Master Builder magazine – June-July 2016

MASTER

Renovation & design trends to keep on top of NATIONAL CONSTRUCTION CODE the changes you need to know

June/July 2016

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VOLUME 54 NUMBER 6

32

16 14

29 24

PUBLISHED BY MASTER BUILDERS QUEENSLAND 417 Wickham Terrace, Brisbane Queensland 4000 Phone: 3225 6444 Fax: 3225 6545 Email: ask@mbqld.com.au mbqld.com.au Editor: Christine Buzzard editorial@mbqld.com.au Graphic Design: Keira Samuel keira.samuel@mbqld.com.au Advertising: APN Regional Newspapers, Brooke Gardner, brooke.gardner@apn.com.au, (07) 4690 9309 or 0407 406 518 Print and Distribution: Australian Regional Media Master Builder is the official magazine of Master Builders Queensland. As the go-to peak industry association, Master Builders represents the interests of the building and construction industry in Queensland.

All advertising and editorial adheres to the Master Builders Advertising & Editorial Policy, found at mbqld.com.au Privacy: Master Builders Queensland has adopted the Australian Privacy Principles published by the office of the Australian Information Commissioner and operates in accordance with those principles. A copy of Master Builders privacy policy can be found at mbqld.com.au.

Disclaimer: Any advice or information included in the publication is given in good faith, but strictly on the understanding that neither Master Builders nor the Editor or any other person or organisation contributing to the publication are to incur any responsibility or legal liability whatsoever (including liability for negligence) should the advice or information be incorrect, incomplete, inappropriate or in any other way defective and all liability is therefore disclaimed.

Articles published in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of Master Builders, its officers and staff. © This publication is copyright. No part of it may be reproduced, copied, stored on a computer, published, broadcast, rewritten for broadcast or publication, or redistributed directly or indirectly in any medium without prior permission from the Master Builders Queensland.

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Contents

52 48

News 18–20 Reports & statistics 22–23 Housing & Construction Awards 24–27 Renovation feature 28–29 Tradies corner 30–35 Building & planning 36 Contracts & disputes 37–39 Laws, codes & regulations 40–41 Employment & wages 42–45 Health, safety & environment 46–47 Insurance 48–49 Projects 50–51 Regional profile 52 Members 53 Community projects 54–55 Training & licensing 56 Superannuation 57–61 Member benefits & events 62 – 63 People & events 14–16

60

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Opinion

Display villages Mid-year wrap-up steam ahead with Nick Herron, President

with Grant Galvin, Executive Director

If you don’t have a direct connection with Master Builders’ display villages, you’ve possibly heard the ads on the radio or perhaps you’ve even visited one.

The middle of the year is a great time to take stock of where we’ve been and where we’re going for the rest of 2016.

Master Builders has been operating display villages for more than 15 years and we are now in a growth phase that has seen display villages expand across south east Queensland into the Gold and Sunshine Coasts.

This year we hit the ground running with a number of new projects, including a state-wide television and advertising campaign which has received wide-spread acclaim, and was designed to appeal to consumers through prime-time television, print and online mediums.

We currently operate five display villages – Coomera Retreat (Gold Coast), Esperance (Redlands), Freshwater Estate (Griffin), Jimboomba Woods (Jimboomba) and Springfield Lakes (Springfield Lakes). And in the next two months we will welcome three more – Parklakes (Sunshine Coast), Yarrabilba (Logan) and Pacific Cove (Gold Coast).

Combined, these eight display villages will showcase a phenomenal 146 display homes, all with exceptional design and craftsmanship that our members have become renowned for producing.

The openings mirror Master Builders’ strategy to operate one display village in all of south east Queensland’s major growth corridors. These areas include the Ipswich corridor, Gold Coast, Bayside and Redlands, Brisbane North growth corridor, Logan growth corridor, and Sunshine Coast.

Members have been incredibly supportive of this growth strategy because it aligns with their business model to target central locations – where the demand and facilities are strong.

The growth strategy combines with our strategy to target consumers – those looking to build new, renovate, and those looking for inspirational ideas.

Master Builders’ dominance of the display village market was further highlighted when we were featured in a positive story on A Current Affair about the value for money that project homes offer.

With a display village secured in each of the major corridors, our focus is now about successfully launching the display villages that are currently under construction, and ensuring that operational villages receive strong visitation numbers.

At the time of publication, the latest display village to open was Coomera Retreat which experienced contracted sales in the first weekend of opening.

A display village has a life of approximately two years, so ensuring there is a pipeline to replace current villages in the identified growth corridors is a major focus. mb

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As part of this appeal to consumers, we launched our revamped Find a Master Builder online search which matches consumers with contractors.

Things have also been hotting up in the display village arena with the launch of two new villages – Esperance and Coomera – which featured in a positive story on A Current Affair highlighting the affordability of display villages.

And while people are busy building new homes, renovations hit a new historic high – up 13 per cent, with most of the activity in south east Queensland. Read more on page 26.

Earlier in the year, Master Builders launched the latest Building Industry Outlook for 2016 which showed a booming building and construction industry, with record numbers of building approvals and strong prospects for the residential sector. Of course there still continues to be great disparity across the regions, with growth concentrated in south east Queensland.

Statewide, the Master Builders’ team hit the road with Roadshow (see page 60) to connect with members in the regions and highlight regulatory industry changes, including the National Construction Code (page 31) and superannuation (page 56).

Things are now gearing up for the 2016 Master Builders Housing & Construction Awards. Judging is now well underway across the state, with the Awards program giving entrants the potential to transform their business and earn public and industry recognition.

There is a wide variety of categories, ranging from apprentices to trade contractors, and small family businesses to the biggest names in the building and construction industry.

Tickets to the awards nights are now on sale and you can read more on page 22.

Thank you for a positive and fruitful start to the year and I look forward to continue working with you all to build an even mightier Master Builders.

Are your showers ticking time bombs?

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

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

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Opinion X

Road to the Federal Election with Wilhelm Harnisch, Chief Executive Officer, Master Builders Australia The 2016 Federal Election, like all elections, will be a contest of ideas on what our political parties see as important for Australia for the next term of government and beyond.

It will provide the electorate and industry associations, like Master Builders, the opportunity to review where we have been and where the major political parties believe we need to be in the future.

Master Builders, over the last 12 months, has developed a comprehensive range of policies that are important to us as a $200 billion industry and as employers of over 1 million people, that also trains 50,000 apprentices each year.

The government’s 2016 Federal Budget and the Opposition’s budget in response to it have identified the respective priorities of our two major parties. There will be other policy announcements made in the lead up to the election.

As a Master Builders’ member I would strongly encourage you to actively follow the election campaign in deciding how to cast your vote on 2 July 2016.

Master Builders will present a range of priorities for the next term of government, which will be promoted throughout the duration of the election campaign. These priorities include: •

The return of the Australian Building and Construction Commission

•

Housing affordability, including the retention of negative gearing

•

Apprentice training

•

More investment in infrastructure

•

Pro-small business policies

•

Tax cuts

•

The need for a strong economy.

Our election campaign theme will be a Strong Building, Strong Economy.

Let me assure you that our election commentary during the election period will be non-partisan. However, it will be set against how the major parties meet Master Builders’ priorities for the building industry.

At the big picture level our industry needs policies that underpins a strong economy, confidence and that encourage investment.

We also need policies where home ownership remains an achievable cornerstone of who we are as a nation, particularly for first home buyers. Home ownership and housing affordability is a very high priority. Negative gearing must stay.

Training our young people for rewarding careers in building industry apprenticeships is another.

Investment in infrastructure in both cities and regional areas is critical for your business.

A flexible industrial relations environment is also very important in creating jobs in our industry and in raising productivity. The return of the Australian Building and Construction Commission is essential.

There will be much commentary made during this very long Federal Election campaign by all political parties. Master Builders will make sure your voice is properly heard and not lost.

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Opinion

The foresight for Farsight with Brett Schimming – Chief Executive Officer, Construction Skills Queensland CEO of Construction Skills Queensland, Brett Schimming, talks about the future of the construction industry and gives an insight into an exciting new project that will lift safety across the industry, as technology pushes us into a brave new world. Through research, we now have the information to guide us into the future – in a way that improves efficiency, cost and safety.

The 2016 Major Projects Report (Queensland Engineering Construction Outlook) was recently released at an industry event in Brisbane, giving rise to conversations about where the market is going and what is planned for the future. The report was a joint initiative between Queensland Major Contractors Association and Construction Skills Queensland.

While the industry is no stranger to volatility, the report indicated that major project activity is forecast to reach its floor in 2016/17 and then return to growth for the remainder of the decade.

Major project activity in Queensland has been declining since 2012/13 following the industry reaching a historic peak of $18.7 billion. As the construction phase of coal and LNG projects reached completion, major project activity then began returning to normal levels.

The industry is now entering a new phase, with the 2016 Major Projects Report predicting a revival in non-mining sectors.

While this is not great news for those in the mining industry, it is expected that the industry is entering a three-year recovery period.

What this will mean is that as State and Federal Governments’ budgetary position improves, railways and harbor work is forecast to rise sharply.

It is also anticipated that the forecasted upswing in Queensland will occur at a time when other Australian states will also be undergoing increasing levels of major project investment. This is good news for the country.

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And assuming the industry can meet challenges on costs and competitiveness – and once global demand strengthens again – a range of mining and heavy industry projects that are currently unfunded could feasibly come back into the picture.

This would place demands on workforces and we need to remain vigilant about workforce development, skills acquisition, attracting new people to the industry and retaining skilled workers.

We know that investing in skills and training helps to even out the boom/bust cycle, creating a smoother and safer ride for us all.

At CSQ, we are taking a sustainable long-term approach to training that matches demand, is resilient, flexible and provides industry with confidence and certainty, now and into the future.

Yet despite market inconsistencies, there are some exciting large scale projects in the pipeline and we see a strong future in the longer term as we return to normal sector growth levels.

Market cycles will always dictate workflow, but the more we can plan and upskill, the more stability we can contribute to workers and the economy.

To this end, we have an exciting development for the industry – through CSQ and our partnership with the CSIRO – called The Farsight Project.

The Farsight Project aims to predict how the role of construction workers will evolve over the next 20 years.

Rapid technological advancement, the globalisation of supply chains, new building systems, and the changing preferences of consumers will reshape what we do and how we do it.

This has implications for a range of workers and the skills and training needed in the future. These changes need to be foreseen, understood, and managed so we can anticipate the challenges and harness the opportunities.

Farsight will provide a vital roadmap as the industry enters a period of major transition where jobs in the industry of the

future won’t look very much like they do today.

The project also looks heavily at safety and how future changes will improve safety at all levels.

We know how important it is to consider the potential impact of new technologies – or risk being left behind. Government and industry need to work together to manage these new forces that are already starting to appear.

The first step is to understand what that future might look like. For example, what will it mean for the worker when every single piece of material, machine or person operates differently.

The Farsight team are currently working with industry to seek answers to some of these questions and develop future scenarios so we as an industry are prepared.

For more information on The Farsight Project visit csq.org.au

News

QBCC welcomes new Commissioner The Queensland Building & Construction Commission recently announced Mr Brett Bassett as the new Commissioner.

Prior to taking the reins at the QBCC, Mr Bassett was the Queensland Regional Commissioner for the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC). With ASIC from 2011, he was also their Senior Executive of Small Business Compliance and Deterrence.

Mr Bassett has a regulatory background, having held positions with the Queensland Police Service, NSW Department of Fair Trading, and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).

Mr Bassett led the ASIC team that focused on the business risks in the building and construction sector, and the development of ASIC’s response to the Senate inquiry into insolvency in the Australian building and construction industry. He developed and implemented ASIC’s small business strategy with a specific focus on education, engagement and regulation of the building and construction industry, and chaired the inaugural Federal Government Building and Construction roundtable that now occurs annually.

Mr Bassett holds a Bachelor of Education, a Masters of Business Administration, is a fellow of the Governance Institute of Australia, a member of the Australian

Institute of Company Directors and is a certified fraud examiner.

His strong customer focus, leadership and governance capabilities will guide the Commission through immediate challenges, including security of payment, insolvencies and non-conforming building products.

Boost for women in building Women wanting to forge careers in the building industry will receive extra support with the launch of Master Builders’ Advancing Women in Building and Construction Program.

Launched recently at a Paynter Dixon job site in Brisbane by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Minister for Women, Michaelia Cash, the program will see the Commonwealth Government provide $250,000 in funding over 12 months.

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The pilot program falls under the government’s Women’s Leadership and Development strategy, which aims to help increase the participation and employment of women in the building industry.

Advancing Women in Building and Construction will provide a boost to Master Builders’ commitment to providing real opportunities for women to have rewarding lifelong careers in the building industry by attracting, mentoring and retaining women in the industry.

News

Know your QLeave obligations

31 July is nearly here - are you across them?

QLeave administers the portable long service leave scheme for Queensland’s building and construction industry. The Scheme makes sure that your workers receive long service leave benefits for service to the building and construction industry, even if they change employers.

As an employer you have a number of legal obligations with QLeave.

What do I need to do?

•

Make sure you are registered as an employer with QLeave

•

Make sure your eligible workers are also registered with QLeave

•

Advise QLeave of your workers’ employment periods each year (this may include your own work)

•

All employers have a legal obligation to complete a Worker Service Return by 31 July each year. The return is simply a list of all workers that QLeave has recorded as being engaged by you. This process helps to keep your workers’ records and long service leave benefits up-to-date.

You can get started now by checking that all of your eligible workers are added to your QLeave registration. You can also terminate any workers who you no longer engage.

Keeping QLeave updated on your workers’ employment will save you time when you complete your Worker Service Return in July.

How do I do it?

Worker Service Returns are lodged through QLeave’s online services. A step-by-step guide is provided to help you lodge your return online.

You can start and end workers online at any time at qleave.qld.gov.au Go to Online Services – Employer login and use your employer number and password to log in.

I have not engaged eligible workers or have ceased trading this year – what do I do?

Submit on time to avoid a fine Submission of a Worker Service Return by the due date is a legislative requirement.

Failure to submit your return by 31 July may result in QLeave commencing prosecution action without further notice to you.

Prosecution may result in conviction and a fine for each worker not included on your return, in addition to any costs incurred by QLeave in having to engage in legal action.

Remember There is no cost for you or your workers to be registered with QLeave, or to complete your Worker Service Return.

Further information on meeting your obligations can be found in QLeave’s Guide for Registered Employers, available at qleave.qld.gov.au

If you have not engaged eligible workers, or have ceased trading, during the financial year you need to submit an Employer Advice form – Nil Return or Ceased Trading (instead of a Worker Service Return).

When do I need to do it?

The Employer Advice can be completed online at qleave.qld.gov.au and is also due by 31 July.

In June each year, QLeave will remind you that your Worker Service Return is due for lodgment by 31 July.

Go to Online Services – Employer login and use your employer number and password to log in.

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News

Lucky winners secure their retirement Most of us only get to dream of what we would do if we won $100,000, but for Garry and his partner Jo that dream has now become a reality after winning the Colorbond® Steel Gen-u-Win™ $100,000 promotion.

Korumburra resident and boilermaker Garry and his partner Jo are not only renovating their retirement home but they’ve picked up $100,000 prize money for doing so. Jo was considering other options but Garry was adamant on going with a COLORBOND® steel roof. This wouldn’t have been a complete surprise to Jo as Garry is passionate about COLORBOND® steel.

Purchasing it from his local supplier L.J & N.B Smith, meant that the couple were eligible to register in the COLORBOND® steel GEN-U-WIN™ promotion with a first prize of $100,000, and after simply registering they won.

It was a near miss though but Jo had remembered seeing the COLORBOND® steel GEN-U-WIN™ commercial.

“I’d been watching it every time the ad came on and it wasn’t till the last day I thought I'd better enter that otherwise we’ll miss out,” Jo said.

Garry prides himself as a DIY handyman and he loves COLORBOND® steel, which he has used for various projects for 30 years. Garry has always purchased COLORBOND® steel from L.J & N.B Smith, a trusted business relationship going back many years. As luck would have it, by being the supplier of the winning homeowner, L.J & N.B Smith has also won a huge $100,000 cash prize.

As soon as Garry was informed of his win he rang Jo at work to tell her. They couldn’t believe their luck, but as the reality is slowly sinking in they know just how lucky they have been.

“I’m glad she went with my idea of putting a COLORBOND® steel roof on,” Garry said.

Garry and Jo intend to spend their major prize win on completing their renovation and eventually travelling with the grey nomads across Australia.

COLORBOND®, BlueScope and the BlueScope brand mark are registered trademarks of BlueScope Steel Limited. GEN-U-WIN™ is a trade mark of BlueScope Steel Limited.

Calling all tradies Pull on your socks for the McGrath Foundation this winter.

Tradies across the country are pulling on their socks and adding a splash of pink to their work boots this winter to support the McGrath Foundation.

The Pull On Your Socks initiative encourages all types of tradies to turn their work sites pink and wear the McGrath Foundation’s Pink Socks as well as hosting a fundraising event. With a different, limited edition collectable sock each year, every dollar raised will help the McGrath Foundation fund McGrath Breast Care Nurses in communities right across Australia and increase breast awareness in young people.

“Whether you are in work boots or dress shoes we have a sock that suits you; don our McGrath Foundation Pink Socks and host a fundraising event and have fun while helping ensure more families can access our amazing McGrath Breast Care Nurses,” said McGrath Foundation Ambassador and Director, Tracy Bevan.

With 43 people diagnosed with breast cancer each day, the McGrath Foundation is encouraging tradies across the country to get involved and purchase our McGrath Pull On Your Socks socks as well as hosting a fundraising event to help support families experiencing breast cancer.

"Last year we had over 200 Pull On Your Socks events across Australia and this year we anticipate even more groups stepping up and getting their own sites, sports clubs and workplaces involved within local communities,” said Tracy.

So, put your best foot forward this winter and purchase your collectable pair of McGrath Foundation pink socks.

To find out how you can get involved and make a difference, please visit mcgrathfoundation.com.au.

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X Reports & statistics

At a glance Queensland dwelling approvals 12 month rolling total (seasonally adjusted)

Mar '16 - 48,191

55,000

Queensland building approvals remain strong, increasing another 6 per cent over March to end up 10.5 per cent over the year.

50,000 45,000 40,000 35,000 30,000 25,000 20,000 15,000 10,000 5,000

Total

Feb 16

Oct 15

Dec 15

Jun 15

Aug 15

Apr 15

Feb 15

Oct 14

Dec 14

Jun 14

Multi-units

Aug 14

Apr 14

Feb 14

Oct 13

Dec 13

Jun 13

Aug 13

Apr 13

Feb 13

Oct 12

Dec 12

Jun 12

Aug 12

Apr 12

Feb 12

Oct 11

Dec 11

Jun 11

Aug 11

Apr 11

Feb 11

Oct 10

Dec 10

Jun 10

Aug 10

Apr 10

Feb 10

0

Houses

Building approvals percentage 3 month change - multi units 30,000

90% 80% 70%

25,000

60% 50%

20,000

40% 30%

15,000

20% 10% 0%

10,000

-10% -20%

5,000

-30% -40%

% change from previous 3 months

Mar 16

Jan 16

Nov 15

Sep 15

Jul 15

May 15

Mar 15

Jan 15

Nov 14

Sep 14

Jul 14

May 14

Mar 14

Jan 14

Nov 13

Sep 13

Jul 13

May 13

Jan 13

0 Mar 13

-50%

12 month rolling total

Approvals for units has driven the recent growth but it looks like it is now cooling.

The south east corner continues to enjoy most of the growth.

While it’s easing in Brisbane, the Gold Coast is a strong performer.

Queensland building approvals $ value, 12 month totals

Regional building approvals percentage change in the $ value 12.0

60%

57.4%

10.0

40%

8.0 15.3%

12.9% 5.8%

Mackay & Whitsunday

-11.8% Far North QLD

-41.8% North QLD

-16.4% Central QLD

Wide Bay Burnett

Downs & Western

Sunshine Coast

-40%

Gold Coast

-20%

Greater Brisbane

0%

3.1%

6.0 4.0 2.0 0.0

Apr 11 Jun 11 Aug 11 Oct 11 Dec 11 Feb 12 Apr 12 Jun 12 Aug 12 Oct 12 Dec 12 Feb 13 Apr 13 Jun 13 Aug 13 Oct 13 Dec 13 Feb 14 Apr 14 Jun 14 Aug 14 Oct 14 Dec 14 Feb 15 Apr 15 Jun 15 Aug 15 Oct 15 Dec 15 Feb 16

20%

$B

21.8%

Sunshine Coast

mb

[ 18 ] june / july 16

Greater Brisbane

Gold Coast

Rest of the state

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SEE OUR RANGE OF COURSES AT MBQLD.COM.AU/TRAINING OR CALL US ON 1300 136 002.

Reports & statistics

Survey of Industry Conditions Queensland outlook slumps Confidence in the Queensland economy and building industry has hit a wall, dropping into negative territory for the first time in more than three years, according to Master Builders’ latest Survey of Industry Conditions for the March 2016 quarter.

The results reflected the easing of recent building approvals which have moved off their peak.

Much of the state has experienced a slowdown but encouragingly the survey results show that most respondents expect the economic outlook to remain stable for the coming 12 months.

However, there is a growing number of respondents who hold a more pessimistic outlook for the future, with nearly one-in-three respondents who expect the economic outlook to deteriorate.

Low levels of demand are the most critical constraint on business growth. This is in line with falls in building approvals over the same period and the concentrated nature of the demand which has failed to reach many regions and sectors of the industry.

Builders will be looking closely at the Queensland budget, due to be handed down this month, for measures that will help make new housing affordable and provide spending commitment for catalytic infrastructure.

The survey is one of the best ways to gauge specific industry expectations and business performance in all regions across Queensland.

The report also found: The Gold and Sunshine Coasts now stand alone in maintaining a strong performance.

Central Queensland had an improved quarter, moving off a low base and Far North Queensland continues as the stand out among the regions.

Greater Brisbane has come off its high as the demand for new unit construction begins to peak.

North Queensland and Wide Bay have slumped and joined Darling Downs & South West Queensland and Mackay and Whitsunday in a struggle to find sufficient demand.

Overall, while many of the regions struggled through the March quarter they all remain confident that there will be a return to stronger conditions for the coming three months.

Queensland outlook

mb

[ 20 ] june / july 16

12 month economic outlook March 2016 quarter Queensland economy

Queensland building industry

Stronger

21%

25%

Stable

48%

44%

Weaker

32%

31%

Index level

46.9

48.4

Hot topic – Security of Payment Payment is the lifeblood of our industry. In this quarter’s Hot Topic we sought to better understand the extent of non-payment problems in the industry.

Six out of 10 respondents reported they had experienced payments that were not paid on time or in full. For 11 per cent of the industry this is common, occurring on more than 10 occasions.

While for the most part, the amounts tended to be relatively small (under $5,000), a worryingly high proportion of respondents (six per cent) had experienced an amount over $50,000 withheld.

Withheld payments had a significant impact on businesses in four out of 10 cases.

Four out of 10 respondents declared they themselves had delayed or withheld payment.

The most common reason given for this was defective or incomplete work. In two out of five cases it was because they did not have the cash available to make the payment or because the client withheld payment. Slow payment by banks and insurance companies was also the cause.

When it came to strategies to secure payment, the one used most commonly is to suspend work. Negotiation and communication was also seen as being useful and if it came down to it, “consistent and repetitive contact – annoy them enough and they pay.”

There is a willingness to make use of the legal tools under the Building and Construction Industry Payments Act and the QBCC’s

dispute resolution process. Securing a statutory debt or accessing the protection under the Subcontractor’s Charges Act was less common. For some respondents there was a concern that current options for legal recourse are “hard to access and time consuming.”

When it came to improvements to the current system, many felt it was important for owners to be held accountable as the chain of nonpayment usually begins there. “Include homeowners in the legislation with penalties for non-payment.” Being able to secure larger deposits and having greater support from the QBCC were seen as important.

As is introducing harsher penalties for non-payments, such as points against a QBCC license or a “register of offenders, be they home owners or business directors.”

Improving the profitability of the industry, in particular margins for builders, will reintroduce a buffer for when things go wrong. Corporate clients and government should not be able to dictate payment terms that are outside the QBCC Act. Contractors should be protected if they cease work due to non-payment. Faster, easier and cheaper dispute resolution processes would be welcome.

Project bank accounts and trust accounts were seen as appropriate in some circumstances.

Better education both for the industry and clients is important.

“Builders and subcontractors are in a broad and ever-changing industry.”

“Educate clients on how the system works and there is no problem.”

Read the full report at mbqld.com.au/sic.

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june / july 16 [ 21 ]

mb

Housing & Construction Awards

Tickets on sale now

The 2016 Housing & Construction Awards are just around the corner – secure your place now.

With entries now closed and judging underway in most regions, it’s not long until the 2016 winners are revealed at prestigious events across the state.

To make sure you don’t miss out on your local Awards night, keep an eye out for your email invitation offering tickets for purchase, hitting your inbox soon. Or, head to our website now to purchase your tickets at mbqld.com.au/hctickets.

Region

Award ceremony event date

Venue

Brisbane

Friday, 8 July

Royal International Convention Centre, Brisbane

Downs & Western

Saturday, 16 July

Armitage Centre and Heritage Bank Auditorium, Toowoomba

Gold Coast

Saturday, 30 July

Jupiters Hotel & Casino, Gold Coast

Sunshine Coast

Friday, 5 August

The Events Centre, Caloundra

Wide Bay Burnett

Saturday, 6 August

Beach House Hotel, Hervey Bay

North Queensland

Friday, 12 August

The Ville, Townsville

Far North Queensland

Saturday, 13 August

Cairns Convention Centre, Cairns

Central Queensland

Friday, 19 August

Rockhampton Leagues Club, Rockhampton

Mackay & Whitsunday

Saturday, 20 August

Mackay Convention Centre, Mackay

State

Friday, 14 October

Royal International Convention Centre, Brisbane

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mb

[ 22 ] june / july 16

Housing & Construction Awards

Share your photos on the night

It’s photo competitio n time again . #mbaward

s16

Run in conjunction with the 2016 Housing & Construction Awards program, this competition is the perfect opportunity to showcase your experience of the Awards and give those Instagram filters a good work out.

To enter, simply upload your Awards-related photos to Instagram, Facebook or Twitter, ensure you include the competition hashtag: #mbawards16 and that your account is set to public so we can view them.

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

GoPro, underwater camera and an Instax instant camera

Your photo entry can be of projects (i.e. houses and projects entered), people (i.e. getting ready, group shots at the event) and on the night (i.e. winner photos, award plaques, location and group shots); basically, anything that sums up your #mbawards16 experience.

Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place, and announced after the State Awards on Friday, 14 October 2016.

This year's prizes, which are proudly supported by Mitsubishi Triton, include a

For full competition details, plus terms and conditions, visit mbqld.com.au/photocomp

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june / july 16 [ 23 ]

mb

Renovation

Design start-up, Bodo Boards,

changing the face of interior design

The interior design industry is set to receive a digital makeover with the launch of Australia’s first nation-wide online interior design service.

Bodo Boards is an innovative new start-up offering ready-made interior design concepts, which can be purchased via digital download or in physical format with all products represented on the boards available to customers Australia-wide.

Bodo Boards is the brainchild of long-time friends Teneale Rush, a graphic and web designer, and Karla Scanlan, a well-established interior designer and colour specialist. At the Bodo Boards website, customers can browse a vast array of style and colour concepts, with inspiration ranging from coastal to industrial themes.

They can also choose boards tailored to particular rooms, such as the kitchen, bathroom, colour concepts or the soon-to-be launched range of full home concepts. The inventory of boards is growing rapidly, with new designs being introduced fortnightly.

“An attractive and useable online service that eliminates the time-consuming effort of shopping around for samples and trying to find the right combination of finishes was critical, but delivering that service Australia-wide was an incredibly exciting challenge” says Teneale.

Bodo Boards has been working extensively with the building industry since launch late last year to provide customised, curated design concepts – without the prohibitively expensive price associated with traditional interior design services.

mb

[ 24 ] june / july 16

“Our initial idea was to take the service to the general public, but the interest from the commercial trade market grew faster than anticipated because we were able to provide such an incredibly time-saving, cost effective service to tradespeople, eliminating the time consuming task of helping find a professional, on-budget finish to their homes,” Karla said.

Currently Bodo Boards offer a ready-made solution direct from their rapidly expanding online range or they provide a tailor-made, custom solution where they deal directly with the end client to develop a solution that works for them on your behalf at heavily reduced trade prices.

Bodo Boards offer trade accounts with heavily discounted prices for all trades, eliminating the need for client liaison around material and colour selections, saving valuable time in non-chargeable labour.

“Trades are incorporating the cost into their quotes and offering it as an added professional service that their business provides to their clients. We provide all the information the client requires in a professionally finished digital or physical sample board, whichever suits you and the customer,” Teneale explained.

“We also provide a builders pack giving all of the information and literature to pass on to the client direct with their quote.

“Our clients range from architects, building design companies and builders, to cabinet makers, flooring specialists, tilers and painters.”

Customers have the option to download a digital version from the online collection immediately, or opt for the combined digital download and a beautifully packaged physical sample board delivered direct to a clients’ door, for a mere fraction of the cost of traditional designer services.

Alternatively, their custom trade service is also available. It provides a digital solution direct to you and your customers’ inbox no matter where you are located, saving you critical time and money.

Each ready-made digital download incudes a full inventory of finishes, a what-goes-where layout and product key, and digital links to supplier websites, combined with designers’ insights, costcutting options, wow factor product suggestions and ideas on how to complete the look starting at just $245 (RRP digital download).

While the duo acknowledges the enormous amount of research, design and planning behind the venture, they say they are determined to use their unique combination of skills to deliver something new and fresh to the interiors market.

“In the digital age, not being able to afford an interior designer shouldn’t prevent people from achieving a beautiful design outcome,” Karla said.

“We’re really excited to see people around Australia using Bodo Boards to create their dream homes.”

Visit bodoboards.com.au for further information.

june / july 16 [ 25 ]

mb

Renovation

Queensland renovations hit historic high Queenslanders are renovating in record numbers – up 13.2 per cent during the past year.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics from 2014 to 2015, most of the activity was in south east Queensland – reflecting current housing affordability pressures and making renovating more viable.

Brisbane was up 17.3 per cent, Gold Coast 14.2 per cent and the Sunshine Coast 9.9 per cent.

Alterations & additions including conversions percentage 12 month change

Central Queensland produced an exceptional result, with a 36 per cent increase in renovations due to Cyclone Marcia repair work, which has largely come to an end.

Much of the focus in Wide Bay Burnett has been on new construction, so this has detracted from renovation work which is down 5.9 per cent.

Darling Downs and South West Queensland continues to struggle with the double whammy of the resource downturn and the drought, with a 4.3 per cent drop.

In monetary terms, Brisbane renovators spent more than a billion dollars on improving their homes from 2014–2015; the Sunshine Coast paid $120 million; and Rockhampton $95.9 million.

REGION (Original Data) January 2016 ($M) Greater Brisbane

Current month

Previous month

% change over MONTH

Total current 12 months

Total previous 12 months

% change over YEAR

44.7

48.3

-7.4%

838.5

714.9

17.3%

Gold Coast

6.6

11.5

-42.6%

120.6

105.6

14.2%

Sunshine Coast

4.1

8.1

-49.7%

123.5

112.4

9.9%

Downs & Western

1.7

4.7

-63.9%

55.2

57.7

-4.3%

Wide Bay Burnett

3.2

3.4

-7.2%

51.1

54.2

-5.9%

Central Qld

1.6

4.4

-63.1%

52.1

38.2

36.2%

Mackay & Whitsunday

1.5

1.9

-23.8%

35.8

34.3

4.4%

North Queensland

3.8

2.1

86.4%

54.1

53.4

1.3%

Far North Queensland

2.2

4.3

-48.9%

61.6

58.7

5.0%

mb

Millions spent

Brisbane

Gold Coast

Sunshine Coast

Toowoomba

Maryborough

Rockhampton

Mackay

Townsville

Cairns

2012/13

$733.4

$69.0

$100.9

$78.5

$123.1

$59.5

$48.7

$69.6

$67.4

2013/14

$811.6

$76.3

$127.3

$91.3

$65.7

$53.2

$45.3

$62.4

$66.8

2014/15

$1,060.0

$93.9

$120.6

$92.4

$37.8

$95.9

$37.8

$64.1

$53.6

[ 26 ] june / july 16

Renovation

Kitchens and bathrooms – The renovation kings When your customers are thinking about renovating it’s important for them to arm themselves with the right knowledge, or at the very least hire an expert who knows what needs to be done. Make sure you’re that person.

Bathtubs are being abandoned in favour of walk-in showers. But for those who still love a bathtub, freestanding soaking tubs are the preferred trend.

Kitchens and bathrooms are the most common rooms people choose to renovate – after all, it’s these spaces that add the most value and appeal to a home.

Trough sinks, which are extra-wide sinks, are becoming a stylish alternative to the doublesink. They also reference vintage style which has become a major design trend.

Kitchens are the public face of a home – where friends and family gather to socialise and eat. Bathrooms are a private sanctuary.

At the last Milan EuroCucina, which highlights international kitchen trends, technology was leading the way.

Both rooms are equally important for different reasons, so sometimes your customers won’t know which one to start with. That’s why it pays to know what the current trends are as this will act as their guide.

With technology in the kitchen, the key is integration – we’re talking counters which, at the push of a button, automatically slide over cooktops and sinks to create more space.

There is also a lot of push-touch technology for opening and closing cabinet doors.

According to the American National Kitchen and Bath Association’s 2016 trends survey, the focus on bathrooms is becoming more utilitarian – with emphasis on the user

Functionality is also important – cabinets where everything has a place with built-in LED lights that automatically switch on when the door or drawer is opened.

Emerging design trends

experience, rather than simply looks.

Neutral bathrooms are still the most popular, with white topping the list.

With trends in the interior design industry constantly evolving, it can be tricky to stay on top of it all.

We sat down with Teneale Rush and Karla Scanlan from Bodo Boards to hear their thoughts on what’s in, and what’s likely to make a comeback.

Future trends predict a return to the handmade and natural, which are emerging in the form of gorgeous selections of handpressed tiles with hand-glazing, natural linens, bedding and timbers.

Our biggest prediction is the re-emergence of internal sealed paving and a more modern adaptation of terracotta and slate tiles.

We are also seeing a return to the 90s with white-on-white kitchens and interiors making their minimalist comeback.

Warmer whites are on the rise, as we move away from the current grey-based whites. Warm, modern style timbers will reign supreme for benchtops, cabinetry and wall panelling.

Aesthetically, a mix of materials adds visual interest – combinations of wood, glass, metals and stone all work. More unusual textures, such as soapstone, concrete and zinc are coming online, as well as more retro trends, such as laminate and terrazzo.

In both kitchens and bathrooms, sustainability is big news, with newly sustainable and old upcycled materials often taking centre-stage.

Ensuring you’re on top of bathroom and kitchen trends will help you and your business two-fold – it makes you look like you know what you’re talking about to your clients AND it keeps you in the loop for what your business should be bringing to the market.

Greens are also big on the scene, with hues ranging from soft mints to smokey deep moss tones and highlights.

With its versatility for interior styles ranging from industrial, contemporary and eco, we don’t see concrete going anywhere soon. This go-to material can be used with warm timbers or rustic metals to achieve varied and completely differing interior looks.

We also love the recent rise in terrazzo finishes. We are thrilled to see this classic making a resurgence to flooring and hard surfaces. It has the flexibility of concrete, with a more varied colour palette and textured feel.

The latest trends may bring a bit of bad news for those people who love a little bling, with the decline in the use of bright coppers and gold’s that are being replaced with aged bronzes and metals.

To see more of Teneale and Karla’s design work and ideas, visit bodoboards.com.au june / july 16 [ 27 ]

mb

Tradies corner

Ask an expert with Jeff Poultney, Legal and Contracts Manager.

Jeff works as Master Builders' Legal and Contracts Manager. Since his appointment at Master Builders in 1999, he has assisted countless members in resolving issues of technical and/or contractual related matters.

He often gets questions from contractors about using the Cost Plus Contract Level 2 (Residential) and how to make progress claims under them. Here’s his take on it.

The progress claim process in a nutshell When you’re setting up the contract you’ll need to decide what method to use when making claims, which is set out in the contract’s Appendix, Part D. Unlike a lump sum contract, Cost Plus contracts and their Progress Claim process have some unique requirements in their content and preparation, how it’s presented and the required backup support documents.

Under the Cost Plus Contract Level 2 the contractor’s right to make a progress claim is set out under Clause 11.6 for the Total Cost of the Works, either on a Method A in stages or Method B, based upon time periods.

The items making up the Total Cost of the Works which are claimable in a progress claim are set out in Clause 29.1 and include: • The Actual Cost of the Work – Clause 29.2 (a) to (uu) • The Preliminaries – Clause 29.3 (a) to (aa) • The Cost Plus Fee – Clause 29.4 (a) to (f) • The GST on the total of the above (a) to (c).

Using Method A When using Method A (staged payments) you’ll need to set up in the Appendix the Stages that you intend to make a claim for and provide a clear definition/description of each Stage so that the claim can be easily understood and assessed by the owner or an owners agent/ external source (financier if applicable).

It’s important to remember that the Stages defined, and their values that are to be claimed, should not exceed the actual value of work completed on site at the time of the claim. This would make the claim voidable under Schedule 1B of the QBCC Act.

Using Method B When using Method B (based on time and the value of work completed) your claims are to be made depending on the time period agreed under Method B (either weekly, fortnightly or monthly).

mb

[ 28 ] february / march 16

Got a question for Jeff?

Email: askanexpert@mbqld.com.au and you could see the answer in the next Tradies corner.

The progress claim is then prepared based on the four elements making up the Total Cost of the Works for the unpaid value of the Works carried out up to and including the Day of the claim for the period.

The values used for compiling the Actual Cost of the Works, Preliminaries and Cost Plus Fee should be exclusive of GST and, once added, the GST applied to the total and a Tax Invoice prepared.

Keep on top of the admin A high standard of accurate record keeping and administration of costs is required as an owner under Clause 29.6 is entitled to receive copies of any support documents (delivery dockets, invoices, subcontractor claims, timesheets) that is the basis of a progress claim.

Further, if an owner requests a breakup of a progress claim within 30 days of when the owner received the claim, under Australian Consumer Law you are then required to provide a detailed breakup of the progress claim within seven days.

So, what method do we suggest?

We suggest Method B is the more appropriate method for the following reasons: • Ease of assessment by owner of what is being claimed • More transparency in what costs are to be paid • More positive cash flow as all allowable costs are claimable up to the day of the claim • Not reliant on a defined stage being reached • Easy response to an owner’s claim for support documents.

Contracts and progress claims aren't always straightforward, so make sure you take advantage of our free advice for members. Call Master Builders' Contracts & Legal team on (07) 3225 6419.

Tradies corner

Tradie profile Paul Oldfield – Intex Glass Frameless Specialist I currently work as…

If I wasn’t a tradie I would be… An artist.

A glazier, specialising in frameless glass installations in Brisbane.

In my spare time…

My first job was… Lawn mowing

I like to go sailing on beautiful Moreton Bay.

I love my job because… The work is clean and exacting.

I am a Master Builders'member because…

Some of my favourite/most recent projects include…

Of the networking opportunities with likeminded professionals and to remain abreast with industry changes and products.

Some of the work I’ve done with balustrades with a hardwood timber handrail, which contrasts well with the stainless steel fittings, has been my favourite lately.

What sets me apart from my competitors is…

I like to pride myself on my attention to detail. It’s absolutely essential in my trade.

The benefits of being a member that I use include…

Access to contracts and vital business information.

I would spend my last $100 on…

Something purely for fun.

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Building & planning

National Construction Code 2016 The annual changes to the NCC were recently announced; here’s a snapshot of the ones that will affect builders and trade contractors in Queensland.

Taking effect from 1 May 2016, the National Construction Code (NCC) is published in three volumes: •

Volume One: Class 2 to 9 buildings

•

Volume Two: Class 1 and 10 buildings

•

Volume Three: Plumbing

The NCC has now moved to a three-year amendment cycle, meaning the next edition will come into play in 2019. This creates more certainty about code requirements when planning future projects.

So, what’s changed in 2016?

Access remains free As part of the Australian Building Codes Board’s (ABCB) reform agenda to improve productivity in industry, the NCC (and all previous editions) became free to access online in 2015. This resulted in a significant increase in subscribers (12,000 grew to more than 75,000) – a great result.

Performance-based code The NCC is a performance-based code that specifies the minimum level of performance for buildings, plumbing and drainage installations.

Industry feedback indicated that the performance-based code is hard to understand, so the hierarchy pyramid diagram in the building code has now been removed and replaced with a two tier diagram.

The new diagram states the performance requirements that are achieved by a performance solution, a deemed-to-satisfy solution, or a combination of both.

16, to quantify the claimed classification of resistance. This applies to all finishes and surface types, including carpet, tiles, timber, vinyl, concrete and metal.

Structural robustness verification method

Warning – attempting to determine a slip resistance classification after installation of a product, such as painted stairs, may not be possible. The installation of an approved non-slip carborundum strip may be the only solution.

There are new verification method options, BV2 and V2.1.2, for structural robustness, which are used to verify the reasonable extent of damage that may occur if part of a structure fails during or after construction.

The assessment includes notional removal of structural members. Where a member carries more than 25 per cent of the total structure, a systematic risk assessment of the building is undertaken.

Further guidance on structural robustness can be found in the ABCB handbook.

Ventilation verification method There are new verification method options, FV4.1 and V2.4.5, for ventilation, which are used to quantify the performance requirements for ventilating a space within a building so that acceptable indoor air quality is achieved.

A detailed table now lists the pollutant, the maximum contaminant level permitted and the time period for measurement of the pollutant.

This will not apply to carparks, factories, laboratories or health care buildings.

New slip resistance requirements for housing Australian Standard 4586 - 2013 ‘Slip resistance classification of new pedestrian surface materials’ will now apply to class 1 and 10 buildings, as the Queensland exemption ceased 1 May 2016.

Slip resistance classifications are now required for all stair treads, ramps and landings for all Queensland building classes.

Slip resistant applications may require documentary evidence, such as a form 15 and

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Gutters and downpipes There are new requirements to prevent overflow from eaves gutters entering class 1 and 10 buildings, which is demonstrated in a series of tables that determine the overflow volume required and options to remove the specified volume of water.

Options include; slotted gutters, rear gaps, bead heights, end stop weirs and rainheads.

Contractors should always request the eaves gutter manufacturer or supplier provide documented evidence stating overflow volumes (litres/second/metre) of the slotted gutter or a combination of any other options used.

Contractors should confirm with the building designer and/or the eaves gutter installer what the overflow options and costs will be prior to entering into a contract for all class 1 and 10 buildings approved after 1 May 2016.

Stair tolerances New tolerances and explanatory diagrams in the NCC now dictate that adjacent risers or adjacent goings must be within 5mm of each other. The largest and smallest riser, or the largest and smallest going within a flight must be within 10mm of each other.

Irrespective of these allowable deviations, the finished going and riser dimensions must not exceed the limitations for the maximum and minimum dimensions, as stated in the NCC.

Ramps and landings The maximum gradient for ramps serving an external doorway or a ramp within a building for class 1 and 10 buildings now cannot exceed 1:8. Landings not less than 750mm long must be provided where a doorway opens onto a ramp, at the bottom of a ramp and at intervals not exceeding 15m.

A driveway is not considered to be a ramp for these requirements.

Definition of effective height The defined term “effective height” now clarifies how the lowest storey of a building, when partially built below ground level, is assessed as an actual storey for the calculation of the building’s effective height.

This impacts on: •

The risk of exposure to radiant heat from a fire in another building

•

The risk of emitting radiant heat to another building

•

The risk to occupants who may need to travel down a stairway to safely evacuate the building.

For example, sprinkler protection is required in a building where the effective height exceeds 25 metres.

Timber mid-rise New provisions allow the use of timber to construct class 2, 3 and 5 sprinkler-protected buildings, up to 25m effective height.

Cavity barriers are an important part of timber mid-rise construction requirements.

They are made of solid timber or polythene sleeved mineral wool, and are installed in concealed cavities around the building to prevent the passage of flame and hot gasses beyond the compartment of origin.

Clarification is now provided that sprinkler protection is required in fire compartments with more than 40 vehicles.

The requirements do not apply to open deck carparks.

Group number determinations A group number is a measure of how readily something catches on fire and how much heat it releases when it burns. The lower group numbers are less ignitable, and are specified for areas like fire-isolated exits and public corridors in health care buildings.

As some products are more suited to one form of testing, the group number determination provisions have been replaced with a new referenced standard AS 5637.1 - 2015 Determination of fire hazard properties – Wall and ceiling linings.

This new standard contains a process to determine the appropriate test to use, and requires this to be undertaken.

There will be a transition period to allow affected products to be tested under the new regime. This transition period ends 1 May 2019.

Dwellings over nonappurtenant garages Volume 2 has been amended to state the fire separating requirements when a house is constructed above someone else’s garage

Previously it allowed vehicle ramps in carparks without protection of the opening, therefore avoiding the need for sprinkler requirements.

Volume 2 has now been amended to clarify a class 1 building includes a class 10a private garage located above or below the class 1 building.

A smoke alarm or a heat alarm complying with AS 3786 to avoid spurious alarms must now be installed in a class 10a private garage.

Alarms still need to be mains powered and alarms within the same occupancy need to be interconnected.

In conclusion NCC compliance is a statutory requirement, and you should always review and check that your work complies with the applicable sections of the code.

The NCC is available free online at abcb.gov.au or you can purchase hardcopies at mbav.com.au.

If in doubt, ask Master Builders first and avoid a costly mistake on code specific issues, by calling (07) 3225 6419 or emailing technical@mbqld.com.au

Where parts of a class 1a dwelling are located above or below a class 10a private garage that is not appurtenant to that class 1a dwelling, any floor separating the class 1a dwelling from the non-appurtenant class 10 a private garage must— •

Be a floor/ceiling system incorporating a ceiling which has a resistance to the incipient spread of fire to the space above itself of not less than 60 minutes; or

•

Have an FRL not less than 30/30/30 when tested from the underside; or

•

Have a fire-protective covering on the underside of the floor, including beams incorporated in it, if the floor is combustible or of metal.

Carparks – protection of openings The concession for the protection of openings requirements in section C3.1 of Volume One has been amended.

Smoke alarms There has been some confusion about whether the garage level attached to a class 1 building requires a smoke detector where the entire level is class 10a private garage.

june / july 16 [ 31 ]

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Building & planning

Fire separating walls – Safety must come first with Gary Stick, Manager, QBCC Technical Standards Unit The proper construction of fire separating walls in modern buildings is essential to ensure residents’ safety, the safety of the general public and to minimise risks to Queensland fire fighters.

The QBCC believes the majority of practitioners installing, supervising or certifying these essential safety features of our buildings need to improve their understanding of this critical area of construction.

The Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) has discovered non-compliant and defective fire separating wall constructions in many buildings, while carrying out audits of building work under construction in Queensland.

•

Defects have been found in various buildings, from simple duplexes and townhouses through to more complex multi-storey accommodation.

Non-existent or inadequate setting of plasterboard sheets particularly at the junctions of ceilings to walls and behind studs from intersecting walls

•

Non-existent or inadequate sealing of perimeters or setting of sheet joints in service riser ducts

•

Excessive spacing of screw fixings to the perimeter of plasterboard wall sheets

•

Inadequate staggering of sheet joints particularly in single wall sheet systems.

Unfortunately, there seems to be a lack of understanding when it comes to fire separating wall fundamentals, which has led to QBCC auditors finding unacceptably high numbers of non-compliant installations on building sites.

The most commonly occurring issues QBCC has found during audits include:

Unset joints in fire-rated riser duct

Non-existent or inadequate sealing of joints in both masonry and dry wall fire separating walls

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No perimeter sealing at junction of wall sheet to floor in riser duct

1200mm sheets both started from the floor on both sides of the wall. This creates a non-compliance with some manufacturers’ tested systems.

QBCC audits have also revealed a number of instances where installers have mixed different plasterboard manufacturers’ wall sheets in fire separating wall constructions.

This practice produces a hybrid system that will be unable to be certified as being compliant to any manufacturer’s tested system.

When non-conformities are detected by the QBCC the contractors responsible are notified of the issues and requested to bring the construction into compliance with the wall system manufacturer’s tested systems. The building certifier is also often advised of the issues to ensure the works are bought into compliance.

A common factor in cases where nonconformities are found by the QBCC is a lack of appropriate supervision by both the subcontract installer and the principal building contractor.

The QBCC is always willing to work with industry on defective work issues but there will be circumstances where nonconformities are of such significance or so widespread that a direction to rectify may be issued against the contractors responsible for performing the defective work.

Reworking and rectifying non-conforming fire separating wall constructions is both time consuming and expensive if not addressed early in the construction phase.

The QBCC has found a number of projects where the costs and delays associated with remedial works have exceeded the original contract value of the fire separating wall installation.

Getting fire wall separation right the first time must be the take-home message for

No perimeter sealing installed where fire separating wall abuts floor slab above.

contractors who may be considering the implications and costs associated with rework of defective work and potential damages.

While auditing work under construction, the QBCC has also been engaging with all of the major manufacturers of plasterboard wall systems. We have received strong support from them for our endeavours to improve the knowledge and practices of installers throughout the industry.

All major manufacturers of plasterboard wall systems have highly experienced technical staff available to discuss any queries contractors may have with that manufacturer’s system.

Manufacturers also have extensive technical resources and installation manuals which clearly detail how installers should comply and ensure that the end product meets all regulatory requirements for the tested system.

Knowing you have constructed a fire separating wall in compliance with the selected manufacturer’s system should give you comfort that the system you installed will perform in a real fire, protect the building’s occupants, and prevent the spread of fire within the structure.

In Queensland, many fire separating wall installations are certified by appropriately licensed individuals who hold a Passive Fire Protection licence – Fire and Smoke Walls and Ceilings.

For the first time, the QBCC took disciplinary action recently against a holder of one of the above licences, who had certified a defective fire separating wall in a single-storey residential duplex.

As a result, the individual was fined

The consequences of rectification. Numerous access holes have to be cut into a completed bulkhead to address the defective works shown in the photo above.

$3,000. This action demonstrates the responsibility that licence holders have when certifying fire separating wall constructions and the commitment of the QBCC to hold individuals to account when their certification practices are less than professional.

The QBCC will be looking to increase such penalties where the scale of the project and risks to occupant safety increase, particularly in large multi-storey residentialtype buildings. The maximum penalties currently available to the QBCC under its disciplinary powers for use against a licensee are $23,560 for an individual and $117,800 for a corporation. Licensees could also have their licence suspended or cancelled.

In related matters, the QBCC has started legal proceedings to recover more than $14 million in costs associated with payments made through its Home Warranty Insurance Scheme to rectify defective fire separating walls in a 302-unit townhouse complex in Brisbane.

It is hoped the QBCC’s proactive audits, and recent disciplinary and recovery actions will send a clear message to all licensed contractors and persons certifying these works, that non-compliant fire separating wall constructions will not be tolerated.

If non-compliance is detected, those responsible will be strongly pursued by the QBCC to ensure remedial works are performed.

For more information call the QBCC 24/7 on 139 333 or visit qbcc.qld.gov.au

Master Builders has developed a two-day Passive Fire Rated System Installation workshop, that provides builders and carpenters with the skills and knowledge required to ensure passive fire wall systems are installed correctly.

Read more on page 54. june / july 16 [ 33 ]

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Building & planning

Are your building products suitable for building work?

falsified and/or the composition of the materials were changed which resulted in product failure and, at the extreme end of the effects, put lives of the occupants of these buildings at risk.

For example, if a contractor wanted to install structural connections, such as hold downs rods or bolts in a building, as well as uplift or lateral forces they should also ensure the corrosion protection is appropriate to the particular conditions of use and so,

Contractors have a responsibility under the National Construction Code (NCC) to ensure they use building products that meet performance requirements. Unfortunately, contractors cannot assume a product is fitfor-purpose just because it is readily assessable from suppliers.

The NCC requires evidence of suitability for products and materials used in the construction of buildings and requires that one or a combination of the following be used to establish evidence of suitability: a) Report issued by a registered testing authority (registered with NATA or an authority recognised by NATA). b) Current Certificate of Conformity issued under CodeMark or WaterMark. c) Certificate from an engineer or other appropriately qualified person. d) Current certificate issued by a product certification body that has been accredited by JAS-ANZ e) Other documentary evidence.

Contractors should be wary of counterfeit and fraudulent documentation.

Standards change so contractors should check that the certification relied on is current and directly relates to the product being supplied.

There have been numerous reported cases involving electrical, plumbing, glazing and external wall cladding products where certificates were

• Determine the corrosion zone • Determine exposure condition • Determine minimum corrosion protection.

Manufacturers of structural steel members and metal framing connectors, such as straps, framing anchors, cyclone ties and joist hangers, need to be able to supply satisfactory documentary evidence that their products are suitable for the environment they will be used in and meet NCC performance requirements.

For example, if a building certifier requires proof of whether the rods or bolts have the appropriate corrosion cover or the corrosion protection method or application meets the requirements of AS 1684 the manufacturer must be able to give the contractor documentary evidence (eg. a Certificate of Conformity) that the corrosion protection given to the rods/bolts is appropriate to its specific conditions of use.

If manufacturers/suppliers cannot give contractors this documentary evidence they should not be selling these products for use in the building industry and contractors should not be using them.

If you come across a non-conforming product,be sure to let the QBCC know about it so they can investigate it further, or to find out more about non-conforming products, visit mbqld.com.au/nonconformingproducts

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Building & planning

Queensland-proof product making life easier Recognising a gap in the market and the need to provide a safer and surer alternative for roof truss tie-downs in cyclone-prone areas, Townsville local, John Wilkinson, came up with the idea for the Wilko Bondbeam Truss Strap.

Designed, patented and manufactured to suit housing and construction in areas prone to cyclones and/or high wind areas, the product was developed with safety and surety at top of mind.

“Prior to this, people had injured themselves trying to drill through the nail plates in trusses, so I wanted to develop a product that you didn’t have to drill holes into,” John explained.

“With traditional truss cleats you have to drill nails through the metal plates, so this product saves on the wear and tear of your drill, drill bits and is less painful on the users’ hands, by preventing twisting wrists, making it more time and cost effective.”

Highly regarded by local north Queensland businesses, it’s a quick and economical answer for connection of timber trusses and rafters and floor joists to masonry block walls, which according to John, speeds up the process by least 50 per cent compared to a cleat and bolt system. It also provides lateral structural support and holds the whole connection together.

“You can also nail off strap before the next truss is placed.

“The strap over the top gives a sure and secure connection with the uplift axis line in the centre of the truss and strap connection, which stops the truss rolling. The alternative connection uplift is generally only on one side of the truss (unless the truss is between two cleats).

“The wrap over reduces "sheer" stress on the nails and the truss nail plate connection.”

Made from 100 per cent Australian Galvabond steel and manufactured in Townsville, the Wilko Bondbeam Truss Strap has undergone and passed physical testing at the James Cook University Cyclone Testing Station and is available from suppliers throughout North Queensland, Far North Queensland and the Northern Territory.

Visit wilkoplate.com to learn more.

“The Bondbeam Truss Strap is much quicker and easier to use than threading cleats and the nail gun is also simpler than drilling and spanners,” John explained.

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Employment Law

Electrical Safety

Commerical Litigation

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Contracts & disputes

Negligence on the worksite – could you be liable? with Russell Ensbey, Special Counsel, Colin Biggers & Paisley It’s common for builders to incorporate and license companies to contract and carry out building work. In many cases it can often limit the builder's own personal liability for the building work undertaken.

While there are some circumstances where builders, who are also directors, can still be liable in certain circumstances (for example, under QBCC legislation), it’s generally accepted that individual builders, as directors, would not be found to be liable in relation to negligent building work carried out by the building company.

However, a very recent decision of the Appeal division of QCAT has decided otherwise and could change all that.

Here’s the facts of the case: Rod Wagner was a licensed builder and a director of Olindaridge Pty Ltd, a licensed building company.

Olindaridge entered into a residential building contract with Mr and Mrs Tracey in 2001 to build a house for them.

Mr and Mrs Tracey subsequently brought a claim in QCAT against both Mr Wagner and Olindaridge Pty Ltd in negligence, concerning what they claimed to be substantial deficiencies in the construction.

What was decided in the case?

Ultimately, Olindaridge was only found to be liable for relatively minor works – a defective ORG and some missing downpipes.

However, Mr Wagner also was found to owe Mr and Mrs Tracey a duty of care and was found liable to them for these defects and negligence. This was regardless of the fact that Mr and Mrs Tracey had contracted with Olindaridge, and not Mr Wagner, to carry out the building work.

Mr Wagner appealed against this decision.

The Appeal Tribunal found that the circumstances were sufficiently similar to a 1995 High Court decision (Bryan v Maloney). That case was concerned with circumstances where a builder owed a duty of care to, not the person for whom the builder carried out the building work, but for a person who subsequently purchased the property on which the house was built.

The High Court has, in subsequent decisions, restricted the decision in Bryan v Maloney to its particular facts and has referred to it as being a "special case".

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Nevertheless, the Appeal Tribunal found that as a matter of both principle and policy, Mr Wagner was liable in negligence, even though he had not agreed to be personally liable, and wasn't the entity that contracted to carry out the building work.

What does this mean?

This is a decision that should concern directors (and, potentially, nominees) of residential building companies, in terms of their own personal liability, in the event that their building company negligently carries out building work.

Whether this decision applies to just "mum and dad" building companies or extends to larger residential building companies, is unclear.

What is also unclear is whether this decision will ultimately be followed by the Courts.

However, as matters presently stand, it is a decision of the Appeal Tribunal which would be expected to bind QCAT decisions at first instance.

Residential builders should now give consideration to how they can limit their personal liability if they are carrying our building work via a building company, including whether it is appropriate to incorporate additional terms in the building contract to try to exclude the potential liability of the director or nominees in negligence.

For help and advice on building contracts and disputes, call Master Builders’ Legal & Contracts team on (07) 3225 6419 or email contracts@mbqld.com.au

Laws, codes and regulations

Liquidated damages – why zero? with Jeff Poultney, Manager Legal & Contracts the likelihood of it being upheld as a genuine pre-estimate of the Liquidated damages, or agreed damages, are a fixed sum of money (excluding GST) based upon a “genuine pre-estimate”. They’ve been party’s loss, and should: agreed to in a contract before any contract breach as a means of • Carefully consider and calculate the actual losses that will be compensating an innocent contracting party in the event of a breach, suffered as a result of a delay at the time of the formation of like a delay in completion. the contract.

Liquidated damages are quite common in the building industry and EVERYONE should be across them.

Once agreed upon, the liquidated damages amount is entered into a schedule of the contract. They will not be enforceable if they are a penalty or have a penalty component, or are “extravagant and unconscionable” in comparison to the anticipated loss on the occurrence of a variety of events, some of which may be significant and others trivial.

Parties to a contract who insist on stating liquidated damages to be “nil”, “zero” or “$0” in the contract schedule may decide damages will not apply. However, by not agreeing to and capping an amount in a contract the party may ultimately end up worse off by being subject to claims of “general damages”.

•

Provide evidence of those calculations to the other party during negotiation • Expressly acknowledge in the contract that the liquidated damages are a genuine pre-estimate • Retain evidence of how the amount was calculated and negotiated.

The only protection a contracted party has where liquidated damages form part of a contract is to claim extensions of time, as allowed for and in accordance with the requirements of a contract, to at least minimise their effect or negate the application.

In this case, it needs to be clearly expressed that the party’s intention is that the contracted party will not be liable for damages for breach of contract if the works aren’t completed by the contract completion date.

Liquidated damages clauses should always be drafted to maximise

Liquidated damages amounts in contracts and their conditions may be challenged from November 2016, when the new “business to business”, Treasury Legislation Amendment (Small Business and Unfair Contract Terms) Act 2015 comes into effect.

If you have any questions about liquidated damages, get in contact with Master Builders’ Legal & Contracts team on (07) 3225 6419 or contracts@mbqld.com.au

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Laws, codes & regulations

Electronic signatures in the company context with Anthony Lambert, Consultant, BCCS Law The electronic signature is the cornerstone of electronic The term ‘electronic signature’ is not specifically defined in the ETA but may be described as any electronic communication that clearly communications/transactions law, and yet more expresses the intention of being the initiator’s signature. This can than 15 years after the legislation was introduced include a scanned image of a signature inserted into an electronic throughout Australia, it’s not an overstatement to claim document, the name of a signatory typed at the foot of an email or a that a wet signature on a paper document remains best digital signature created using Public Key Infrastructure. It may also practice in transactions involving company signatories include a mark or symbol such as ‘X’ typed into the signature section of an online form if it is clearly acknowledged in the form to take Here’s why. effect as a signature.

Some background The Australian electronic transactions legislation was introduced to simplify electronic commerce by bringing uniformity and certainty, so let’s talk about the Electronic Transactions Act 1999 (Cth) (ETA).

Prior to its enactment, Australian courts had recognised circumstances in which legally effective notices may be given and enforceable transactions entered into by electronic means, like email. However, the case law was inconsistent and fell short of resolving legal uncertainties regarding the extent to which electronic transactions could satisfy the numerous statutory and common law requirements that transactions be ‘in writing’ or ‘signed’.

The stated object of the ETA is “to provide a regulatory framework that”, among other things, “facilitates the use of electronic transactions” and “promotes business and community confidence in the use of electronic transactions”. However, business and community confidence in its use is suffering because of the number, complexity and inconsistency of the ‘exemptions’ to the legislation.

The regulatory framework only operates in relation to laws that are not ‘exempted’ from the application of the legislation. If a law is exempt, the benefit of the regulatory framework is not available and it then becomes necessary to ascertain whether an electronic signature will be recognised under the still inconsistent and uncertain general law.

Regulatory framework for electronic signatures For matters that aren’t exempted, the ETA specifies the requirements for an electronic communication to act as a signature when a ‘Commonwealth law’ requires the signature of a person. An ‘electronic communication’ is a communication of information in the form of data, text or images or in the form of speech by means of guided and/or unguided electromagnetic energy – typically an email or online form.

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In order to satisfy the requirements of the ETA for an electronic communication to act as a signature, an electronic signature must (1) adopt a reliable method for (2) identifying the signatory and their intention in respect of the information communicated (3) to which the recipient of the signature has consented. All of these conditions must be satisfied for the electronic signature to have the same legal effect as a handwritten signature on a paper document.

The effect of satisfying the requirements is that the electronic signatory will be legally bound by the communication if it was sent by that party, or with that party’s consent. Importantly, it will generally be advisable, particularly if a substantial transaction is involved, that follow-up enquiries are made to ensure that evidence is obtained to prove that: a) T he electronic communication/signature was sent by or with that party’s consent b) The identity of the actual sender; and c) The integrity of the communication, including any attachments.

Signing by companies Section 127 of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) sets out the ways in which a company may validly execute a document. Under section 127(1) a company may execute a document without affixing the common seal. This is the most common form of execution and may be done by having any two directors, a director and secretary or a sole director who is also the sole company secretary, sign the document.

Section 129(5) provides that all people dealing with a company can assume that a document has been duly executed if it appears to have been signed in accordance with section 127(1). This assumption may be made even if an officer or agent of the company acts fraudulently or forges a document, unless the person knew or suspected at the time that the assumption was incorrect.

The impact of the ‘Corporations Law’ exemption The entire ‘Corporations Law’ is exempt from the electronic signature provisions of the ETA. Although the exemption refers to the ‘Corporations Law’, the prevailing view is that the exemption extends to the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) which was enacted after the ETA. This almost certainly means that: •

The ETA cannot be relied on to deem the requirement for the signature of the directors and/or secretary under section 127(1) to have been met where electronic signatures are used; and

•

People dealing with a company may not rely on the same assumptions of validity of the company’s execution that they could rely on if the signature were on a paper document.

This exemption will not of itself render a document signed by electronic communication invalid or unenforceable, but it may be necessary to satisfy other parties that the particular electronic method of execution is legally effective. Although there are many cases where electronic signatures have been held to be effective, ‘sign’ is not defined in the Corporations Act and there does not appear to be any judicial decisions on the point. Adding to the uncertainty, there is a risk that courts may be reluctant to find that

electronic communications meet the requirements for writing and signatures in circumstances where the law has been specifically excluded from the ETA.

Conclusion If a party dealing with a company wishes to be able to rely on the section 129 due execution assumptions, it must insist that a company counterparty print and sign the document by hand. At the very least, enquiries should be made to confirm that the company signatories have authority to sign and have agreed to the electronic affixing of their signature.

When it comes to companies, until there are judicial decisions which clarify whether electronic signing can satisfy the execution requirements set out in section 127(1), the safest practice to avoid any dispute regarding the validity and enforceability of a document remains that of printing and having the appropriate company officers sign the document by hand in strict accordance with section 127.

These comments and opinions are of a general nature and are based on BCCS Law’s interpretation of the law as at the date the article was prepared. The position may alter if the law changes as a result of legislation and new case law.

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Employment & wages

Can you control your employees’ Facebook status? with Mikki Richardson, Senior Advisor Workplace Relations Social media is now more prevalent than ever in the workplace. Yet with interest in technology growing, employers are now discovering that without proper precautions in place, social media can turn from a blessing into a curse.

So, what is a social media policy?

Improper use of social media by employees can not only pose a threat to the reputation of your business through the publishing of sensitive information and/or personal opinion, but can potentially hinder employers trying to effectively manage their bullying and harassment obligations in the modern era.

The development of an effective social media policy will not only help you mitigate these risks but improve general effectiveness at work.

A social media policy should: •

Define what social media is

•

Outline the expectations of employees using social media in the course of their employment (both during and outside of working hours)

•

Identify what the consequences of a breach of the policy are (e.g. written warnings/disciplinary action)

•

Be communicated to all employees with adequate training on the policy provided

•

Be regularly reviewed for relevancy.

Why should I have one?

Due to its accessibility, ease, and reach social media is one of the most common

platforms of communication for not only business but also employees.

The employee was awarded compensation equal to 26 weeks’ pay.

However, without proper management an employee’s use of social media both during the course of their day, or outside of working hours may have significant ramifications to your business with no available recourse.

Pearson v Linfox Australia Pty Ltd [2014] FWCFB 1870

The Fair Work Commission (FWC) continues to arbitrate matters between employers and employees where social media is involved.

Here’s a few examples:

Wilkinson-Reed v Launtoy Pty Ltd T/A Launceston Toyota [2014] FWC 644 Ms Wilkinson-Reed (the employee) was terminated after her Manager accessed the Facebook page of his estranged wife and discovered that the employee had been having private messenger conversations with her that included unfavourable comments about Mr Nixon.

The company's social media policy outlined that derogatory comments about the company, its employees, customers or suppliers on the internet was not allowed and Mr Nixon relied upon this to validate the termination.

The FWC found that the conversation Ms Wilkinson-Reed had with the estranged wife of Mr Nixon was private and could only be viewed by the two women. They accepted the evidence of the employee that it was not the intention of either party that the content of the conversations be made public and accordingly it was not conduct that would be covered by the company’s social media policy.

Linfox Australia Pty Ltd (the employer) had in place a social media policy that regulated conduct of employees both inside and outside the workplace, to the extent that the conduct may have an impact upon the reputation of the business.

The employee (Mr Pearson) had been employed since 2007 and had attended a training session on the company’s social media policy, however refused to sign the policy claiming "the company cannot tell me what to do or say outside of work, that is basic human rights on freedom of speech”.

The employee had received several prior warnings regarding breaches of policy and in May 2013 the company decided to terminate Mr Pearson’s employment.

In making its decision, the FWC found that the “establishment of a social media policy is clearly a legitimate exercise in acting to protect the reputation and security of a business” and was satisfied that the policy could extend to out of hours conduct stating that “it is difficult to see how a social media policy designed to protect an employer's reputation and security of the business could operate in an 'at work' context only.”

Taking all things into consideration the FWC found that the employee’s prior warnings in relation to policy breaches coupled with his refusal to sign the social media policy was a valid reason for termination and that the request by the employer to sign the policy was neither unreasonable nor unlawful.

The matter was dismissed.

Social media policies can be complex to develop, so for more information or guidance, contact Master Builders’ Workplace Relations team on (07) 3225 6407 or email workplacerelations@mblqld.com.au mb

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Employment & wages

IR made easy, with Mikki The Workplace Relations landscape can be very complex and Master Builders’ Workplace Relations team answers thousands of members’ questions each year.

Here are some of the more common ones, answered by our in-house expert, Senior Workplace Relations Advisor, Mikki Richardson.

When must I provide payment summaries to my employees?

You must provide a payment summary to any employee who has worked for you throughout the financial year, by no later than 14 July.

The payment summary should show the total gross payments you have made to the employee, and the amounts you withheld from those payments.

If you have paid an Employment Termination Payment (ETP) to an employee, you must provide them with an ETP payment summary within 14 days of making the payment.

Do I have to have a WorkCover policy?

Under the Workers' Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003 (the Act) all Queensland employers must insure their workers with WorkCover Queensland.

If you are uninsured (or under-insured) because you have not taken out a policy, paid your premium on time or not accurately declared your wages, you may be liable to pay a penalty under the Act.

WorkCover are also entitled to recover from you any unpaid premium, and a further penalty (based on the value of the unpaid premium) may apply.

Can an employee cash out their annual leave rather than take the leave?

An employee may only cash out their annual leave if the Modern Award or enterprise agreement they are covered by permits it.

For Award or agreement-free employees annual leave may be cashed out upon mutual agreement, provided the agreement is in writing and will not result in the employee having less than four week’s annual leave remaining.

As every scenario is different, please contact the Workplace Relations team on (07) 3225 6407 or workplacerelations@mbqld.com.au to discuss any questions or concerns you may have unique to your business.

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Health, safety & environment

Lessons learned from Jason’s Story with Rachael Vickers, Workplace Health & Safety/Environment Advisor The recently released work safety film named Jason’s Story, which encourages all workers, especially younger and less experienced ones, to speak up if they feel something is not right or unsafe at their workplace, has had an astounding impact on the industry.

Its effect on mid-tier commercial construction company, Condev Construction, led them to improve the importance they place on safety in the workplace, and they now pride themselves on providing a range of benefits to their workers and clients.

They already placed a high value on safety – more than most companies of a similar size. However Jason’s Story gave them renewed vigour and let them see the consequences of failing to keep on top of things.

An integrated management system allows Condev to connect all parts of the business – from senior management, right through to the 400–500 contractors they employ on site. Senior management understands that support and resources from them encourages collaboration, a positive work environment and culture, while also promoting innovation.

Condev are forthright in their stance that construction is a highrisk industry and believe that all employees need to understand that. Employees need to be able to manage good habits and collaborate with other employees, contractors, regulators and industry stakeholders. As a company, they practice good contractor management, with contractors responding positively to open communication and defined expectations.

Contributions young workers make to the company are highly valued, but Condev recognises that young workers are at the highest risk of injury or death on site. That’s why they’ve worked extensively with Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) on engagement programs like the Construction Industry Leadership Network Program, and in the wake of Jason’s Story, have resolved to make the necessary changes to ensure all precautions are in place to prevent further tragedies like this.

We sat down with Condev’s WHS and Compliance Manager, Paul Fullwood, and Safety Advisor, Callum Chugg, to hear about how they are managing safety and creating positive and safe workplaces.

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Why do you think Jason’s Story had such an impact on you personally?

We both met Michael Garrels (Jason’s dad) and speaking to him really made the social impacts of workplace incidents clear. It’s not often a person is faced with that directly. We have a lot of young workers on our sites so there was the realisation that it could have been us. It made us realise we have the opportunity to make small changes that can have a significant impact on the safety of our workers.

What changes have you made as a result of Jason’s Story in your business and how have workers and contractors responded?

Over the years Condev has developed a range of tools that benefit worker safety, but we realised we haven’t been using them to their full potential. Jason’s Story reinvigorated our push for a positive safety culture where everyone goes home to their families at the end of the day.

We focus on cultivating good relationships and creating good habits.

We want to effect real change and believe by doing the little things right we will have success.

We recently enacted a new site rule and process around dealing with electricity, where lock out tags must be used at all times and electrical contractors on the whole are responsible for these. We have engaged and communicated with all workers and contractors about its importance and are encouraging everyone to get on board.

Condev has been involved with WHSQ and their leadership forums for some time. What influenced you to get involved?

There’s been a disconnect between WHSQ and industry for a while, so we saw this as an opportunity to promote positive relationships and build consultative working groups with them and other businesses in the construction industry.

Callum Chugg and Paul Fullwood from Condev Construction.

One of the themes of Jason’s Story is that his death was preventable. What advice would you provide to other business owners to help ensure they don’t have any preventable incidents?

We think the main one is not to take for granted that nothing bad will happen. Be vigilant and be proactive. A lot of long-term industry workers think nothing has happened so far, so they can get away with being a little bit lax in some areas.

Businesses need to understand their obligations and should use the resources available to them. You don’t have to be a very big company to provide resources and a positive safety environment for workers.

Jason was a young worker, and also a new worker to the site. What advice would you give to young workers who are just starting out?

Businesses have an obligation to ensure young and new workers understand the risks associated with working on construction sites and that their actions may cause injury to themselves or to others.

Managers should encourage them and give them a voice on decisions that affect them, keeping in mind that they may communicate and engage differently from more mature workers.

Young workers should speak up, ask questions and be persistent if they don’t understand something or they believe work is being done unsafely. Communication and relationship building is the key.

WHSQ is currently working on a project to help understand the issues facing young workers and their experiences working on site. As part of this they will be engaging with businesses, Principal Contractors, supervisors and young workers to develop further recommendations for industry for managing health and safety of young workers. Visit worksafe.qld.gov.au/ to learn more.

See WHSQ’s range of tools for young workers, their parents and their managers at worksafe.qld.gov.au/injury-prevention-safety/managing-risks/young-workers

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Health, safety & environment

A quick guide to topsoils on your building project with Alison Price, Operations Manager, Brisbane Screening Soil science has come a long way in the last 20 years, and topsoil is no longer just the “pretty dirt” landscapers play with at the end of the job, but a resource that can save you thousands and dramatically affect the quality of your finished product if managed effectively.

Here’s a quick guide to managing topsoils on your building sites.

Step 1: Testing Get your soil tested prior to starting to help you identify the depth of the topsoil and your subsoils.

A geotech lab is best for subsoils, but it’s worth budgeting to spend an extra $500 for an AS4419 topsoil test through a topsoil specialist as well.

Step 2: Stripping site soils Correctly stripped and stockpiled topsoil will make your whole job run smoothly, but unfortunately there is more to the art of stripping and stockpiling topsoil than just scratching the top 200mm into a pile.

Use your soil test results to identify topsoil depths across the site, they may be anywhere between 10mm and two metres, depending on your location.

Use an experienced operator able to visually identify changes in soils.

You want to be careful to keep the subsoil separate from the topsoil.

There are some subsoil types that, if mixed with topsoil, may not be able to be fixed.

A good operator should also be able to visually identify any issues not picked up during soil testing. Soil pulled from a creek may be acid

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sulphate and requires special treatment. It may be grey in colour with a strong smell. If there is old building rubble mixed with soil make sure you’re not stockpiling asbestos with your soil, as this can result in a very expensive clean up later.

Heavy metal contamination is something else to check for, especially if there is evidence of waste being in or near the soil.

Step 3: Stockpiling topsoils Choose a suitable location for your topsoil stockpile before you begin stripping materials. Double and triple handling of materials is expensive.

Stockpile the topsoil relatively dry (not soaking wet), and cap the stockpile so water can’t pool on or around it. Doing this will keep your stockpiled topsoil in the best possible condition while you complete the rest of your job, and avoid additional expenses later on.

Step 4: Maintain topsoil stockpile Maintain your topsoil stockpile by spraying it periodically for weeds and ensuring silt fencing is all in place. There is no point spending time and money stockpiling and testing this valuable resource if your end product is going to be full of weeds.

Step 5: Amelioration recommendations Once you have your topsoil stockpiled, spend the $500 to get an AS4419 soil test, preferably through a topsoil specialist rather than a Geotech lab. Master Builders can provide you with a list of reputable operators.

A good AS4419 soil test will include amelioration recommendations and a list of what you need to mix with your topsoil to ensure all that money you’re spending on plants, trees and turf doesn’t get wasted.

Step 6: Amelioration Depending on your soil test results and amelioration recommendations, you need to decide on your amelioration method. If the soil requires screening or amelioration with bulkier items, such as compost, organics or sand, screening and amelioration with a trommel screen is ideal.

For really tight spaces, maybe consider a screening bucket – but your mix of ameliorants may not be as effective.

Another method is in situ amelioration, where small quantities of ameliorants are hoed into the top 10–20cm of the soil. This option is cheaper, but won’t be suitable for trees and larger plants.

Most soil scientists will now recommend you also treat the subsoil prior to spreading topsoil to ensure there are sufficient nutrients for plant growth.

Spending a small amount on ameliorating existing site soils can save you thousands of dollars in failed plantings and avoid costly rework.

By correctly testing, stripping, stockpiling and ameliorating existing site soils, builders and developers are taking trucks off local roads, minimising changes to the local eco system and saving themselves thousands of dollars.

Recycling existing site soils to make AS4419 or better quality topsoils is not only best practice environmentally, it is also about half the cost of importing those same topsoils you already paid to dispose of.

For more information about best practice for top soils on your project, contact Master Builders' Health and Safety team on (07) 3225 6410.

SWITCH

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INDUSTRY SPECIALISTS

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Builds aren’t always simple, so we’ve got a team of industry specialists supporting you.

Australian based team dedicated to getting your connections up and running as smoothly and reliably as possible.

Manage connection requests online with Origin Connect Assist – that’s anywhere anytime convenience.

Visit originenergy.com.au/buildingindustry

Origin Energy Retail Limited | ABN 22 078 868 425 | Origin Energy (Vic) Pty Limited | ABN 11 086 013 283 | Origin Energy Electricity Limited ABN 33 071 052 287 | Origin Energy LPG Limited | ABN 77 000 508 369 | Sun Retail Pty Limited | ABN 97 078 848 549 | GPO Box 1199 Adelaide SA 5001 | Telephone 13 24 61 | Facsimile 1800 132 463 | originenergy.com.au

9064.Mar16.QLD

Call 1300 132 480

Insurance

Get the right insurance for Group Training Apprentices with Ken Bowen, General Manager – Insurance Hiring apprentices through Group Training Organisations (GTO’s) is commonplace in today’s building industry and a practice strongly supported by Master Builders.

Group training facilities play a vital role in cultivating future skilled workers within our industry and servicing the variable workforce needs of builders and tradies.

But when using GTO apprentices, how do I meet the insurance obligations under the Host Employment contract?

As many host employment contracts place quite onerous terms on the host, it is very important to check these requirements against your insurance policies for compliance.

However, when doing so be aware that the responsibilities assigned to the host by the various GTO’s are not standard and substantial differences can occur from one GTO contract to the next.

It is important to note that a GTO will not normally be one of the insured parties under the host’s policy. Neither would any GTO apprentices, as they are employees of the GTO and not the host.

This can place your public liability policy at odds with many host employment contracts, which will typically obligate the host employer to include both the GTO and the apprentice as insured parties under the host’s policy.

What this effectively means is that the host employer is contractually bound to insure the liability of their own business, plus that of the GTO and the apprentice.

If you do not do this and a Public Liability claim occurs in circumstances where the GTO or the apprentice are partly liable due to their own wrongdoing, you may not be insured for the amount of their liability. But the host will still be responsible to pay any proportion of liability awarded against the GTO or the apprentice, due to contractual obligations assumed in the host agreement.

Apprentice’s tools

Best practice is to familiarise yourself with insurance obligations in the GTO agreements you sign, as failure to properly fulfil these terms could leave you holding the bag for significant uninsured claims.

The host agreement may place obligations on the host, to insure the apprentice’s tools against various risks.

What are the principal issues?

Should this be the case under the contracts of the GTO’s you use, it is important to ensure that your policy will respond to the required provisions.

As previously mentioned, insurance obligations placed on the host under GTO contracts are not the same. The following information cannot address every issue that may be encountered, but here’s a few things to watch out for: Public Liability insurance The standard provisions of a public liability policy usually cover the named insured (such as your business as host), its directors, employees and principals. The policy should also include, as standard, any portion of liability attached to the host, arising from the actions of GTO apprentices when under the host’s control.

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Again, this cover may not be included under any policy the host employer may hold for their own tools, plant and machinery.

WorkCover recoveries WorkCover insurers routinely undertake actions to recover amounts paid to injured workers if a party, other than a worker’s employer, contributed to the injury.

Because GTO apprentices are not employees of the host, they are not insured by the host’s WorkCover policy. They are employed by the GTO and it is the GTO’s policy that pays out for any WorkCover injuries that may occur.

This creates an anomaly as the WorkCover premium for the apprentice is charged to and paid for by the host, yet the host remains exposed to recovery action from WorkCover for reimbursement of claim costs. This is much the same situation as could occur if you contribute to the injury of an employee of any business other than yours.

Consequently, make sure that your Public Liability policy covers you for WorkCover recovery actions that arise from employees of others. And if it does, check the policy excess applicable to this sort of claim as, frequently, the amount imposed can be a five figure sum.

Master Builder Platinum Protection insurance Liability exposures on building sites for personal injury or property damage incidents are ever present risks that can involve substantial amounts of money. Properly arranged insurance can remove or reduce many of these exposures and makes this a necessary function of safeguarding your business.

In a nutshell Due to the varying terms imposed by GTO’s in their host employment contracts, this information can only be of a general nature. There is no substitute for actually checking your insurance policies against the requirements of the contracts you sign.

Master Builders’ Insurance Services is here to help. Get in contact on 1300 13 13 26 or insurance@mbqld.com.au Note: This information is a summary only of policy coverage. We are pleased to provide full copies of Master Builders policy documentation on request should you wish to review the complete terms of cover as these will apply in the event of any claims. Information contained herein is of a general nature and has not taken into account the particular insurance needs of any individual business or person.

Master Builder Platinum Protection includes the following additional public liability policy provisions, which automatically apply when engaging GTO apprentices: •

Inclusion of a Group Training Organisation as an insured party, if required to do so by contract.

•

Inclusion of a GTO apprentice as an insured party, if required to do so by contract.

•

Inclusion of apprentices tools, if required to do so by contract but subject to the type of coverage you have taken out for your own tools.

•

Inclusion of cover for WorkCover recovery actions arising from claims paid to employees of others, including by WorkCover for GTO apprentices, should such a claim be made against you.

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X Projects

Queen’s Wharf set to transform city of Brisbane In 2017, the partners in the Destination Brisbane Consortium – The Star Entertainment Group, Chow Tai Fook Enterprises and Far East Consortium – will begin work on a world-class integrated resort development – Queen’s Wharf Brisbane.

With the capacity to realise Brisbane’s growth and profile aspirations by delivering a place-defining precinct, it will have a significant transformational impact on Queensland’s economy, jobs, tourism, visitation, liveability and image.

Jan 2016 – Jan 2017

Preliminary site investigation works

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2017

Anticipated start of demolition and construction activities

Transforming Brisbane’s CBD and river edge with its stunning subtropical design, the outdoor dining and entertainment spaces will maximise Brisbane’s average 300+ days of sunshine every year.

Queen's Wharf Brisbane will be a unique and vibrant new world city development that attracts visitors and investment, reconnects the activity of the Brisbane city centre to the river, preserves and celebrates Brisbane's heritage and delivers high quality public spaces.

For more information visit DestinationBrisbaneConsortium.com.au

2018

Commence foundations for the core development area

2019

Foundations, car park completed and heritage work commences

© Destination Brisbane Consortium. All rights reserved. Artist's impression. Subject to planning approvals.

X

THE PROJECT IN NUMBERS 1,100 premium hotel rooms 2,000 apartments 50 new restaurants, cafés and bars

12 football fields of public space

© Destination Brisbane Consortium. All rights reserved. Artist's impression. Subject to planning approvals.

ECONOMIC IMPACT AND BENEFITS • Creation of more than 8,000 jobs in Queensland once fully operational • Creation of around 2,000 jobs during construction • Projected $1.69 billion annual increase in Queensland tourism spend

2020

Core development starts to take shape as construction progresses above ground

• P rojected 1.39 million additional tourists per annum

4 key retail zones

• $4 billion projected boost to Gross State Product • T he relocation of The Star Entertainment Group’s head office from Sydney to Queensland.

2021

Internal fitout commences of the Integrated Resort Development Buildings

including subtropical landscaped walking routes, a moonlight cinema and a permanent River Arena to stage the world’s largest light and water show

5,000 car parking spaces

2022

Opening of the Core Integrated Resort Development, including hotels and all public realm areas and conversion begins of the Treasury building and beneath Queens Gardens, creating a retail zone linking Queen Street Mall to the heart of the precinct.

2024

Anticipated opening of the repurposed Treasury building.

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Regional profile

Gold Coast

riding a wave of confidence

$2,058 per month

MEDIAN MORTGAGE REPAYMENT

$455,000

MEDIAN DWELLING PRICE From the iconic Surfers Paradise beach to the dining precincts of Main Beach and Broadbeach and out to the lush, green hinterland, the Gold Coast is a city that offers something for everyone.

With a population of over half a million people, the Gold Coast enjoys a five-year average annual growth rate of 2.3 per cent, has access to an economic catchment of 3.6 million people and welcomes close to 12 million visitors each year.

Growing from an economy built on construction and tourism, the Gold Coast is diversifying into knowledge based industries of health, education, ICT and advanced manufacturing.

Stretching from Beenleigh and Russell Island to the border with New South Wales (NSW) approximately 56 km (35 mi) south, it extends from the coast west to the foothills of the Great Dividing Range in World Heritage listed Lamington National Park. It’s home to an active base of more than 1,000 Master Builders members.

12 month change in total employment

$433,900

MEDIAN NEW HOUSE PRICE

$29,692

MEDIAN PERSONAL INCOME

$71,708

MEDIAN FAMILY INCOME

5.3%

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE IN THE REGION

26,841

CONSTRUCTION WORKERS EMPLOYED IN REGION

6,768

NEW HOUSES APPROVED IN THE REGION OVER THE PAST 12 MONTHS Source: Queensland Government Statistician’s Office

John Duncalfe Gold Coast Regional Manager

and clearly outlined his vision for the Gold Coast, including the need for a cruise ship terminal. With more than 63 per cent of the votes, there is no doubt the majority of the Gold Coast shares his vision.

There’s no doubt that consumer confidence has picked up on the Gold Coast as the Commonwealth Games draws closer and the local Council elections are over.

Our Mayor, Cr Tom Tate, addressed members at an Industry Update before the election,

The extensions to the light rail in both north and south directions, when built, will open more opportunities for development and prospects for the local industry as a whole. We’re all waiting on the sale of the old hospital site in Southport, which will help to strengthen Southport as the Gold Coast CBD.

Major projects, like the Jewel and the Gold Coast Cultural Precinct, will further enhance confidence for investors in our region.

Land development has been focused on the Gold Coast to Brisbane corridor and we’ll see two Master Builders’ display villages there by the end of this year. This will provide growth in the northern sector of our city.

As land values increase, our members report that the renovation market is still strong. All indicators point to greater opportunities and growth on the Gold Coast, and a lasting legacy after the Commonwealth Games.

Tom Tate

City of Gold Coast Mayor

Our city is preparing to host the biggest event in its history – the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

This event has been the catalyst for renewed growth and confidence in our city, supported by a stronger Council and a value-for-money agenda.

Since 2012, we’ve been working hard to reinvigorate our economy. In a vote of confidence from investors, major infrastructure projects are also underway in the city’s CBD, retail and tourism sectors.

This valuable infrastructure will support our growing population, expected to increase from 538,000 to 730,000 by 2026.

More than $200 million in new sporting infrastructure is being constructed for the Commonwealth Games, alongside $68 million in public domain improvements. The event will create 30,000 full-time equivalent jobs and is expected to have a $2 billion impact on our economy.

A key objective for the City has been to work with our partners to ensure all venues

are ready for competition and designed for use by our community long after the closing ceremony. The development of the Commonwealth Games Village is the largest urban renewal project undertaken on the Gold Coast. The $650 million mixed-use residential development will be home to a new community after the Games and is the single most significant legacy project for GC2018.

One of the first initiatives I pushed through as Mayor was Construction Kickstart, an initiative designed to create jobs and encourage development. Phase One of Kickstart offered 100 per cent discount on transport, recreation facilities and stormwater infrastructure charges while Phase Two offered 50 per cent discount on the same charges. The incentives created 9,500 local jobs and generated $885 million in construction activity.

There’s now more than $13.5 billion in major infrastructure projects planned or underway on the Gold Coast. The number of residential building approvals has also quadrupled since 2013. Major projects include: • $1.76 billion Gold Coast University Hospital • $1.2 billion light rail network • $670 million Pacific Fair redevelopment

• $395 million Gold Coast Cultural Precinct • $345 million Jupiters Casino redevelopment • $41 million Gold Coast Aquatic Centre • $10.5 million Broadwater Parklands Stage 3 • $6.8 million Chinatown precinct in Southport • $120 million Carrara Sports Precinct • $38 million Coomera Indoor Sports Centre With such incredible growth, we need to ensure we can cater for the increasing demand on our transport infrastructure. I am pushing for stage three of the light rail which will build capacity and go a long way in solving our future transport needs.

Chinese-owned Wanda Ridong Group has begun one of the biggest and most exciting projects our city has seen in the past decade. Jewel is a $1 billion, three-tower residential and luxury resort development at Broadbeach that is going to make our skyline even more impressive.

I’m confident the Gold Coast can continue to attract new local and foreign investment going forward. Our new streamlined City Plan provides a solid framework to ensure this happens and creates the right conditions for continued future economic growth by encouraging investment and job creation. june / july 16 [ 51 ]

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Members

Matthew Williams (Construction Manager & Director) and Andrew Williams (Managing Director)

In 2016, Brisbane-based builder, GW Homes marks its 50th year of constructing high quality houses in south east Queensland.

In an industry where hundreds of businesses have come and gone over that time, it’s a milestone worth celebrating.

We joined Managing Director, Andrew Williams, in taking a look back at where GW Homes have come from, and where they’re planning to head in the next 50 years.

A history of solid building practices In 1964, founder Grant Williams and his business partner, Peter Makepeace, started building homes in Brisbane. Two years later, GW Homes was registered as a business name and their 50 year (and counting) story officially began.

GW Homes remains firmly a family business today. The next Williams generation, Andrew, Mathew and Jody, proudly carry on Grant Williams’ commitment to quality and service in home building.

“It’s the same solid business principles that Dad introduced half a century ago that stand us in good stead today,” Andrew said.

“We believe our longevity is thanks to our strong family culture of doing the job right, never settling for less than the highest standard of workmanship, and taking pride in the finished homes we hand over to our customers,” he said.

It’s a philosophy that’s shared by GW Homes’ employees, with many of their subcontractors and tradesmen having been part of the business for decades.

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GW Homes celebrates 50 years A half century with Master Builders GW Homes’ links to Master Builders Queensland go back almost the full 50 years.

Founder, Grant Williams, would eventually serve as President for two years (1994-95).

In his time as a builder, Grant Williams also served as a judge for the Master Builders Housing & Construction Awards and Australian Home of the Year for a whopping 16 years.

He is now a life member.

“GW Homes have been part of Master Builders from the start. They’re a strong voice for our industry and I know Dad was and is very pleased to be associated with them,” Andrew said.

Looking forward to the next 50 years of home building Today, the GW Homes team are proud to have completed more than 3,000 homes across south east Queensland. But they’re just getting started.

With their long history of reputable home building, they’re here to stay – and they’re motivated to uphold that reputation with every home they build.

“In 2016 we’re firmly focused on looking ahead and staying on top of home building trends, exploring new building methods, and meeting new regulations,” Andrew said.

“And we’re looking forward to what the building industry will bring in the next 50 years.”

For more information on GW Homes’ 50 years of home building visit gwhomes.com.au

Community projects

Expansion of MATES in Construction – can it be done?

As part of the Queensland Suicide Prevention Action Plan 2015–17 the Queensland Mental Health Commission (QMHC) chose to support MATES in Construction by funding the “Saving Lives in the Construction Industry” project. This project aims to identify options to expand the suicide prevention initiatives of MATES in Construction Queensland.

The QMHC has funded MATES in Construction to complete the project by 31 July 2016.

This project aims to consider and provide recommendations on future priorities and sustainable funding options, which will allow expansion of suicide prevention services. These services are expected to reach 50 per cent of the Queensland construction industry, with a focus on small and medium-sized, regional and rural construction sector businesses and workers.

This news is heartening for MATES in Construction. To date, their reach has been limited to larger civil and commercial construction sites in larger populated areas. The support of this project and the announcement by the state government that mental health programs will be a priority in the 2016–17 State Budget, in order to address the high rates of suicide in regional Queensland, means that MATES in Construction is well placed to further implement the suicide prevention program.

The construction industry generated over $45B for the Queensland economy in 2015 and has approximately 170,000 construction workers, with the majority located in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Central and Northern Queensland.

Projected building activity across the state indicates Brisbane to be the highest for residential unit developments. This is closely followed by the Gold Coast with the work accompanying the Commonwealth Games. Northern, Western and Central Queensland, and the Darling Downs have medium levels of building activity. This is valuable in determining where the reach of the program needs to be directed in the future to meet the target of 50 per cent reach in the construction industry.

Meanwhile, MATES in Construction has a target of reducing the suicide rate by seven per cent in Queensland over the next five years.

To achieve this target, they must connect with smaller contractors and expand operations more broadly across the state. This will be more labour intensive and require additional resources in terms of Field Officers and Case Managers.

Since the project began, MATES has held extensive discussions with a number of key stakeholders including Master Builders, Civil Contractors Federation, QSuper, WorkCover Queensland, Construction Skills Queensland, the Queensland Building and Construction Commission and the Building Employees Redundancy Trust on how MATES in Construction should expand service delivery across the State.

In response, MATES in Construction has drafted a proposal to the state government outlining the future priorities for the program and a sustainable funding model. The proposal outlines the expansion program over the next four years and details strategies for increasing program awareness and conducting research and evaluation.

The proposal was submitted to government for consideration in April, so stay tuned to see if it’s successful.

For more information on the work MATES in Construction do, visit matesinconstruction.org.au.

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Training & licensing

Incorrectly installed passive fire walls –

Are you across the risks?

The consequences of incorrectly installed passive fire walls can be catastrophic.

In the best case, property may be destroyed; in the worst case, there may be loss of life.

Either way, if it is deemed the spread of fire was caused by incorrectly or poorly installed fire walls, it is likely the builder will be held accountable.

More and more carpenters are installing passive fire walls, and they’re not always getting it right. In response to this, and the enormous risks associated with incorrect installation, Master Builders has developed a two-day Passive Fire Rated System Installation* workshop, that provides

builders and carpenters with the skills and knowledge required to ensure passive fire wall systems are installed correctly.

This practical, hands-on workshop covers: •

The planning and preparation required for the correct installation of dry wall fire-rated systems to walls and ceilings;

•

Installation of approved systems for stud walls, steel stud partitions, shaft walls, timber joist and suspended ceilings; and

•

Completion of post-installation activities.

Our Passive Fire Rated System Installation workshop is run across Queensland.

NOTE – This is the first course in a two-part series that includes Passive Fire Rated System Certification (CPCCBC4047A). * CPCCWC3003A – Install dry passive fire-rated systems

Courses for builders and tradies

(one-day workshop)

Resolving Disputes

(one-day workshop)

Estimating Essentials

Contract Management for Builders (two-day workshop)

CPCCBC4024A Resolve business disputes

CPCCCM2003B Calculate and cost construction work

CPCCBC4003A Select and prepare a construction contract

Having the skills and knowledge to estimate materials, labour and time are fundamental to any trade contracting business, and are vital in ensuring you don’t lose money on a job.

CPCCBC4016A Administer a Construction Contract

Regardless of how airtight agreements or contracts are, disputes or disagreements can still arise, leading to delayed payment, poor references and, in some cases, litigation.

This one-day workshop will help you gain the skills and knowledge required to resolve business disputes that may arise in residential and commercial contracting projects, helping you avoid having to take disputes to court.

Estimating Essentials provides the skills and knowledge required to estimate materials, labour and time requirements and establish costs for provision of services or products.

A thorough knowledge and understanding of the application of current legal, regulatory and contractual requirements is essential to ensure you meet your legal obligations for every building and construction project. It’s also vital for ensuring you get paid.

In this course you will learn how to select, prepare and administer building contracts for residential and commercial projects.

To enrol or check out dates for any of these courses, visit mbqld.com.au/training or call 1300 136 002. mb

[ 54 ] june / july 16

Training & licensing

Upcoming courses RESIDENTIAL SECTOR Course

Why enrol

Region/s

Dates

Business Management for Trade Contractors (BMC)

Apply for your trade contractor licence.

All regions

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

Certificate III *

Become a tradesperson

All regions

Enrol any time

Certificate IV in Building & Construction (Building) *

Become a low-rise builder

Brisbane Sunshine Coast

Cert III in Construction Waterproofing*

Get the skills and knowledge to ensure building projects are waterproofed correctly

Brisbane Cairns Townsville Mackay Rockhampton

Asbestos Awareness

Understand your legal obligations around asbestos

Brisbane

20 June

Asbestos Workers Program *

Legally remove non-friable asbestos

Rockhampton

16 June

Electrical Testing & Tagging

Test and tag your own electrical equipment.

All regions

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

Managing Poor Performance & Terminations

Learn how to manage poor performance and terminate employees the right way.

Rockhampton Toowoomba

Rockhampton – 26 July Toowoomba – 23 August

Understanding Modern Awards (combined workshop)

Understand entitlements, wages and conditions and learn how to lawfully pay flat hourly rates to your workers.

Brisbane Rockhampton Toowoomba

Brisbane – 12 July Rockhampton – 26 July Toowoomba – 23 August

Estimating Essentials

Skill up in estimating so you don’t lose money on a job.

Toowoomba Sunshine Coast Hervey Bay

Toowoomba – 13 June Sunshine Coast – 20 June Hervey Bay – 27 June

Contract Management for Builders

Make sure you meet your legal obligations for every construction project.

Toowoomba Sunshine Coast Hervey Bay

Toowoomba – 7-8 July Sunshine Coast – 14-15 July Hervey Bay – 21-22 July

Course

Why enrol

Region/s

Dates

Asbestos Awareness

Understand your legal obligations around asbestos

Brisbane

20 June

Asbestos Workers Program *

Legally remove non-friable asbestos

Rockhampton

16 June

Electrical Testing & Tagging

Test and tag your own electrical equipment

All regions

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

Managing Poor Performance & Terminations

Learn how to manage poor performance and terminate employees the right way.

Rockhampton Toowoomba

Rockhampton – 26 July Toowoomba – 23 August

Understanding Modern Awards (combined workshop)

Understand entitlements, wages and conditions and learn how to lawfully pay flat hourly rates to your workers.

Brisbane Rockhampton Toowoomba

Brisbane – 12 July Rockhampton – 26 July Toowoomba – 23 August

Brisbane – M idweek course starts 6 June, Weekend course starts 11 June Sunshine Coast – C ourse info night 7 June Course starts 20 June Brisbane – 15 June Courses in regions run frequently – call for the next enrolment in your region

COMMERCIAL SECTOR

* Nationally Accredited For complete course names and titles, specific course dates and further information visit mbqld.com.au/training or call 1300 136 002.

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Superannuation

Get super sorted With a new financial year ticking over, there’s no better time to get your super sorted.

We know that super is probably the last thing on your mind, but with the beginning of a new financial year, and changes to super proposed in the May Federal Budget, there’s no better time to get your super sorted.

BUSSQ can help you through the process and it’s probably easier than you think!

More than one super account? Roll and save today On average, Australians have three super accounts, and each account has its own fees and charges, which means you’re throwing money down the drain. If you know you have other super accounts, you can easily roll them into BUSSQ in minutes by calling them or using their online rollover tool.

Visit bussq.com.au, log into MemberAccess and click on the Rollover Super tab.

A number of important updates to superannuation were announced in the Federal Budget released in May. The main proposals are outlined below.

It’s important to remember that all of these changes are proposed.

•

fter tax contributions will have a A $500,000 lifetime cap

•

Before tax contributions will have an annual cap of $25,000 (a reduction of $5,000 or $10,000, depending on your age)

•

People with balances under $500,000 will be able to roll over their annual, before tax contributions cap amounts

•

The company tax rate will be lowered to 25% over 10 years

•

Tax concessions to be reduced on Transition to Retirement Pensions

•

The Work test previously required up to age 74 will be scrapped

There’s $16.8 billion in lost super – see if some of it is yours Text your name and date of birth to 0429 558 006* and BUSSQ will do a lost super search for you. It takes about 6–8 weeks to hear back and they’ll be in touch with what they’ve found.

It costs nothing to check, and you might be pleasantly surprised at what you find. *Standard SMS charges apply. Check the rates with your mobile provider.

Need help choosing the right insurance for you?

Let BUSSQ help BUSSQ offers its members a range of low cost insurance options to help you manage your finances, including Death, Total and Temporary Disablement (TTD), Total and Permanent Disablement (TPD) and Income Protection.

•

Personal Tax rates will be changed

Go to the insurance section of bussq.com.au and select Get a Quote to find out how much insurance you need.

•

A low income super tax offset will be introduced

Taking action on just one of these points could make a difference to your super balance.

•

Low income spouse super tax offset limit will be raised to $37,000

•

Additional super contributions tax for those earning over $250,000

•

Deductions on super contributions will be expanded

•

Anti-detriment to be removed for super death benefits.

So what are you waiting for!

Tick getting your super sorted off your ‘To Do’ list now!

To find out how these proposals and others may affect you, attend one of BUSSQ’s free upcoming Retirement Planning Sessions.

To register for the next session in your area go to bussq.com.au and search ‘retirement sessions’.

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Member benefits

Digital marketing solutions for members Master Builders has joined forces with digital marketing specialists, APN ARM Digital Marketing Solutions, to offer high quality digital marketing management, tailored specifically to meet the needs of members.

There’s no getting around the fact that in order to grow, a business needs to have a strong online presence. But many contractors don't have the time or skills to handle this in-house. After all, contractors build homes, not websites.

That’s where Digital Marketing Solutions (DMS) comes in.

DMS uses their extensive media and advertising industry knowledge and passion for their local communities to fulfil your needs; taking the time to get to know you and your business, and work with you to tailor a digital marketing strategy for your unique needs, achieving real results and a strong return on your investment.

Give your customers the best online experience possible through:

DMS can take care of all your online needs using their specific experience and knowledge of the building industry in Queensland.

•

Just like building a home, building a strong digital marketing strategy is not a one-size-fits all deal. Your business is unique, your customers are unique, and you need a unique approach to your digital needs.

DMS has a proven track record in building quality responsive websites for members of the building industry, taking care of ongoing changes and updates, click to calls, calls to action, social media management and more.

Simplicity and efficiency of design

•

Intelligent social media management

•

Quality, engaging content using videos, news and blogs

•

Effective calls to action

•

Easy ways for your customers – and potential customers – to contact you.

With DMS, you can get on with the business of building, while they help you build your business.

Queensland building companies are already reaping the rewards from DMS’ digital marketing expertise – with a growth in enquiries, sales, and brand exposure.

ARM Digital Marketing Solutions will provide members with a free digital health check and quote and can build websites from $110 per month (T&Cs apply – 12 month commitment required).

Visit mbqld.com.au/arm to find out more about the deal.

77%

64%

of Australians Use the Internet to Research Products and Services*

of Australians Feel They’d Be Lost Without the Internet*

Hassle Free Digital Marketing that Works 72%

53%

of Australians Feel Comfortable Paying for Things on the Internet*

of Australian’s Access the Internet Over Five Times a Day*

DID YOU KNOW We Offer A Free Digital Health Check + Competitor Analysis Source: emma™ conducted by Ipsos MediaCT. People 14+ for the 12 months ending August 2015

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Member benefits Master Builders strives to secure a range of exclusive benefits to add value to your membership and save you money.

Trailers 2000

Quest Newspapers

OfficeMax

Totally Workwear

Receive 10% off any outright purchase or “Rent then Buy” offer.

Advertise in the Trades & Services section for a minimum of 4 weeks, include the Master Builders member logo and receive 40% discount (must reference the deal when booking)

Special pricing on a range of stationery items, office supplies, and office equipment plus free delivery on orders over $50.

15% discount vouchers available on Hard Yakka, Stubbies and King Gee clothing, and Oliver steel cap boots. Call us for a voucher.

Golden Elite

Kennards Hire

Europcar 15% off the best retail rate of the day.

Enviropest / Flick Telstra We’ve teamed up with Telstra to bring you more of the good stuff at exclusive mates’ rates.

Save on a wide range of mobile, landline and internet products, with the most reliable coverage in Australia.

Members receive an exclusive 25% off when booking any general residential pest control service. New customers to Enviropest will also receive 25% off their first preconstruction booking.

As a member, you can exclusively source direct at lower than wholesale pricing on a range of flooring products, including laminate, bamboo, timber, WPC, tiles and stone kitchen bench tops.

Beaurepaires APN Newspapers ARM Digital Marketing Solutions

Caltex Star Card Get 3.5c/l off the pump price of unleaded fuel and 4c/l off the pump price for diesel. Reduced monthly fees and ATO compliant tax invoices provided.

Members who open an account receive at least 10% discount on equipment hire. Other exclusive promotional offers available.

ARM Digital Marketing Solutions will provide members with a free digital health check and can build websites from $110 per month.

(T&Cs apply – 12 month commitment required).

Get a 10% discount off all Trades and Services advertising. Members who include their logo in a border style advertisement are eligible for the discount (must reference the deal when booking with APN).

Save 15% on Goodyear and Dunlop passenger, 4WD or light truck tyres.

Call us for a voucher.

Toyota, Mitsubishi and Isuzu Save thousands on your next vehicle with some great fleet discounts.

To find out more contact hub@mbqld.com.au or call (07) 3225 6528 Conditions apply. Visit mbqld.com.au/memberbenefits for full terms and conditions.

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[ 58 ] june / july 16

W hat’s on

What’s on SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

JUNE WEDNESDAY

1

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

2 Hervey Bay

3

4

9

10

11

16Townsville

17

18

Industry Insight Charters Towers Industry Insight

5

6 Gold Coast

7

8

13

14

Industry Insight Mackay Industry Update

12

Sunshine Coast Industry Insight

Beaudesert Industry Insight

19 26

20 27

15 Brisbane North Welcome Evening

21

22

Gladstone Rockhampton Industry Update Industry Update and Central Queensland Welcome Evening Women in Building

28 Biloela Industry Update

29 Yeppoon Industry Update

Industry Insight Bowen Industry Update

23

Bowen Golf Day

24

25

Townsville Golf Day

30 Toowoomba Industry Insight

JULY SUNDAY

MONDAY

31

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

1

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

27

28

29

30

Brisbane Housing & Construction Awards

Downs & Western Housing & Construction Awards

Rockhampton Women in Building

24

25

26

Gold Coast Housing & Construction Awards

Register online at mbqld.com.au/events june / july 16 [ 59 ]

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Events

Roadshow wrap-up

Roadshow in a nutshell

The Master Builders BUSSQ Roadshow made a return in 2016, connecting builders and tradies with industry experts to hear first-hand about the important changes happening in our industry.

This year’s event focused on regulatory changes, particularly around the National Construction Code, as well as panel discussions and displays of new products and technology.

Members actively took part in an open discussion with industry leaders around the big issues facing the building sector and captured one-on-one time with the people leading the industry in construction policy, industrial relations, insurance, superannuation, housing, training and licensing.

It was also a great chance to catch up with mates and have a drink on us!

A massive thank you to the sponsors and exhibitors who made Roadshow possible this year.

qbcc BOARDS

™

Queensland cities visited:

8

Members who attended:

585

Panel members & guest speakers

47

Lucky door prizes given away

83

Kilometres travelled

1,754

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People & events

Beaudesert Golf Day Our annual Beaudesert Golf Day at Beaudesert Golf Club was another great success. A big thanks to the sponsors of the day, BUSSQ, Hamilton Sunscreen and Totally WorkWear.

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[ 62 ] june / july 16

Survey of Industry Conditions winner Congratulations to Steve Allan of Hotondo Homes in Toowoomba – the latest winner of our Survey of Industry Conditions prize. Steve and his wife, Cassie, are going to use the BCF voucher for some solar panels for their camping set up!

Mackay & Airlie Beach Cert IV Graduations Congratulations to all of our recent Certificate IV in Building & Construction graduates in the Mackay & Airlie Beach regions.

Keep up the great work guys!

Shaun Moppett, Lyle Falconer and Geoff Baguley

Peter Gibbon with Simon Barron, QBCC

Michael Cotter with Simon Barron, QBCC

Tim Macey with Simon Barron, QBCC

Liam Fulcher with Simon Barron, QBCC

june / july 16 [ 63 ]

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office locations Mitsubishi Triton Sale Over the years, Mitsubishi’s trusty Triton has become one of Australia’s favourite light trucks with a solid reputation as a capable workhorse and off-roader.

With car-like ride comfort, manoeuvrability, advanced pedestrian and occupant safety, cabin quietness and refinement, the 2016 model is the best Triton yet.

THE BAYER PROTECTION YOUR HOME IS PROGRAM OFFERS PROTECTED BY BAYER HOMEOWNERS TOTAL TERMITE Bayer offers PROTECTION Australia’s most comprehensive termite protection system – the Bayer If you choose to the AProtection first for theProgram. termite industry in Australia, activate and be covered by the Bayer Bayer Protection Program offers homeowners Protection Program you will be protected by total termite protection -- a combination of an exclusive $1 million warranty! regular termite inspections (e.g. annually) easy!the Thepresence Bayer Protection Warranty toIt’s detect of termites; and a starts with an (Kordon®) inspection of homeentry by a physical barrier to the prevent Bayer Accredited Timber Pest Inspector. via areas that can’t be inspected.

If the home is termite-free, and possible conditions which may be conducive to The Bayer Protection Warranty starts with termite attack are addressed, your Bayer an inspection of the home by a Bayer Protection Warranty can be renewed.

Accredited Timber Pest Inspector. If the The same inspection takes place each home is termite-free, and possible conditions year to give the homeowner total termite which may be conducive to termite attack are protection. This warranty can be renewed addressed, your Bayer for Protection Warranty annually (fee applies) the life of the can be renewed.

The same inspection takes structure. place each year to give the homeowner total The Bayer Protection Warranty covers termite protection. This warranty can be homeowners for up to $1 million worth of renewed annually (fee applies) for the life of termite damage due to product failure or the structure.

any other means of termite entry.

Activate your Bayer Protection Warranty by

The Bayer Protection Warranty covers visiting www.kordonwarrantycentre.com.au. homeowners for up to $1 million worth of termite damage due to product failure or Forother further information on the Kordon any means of termite entry.

The 5-star ANCAP safety rated 2016 Triton has an all-new model range, extending from the tradie-friendly GLX line-up to the sportsstyled GLS and range-topping Exceed.

Cabin functionality is among the best in class with tilt and telescopic steering standard across the range.

All models are packed with technology features including Hill Start Assist, Trailer Stability Assist, adjustable speed limiter, multi-information monitor and Emergency Stop Signal function.

At the heart of the 2016 Triton is a new, refined 2.4-litre MIVEC turbo diesel engine.

Peak power is up to 133kW at 3500 rpm, while torque is boosted to 430Nm at 2500 rpm across both manual and auto models.

Fuel consumption is just 7.2 l/100km for the GLX Double Cab with 6-speed manual.

Triton is the ideal package for towing with an official 3.1 tonne maximum braked capacity (4x4 Double Cab models) and has been specifically tested and tuned in Australia to offer balanced towing performance.

Triton also strikes a practical balance between tow capacity and payload so that even towing at the maximum weight, 2016 Triton retains a functional, usable payload.

Mitsubishi’s 2016 Triton starts from just $23,500 drive away.

Termite Barrier, Bayer Protection Warranty and Frequently visit To activate yourAsked BayerQuestions Protection Warranty www.kordonwarrantycentre.com.au or or visit www.kordonwarrantycentre.com.au contact theinformation Bayer Protection team for further contact theon Bayer 1800 552 802.

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BRISBANE 417 Wickham Terrace, Brisbane, QLD 4000 Ph: 3225 6444 | Fax: 3225 6545 ask@mbqld.com.au GOLD COAST 18 Central Park Ave, Ashmore, QLD 4214 Ph: 5582 7100 | Fax 5609 6054 gc@mbqld.com.au DOWNS & WESTERN 166 Hume Street, Toowoomba, QLD 4350 Ph: 4659 4200 | Fax: 4641 7854 dw@mbqld.com.au SUNSHINE COAST Level 1, 91 King Street, PO Box 1458, Buderim, QLD 4556 Ph: 5456 9800 | Fax: 5453 4670 ssc@mbqld.com.au WIDE BAY BURNETT 162 Boat Harbour Drive, Hervey Bay, QLD 4655 Ph: 4303 2400 | Fax: 4124 7235 wbb@mbqld.com.au CENTRAL QUEENSLAND 35 Derby Street, PO Box 631 Rockhampton, QLD 4700 Ph: 4923 1900 | Fax: 4303 6104 cq@mbqld.com.au MACKAY & WHITSUNDAY Suite 2, 40 Evans Avenue, PO Box 3188, North Mackay, QLD 4740 Ph: 4969 4500 | Fax: 4829 4184 mw@mbqld.com.au NORTH QUEENSLAND Unit 1(B), 316 Sturt Street, Townsville, QLD 4810 Ph: 4417 1800 | Fax: 4422 0094 nq@mbqld.com.au

66 Hope St | South Brisbane Phone: 1300 13 12 11 www.mitsubishi-motors.com.au/special-offers

FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND 310–314 Gatton Street, Manunda PO Box 806, Earlville, QLD 4870 Ph: 4042 8800 | Fax: 4027 9214 fnq@mbqld.com.au

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Last word ACROSS

Crossword

3. Townsville’s only surviving example of a substantial 19th century brewery in Queensland.

Iconic Queensland buildings and structures 1

5. Opened in 1940 and stretches a total length of 1,072m across a river 8. A Spanish Castle made of stone nestled in the rainforest just south of Innisfail

2

3

4

5

6

9. Australia’s tallest residential tower 10. Home of Queensland’s favourite dark rum

DOWN

7

1. A 1915 Queenslander homestead near Mackay, which houses an intact collection of more than 20,000 historical items

8

2. The home of Rockhampton’s railway history since 1899.

4 . A cartoon Sunshine Coast pub built in 1989.

9

6. Opened in Brisbane in 1930 and features an Italian Renaissance architectural style

10

7. Brisbane's oldest surviving residence built in 1846

Spot the difference

There are 10 differences between the two images below. Can you spot them all?

Solutions SPOT THE DIFFERENCE 1) The hard hat is a different colour on the worker with the wheelbarrow.

2) A stripe is missing from one of the barriers. 3) A yellow stripe has gone from the cement truck. 4) Eye colour has changed on the worker with the shovel. 5) A brick has been removed from structure. 6) The hair colour has changed on the brick layer. 7) Sand is missing from the wheelbarrow. 8) The colour of the crane cab has changed.

9) The building colour has changed. 10) One of the workers has a different coloured shirt on. [ 66 ] june / july 16

CROSSWORD 1) Greenmount Homestead. 2) Archer Park Rail Museum. 3) Lion Brewery. 4) Ettamogah Pub. 5) Story Bridge. 6) Brisbane City Hall. 7) Newstead House. 8) Paronella Park. 9) Q1 Tower. 10) Bundaberg Distilling Company

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Master Builder

Construction Works Insurance that delivers

QUALITY PRODUCT…

Insurance designed and built

by Master Builders. Extensive scope of policy protection, automatic – always.

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Call your nearest Master Builders' Insurance office on 1300 13 13 26, or email insurance@mbqld.com.au A DIVISION OF QUEENSLAND MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION Australian Financial Services Licence No 246834

mbqld.com.au/insurance

Fast turnaround for all documents and claims.

Outstanding value for money.