and what to do if someone in your business is exposed.

SOCIAL DISTANCING Social distancing is one way to help slow the spread of viruses. Generally, social distancing means: • • • •

•

Staying at home when people are sick Avoiding gatherings if they are not essential Allowing 4 sq m of space per person for essential indoor gatherings Staying 1.5m away from people as much as possible and for outdoor essential gatherings Avoiding touching others such as shaking hands, kissing or hugging.

ON A CONSTRUCTION SITE YOU CAN PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING IN THE FOLLOWING WAYS: •

Plan ways to enable physical distancing of 1.5m to reduce in-person contact of workers. Cancel all international and

TIPS FOR HYGIENE ON-SITE •

•

Provide and promote sanitisers for use on entering workplaces, after eating, after using the bathroom, after sharing equipment and regularly throughout the day Limit the sharing of tools and equipment. Where it is necessary to share equipment, provide gloves and/ or sanitising products

•

•

•

•

•

•

any unnecessary domestic travel plans Do not hold or allow employees to attend non-essential indoor gatherings of 100 or more people such as, large inductions, toolbox talks, conferences, training or celebrations.

Do not hold or allow employees to attend non-essential outdoor gatherings of 500 or more people.

Cancel non-essential activities such as domestic business travel and large face-to-face meetings.

Encourage flexible working arrangements including working from home and working in smaller teams.

Where possible schedule teams of workers to work separately, at different times or on separate parts of the project.

Limit any unnecessary visitors to the site, e.g sales staff, office staff, family members or clients.

USING PERSONAL HOISTS AND LIFTS •

• •

•

• •

•

•

Limit numbers in hoist to allow for social distancing – taking into account the hoist operator Persons should face away from each other whilst riding in the hoist Travel directly to necessary floors – make more trips and reduce numbers of persons in hoist/ lift at any one time Promote use of stairs for those tasks which don’t require carrying of large equipment/ material – monitor overuse Schedule times for the use of the hoist Increase routine environmental cleaning of the workplace – amenities, high traffic areas, shared vehicles, machines or plant Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces regularly, such as machines, plant control panels, stair rails, toilets and bathrooms, meal areas and office desks Provide access to toilet paper, tissues

•

• • •

BUSINESS ENDURANCE FEATURE

i.e. for specific tasks, trades or for cleaning times.

Avoid large congregations of workers waiting for the hoist at entry points – promoting the principals of social distancing, stagger start times and mealtimes will assist with this Rotate hoist operators at regular intervals Regularly clean the hoist, including handrails and operators controls Provide hand sanitiser in hoists.

IF SOMEONE CONTRACTS COVID-19 •

•

•

•

If there has been a confirmed case of COVID-19 in your place of business, you should seek advice from health.gov.au If public health services becomes aware of a positive diagnosis, it has procedures in place to track the movements of the person and will provide advice on what action should be taken.

You do not necessarily have to send all workers home or close your business, wait for guidance from the Health Department and call Master Builders for assistance.

Employers and businesses may also have other health and safety obligations under Queensland law.

Despite the current pandemic, you still need to comply with all other health and safety obligations as normal.

MBQLD.COM.AU/CORONAVIRUS

•

•

•

and cleaning supplies Where possible provide good ventilation, open windows, enhance airflow and adjust air conditioning If change rooms are provided, do not share items like towels and soap bars and wash your hands after changing If providing food to workers, consider hygiene practices among food handlers and preparations.

Master Builder | 19

Thinking of Hiring an Apprentice!

Why not use a company that has stood the test of time. Smart Employment Solutions, a Not-for-Profit charity has won no less than six Master Builders Employer of the Year awards for the apprentices we supply and has also taken out the Queensland and Australian Master Builders Employer award. Supplying apprentices to the Construction, Civil Construction, Electrical and Engineering industries for 34 years.

Skilling Queensland’s Future!

Ph 13 30 24 www.sesat.com.au

* Master Builders Qld and Australian Employer of the year * Master Builders offered Employer of the Year Awards from 1991 – 2014. Smart Employment Solutions wins occurred throughout this period.

BUSINESS ENDURANCE FEATURE

Contracts D

uring the contracts webinar, we discussed many issues relating to the delays to projects and contract issues that have arisen as a result of COVID-19.

Ultimately, it is best for both parties to a contract to discuss options as soon as possible to avoid disputes down the track and to agree to share the risk for delays and costs for key certain items.

In relation to future contracts, care must be taken to ensure adequate time is allowed for reasonably foreseeable delays and disruptions, and consideration given to making delays to key products a qualifying cause of delay or a Provisional Sum (PC)/ Prime Cost (PS) item.

Other issues discussed include: • Delays due to materials/supplies: • comply with timeframes set out in the contract and/or legislation (for domestic building contracts) to avoid timebars • consider alternative products and/or suppliers – remember to submit variations within time • Disruption due to social distancing laws not necessarily a delay to works

• Suspension of work under the contract could be by mutual agreement, or for breach of contract by either party or by direction of government • document agreement in writing: • who is responsible for the works during suspension e.g. site safety, security, insurance • is there an entitlement to holding costs • timeframe for remobilisation • review insurance policy for consequences of non-activity on the site • Termination of the contract: • could be by mutual agreement or for breach of contract by either party • same considerations as for suspension • document agreement in writing: • negotiate how much deposit to be returned if no work on-site

SOCIAL DISTANCING DISRUPTIONS Unfortunately, social distancing is not always a delay that will entitle you to an Extension of Time (EOT). Given the risk and costs of supply chain delays are usually allocated to the contractor, you need to manage and bear that risk.

It's important to note the reduced efficiency on-site is not necessarily considered a delay, but a disruption to the works.

• ownership of unfixed plant and materials or preordered products • for frustration of contract unlikely COVID-19 would cause a contract to be frustrated under common law • force majeure clause - only applicable if COVID-19 falls within definition of a force majeure event set out in the contract • Impact on subcontracts: • likely to be contractor’s breach if contractor is responsible for site shut down (e.g. employee tests positive to COVID-19) – subcontractor likely to be entitled to EOT and/or delay costs, no LDs for that period etc • likely to be subcontractor’s breach if subcontractor is responsible for site shut down – liable to contractor for losses including delay costs given to other subcontractors, LDs under head contract etc.

TIPS TO REDUCING INEFFICIENCY •

Change to working hours on-site

•

Change sequencing of work and workers/subbies

•

Change to suppliers/products to align with resequencing of work or workers/subbies

•

Discuss how to address reduced efficiencies and options for staging completion to balance client's needs with social distancing and supply restrictions

Master Builder | 21

BUSINESS ENDURANCE FEATURE

Self Endurance H

i I’m Justin, a plumber by trade and I am now a field officer for Mates in Construction.

The questions I get asked most often these days are, 'How do I keep myself well in these challenging times?' 'What do I do if I am worried about a mate who I believe is struggling?' And, 'What do I do if I am struggling?'

As someone with a mental illness and a lived experience of suicide, these are some of the things I have learnt that keep me well and help me help other people that may be doing it tough.

Self-care is important to me. Why? Because when I am well, I not only have the fuel to get me through the tough stuff but it gives me capacity to help my mates.

Keeping my buckets topped up is key for me.

The buckets represent different aspects of my life including physical (daily energy), emotional (relationships), mental (focus) and spiritual (purpose).

I try and top each of those buckets up daily with selfcare activities. They include things like; gardening or going for a walk, calling a

mate, hanging with the kids, reading a book, doing a crossword, chilling out to music or helping my neighbour. Those are just a few things that I do, but we are all different so think about what you would do to fill your buckets.

Remember, topping up our buckets is not an event but a daily routine that hopefully becomes a habit. It will make a big difference to how you feel about yourself and your ability to be there for other key people in your life.

Helping a mate who’s doing it tough? I break it down into four simple steps. Notice changes in the things they do and say, especially if they are going through things that cause us all stress, such as job loss, relationship breakdown or other tough situations.

Then ask, “What’s going on mate?”. Calling them out on the things you notice, such as, “Mate you’re doing stuff and saying stuff that isn’t like you, what’s going on?” Then listen, you don’t have to be a counsellor or psychologist, you just have to care. Listen to understand, not to fix, because often we just want to be heard and understood.

Finally, connect them to help if needed. If they are a tradie they can call us at MATES on 1300 642 111. We are available 24/7 - make the call together.

I know I was grateful when my mate made the call with me when I was doing it tough. If you are struggling, I encourage you to give us a call too, because mates are stronger together during these tough times.

CONNECTION Social distancing does not mean social isolation. In these times, some people will naturally be anxious. Contacting people in whatever way is appropriate (online, phone, over the fence, etc) is a great way to say connected.

WHAT'S NORMAL It is normal to have a range of emotions – sad, angry, focused or scared. Using skills that got you through tough times previously may also be useful. Talking to your mates can help.

SELF-ISOLATION AT HOME If you must stay at home, stay healthy – eat well, sleep, keep up some exercise, keep your social contacts with friends, workmates and family on the phone or online, do some gardening or yard work, read, create something new.

22 | Master Builder

Create raised floors on balconies, podiums and green roof tops Designed for creating raised floors in external applications, such as balconies, terraces and green roofs, Buzon’s Award Winning Pedestal system can be used with any type of concrete or stone paver, timber decking of all types and metal or fibreglass grid systems.

A key benefit of this innovation is the patented slope correction device.

This gives up to five percent fall compensation achieving a perfectly level floor finish, simultaneously allowing for positive water runoff at structural slab level.

Using the Buzon Pedestal replaces the use of sand and cement when laying pavers, therefore eliminating efflorescence and algae and reducing weight-bearing loads on the building structure. In addition the pedestal also improves thermal insulation and reduces sounds transmission.

For even more design flexibility, the system offers height adjustment from 17mm to 1070mm, millimetre by millimetre if required. This allows for unsightly services to be concealed under the floor while still offering access for maintenance of the waterproofing membrane and drainage systems.

In commercial urban environments where space is at an ever-higher premium, a building’s roof level is potentially a rich source of usable space. Buzon say their Pedestal System can be used to maximise a roof’s potential, both hiding all manner of services and protecting roof substrates from the elements, maximising integrity and longevity.

The pedestals are extremely strong as they are precision-engineered from high strength, UV resistant, recycled polypropylene and capable of supporting loads of more than 1000kg each. At roof level, this load is evenly spread by the wide base area of each unit, making them ideal for installation on any waterproofing membrane without causing damage, they can even be used directly over insulation material.

The Buzon Pedestal System is also simple to install. Desired height is achieved by thread adjustment, which is lockable when reached and a range of interchangeable spacer tabs of 2mm, 3mm, 4.5mm, 6mm, 8mm and 10mm, allow for precise gaps between pavers and provide positive drainage without any concern of ponding or flooding.

Buzon’s Pedestal System is available in Queensland through Adheseal.

For more information contact: Phone: 07 3356 000 Fax: 07 3356 0005 Website: www.adheseal.com.au

BENEFITS • • • • •

Use with stone, concrete, timber, composite decking Use over existing concrete, brick or paved areas Allows for drainage and ventilation Reduces noise and increases insulation Can achieve a perfectly level deck on an uneven surface

• Adjustable heights supporting up to 1000kg • Quick and easy installation • Provides a sustainable solution • Easy access to waterproofing membrane for maintenance

Exclusive stockist of Buzon products in Australia contact:

www.buzon.com.au

PASCO (VIC) 13-15 Brighton Street Richmond VIC 3121 Tel: (03) 9429 9111

QLD Distributor Adheseal – Brisbane 26Wolverhampton St Stafford QLD 4053 Tel: (07) 3356 0000

SA Distributor P. Hughes Enterprises 15 Saltram Road Glenelg SA 5045 Tel: 0432 418 255

PASCO (NSW) 4/14 Tennyson Road Gladesville NSW 2111 Tel: (02) 9817 4441

QLD Distributor Adheseal – Sunshine Coast 2/18 Kessling Avenue Kunda Park QLD 4556 Tel: (07) 5477 0022

WA Distributor Civil & General Distributors 27 Oxleigh Drive Malaga WA 6090 Tel: (08) 9249 4733

www.pasco.net.au

ONE SOLUTION FOR ALL YOUR STRUCTURAL, ACOUSTIC, FIRE & WATERPROOFING NEEDS Dincel Structural Wall is a lightweight permanent formwork system, which when filled with ready mixed concrete, produces a load bearing, fire resistant structural wall. Easily connected by internationally patented ‘snap lock’ joints, the Dincel wall can be built faster and cheaper than traditional methods.

Dincel has been used in over 7,000 projects nationally and internationally for internal and external walls. It’s water proofing ability also makes it perfect for tanks or swimming pool applications.

Full systems tested to AS 5637.1/AS ISO 9705 for internal walls, AS 5113/BS 8414 for external façade walls and CSIRO certified as waterproof under 6m head of pressure.

FAST & SIMPLE INSTALLATION

SAVE ON TIME & MATERIALS

EASY TO CLAD OR RENDER

WWW.DINCEL.COM.AU 1300 DINCEL

WATERPROOF CERTIFIED

SERVICES & ADVICE

ASK OUR EXPERTS

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

MARTIN BELFIELD

ADAM PROFKE

GARY HOGG

TRACEY WOOD

Manager Workplace Relations

Manager Training & Licensing Policy

Advisor WHSE

Principal Lawyer Members Legal

The building and construction industry can be complex, which is why we receive thousands of member enquiries each year.

Here at Master Builders, our friendly and knowledgeable experts are on hand to answer your questions about the issues you face in the day-to-day running of your business.

This advisory service is free to members – and it’s just one of many ways we’re committed to giving you a valuable membership experience.

Over the following pages, this edition’s panel of experts share some of the common questions they are asked.

We’re here to help, whether you need advice about: • Contracts, including which contract to use • Disputes and getting paid • Employment, wages and staffing • Workplace health and safety practices • Industry compliance and licensing requirements • Enterprise bargaining agreements • Legislation and how it applies to you • Insurance products • Plus much, much more.

Remember, if you’re seeking professional advice, call Master Builders on 1300 30 50 10.

Master Builder | 25

SERVICES & ADVICE

Workplace Relations

licensing policy

with Martin Belfield

with Adam Profke

Manager Workplace Relations

Manager Training & Licensing Policy

WHAT ARE THE MODERN SLAVERY REPORTING REQUIREMENTS?

ARE MINIMUM FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS NEW?

The Modern Slavery Act 2018 established a national Modern Slavery Reporting Requirement. This came into force on 1 January 2019.

Entities required to comply with the Reporting Requirement must prepare annual Modern Slavery Statements.

No, Minimum Financial Requirements (MFR’s) have been in place for more than a decade.

These statements must set out the reporting entity’s actions to assess and address modern slavery risks in their global operations and supply chains.

WHO MUST REPORT? Your entity will be a reporting entity if it has annual consolidated revenue of at least $100 million (AUD) and is either an Australian entity or a foreign entity conducting business in Australia.

You must calculate your entity’s consolidated revenue in accordance with the Australian Accounting Standards.

Multiple reporting entities (such as entities in a corporate group) can choose to submit a single joint statement.

WHAT IS THE REPORTING PERIOD AND MANDATORY CRITERION? The reporting period means the financial year or other annual accounting period used by your entity. You need to begin reporting on your entity’s first full reporting period which started after 1 January 2019.

You will also need to submit your statement to the Australian Border Force within six months after the end of your reporting period. The Act sets out seven mandatory criteria for the content of statements: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Clearly identify the reporting entity covered by the statement.

Describe the structure, operations and supply chains of the reporting entity.

Describe the risks of modern slavery practices in the operations and supply chains of the reporting entity and any owned and controlled entity.

Describe what actions the reporting entity and owned and controlled entity is taking to assess and address the risks of modern slavery practices occurring in its operations and supply chains.

Describe how the reporting entity and owned and controlled entity assesses the effectiveness of the actions it is taking to assess and address the risks of modern slavery practices in its operations and supply chains.

Describe how the reporting entity consulted on its statement with any entities it owns or controls.

Include information that you think is relevant but not covered by the other six mandatory criteria. The other six criteria are sufficient.

Contact the Workplace Relations team on (07) 3225 6407 or workplacerelations@mbqld.com.au 26 | Master Builder

What is new, is the requirement to report your ongoing compliance to the QBCC on an annual basis.

I SUBMITTED MY ANNUAL REPORT IN DECEMBER 2019. I DON’T HAVE THE MONEY, OR THE ASSETS REQUIRED, WILL I LOSE MY LICENCE? Initially, no. You have until 31 December 2020 to make the necessary changes to your businesses to become compliant. You need to talk to your accountant ASAP to put a plan in place.

There is potential that on 1 January 2021, if you still don’t meet the requirements, the QBCC may start proceedings to cancel your licence.

I HAVE A COMPANY CONTRACTOR’S LICENCE AND AN INDIVIDUAL CONTRACTOR’S LICENCE. DO I NEED TO MEET THE MFR’S FOR BOTH LICENCES? I DON’T HAVE THE ASSETS FOR BOTH. Yes, the legislation considers your company and individual contractors’ licence as two separate entities.

This is because you can enter into a contract both through your company and personally enter into a contract. Therefore, you must meet the Net Tangible Asset requirement for both.

If you are a SC2 Company and Individual contractor, you must be able to demonstrate that you have $96,000 of Net Tangible Assets. The challenge for licence holders is that you cannot use the same assets for both licences.

There is a simple solution. If you don’t intend on entering into a contract personally and all work will be completed through the company, you can change the 'type' of licence you have personally.

This is a change from 'Contractor' to 'Nominee'. Don’t worry, if you decide to close your company, you can always change your individual licence back to contractor. This change simply removes the asset requirement from you personally.

I OPERATE UNDER A TRUST STRUCTURE, MY ANNUAL REPORT COSTS ME THOUSANDS IN ACCOUNTANT FEES AND I STILL DON’T COMPLY. I DON’T UNDERSTAND, WHAT AM I DOING WRONG? Anecdotal information from our accounting partners advise that up to 70 per cent of trust company structures are set up incorrectly to comply with the QBCC’s, MFR rules.

Never underestimate the value of an accountant who specialises in the construction industry. If you want a second opinion, we have accountants who are member benefit partners, or sponsors that can assist you.

Contact your local Master Builders office for their details.

Contact the Licensing team on (07) 3225 6523 or licensing@mbqld.com.au

SERVICES & ADVICE

Workplace Health & Safety

Members Legal

with Gary Hogg

with Tracey Wood

Advisor WHSE

Principal Lawyer Members Legal

HOW DO I MANAGE FIRST AID DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC?

SHOULD I BE ADDING A FORCE MAJEURE CLAUSE IN ALL MY CONTRACTS FOR COVID-19?

The first aid Code of Practice (COP) outlines some basic practices to follow to prevent spreading infections when providing first aid, whether there are known or unknown infections present, and these principles continue to apply during COVID-19 pandemic: • •

• • • • • • • • •

•

Good hygiene practices Wearing personal protective equipment – gloves for wounds, and if carrying out mouth-to-mouth resuscitation – using a personal resuscitation mask Appropriate handling of clinical waste (sharps, human tissue or fluids and used dressings) Maintaining social distance as much as possible remains the primary control Hand washing remains essential (COVID-19 or not) Wash hands both before and after providing first aid and in between casualties Use soap and warm running water Rub hands together with lather for at least 20 seconds, ensuring you rub between fingers, under nails and the backs of hands Rinse hands well under running water Dry thoroughly with a paper towel that you then dispose of If soap and water are unavailable, use antiseptic wipes to clean hands and apply a sanitising liquid or gel that contains at least 60 per cent alcohol. NOTE: you should never touch any wounds or used dressings with your bare hands, which is where personal protective equipment is vital.

First aiders will not be providing first aid for persons who are in COVID-19 quarantine or isolation.

DO I NEED TO HAVE A SAFE WORK METHOD STATEMENT (SWMS) FOR COVID-19?

There is no specific legislative requirement that requires you to have a SWMS for COVID-19 or social distancing and hygiene measures specifically for COVID-19.

If you already have a SWMS for a high-risk activity, and the process for which you undertake that activity is materially changed because of additional social distancing or hygiene requirements, then the SWMS should be updated to reflect these changes to the process.

If you put steps in a SWMS that relate to social distancing or hygiene, it is recommended to be clear in the SWMS as to which step in the process it relates to (rather than a blanket statement), as there is likely to be steps in processes where you may not be able to maintain the distance – i.e. holding and securing of roof sheets or plaster by two or more people.

Force Majeure is a contractual provision which can grant relief to the parties from performing contractual obligations or provides an entitlement to extend timeframes for completing those obligations.

These clauses will differ from contract to contract and usually have a limited application to those events specifically listed in the clause itself. These often include things like “an act of God”, fire or tempest, natural disasters, riots, invasion, war, terrorism, ionizing radiation and other such items. Very few Force Majeure clauses make provision for a pandemic such as COVID-19.

One important aspect of having and using a Force Majeure clause is that it must be a legal or physical restraint to carrying out the works, and not an economic one. An additional issue that may arise with such clauses is that often a contractor is not completely unable to perform its obligations. If it can do so, albeit at an additional cost or time through a different supplier, then the Force Majeure clause won’t apply. We would encourage you to seek legal advice in relation to whether you have a valid Force Majeure clause in your current contracts before you take any steps in reliance of such a clause.

WHAT CAN I DO IF A SITE HAS TO BE SHUT DOWN DUE TO COVID-19?

If a site is shut down due to direction by government, it would likely be considered a legislative change that will give rise to the right to claim an EOT and, possibly, delay costs. However, it's important to read your contract carefully to understand when a direction is a legislative change that permits additional time and whether a legislative change will give rise to the right to claim a variation to the contract.

If a site is shut down as a result of an employee or contractor contracting COVID-19 or any potential future pandemic then that is an entirely different situation. It is important that you comply with your obligations in terms of workplace health and safety, however, if the builder does not make a site accessible to its subcontractors, then those subcontractors are likely to have the right to claim an EOT and, possibly, delay costs. The reason for this is that, effectively, the builder is in breach of the contract by not providing access to the subcontractor to carry out the subcontract works.

WHAT STEPS CAN I TAKE TO PROTECT ANY FUTURE CONTRACTS? This will depend on your situation, but you could consider the below tips for future contracts: • •

• Contact the Workplace Health & Safety team on (07) 3225 6410 or whs@mbqld.com.au

Provide a PC or PS allowance in the contract for materials/ products which you suspect with be delayed Include a special condition that lists particular suppliers that are to be used, so if it isn’t available from the nominated supplier, a variation to the contract and an EOT will be permitted Allow more time for completion.

Contact the Members Legal team on (07) 3225 6440 or contracts@mbml.com.au Master Builder | 27

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SERVICES & ADVICE VISITOR HEALTH DISCLOSURE FORM Dear Visitor,

COVID-19 RESOURCES

Our business has a duty of care to provide a safe workplace and protect all workers on its premises.

We request all visitors to answer the following questions prior to visiting/entering the workplace

Visitor name

Company Name

Date

Do you have flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, coughing, and shortness of breath?

Yes

No

Have you returned from overseas in the last 14 days?

Yes

No

Have you been exposed to a person who has tested positive with COVID-19?

Yes

No

Have you been tested for COVID-19 and not received a negative result?

Yes

No

Have you been placed in quarantine?

Yes

No

Have you returned from interstate travel in the last 14 days and you were not an exempt person?

Yes

No

Signature

VISITOR HEALTH DISCLOSURE FORM Use this form for visitors coming to your site or business.

Date

If you answer YES to any of the above questions, then we respectfully request that you do not visit/enter our workplace and make arrangements to conduct your business via video conference or telephone.

We appreciate your cooperation to keep our workplace safe during these uncertain times.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION WHEN ENTERING THE WORKPLACE -

Follow social distancing rules – 1.5m outside and 1 person per 4sqm inside Wear PPE as requested Wash hands/sanitise before entry, during and at the end of your visit Do not touch surfaces unless necessary If during your visit you feel unwell, please advise a representative of our business and leave the workplace immediately Please do not approach workers unless authorised.

VISITOR HEALTH DISCLOSURE FORM

HEALTH DISCLOSURE FORM

HEALTH DISCLOSURE FORM Use this form when visiting clients and private premises.

Customer name

Company Name

Date

Site address

#

DONE? ()

DATE

REVIEW DATE

RESPONSIBILITY

WHAT WE HAVE DONE

GENERAL ON-SITE PROTOCOLS

Fever

Yes

No

1

Workers have been informed that they should stay at home if they are sick or present symptoms.

Cough

Yes

No

2

Workers have been consulted about all COVID-19 business safety policies.

Shortness of breath

Yes

No

3

We are monitoring information from Regulators and Government and will update policies as and when required.

Breathing difficulties

Yes

No

4

Exposed to a person who has tested positive to Coronavirus?

Yes

No

Workers have been provided with up to date information on how to identify symptoms of COVID-19.

5

Have had a test for Coronavirus without a negative outcome?

Yes

No

We have provided appropriate PPE and hygiene equipment to all workers.

6

Returned from overseas?

Yes

No

We have directed all workers to wash their hands as regularly as practicable.

Placed in quarantine?

Yes

No

Has the premises been used or currently being used as a designated quarantine facility?

Yes

No

Date

IMPORTANT INFORMATION Please limit the number of people in the vicinity of the work whilst our workers are on your property.

As soon as you become aware, please advise if any person has become unwell, been quarantined or is selfisolating due to potential exposure, since completing this form.

When one or more of our workers attend your property they will: - Follow strict social distancing practices inside and outside your property.

- Not shake your hand on arrival but greet you verbally, whilst keeping strict social distance.

- Follow strict hygiene practices when undertaking their work, washing hands regularly and/or using sanitiser, cleaning high use areas regularly.

- All payment is contactless – this will be arranged either prior to their arrival via invoice, credit card or transfer. If any payment is required on the day of their arrival, this is to be done via phone or by credit card. NO CASH WILL BE ACCEPTED.

HEALTH DISCLOSURE FORM

30 | Master Builder

ITEM – ISSUE – ACTION

Displaying any of the following symptoms similar to the flu:

Signature

STOP THE SPREAD CHECKLIST

CORONAVIRUS ”KEEP YOUR DISTANCE - STOP THE SPREAD” CHECKLIST

In the last 14 days have you or someone you have regular close contact with been: please tick (such as family, friends, housemates and co-workers etc)

7

We have a backup plan if we can’t get access to the desired PPE and hygiene equipment.

8

We have a plan for what we will do if someone is diagnosed with COVID-19 (or it’s suspected that a worker has contracted COVID-19) and this has been communicated to workers.

9

We have delegated a person responsible for managing COVID-19 related safety concerns. Workers know who this is.

10

We are limiting workers from working across multiple sites as much as possible.

11

We have considered ways to minimise gatherings of workers in the workplace.

12

We enforce a strict social distancing policy for all on site work, and all necessary meetings (including toolbox talks, safety meetings).

13

We have told workers to stop handshaking and other physical greetings.

Use this to ensure you are following all the recommendations.

P1

SERVICES & ADVICE OUR BUSINESS IS PREVENTING THE SPREAD OF COVID19

IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR PRIVATE PREMISES OWNERS/OCCUPANTS The construction industry including maintenance and related trades is open for business, and are able to continue to provide services such as building, renovation, maintenance, installations, landscaping, quoting, measuring, etc.

When carrying out work at your premises our business is preventing the spread of COVID19 by: -

Practicing social distancing indoors and outdoors

-

Minimising the numbers of people required at your premises

-

Implementing good hygiene practices

-

Ensuring workers who are unwell stay at home

-

Following the quarantine and self isolation rules if required

-

Making arrangements for contactless payment

-

Keeping up to date with information and changes to the Governments COVID 19 requirements.

Prior to arrival at your premises we ask that you have completed, signed and returned the Health Disclosure Form.

NOTICE TO YOUR CLIENTS LETTER Use this to confirm for clients of private premises you are authorised to attend.

If you answered yes to any of the questions on the health disclosure form, or your health condition has changed since you completed the form, we may need to reschedule your work.

When we arrive at your premises we will greet you verbally, introduce you to our workers and explain how we intend to carry out the work.

Whilst we attend your premises we ask that you please practice social distancing and good hygiene and limit contact with our workers.

STOP PLEASE READ BEFORE ENTERING In the last 14 days, if you or someone you have regular close contact with (such as family, friends,housemates and co-workers etc) have been: • Displaying any of the following symptoms similar to the flu: • Fever • Cough • Shortness of breath • Breathing difficulties • Exposed to a person who has tested positive to Coronavirus • Have had a test for Coronavirus without a negative outcome • Returned from overseas • Placed in quarantine

SITE ENTRY SIGN Use this sign at the entry to your site to advise people not to enter if they feel unwell or ill.

DO NOT ENTER

If you have any questions or concerns about how your work please reach out to us. Our priority is your safety and the safety of our workers in these unprecedented times.

Please call us on 1300 30 50 10 for any enquiries

NOTICE TO CLIENTS

REQUIREMENT TO MAKE SPECIFICATION SELECTIONS

JOB DETAILS Client name Site address

Date

You will be pleased to know that the construction industry is an essential service and open for business.

Your building contract requires you to make selections on many aspects of your building project for example, paint colours, tiles, bricks, kitchen cabinetry etc. The selection of these products is essential to the progress of your building contract as work could be delayed if these selections are not made.

In order to make the right selections for your project you will need to visit various suppliers relevant to the types of products for your building contract. We have outlined a list of these items and suppliers that you will need to visit in the table below.

SPECIFICATION SELECTIONS Item

Preferred/suggested supplier

IMPORTANT INFORMATION Due to COVID19 rules, we recommend you contact the suppliers prior to arrival or to make an appointment as their normal business hours or process for doing business may have changed.

CLIENT SPECIFICATION SELECTIONS FORM Provide this notice to your clients to confirm that they are required to visit suppliers to make product selections as per their building contract.

View the full scope of resources on mbqld.com.au/coronavirus

Please ensure you follow social distancing and hygiene rules specified by these suppliers and please do not attend their premises if you are unwell, are in quarantine or have been in contact with someone with COVID19.

To avoid having large gatherings of people at appointments or in stores, we recommend only the decision makers attend to these selections. Please refrain from bringing children, friends and relatives.

If you have any questions or need assistance with your essential selections please contact: Name Position

Phone

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Master Builder | 31

SERVICES & ADVICE

COVID-19 site SIGNS Persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) are responsible for identifying and managing work health and safety risks to their workers at their workplaces and worksites. This includes complying with normal housekeeping and amenities obligations and putting specific measures in place to prevent exposure to Coronavirus. PCBUs who are responsible for workplaces and worksites should start to take actions to reduce the risk of transmission. Some of these actions are outlined below with resources available to assist.

If you require more information on hygiene, social distancing or other health and safety obligations please contact us, visit the Australian Department of Health website or Worksafe Queensland.

PREVENTING THE SPREAD OF COVID19 ON SITE SOCIAL DISTANCING AND HYGIENE

In line with health and safety obligations to prevent the spread of COVID 19, our business commits to practising good social distancing and providing good hygiene measures on our sites. Our business has adopted the following principals on this project:

PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING BY:

• Limiting access to the site to only essential workers involved in activity on the given day.

• Applying the 1 person per 4 square metre rule for tasks being undertaken in enclosed or internal spaces.

• Applying the 1.5m rule for tasks being undertaken in outdoor spaces.

• Limiting any external visitors or third parties (i.e. the client or an inspector) to be by exception and at a time when no-one else is on site (apart from a representative of our business).

MINIMISE NUMBERS OF PEOPLE ON SITE BY:

PROVIDE HYGIENE FACILITIES BY:

• Providing adequate cleaning products and facilities for all workers on site.

• Implementing regular handwashing schedules.

Regularly (at least daily) cleaning and disinfecting of any common areas/surfaces.

• Cleaning any shared tools/plant before and after each use.

• Providing PPE necessary for the work activity.

• Increasing ventilation for building sites where internal work is being undertaken.

KEEP EVERYONE UP TO DATE ON LATEST INFORMATION BY: • Conducting regular toolbox discussions whilst also applying social distancing principals.

• Sending regular emails and text messages with updates or changes.

• Providing signage about good hygiene and social distancing.

• Advising staff of any potential risk of virus i.e. someone has been diagnosed or has been in contact with the virus.

• Scheduling of trades for necessary tasks only, on any given day.

• Scheduling trades that will not need to work in close proximity – i.e working in designated areas away from each other.

• Staggering of start and finishing times for trades and workers.

• Staggering of meal breaks to avoid gatherings of larger numbers of people.

FOLLOW ISOLATION RULES BY:

FACILITATE CONTACTLESS DELIVERIES AND PAYMENT BY:

PROTECT OUR CUSTOMERS BY:

• Allowing payments to be made on invoice by direct debit, over the phone or contactless credit card.

• Only allowing the relevant person for a delivery to interact with the delivery driver while practising social distancing principals.– i.e. supervisor only interacts with the delivery driver.

• The delivery driver delivering supplies and leaving immediately after the transaction takes place to limit time on site.

• Not allowing persons who have been unwell, diagnosed or in contact with the virus on site until they have been cleared by a doctor and delivered a negative test.

• Enforcing the 14 day self- isolation policy for any persons returing from overseas or interstate.

• Enforcing self-isolation for any persons who have been in close contact with the virus.

• Confirming who will be at the premises before attending.

• Requesting confirmation that no one at the premises is unwell, been overseas recently, in quarantine or in self isolation.

• Not making physical contact with the customer (i.e. no shaking hands, providing contactless payment).

mbqld.com.au/coronavirus

THIS WORKSITE IS PREVENTING THE SPREAD OF COVID19 Our business is preventing the spread of COVID19 on this worksite by:  Practicing social distancing indoors and outdoors.  Minimising the numbers of people required on site.

ATTENTION YOU MUST READ BEFORE ENTERING THIS SITE In the last 14 days, have you or someone you have regular close contact with (such as family, friends,housemates and co-workers etc) been: • Displaying any of the following symptoms similar to the flu:

 Implementing good hygiene practices.

• Fever

 Ensuring workers who are unwell stay at home.

• Cough

 Only allowing necessary visitors to the site.

• Shortness of breath • Breathing difficulties

 Following the quarantine and self isolation rules if required.

• Exposed to a person who has tested positive to COVID-19

 Keeping up to date with information and changes to the Governments COVID19 requirements.

• Returned from overseas

PLEASE DO NOT ENTER THIS SITE WITHOUT AUTHORISATION PLEASE PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING AND DO NOT APPROACH OUR WORKERS

• Have had a test for COVID-19 without a negative outcome • Placed in quarantine.

IF YOU ANSWER YES TO ANY OF THE ABOVE PLEASE CONTACT NAME

PH

BEFORE ENTERING THE SITE

STOPPING THE SPREAD SIGN

PUBLIC WARNING SIGN

VISITOR ATTENTION SIGN

Use this to educate your workers on the guidelines.

Use this to reinforce to the public and workers on the measures you are taking.

Use this for sites without constant supervision of visitors and workers entering at the gate. Visitors can use this as a health self-assessment.

View the full scope of resources on mbqld.com.au/coronavirus

31 July

32 | Master Builder

SERVICES & ADVICE

Do you pay your employees an annualised salary?

I

f you’re paying your employees an annual wage, there are significant changes now in action and it’s imperative you’re aware and actioning them in your business.

It comes as the Fair Work Commission released their part-review of the Modern Awards. The result is several new practices for employers that came into action from 1 March. You may need to make amendments to your employee contracts and/or your current payroll practices.

What Modern Awards do the changes apply to?

Overall, there’s 23 Modern Awards impacted, this includes the Clerks Private Sector Award 2010 and the Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Awards 2010.

informed in writing of:

What should employers do?

•

Which provisions of the Award will be included in the annual salary payment

If you have not already, it would be advisable to:

•

How the annualised salary was calculated

•

•

The outer limit on the number of hours that have been included in the salary

Check to see if your business has employees under the affected Modern Awards

•

Number of excess hours that are not covered by the annual salary.

•

Become familiar with the changes

•

Employers are also required to keep records to demonstrate that, at all times, employees are adequately compensated by the annual wage, including:

Review any salary arrangements with respect to the new practice and requirements

•

Make necessary amendments to wage agreements if necessary

•

•

Implement a system of record keeping in order to meet the necessary requirements.

Why the reason for the change?

The changes are designed to ensure the employees receive at least the equivalent amount of the Award throughout the year.

What changes do I need to make?

Depending on the Modern Award that applies to your workforce, your employees must be

Annual calculations of what the employee would have received under the Award in comparison to the annual salary actually paid. Reconciliations should be performed annually

•

Timesheets or time records of employees start and finish times and any unpaid breaks taken

•

Records must be acknowledged or signed by employees as correct each pay or roster cycle.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR WOULD LIKE A HAND CALCULATING, OR REVIEWING YOUR EMPLOYEE’S ANNUALISED SALARY, WE’RE HERE FOR YOU. CONTACT THE MASTER BUILDERS WORKPLACE RELATIONS TEAM ON 1300 30 50 10.

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Master Builder | 33

SERVICES & ADVICE

Understanding duty of care and insurance risks when giving quotes and visiting sites

34 | Master Builder

SERVICES & ADVICE

N

egligence is essentially a failure to take reasonable care to avoid causing injury or loss to another person. It is based on person A owing a duty of care to person B, person A breaching that duty of care, and person B suffering a loss as a result of person A’s breach of that duty of care.

Under the law of negligence, a person can make a claim for damages up to six years after the cause of action arises for the loss suffered. However, as the loss may not arise for many years, the cause of action may arise many years after the building work is carried out.

For example, if a builder does not properly install windows in a residence and a storm occurs 10 years after the windows were installed and the window fixings fail, the cause of action is taken to arise at the time the wind exceeded the capacity of the window fixings, so a negligence claim can be made up to six years after the storm occurred.

It is important that all licensed contractors (trade or builder) understand that they owe a duty of care to their clients and any person associated with sites that the

contractor visits or works on. This duty of care is higher than the duty owed by the average person because the contractor has particular expertise in site safety, safety of structures, and matters relating to building work.

When carrying out building work, it is important to ensure that you always comply with workplace health and safety laws – both when carrying out the work and ensuring what you construct is safe and compliant. However, it is also important to understand that duty of care is owed to occupiers and visitors of sites that you visit to provide a quote or advice for example. The fact that you have not actually carried out any building work on that site is irrelevant.

When attending a site to provide a quote, it is extremely important that you understand that you have a duty of care to ensure that the site is safe, even if you do not carry out any work or even win the job. It also applies even if it is unrelated to the job you have been quoted on. That means if you identify any safety issues on site during your inspection, you must clearly explain to the owner that the existing structure or

site is not safe. You must also clearly explain what steps the owner should take to make the structure or site safe and that you take no responsibility for any consequences that flow if the owner decides not to take any action. If you do not do this, and there is an accident or someone is hurt, it is possible that you will be held liable or at least partially liable for the breach of your duty of care that caused, or contributed to, that accident or injury.

It is important to note that Construction Works Insurance only covers you if you actually carry out construction work; it will not cover you when you attend a site to provide a quote or advice.

Public and Products Liability along with Professional Indemnity Insurance may play their part in protecting you or your business when quoting on projects or recommending building work to clients.

TO DISCUSS HOW INSURANCE CAN ASSIST IN PROTECTING YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR INSURANCE TEAM ON 1300 13 13 26.

A DIVISION OF QUEENSLAND MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION. Australian Financial Services Licence No. 246834. Information contained herein is of a general nature and has not taken into account the particular insurance needs of any individual, business or person.

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© 2020

Master Builder | 35

MEMBERS CORNER

new villages on the horizon O

pportunities are on the horizon with four new Master Builders display villages in the pipeline.

Master Builders Display Villages Manager Greg Byrne said the association was currently exploring several village opportunities across SEQ in locations that included Caloundra and Woodhill.

“A wealth of research, member engagement and careful contemplation goes into any new display village opportunity we consider for our members,” Mr Byrne said.

premium waterfront homes on the canals of Caloundra, whilst Mahoney’s Pocket boasts beautiful acreage opportunities.

An additional two villages with a major land developer are close to being announced.

“We understand this is an incredibly trying and difficult climate for our builders across Queensland amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Pelican Waters will offer a handful of

“These Master Builders display villages are

The opportunities follow the success of Queensland’s biggest display village, Springfield Rise at Spring Mountain which opened in the second half of 2018. This was backed up by Master Builders Yarrabilba display village which opened in November, 2019. Both villages were delivered in combination with Lendlease.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, OR TO SECURE YOUR PLACE IN AN UPCOMING VILLAGE, CONTACT MASTER BUILDERS DISPLAY VILLAGE MANAGER GREG BYRNE AT GREG.BYRNE@MBQLD.COM.AU OR VISIT MBQLD.COM.AU/DISPLAYVILLAGES.

CR132370AB

Amongst the new villages includes pointof-difference villages Pelican Waters, by developer Pelican Waters at Caloundra and Mahoney’s Pocket, by QM Properties at Woodhill.

“But we also appreciate that now, more than ever, our members want to get on with the job at hand and keep our industry open and the work flowing. We know when the work picks up and a sense of normality returns to our communities, our members will want these opportunities. With this in mind, it’s imperative we’re continuing work behind the scenes to push on and deliver.

strictly member-only and we’re proud as punch to be delivering these opportunities for our members and the communities in these regions,” Mr Byrne said.

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MEMBERS CORNER

We'r e open

inspection by appointment

O

ur display villages remain open for business and complying with social distancing and hygiene rules, in line with the latest advice from the government.

Master Builders two current Queensland display villages, Springfield Rise at Spring Mountain and our newest display village, Yarrabilba at Yarrabilba are still open for inspections – by appointment.

Master Builders Deputy CEO, Paul Bidwell, said the association and industry had been quick to respond to the requirements, in a bid to keep the construction industry open for business.

“This is a great outcome for display village builders,” Mr Bidwell said.

“We’ve had a few questions more broadly on whether display homes – those not in Master Builders display villages – are able to stay open. The short answer is yes, but by inspection only.”

Mr Bidwell said the other questions coming from members pertained to customers being concerned they would be seen to be “shopping” – a non-essential activity under current COVID-19 restrictions - when picking out tiles, paint colours and personal preference items for their homes.

“At time of print, those undertaking renovation activity are still able to select tiles, paint colours and other personal preference parts of their build.

“The building and construction industry is an essential service; these activities fall within that service and your clients are still able to continue making these important selections for their homes.

“You don’t need to pull the plug on this kind of work – you currently have the choice and you’re well within your rights and government health guidelines to progress.”

Bidwell said the same applied for builders and tradespeople entering a client’s premises.

“Whether you’re in the midst of a building or renovation job, are starting discussions about work your client wants done, or are undertaking some urgent repair or maintenance work, you can assure your client they’re able to progress, have builders or tradies on their premises and be confident you are complying with the rules.”

“Providing the requirements are met, there is no limit to the number of workers you can have on site. For example, if a renovation requires four workers or trades, this is OK providing the right measures are in place.

“You might wish to consider social distancing measures that may include staggering work and schedules, to ensure you follow the rules.”

THIS IS A COMPLEX AND EVER-CHANGING TOPIC, IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS – OUR EXPERTS ARE HERE FOR YOU – CALL 1300 30 50 10.

Master Builder | 37

ADVERTISING FEATURE

ACRS certification of welded steel sections to AS/NZS 5131 Exploding the myths.

W

ith growing use of structural steels, it is understandable that misconceptions might arise about different types of certification, the role of product certification in particular, and comparative acceptability of steel and steelwork certified by different schemes applicable to structural steelwork construction.

ACRS is receiving an increasing number of inquiries about ACRS 2-stage certification system and its role in steel fabrication.

Here Philip Sanders, Executive Director of ACRS, explodes four dangerous myths recently encountered in the supply of structural steels and structural welded sections misstating ACRS certification to AS/NZS 5131, and which has resulted in unverified and nonconforming steels arriving on construction sites.

Myth 1: “ACRS only certifies steel mills, so I used other certification for the structural welded sections.”, or “I only use ACRS certified steels in fabricating my welded sections, so I don’t need ACRS Stage 2 certification.”

Fact: ACRS certifies both steel mills and the structural welded sections made from that steel to AS/NZS 5131 and other associated standards, and both certificates are required.

ACRS has issued certification for welded beams since 2012, and other fabricated welded sections (e.g. to AS/NZS 5131) since 2018, as part of a fully integrated, 2-stage system designed to ensure conforming steels are used in the as-built structure. You cannot do this by only certifying “at mill gate” (What ACRS calls “Stage 1”), as fabrication of welded sections may turn even ACRS Stage 1 certified steels into nonconforming steel. ACRS “Stage 2” certification of welded sections is therefore essential.

Any break in the ACRS “chain of certification” of Stage 1 and Stage 2 certification means the welded sections cannot claim reliance on ACRS certification, and breaching supply requirements if ACRS

certification is specified. (Note: ACRS Stage 2 certification is not required in general steelwork fabrication not involving structural welding. In that case, ACRS Stage 1 (mill) certification is valid on its own, as there is no change to metallurgical properties.)

Myth 2: “ACRS is not JAS-ANZ accredited to certify to AS/NZS 5131, so I used other certification to AS/NZS 5131.”, or “I’ve been given welded steel sections with other certification that’s equivalent to ACRS”.

Fact: ACRS is JAS-ANZ accredited to AS/NZS 5131. Also, different certification schemes assess to different scopes and levels of rigour. You need to verify any claim of “equivalence” very carefully and specifically accept the differences. So does the engineer and customer.

So, whist this myth looks like a valid technical reason which might seem persuasive at first sight – after all there are different means of certifying steel – the argument is false for two reasons.

Firstly, the ACRS Scheme was accredited by JAS-ANZ to AS/ NZS 5131 in January 2018 – the first scheme to be accredited, and AS/NZS 5131 is listed on the relevant ACRS certificates - all of which show the JAS-ANZ logo.

Secondly, providing any “thirdparty certification” (e.g. to ISO 9001) with supplier test certificates is not product certification, and is not independent verification of steel to any Standard. Also, whilst other schemes may certify to AS/NZS 5131, none do what ACRS does, nor does ACRS do what these schemes do, because AS/NZS 5131 is a unique standard covering the full range of structural steelwork supply from steel manufacture to delivery and erection. Just as the ACRS independent, expert, product verification scheme for welded sections does not replace broad-range, fabricator schemes, these in turn do not replace ACRS Stage 1 certification (steel mill) and ACRS Stage 2 certification (welded sections).

ACRS’ consumer-oriented scheme includes in both stages, independent sample selection,

testing, reporting, and verification of sites, processes, and products

by ACRS’ qualified, technical assessors, and independent review of every report by an expert panel.

Myth 3: “I can’t find ACRS certified steels (or, “ACRS steel is more expensive”). So, I used other steel the supplier said meets AS/NZS Standards.”

Fact: ACRS certified firms are reported to supply over 70% of structural steels supplied to AS/ NZS standards. So, ACRS certified materials are widely available.

ACRS issues 200 certificates, covering almost 300 sites, in 24 countries, and over 80 steel companies. ACRS certification includes local suppliers including Infrabuild and Bluescope, and premium overseas suppliers such as Nippon Steel, Posco, and Hyundai.

Additionally, ACRS certification does not increase the “cost” of steel supply; quality does. So, whilst you might find cheaper steel, will you accept steel that may be noncompliant?

Myth 4: “My project uses justin-time procurement. So, even though ACRS certification is in the specification, I have to take whatever steel I can get to keep the project moving.”

Fact: With ready availability of ACRS approved steels, there is no expected delay in supply.

JIT procurement offers many advantages. However, JIT is not an excuse to ignore the specification.

If the specification issued months ago requires ACRS certification, then looking to source steel only at very short notice is not meeting a reasonable duty of care. Putting steel procurement on the critical path and locking-in suppliers with a proven capacity to deliver ACRS certified steels is both a realistic option and a reasonable expectation – especially when, as noted above, most steel available locally is ACRS certified, and ACRS certification does not add to the cost of conforming steels.

For more details about ACRS Stage 2 certification of welded sections, contact ACRS at: info@steelcertification.com

THE ACRS DIFFERENCE ACRS Reinforcing Steel Chain of Certification Steel Maker

D-Bar/Coil D-Bar Manufacture (including Traceability)

Steel Reinforcing Cutting, Bending and Welding (including Traceability)

Casting Mill

Ancillary Products - e.g. couplers (including Traceability)

Rod Coil Manufacture

Rod Coil Manufacture

Wire Manufacture (including Traceability)

Prestress Wire & Strand Manufacture (including Traceability)

Trader, Distributor, Stockist

Mesh Manufacture (including Traceability)

Trader, Distributor, Stockist, Installer

Steel Reinforcing Cutting, Bending and Welding (including Traceability)

TRACEABILITY

TRACEABILITY

ACRS Structural Steel Chain of Certification Casting Mill

Steel Maker

Strip Manufacture

Rolled Plate, Floorplate & Slab Manufacture (including Traceability)

Structural Steel Bar and Section (including Traceability)

Hollow Section Manufacture (including Traceability)

Ancillary Products - e.g. bolts (including Traceability)

Welded Section Manufacture (including Traceability)

Fabricator, Trader, Distributor, Stockist

Fabricator, Trader, Distributor, Stockist TRACEABILITY

Fabricator, Trader, Distributor, Stockist TRACEABILITY

Fabricator, Trader, Distributor, Stockist TRACEABILITY

TRACEABILITY

Construction steels manufactured to AS/NZS Standards can be rendered non-conforming by poor transformation, e.g. through such processes as cutting, bending and welding.

Certification systems that only assess the mill of manufacture do not provide for validated performance to Standards of the as-delivered product.

ACRS' 2-stage steel certification scheme and the new ACRS traceability scheme have been developed to give you confidence in your steel supply.

For reinforcing steels, ACRS certifies BOTH the steel mill that manufactures the steel AND the steel reinforcement processor and mesh supplier, while for structural steels, ACRS certifies the steel mill that manufactures the steel, AND the welded section manufacturer, who must actively demonstrate traceability of their supply to and from the steel distributor.

Talk to us TODAY about how ACRS Certification gives you confidence in your steel supply.

www.steelcertification.com

Ph: (02) 9965 7216 | E: info@steelcertification.com ABN: 40 096 692 545

ACRS - Independent, Expert Third Party Certification & Verification of Reinforcing, Prestressing and Structural Steels for Compliance with Australian and New Zealand Standards

MACHINES THAT BUILD YOUR BUSINESS 1300 255 252

| allclass.com.au

MEMBERS CORNER

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WHATAPPEALEDTO YOU ABOUTTHIS PROFESSION? The ability to design and construct landscape projects from the ground up. Similar to farming in many aspects, landscaping and revegetation is all about caring for the land.

TELL US ABOUT ONE OF THE MOST MEMORABLE JOBS YOU'VE DONE? After 40 years in the industry and 34 years in business, I have been lucky enough to work on some wonderful projects. We've worked on residential gardens in inner-city Melbourne involving design and construct that utilised large quantities of natural stone and native plant species, as well as the construction of numerous large scale landscaping projects in North Queensland since 1993. These projects included landscaping works and sports fields at Riverway Stadium, numerous Lavarack Barracks projects including all landscaping works associated with 2RAR, 1RAR, 3rd Brigade. We also worked on the construction of the Elliot Springs landscape works involving all the streetscapes.

IS THERE SOMEONE WHO INSPIRES OR MENTORS YOU? My parents who instilled a strong work ethic, and my wife and kids who always bring me back to earth.

Scott Dobson AT WHAT AGE DID YOU START WORKING IN THE INDUSTRY? I commenced working in the industry in 1980.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? The huge variety of work we are able to undertake and always in different locations, and the enjoyment of working to better the environment.

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF FIVE YEARS FROM NOW? More than likely continuing to expand my current landscaping and nursery business.

WHAT IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU'VE BEEN GIVEN? In terms of business, always put the quality of your work and customer satisfaction first , everything else will follow.

WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST CHALLE NGING ABOUT YOUR JOB? The challenge in North Queensland is always working through the heat and humidity in the wet seas on and keeping all staff healthy and motivated.

Most recently in 2019, Y WORK AWARDS? HAVE YOU WON AN ddi Mooli Park at the construction of Wa & we won an award for Queensland Housing Master Builders North Elliot Springs at the s.

Construction Award Master Builder | 41

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escribed as the jewel in the crown of the region, the Yeppoon Lagoon is a $21 million project on the absolute oceanfront of Yeppoon.

Built by Woollam Constructions for the Livingstone Shire Council, the 2,500 sq m lagoon overlooks the Keppel Islands and is a free public facility for all to enjoy.

With a waterfall pool, kids play area, sunken wet lounge and adjoining dining facilities, it’s a much-loved drawcard for residents and tourists alike.

Woollam Constructions Rockhampton Regional Manager Clinton Bloomfield admitted from the outset it was a project they really wanted to be involved in.

“From the very beginning, the concept had all the makings of an iconic regional project, it was in our nature to make it a success,” he said.

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Being on the oceanfront with strict environmental, erosion and sediment controls to adhere to, Bloomfield said they knew they were up for a challenge.

“The location was at the end of the beach, so not only did we have an amazing 'office' view, we were lucky that public access wasn't an issue,” he said.

“Obviously, we barricaded the area off and had our designated driveways for deliveries and drop-offs and pickups, but we didn’t have to contend with a high-traffic area or site-access.”

“We did have lay down areas as the project progressed. First the pool was built, then we moved onto the building that wrapped around the pool. It was quite challenging to get scaffolding and materials up in place.”

If that was not a big enough task for

MEMBERS CORNER

90 per cent of the workforce were local builders and trades

the Woollam crew, the elements had their own plans for the build and threw a few curve balls by way of inclement weather.

With the iconic jewel now complete

“On the surface of it, it was a challenging build. The architectural nature of it and all the curves and design elements. But that’s what we do and thrive on,” he said.

Central Queensland region.

“And then there was rain delays, we pumped the pool out at least three or four times.

“There was definitely challenging delays and set-backs of that nature.”

But it was nothing the 100 plus on-site crew weren’t used to, Bloomfield proudly noting 90 per cent of their workforce were local builders and trades.

“We’re always big on that, you’ve got to try and support the communities you’re in,” he said.

and perched in pride of place on the promenade, Bloomfield said it was one of their most significant projects in the Woollam Constructions took a top gong for the build, winning best Community Service Facilities at the 2019 Queensland Housing & Construction Awards for the Yeppoon Lagoon.

The company is now working on other significant projects in the region including building the $30 million Rockhampton Art Gallery, the $28 million Gladstone Hospital Emergency Department upgrade and the $5 million refurb of the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame & Outback Heritage Centre in Longreach.

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Zielke is changing

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undaberg builder Jesse Zielke is the feel-good story we all need right now.

Here we talk to Zielke about wanting to throw your hands in the air, or chuck in the towel but instead pushing on because your livelihood depends on it and you have no other choice but to keep going.

Identifying a gap in the Bundaberg disability housing market, Zielke, owner of JRZ Homes, took a deep dive into research on the topic.

“It would have been around late 2017, I personally had family and friends that were affected by disability,” Zielke said.

“I was reading about the NDIS and all the great things it was doing for the most vulnerable people in our society. I looked at 48 | Master Builder

opportunities within the building industry for people with disabilities to see what I could possibly do.”

in this sector. Most agencies will just manage the property but contract out the building work. We do both.”

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an Australian government initiative that funds, or subsidises costs associated with disability. The scheme came into action in 2013 and is anticipated to be operational nationally by 2020.

“I set up another business – Liveable Homes Australia - to focus on home modifications and speciality disability accommodation.

Both of them are supports which are funded by the NDIS.”

“It took a lot of time and research and it wasn’t until around late 2018 that things really started to get rolling,” Zielke said.

“At the start, I thought I’d have to be registered with the NDIS to build the homes but that’s not the case. We are essentially property managers for the NDIS but we also build privately funded homes – that’s unique

In 2019, Zielke’s team built their first Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) home in Bundaberg.

“Unfortunately, at the time, there was a big delay by the agency in getting people approved for the funding required to move into the homes,” he said.

“At this stage, nothing was getting approved,

MEMBERS CORNER

As soon as I handed over that first house, the happiness was overwhelming honestly, I had the house sitting there with no-one in it and I thought, 'Oh my gosh what have I done?'.

“I was shattered. We’d worked through every single piece of red tape to get it over the line and there it sat – empty.”

In the months that followed, local media got wind of the story and interviewed Zielke about the build.

“It was on 7 NEWS and it just went absolutely crazy – we honestly couldn’t believe it I was contacted by people from all around the country and then not long after that, we got two ladies approved for the home," he said.

“One of them was living in unsuitable accommodation, the other in a nursing home.”

Zielke said the feeling of seeing people move into the home is something he’ll never forget.

strong relationships with disability support

“As soon as I handed over that first house, the happiness was overwhelming. The support workers were in tears, the families were in tears – we all were. All for getting a home that most of us would take for granted,” he said.

his company builds custom built homes

“In the months and even years of research prior, I was nearly going to give up so many times, but honestly, I’d gone too far and I’d invested too much time and money.

construct the housing to suit their needs," he

“But this moment made up for every roadblock, it was incredible. And with that feeling, I knew I was pushing on, it made it all worthwhile, it really did.”

their support workers. It’s all in the budget

Since that time, Zielke has developed

that very reason, it’s heavily tested.”

agencies and instead of building spec homes, specifically for the needs of the people who will live in them.

“We concentrate on identifying people who require housing, and we then design and said.

“It might consist of assisted technology, allied health and also their day-to-day care from they get as part of the NDIS plan.

“The key takeaway is, it becomes their forever home and they get it for their lifetime. But for Master Builder | 49

MEMBERS CORNER

Ian Weigh Toyota's rich history in region IAN WEIGH TOYOTA WAS OFFICIALLY OPENED ON 28 SEPTEMBER 1992, HOWEVER THE CURRENT SITE OF THE DEALERSHIP IS STEEPED IN TOYOTA HISTORY. Originally known as Rockhampton Car Sales and owned by the Jamieson family, the dealership was awarded one of the first Toyota franchises in Australia in 1956. Later it was known as Rockhampton Toyota before a partnership between Bill Weigh and his son Ian was formed and the beginning of Ian Weigh Toyota was created.

Over the ensuing years the team at Ian Weigh Toyota has achieved great things in business.

Awarded many accolades for their efforts and achieved milestones. By 2002, the dealership was inducted into the National Rural Top 20 Club and has held its position year on year, plus earning the prestigious Presidents Award for Excellence.

EXPANSION TO THE CAPRICORN COAST May of 2002 saw the opening of a fully operational branch in Yeppoon. This branch has a staffing of around 20 employees and

services the Capricorn Coast Community.

Situated just 40 minutes from Rockhampton, this coastal outlet complements the main dealership and offers its coastal clients an opportunity to purchase and have their vehicles serviced closer to home.

EXPANSIONS TO THE MOTHER SHIP Ian Weigh looked for ways to improve his dealership's presence within the wider Capricornia Region. In 2004, he embarked on a multi-million dollar expansion of the Rockhampton dealership. It was the building

project of 2004 that saw the Ian Weigh Toyota Dealership in Rockhampton make its mark on the Rockhampton CBD skyline. The building project was awarded the Master Builders, 2005 Queensland Retail Facility up to $2 million and Central Queensland Project of the Year. In 2019 the building was given a facelift with the extension of the service areas and the addition of the Lexus showroom.

For further information, call Ian Weigh Toyota Rockhampton on (07) 4924 5200.

sean roberts joins the fold at mcinnes wilson SEAN ROBERTS RECENTLY JOINED THE CONSTRUCTION & INFRASTRUCTURE TEAM AT MCINNES WILSON LAWYERS AS A SENIOR ASSOCIATE. Sean has been admitted as a solicitor in Queensland since 2008, and practiced in the area of building and construction for eight years. He has experience in banking and finance, and property and real estate law.

Sean has worked on a variety of building matters throughout his career ranging from adjudication of payment claims and payment schedules under security of payments legislation, to proceedings before Tribunals and Courts across multiple jurisdictions about commercial disputes and licencing issues.

Beyond this, he has experience advising on, and preparing, small, medium and large building contracts.

Since 2010, Sean has worked extensively with Master Builders members from Cairns to the Gold Coast.

During this time, he has focused on providing 50 | Master Builder

its members with quality, practical advice.

Given the nature of the building and construction industry, Sean recognises that a ‘one size fits all’ approach is not always appropriate and therefore offers solutions tailored to the individual needs of each of his clients.

Sean is aware of the importance of the building and construction industry, and the significant contribution it makes to the Queensland economy.

Although there will be challenges over the short-to-medium term, he looks forward to working with Master Builder members to overcome these.

For more information about the services McInnes Wilson Lawyers can provide for your business, or to work directly with Sean Robert, contact (07) 3231 0600.

MEMBERS CORNER

Your Construction Industry Specialists THE GRANT THORNTON TEAM HAS A BROAD RANGE OF EXPERIENCE ACROSS THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR, WITH DEDICATED INDUSTRY SPECIALISTS IN ALL AREAS OF TAX, AUDIT, ADVISORY AND ASSURANCE SERVICES. Drawing on their industry expertise, they will work with you to successfully anticipate and navigate this challenging time. They can help to structure, scenario plan, manage costs and manage compliance risks.

Manage risk and regulation • Anti-money laundering (AML) services • Fraud strategy • Forensics • IT security review and strategies • Sustainability • Governance • Risk review and strategy • Control reviews • Internal audit • Whistle-blower services • Safe Harbour advisory Optimise operations • Profit/performance improvement • Operational restructuring

Grant Thornton Cairns Partners and Directors is made up of, Anthony Beven, Cathy Devietti, Tony Jonsson, Gerry Mier, Matt Mullen, Helen Wilkes, Olivia Van Wensveen, Graham Coonan, Joe Mendiolea, Shona Cram, Andrew Cornes and Robert Ince (pictured).

• • • • • • • • •

Portfolio benchmarking and review Outsourcing Interim management solutions Tax structuring: local and international Project management cycle reviews Efficiency/best use reviews Technology solutions Payments solutions Fleet optimization

Finance growth • Capex cost/benefit analysis • Solvency advice

• Financial restructuring • Viability review • Mortgages and joint ventures • Fundraising for sale and leaseback • Asset management • Valuation services • Cross-border investment support • Alternative finance strategies • Introduction to banks and financiers For more info, contact (07) 4046 8888, or visit grantthornton.com.au.

N E E D A CO N C R E T E P O O L S H E L L? Call us and let us do the hard work for you!

Wholesale Pool Shells is a specialist subcontractor to the swimming pool and building industries.

We offer pool shells which include engineering, certification, excavation, reinforcing, concrete and plumbing. We offer fixed prices and two day construction time in most cases, with a network of other licensed pool trades available to you. We can also have excavators, bobcats, tip trucks and concrete pumps available for hire.

Concrete Spraying Specialists Pty Ltd t/a

WHOLESALE POOL SHELLS BSA License 1172793

~ Contact us now for a quote on your next project ~ Tel: 3208 9099 | Email: sales@wholesalepoolshells.com.au Master Builder | 51

deal

We give you access to exclusive deals, discounts and special offers that can save you money on the things you need to operate your

LE

AS A BUSINESS OWNER, YOUR DAY-TO-DAY EXPENSES AND PROJECT RUNNING COSTS CAN QUICKLY ADD UP. AT MASTER BUILDERS WE’RE HERE TO SUPPORT YOU, SO WE’VE TEAMED UP WITH SOME INDUSTRY PARTNERS TO HELP YOUR DOLLARS GO FURTHER.

AT D E A AVA I L A

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business effectively. But, life isn’t about all work and no play, which is why we've got your holidays and lifestyle covered for you too.

Our range of member discount providers have been sourced across different categories to meet your diverse needs. Categories include vehicle and fleet, advertising and marketing, health and safety, travel and lifestyle, tools and equipment, and products.

HAVE YOU GOT STARCARD? Apart from making your life easier by consolidating all your on-road expenses in the one place, StarCard provides your driver using your fleet with access to the largest fuel network in Australia.

This gives you the confidence of knowing the drivers and vehicles in your fleet are never far away from the quality fuels, products, services and facilities you need to achieve maximum efficiency.

For more information visit mbqld.com.au/Caltex

TOTALLY WORKWEAR Master Builders’ members get a minimum 15 per cent discount on the range at Totally Workwear. As Australia’s largest network of service providers in workwear, corporate wear and safety gear, Totally Workwear are backed by Australia’s best buying power to ensure value and quality.

Want the deal? Present your Master Builders membership card along with a copy of your driver’s licence in store (unless listed as an excluded store).

For more information visit mbqld.com.au/totallyworkwear

NISSAN Master Builders members receive exclusive Nissan benefits, including Nissan Partner Program pricing, three years or 100,000km warranty with the option to extend, 24-hour Roadside Assistance for three years along with access to myNissan Service certainty.

To access these benefits, simply take the Nissan Partner Program form to your preferred Nissan Dealer along with your Master Builders membership card, proof of employment or letter of eligibility from Master Builders Queensland. You’ll also need to present your driver’s licence.

For more information, or to utilise this deal visit mbqld.com.au/Nissan

These are just some of the great deals available to Master Builders members. For a full list of discounts and special offers, visit mbqld.com.au/member-discounts

MEMBER DISCOUNT PROVIDERS

BMW, Beaurepaires, BUPA, Caltex, The Courier-Mail, Departure Lounge, Isuzu, Mini, Mitsubishi Motors, MyConstruct, Nissan, Officeworks, St John Ambulance, Telstra, Thrifty, Totally Workwear, Toyota, Xact Accounting.

52 | Master Builder

Keep building going WITH THOUSANDS OF JOB LOSSES AND A SIGNIFICANT REDUCTION IN BUILDING ACTIVITY ON THE HORIZON, SWIFT AND DECISIVE ACTION IS NEEDED WITH IMMEDIATE AND FAST-TRACKED STIMULUS MEASURES THAT GENERATE DEMAND AND CONFIDENCE AND IMMEDIATELY KICK-START BUILDING ACTIVITY. The building industry faces a looming crisis that will impact us beyond the immediate effect of COVID-19 lockdowns and directives. While the restrictions have been felt by the industry, the true impact is yet to be known; but this could be mitigated with swift and decisive action from the Queensland Government.

LET’S GET CREATIVE WITH STIMULUS

In Queensland, builders and tradies are set to run out of new work in the next few months if nothing is done.

Increase the size of the First Home Owners’ Grant and expanding its eligibility to include anyone ready to build a new home.

While the building industry has been fortunate to remain open, a lack of confidence is creeping in, with the state of building activity before COVID-19 even hit the real concern.

Queensland building activity dropped 26.5 per cent during 2019, to 31,100 commencements, and many businesses were already struggling on the back of a slow 2019.

If nothing is done, the job losses and impact on small business will send catastrophic waves through the community, particularly in the face of the job losses already seen in hospitality and retail.

To safeguard thousands of jobs and small businesses, we’re calling on the Queensland Government to supercharge and fast-track their stimulus measures even further.

THIS SITUATION IS DANGEROUS. AT RISK IS THE VIABILITY OF NEARLY 78,000 BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION BUSINESSES, THE JOBS OF 247,000 QUEENSLANDERS AND THE INDUSTRY’S CAPACITY TO AID THE ECONOMIC RECOVERY. Grant Galvin, Master Builders Queensland CEO

New look grant for new home builds

Home renovation funding programs Bring back the Household Resilience Program to create work for the residential renovation sector and deliver long-term benefits for the community. The program (which ran from July 2018 – November 2019) was a resounding success in improving the resilience of 1,748 homes in cyclone-impacted regions from Bundaberg to Cairns, as well as delivering significant insurance benefit to homeowners.

Bring forward public spending Increase government capital expenditure on public buildings, with the initial focus on refurbishments and maintenance to get the projects moving quickly. And accelerate spending on existing budgeted projects.

These measures will help bring back confidence for consumers and businesses and turn the tide on the current wave of contract and tender cancellations or withdrawals. The government faces an enormous challenge, but these stimulus measures cannot wait.

mbqld.com.au

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Save time and money with advanced cladding technology

T

he new generation of Magnesium Oxide cladding is set to save on material and labour costs while offering peace of mind to property owners in maximum Bush fire conditions BAL FZ.

For many trades in the building and construction industry, the change from plasterboard and CFC cannot come quickly enough. Citing deficiencies in exterior weather protection to the multiple layers required for some fire walls, costs can additionally blow-out, with many of these materials requiring expensive and specialised tools for application and installation.

The new 2nd generation of Magnesium Oxide cladding (MgSO4) and sheeting by FireCrunch is the answer to most forms of internal and external cladding.

It is lightweight, can be used on a variety of framing in steel or timber surfaces, is installed easily requiring less labour and can also be used as a fire wall offering a total fire block.

While the earlier types of regular MgO board were effective protection from fire, they had a poor surface finish and a tendency to absorb moisture if not properly sealed.

Through new technology, FireCrunch has achieved high loadbearing (55kN) AT FRL 90/90/90 CSIRO- tested and compliant, verified fire-proof building products, while offering high-quality, double-slurry surfaces and giving a first-class finish.

It can be used as underlay flooring, tile backers, shower base and once primer- sealed can be painted with normal water- based paints, texture paints or renders.

With costs as low as $18.00 per sqm, MgSO4 offers top fire rating from NATA, CSIRO and Resolute Labs. MgSO4 cladding will handle up to FRL 90/90/90 (NATA Labs tested) with a single sheet each

side of a 90mm cavity frame.

MgSO4 cladding will handle up to FRL 90/90/90 (NATA Labs tested) with a single 10mm sheet each side of a 90mm cavity frame.

It has endured real-time bush fire simulation tests and full-scale furnace tests at 1000.

MgSO4 is regularly nominated by architects, specifiers and QS/ surveyors, and fire engineers and certifiers.

The board contributes 95% less Co2 than plasterboard. It eliminates the destruction of millions of trees to make paper lined plasterboard and so is more planer friendly The material is suitable for fire separation walls in high-rise residential and commercial construction and for bushfire BAL FZ and flood-prone areas and available to clients Australia-wide.

Further information from Firecrunch Australasia PL 1300 933 102 or support@firecrunch.com.au NATA LABS FIRE TESTED PRODUCTS BCA, ABCB, NCC

WHAT'S ON

HOUSING & CONSTRUCTION AWARDS 2020

MASTER BUILDERS CEO, GRANT GALVIN In the current climate of uncertainty, it’s never been more important to recognise and celebrate excellence. It’s time to create some much-needed positivity and champion our great industry across Queensland.

With this in mind, we’re forging ahead with the 2020 Housing & Construction Awards – it will just look a little different this year.

Both the regional awards and the Queensland Awards will go ahead, so it’s your time to shine.

Entries are now open and I encourage you to get at least one entry into the awards, it’s a

56 | Master Builder

simple and pain free online process. Plus, if you have any questions or would like a little assistance in getting your entry over the line, our dedicated awards team are just a phone call or an email away and can walk you through the process.

There’s a category for every build, plus individual categories too, and as the old saying goes, ‘You’ve got to be in it to win it’. If you’ve built something you’re proud of, get the recognition and morale boost you and your teams deserve.

The Housing & Construction Awards program

is a terrific way to get yourself and your business our there with fantastic media and hype around the awards.

If you’re already submitted your entry, well done. If you’re yet to submit your award, don’t delay. The clock is ticking but there’s still time to get your entry into the awards.

Grant Galvin, CEO

WHAT'S ON

EXTENDED ENTRY CLOSING DATES REGION

ENTRY CLOSING DATE

Brisbane

Friday, 15 May 2020

Downs & WesternÂ

Friday, 22 May 2020

Gold Coast

Friday, 29 May 2020

Wide Bay Burnett

Friday, 29 May 2020

Sunshine Coast

Friday, 29 May 2020

Central Queensland

Friday, 5 June 2020

Mackay & Whitsunday

Friday, 5 June 2020

North Queensland

Friday, 12 June 2020

Far North Queensland

Friday, 12 June 2020

Queensland

N/A

Got a budding Master Builder at home with time on their hands?

Have we got a building challenge for them!

Two winning entries will win a $50 Kmart voucher*

Using our plan or their very own building design, they can bring the project to life with Lego or another building material, plus creativity and imagination.

*T&Cs apply

THEIR TASK: BUILD THEIR VERY OWN LEGO HOUSE AND ENTER OUR COMPETITION

Send us a photo of their entry and we'll give them a shout out on social media.

For all the details, go to mbqld.com.au/buddingbuilder Master Builder | 57

WHAT'S ON

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Whether it’s the go-to finance essentials you’re looking for, a how-to on completing residential building contracts or contract administration, these are the tools to change the way you do business, for the better.

CALL 1300 13 60 02 TO CHECK YOUR ELIGIBILITY AND TO ENROL.

FINANCIAL ESSENTIALS Get equipped in cash flow management, work-in-progress, basic bookkeeping, accounts payable and receivable, basic P&L management and forecasting, plus payment terms.

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING CONTRACTS Learn how to correctly complete Residential Building Contracts. Understand the legal obligations of completing and administering them.

CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION Get contract savvy fast. Learn contract term meanings, legislative restrictions, how to deal with various types of disputes, project delays, contact breaches and more.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA OF PARTICIPANTS Must be owner or employee (must be directly involved in the day to day running of the business) of small business. Small business is defined as less than 20 employees in the building and construction industry.

CSQ FUNDING FOR SMALL BUSINESSES NOW AVAILABLE^ ^Subject to funding availability, and eligibility criteria applies – enrolling student must be a

small business owner or employee (directly involved in the day-to-day running of the business).

62 | Master Builder

TO

ARE YOU A BUILDER, SUBBIE OR WORK IN ADMINISTRATION AND WANT TO UP-LEVEL YOUR SKILLS? YOU NEED TO SECURE YOUR PLACE IN THIS VITAL TRAINING TO BETTER YOUR LIFE AND YOUR BUSINESS.

NOW

business

THE TIM E

small

'S

UPCOMING COURSES

July

June

May

MONTH

WHAT'S ON Call us on 1300 13 60 02 or visit mbqld.com.au/training for more information

LIVESTREAM interactive COURSE WHY APPLY

DATES & TIMES

Asbestos Awareness

Understand your legal obligations around removing 20 May (8am – 12noon) non-friable asbestos

BIF Chapter 3: Adjudication Applications & Responses

Reduce expensive legal costs: learn how to write an 20 May (9am – 1pm) or adjudication application or response 26 May (9am – 1pm)

BIF Chapter 3: Payment Claims & Schedules

Learn about protecting your right to payment and avoiding hefty fines

29 May (9am – 1pm)

Business Management for Trade Contractors 1 Day Accelerated Course*

Apply for your trade contractors licence

23 May (7am – 5pm)

Completed Residential Builder Inspector Course

Learn how to undertake residential building inspections

22-23 May (8am – 4.30pm both days)

Residential Building Contracts

Learn how to correctly complete residential building contracts

28 May (8am – 2pm)

Silica Awareness Workshop

Understand the health impacts of silica dust and the fit testing requirements

28 May (8am – 12noon)

BIF Chapter 3: Adjudication Applications & Responses

Reduce expensive legal costs: learn how to write an 1 Jun (1 - 5pm) or adjudication application or response 18 Jun (9am - 1pm)

BIF Chapter 3: Payment Claims & Schedules

Learn about protecting your right to payment and avoiding hefty fines

2 Jun (9am - 1pm), 10 Jun (12 - 4pm), 16 Jun (9am - 1pm) or 25 Jun (12 - 4pm)

BIF Chapter 2: Project Bank Accounts

Avoid serious consequences including fines and imprisonment: learn what you need to do to comply

3 Jun (9am – 1pm) or 23 Jun (9am – 1pm)

Business Management for Trade Contractors 1 Day Accelerated Course*

Apply for your trade contractors licence

26 Jun (7am – 5pm)

Contract Administration (small business)

Learn the ins and outs of contracts including contract term meanings and legislative restrictions, dispute scenarios, project delays and more.

12 Jun (8am – 4pm) or 17 Jun (8am – 4pm)

Financial Essentials (small business)

Learn cash flow management, basic bookkeeping, account payable and receivable and more

8 Jun (8am – 4pm), 15 Jun (8am – 4pm) or 19 Jun (8am – 4pm)

Silica Awareness Workshop

Understand the health impacts of silica dust and the fit testing requirements

25 Jun (8am – 12noon)

BIF Chapter 3: Adjudication Applications & Responses

Reduce expensive legal costs: learn how to write an 21 Jul (9am – 1pm) or adjudication application or response 29 Jul (9am – 1pm)

BIF Chapter 3: Payment Claims & Schedules

Learn about protecting your right to payment and avoiding hefty fines

14 Jul (9am – 1pm) or 23 Jul (1 – 5pm)

BIF Chapter 2: Project Bank Accounts

Avoid serious consequences including fines and imprisonment: learn what you need to do to comply

16 Jul (1 – 5pm) or 27 Jul (1 – 5 pm)

Contract Administration (small business)

Learn the ins and outs of contracts including contract term meanings and legislative restrictions, dispute scenarios, project delays and more.

1 Jul (8am – 4pm) or 24 Jul (8am – 4pm)

Can’t find a date or course you’re looking for?

Due to the changing times with COVID-19, courses dates may change or new dates added after the publication of our magazine, so contact our training team on 1300 13 60 02 or visit mbqld.com.au/training *Nationally Accredited Courses

Master Builder | 63

WHAT'S ON

M ay

ONLINE EVENT

ONLINE EVENT

ONLINE EVENT

COMMERCIAL BUILDERS FORUM

SUBCONTRACTOR FORUM

COMMERCIAL BUILDERS FORUM

SUNSHINE COAST TUESDAY 19

ONLINE EVENT

SUNSHINE COAST

THURSDAY 21

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HOUSING & CONSTRUCTION AWARDS

GOLD COAST

FRIDAY 31

GOLD COAST

FRIDAY 22

ONLINE EVENT

ONLINE EVENT

HOUSING & CONSTRUCTION AWARDS

HOUSING & CONSTRUCTION AWARDS

WIDE BAY BURNETT THURSDAY 6

SUNSHINE COAST FRIDAY 7

COMMERCIAL BUILDERS FORUM

LOCAL INFO SESSION

SUB-CONTRACTORS FORUM

Get updated on industrial relations, workplace health and safety and other issues impacting the commercial sector. It's all covered at our specially-tailored, Master Builders Commercial Builders Forum.

Local Info Sessions are a local version of the Industry Info Session events. These sessions provide an opportunity for the regional office to address local activities in the industry - get the latest information you need for your business.

Subcontractors, this is your opportunity to be updated on industrial relations, workplace health and safety, and other key issues affecting the commercial sector

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64 | Master Builder

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Coronavirus update:

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Social FUN We've made some necessary adjustments to our scheduled events and training following the latest government advice. We're doing things a little differently (such as livestreaming events, webinars and training courses) – and we’ll continue to monitor the advice and keep you posted as things change.

Check your inbox for invitations to our latest livestreamed events, webinars and training courses.

WHAT'S ON

July

ONLINE EVENT

ONLINE EVENT

HOUSING & CONSTRUCTION AWARDS

HOUSING & CONSTRUCTION AWARDS

BRISBANE

DOWNS & WESTERN

FRIDAY 17

FRIDAY 24

ONLINE EVENT

ONLINE EVENT

ONLINE EVENT

ONLINE EVENT

HOUSING & CONSTRUCTION AWARDS

HOUSING & CONSTRUCTION AWARDS

HOUSING & CONSTRUCTION AWARDS

HOUSING & CONSTRUCTION AWARDS

CENTRAL QUEENSLAND THURSDAY 13

MACKAY WHITSUNDAY FRIDAY 14

HOUSING & CONSTRUCTION AWARDS Never was there a time we needed some positivity more than now and the Housing & Construction Awards are here for you. The Awards celebrate the achievements and efforts of all those in working in the building and

NORTH QUEENSLAND

FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND

THURSDAY 20

construction industry. The Awards events will reveal the prestigious winners of our annual regional and state awards program.

INFLUENCERS (WOMEN IN BUILDING) Join us for our Influencers (Women in Building) workshops. These events are tailored specifically

FRIDAY 21

to the needs of women involved in the building and construction industry. Network in a relaxed environment and increase your knowledge within the industry.

Master Builder | 65

HR MADE

EASIER! Master Builders HR Toolkit ▶ Complete HR resource ▶ 90 easy-to-use templates and documents ▶ Customise with your logo

ORDER YOURS ONLINE TODAY! Exclusive Master Builders member-only offer

▶ 12 months free updates if HR legislation changes ▶ Available electronically on USB

$ inc GST+ shipping (express post)

Visit mbqld.com.au/hrtoolkit

Brisbane’s leading Steel Fabrication Company We create custom solutions for your project from conception to completion. Whatever your structural steel needs, BridgeFab has the equipment and skills to help you achieve your goals, from shopping centre extensions to large architectural University building constructions.

We prioritise your project to make sure it is delivered on time and to budget.

Master Builders office locations BRISBANE 417 Wickham Terrace, Brisbane, Qld 4000

T: (07) 3225 6444 ask@mbqld.com.au GOLD COAST 18 Central Park Avenue, Ashmore, Qld 4214

T: (07) 5582 7100 gc@mbqld.com.au DOWNS & WESTERN 166 Hume Street, Toowoomba, Qld 4350

T: (07) 4659 4200 dw@mbqld.com.au SUNSHINE COAST Level 1, 91 King Street, Buderim, Qld 4556

T: (07) 5456 9800 ssc@mbqld.com.au

Digitize your site in 3D starting from $990.

Our 3D technology gives you the insight into a job site that manual drawings never could. Find out how we can help to revolutionise your next project!

Lower your costs and deliver better results, all within shorter timeframes.

WIDE BAY BURNETT 162 Boat Harbour Drive, Hervey Bay, Qld 4655

T: (07) 4303 2400 wbb@mbqld.com.au CENTRAL QUEENSLAND 35 Derby Street, Rockhampton, Qld 4700

T: (07) 4923 1900 cq@mbqld.com.au MACKAY & WHITSUNDAY Suite 2, 40 Evans Avenue, North Mackay, Qld 4740

T: (07) 4969 4500 mw@mbqld.com.au NORTH QUEENSLAND Unit 1, 316 Sturt Street,Townsville, Qld 4810

T: (07) 4417 1800 nq@mbqld.com.au

P: (07) 3373 8777 E: estimator@bridgefab.com.au W: bridgefab.com.au

FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND 310–314 Gatton Street, Manunda, Qld 4870

T: (07) 4042 8800 fnq@mbqld.com.au

The ultimate ar builders and tra Master Builders Platinum Protection

is an insurance policy designed by Master Builders to give high-quality protection to your business.  Construction Works  Tools, plant and equipment  Public and Product Liability

Don’t be fooled.

Not all insurance is truly Platinum.

The danger is in the detail – and if you don’t ask your broker or insurer the right questions you might have some big holes in your policy leaving you exposed.

Our job is to make sure you have the right cover, with competitive terms, so you can get on with the job at hand.

Curious to know how your current insurance levels up?

Don’t wait until you fall through the cracks. Give our expert team a call for a no obligation chat.

Insurance that truly has your back.

Call 1300 13 13 26

Email insurance@mbqld.com.au

rmour for adies.

A DIVISION OF QUEENSLAND MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION. Australian Financial Services Licence No. 246834. Information contained herein is of a general nature and has not taken into account the particular insurance needs of any individual, business or person. *Terms and conditions apply.

QUALITY GUARANTEED When you get your reo from one of these suppliers:

Over 140,000 tonnes of steel reinforcement is supplied in our market each year from unknown origins.

This steel may, or may not, conform to Australian Standards.

We make it easy for you to know for sure.

The Steel Reinforcement Institute of Australia requires all members to hold a current JAS-ANZ accredited 3rd party processor certificate that proves their bar and mesh conforms to AS/NZS 4671.

DON’T TAKE THE RISK.

GET YOUR REO FROM AN APPROVED SRIA MEMBER.

sria.com.au