2013 Jul-Aug Master Builders WA Magazine

OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

VOLUME 10 NUMBER 3 JULY-AUG 2013

PP 424022/1825 $9.90

Marmion on housing strategy Sculpture at Springs Rivervale Opposition IR policy Insurance bonds

BROOME PEARLRSA: A KIMBERLEY PILB E C N E L L E C X E G IN D IL BU AWARD WINNERS

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CoNteNts

oUR CoveR It might be an ancient landscape, but the Kimberley-Pilbara region produces modern masterpieces for the 2013 Building Excellence Awards in Broome. See pages 28-33 for full details.

forewords

updates

features

President’s file................................................... 2

Personal Pars .................................................. 34

The Advantages of Double-glazing ................. 62

Director’s file .................................................... 4

Building Business ............................................ 36

Putting the AC to the Test ............................... 66

Membership ................................................... 40

eRP software evaluation .................................. 70

Member Profile .............................................. 44

Building with Steel .......................................... 76

Master Builders General News .......................... 6

Safety .............................................................. 46

from the Hill ................................................... 20

industrial Relations ......................................... 48

Tyre Care is Crucial for Safe Vehicle Transportation ................................................ 79

Master Builders Branches ................................ 21

Members’ Health ........................................... 50

awards

Training .......................................................... 52

Reports

Kimberley Pilbara Awards ............................... 28

What’s New ................................................... 80

legal .............................................................. 56 Technical ......................................................... 57 insurance ........................................................ 58 Housing .......................................................... 59

HEAD OFFICE: 35-37 Havelock Street, West Perth WA 6005 Post: PO Box 167, West Perth WA 6872 Phone: (08) 9476 9800 (Country) 1300 550 262 Fax: (08) 9476 9801 Email: mba@mbawa.com Website: www.mbawa.com

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Crowther Blayne & Associates Pty Ltd Phone: 1800 222 757 Fax: 1800 063 151 Email: publications@crowtherblayne.com.au Advertising Sales Manager: Patricia Davey Email: sales@crowtherblayne.com.au Graphic Design: Aniko Gaspar Editor: Sue Guilfoyle Production Coordinator: Brooke Travers Printed by Newstyle Printing

Master Builder is the official publication of The Master Builders Association of Western Australia. It is produced five times per year and published by Crowther-Blayne & Associates Pty Ltd. Master Builders Association of Western Australia was established in1898 and is the state’s oldest building industry organisation. The MBAWA is part of the Australia-wide Master Builder movement. Master Builder is produced to keep members informed of matters affecting them. Opinions and/ or statements in any editorial and/or advertisements are not necessarily those of the publisher and/or the MBAWA. The publisher reserves the right to reject any material deemed unsuitable for publication. Other than for the purposes of and subject to the conditions prescribed under the copyright Act 1968, no part of Master Builder may in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, microcopying, photocopying, recording or otherwise) be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted without prior written permission from the MBAWA or Crowther-Blayne & Associates Pty Ltd.

MBAWA BOARD OF MANAGEMENT: President: Robert Shaw Senior Vice President: John Ripp Treasurer: Chris Lillis Immediate Past President: George Allingame Board Members: Simon Birkhead, David Crothers, Jason Kunkler, Andy Peppercorn, Dan Perkins, Jack Pleiter, Robert Spadaccini, Michael Vermey SENIOR STAFF: Director: Michael McLean Housing & Economics Director: Gavan Forster Contracts & Administration Manager: Charles Anderson Construction Director: Kim Richardson Membership Services Manager: Veronica Mill Communications Director: Geoff Cooper Marketing Manager: Kelly Dewar-Matusik Events Manager: Pippa Tearne Technical Advisor: Romina De Santis Training Director: Neil Du Rand Training Manager: Michael Fitzgerald Regional Operations Manager: Gavin Connaughton

MASTER BUILDERS TRAINING CENTRE 594 Hay Street Jolimont WA 6014 Phone: (08) 9441 8000 Fax: (08) 9441 8001 Email: training@mbawa.com REGIONAL BRANCHES: Albany-Great Southern: Linda Gibbs Ph 9841 6232 Bunbury-South West: Geoff Bosustow Ph 9721 6547 Geraldton-North West: Dianne Gilleland Ph 9921 5061 Kalgoorlie: Jade Hayes Ph 0412 487 970 Esperance: Doug Backhouse Ph 0437 184 366 MEMBERSHIP INQUIRIES: Veronica Mill Ph (08) 9476 9800 SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES: Master Builder is available for subscription at a cost of $55/year. Contact Membership Services Manager Veronica Mill via email at veronica@mbawa.com for further information.

WA Master Builder

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FoRewoRd: President’s File

the challenge to train more apprentices The building industry employs more apprentices than any other. in WA we have more than 7000 apprentices, mostly electrical. Are we doing enough to train our future workforce? like the economic fortunes of builders, apprentices are susceptible to changes in the economy. Downturns in housing and commercial building have contributed to a 30 percent reduction in apprentice commencements over the last two years. This has potential to create skill and labour shortages in the future.

Many factors contribute to the lower number of building apprentices being trained. The school leaving age has increased to 17 years. Parents’ and teachers’ perceptions of the building industry are generally lower than other career options. The cost of training apprentices has risen and competition for work is acute. The Government no longer has a day labour workforce which previously trained apprentices. Physical jobs are becoming too difficult for many young people who prefer an easier working environment.

Master Builders’ Board is concerned with the emerging trends regarding apprentice numbers. We are keen to find ways to increase the number of young people pursuing a career in our industry. We are fortunate to have the Construction Training fund levy to subsidise employment and training of apprentices. Although the levy is only 0.2 percent on the contractual value of projects, it raises between $28-32 million annually to offset the cost of training apprentices and other industry personnel.

Regrettably and surprisingly, this state-wide levy does not apply to mining/resource sector engineering construction projects. Can you believe it? Currently there are about 35,000 construction workers engaged in resource sector construction projects. Although the same mining companies pay the levy in Queensland and South Australia, they don’t pay a cent in WA. it is ridiculous that we pay, then the mining industry picks off our labour at will free of charge. if the mining/ resource sector paid its fair share towards training future builders and tradespeople, the prospect of skill shortages would be greatly reduced.

The sector would help keep its own labour costs under control and be less reliant on overseas labour. And the building unions must be on another planet if they think increasing year one apprentice wages by more than 38 percent and year two by more than 25 percent will boost the number being trained. At the time of writing, the fair Work

Acknowledging the Support of our 2013 Partners:

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WA Master Builder

Commission had reserved its decision after hearing detailed arguments from Master Builders and other industry groups opposed to the unions’ claim. Surprisingly to some, the Gillard Government supported the claim. The case will have a big bearing on the future viability of apprentice training. Master Builders has some important lobbying to do.

A number of strategies are being considered to boost the number of apprentices being trained including: • extending the CTf levy to civil engineering projects in the resource sector.

• Requiring the State Government to make it a contractual requirement for contractors to employ apprentices on Department of Housing and BMW work.

• Having CTf fund a comprehensive Vocational employment Training program in targeted schools.

• increasing government financial incentives for employers.

• lobbying government to reduce payroll tax and other financial burdens on employing apprentices.

• introducing institutional training to minimise the onsite component of apprentice training.

• introducing the licensing of trades to raise the status and profile of apprenticeships.

• expanding school-based apprenticeship programs.

• Developing innovative marketing strategies to promote careers in building.

• Persuading more builders to take on an apprentice.

What do you think? This is a BiG issue for our industry; always has been and always will be. i would be pleased to hear from you if you have suggestions or new ideas. in the meantime, our Board will continue to work with the Department of Training and Workforce Development, the Construction Training fund and other training organisations to develop strategies that will make a difference. Remember, all builders must do their part. There are some who do it well, but there are too many who simply think it is not their role. Yes it is. We have a big role to play. No apprentices, no industry.

Robert Shaw President.

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FoRewoRd: Director’s File

Kimberley treasures To celebrate my pearl wedding anniversary in April, my wife Anna and i decided to take a week long boat trip from Broome to Wyndham.

What we experienced was amazing.

entitled the Kimberley Snapshot, the trip included glimpses of Cockatoo and Koolan islands, the Horizontal falls in Talbot Bay, a swim at Silica Beach, Montgomery Reef – 140 square miles of coral reef, Kings Cascades and the Regent River, a heli-picnic at eagle falls and the King George falls. incorporated in the daily program, according to your personal preferences, was fishing, crabbing, swimming, hiking to see indigenous Wandjina and Bradshaw art, casual boating to observe crocodiles, turtles or dugong or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the Kimberleys from the comfort of the boat. let me tell you (for those who haven’t visited the Kimberleys, north of Broome), the scenery is spectacular and unique. Many of the best attractions are difficult to access despite being surrounded by the oldest rock formations in the world. Our trip concluded in Kununurra which also offered many gems for the tourist in the form of lake Argyle, the Bungle Bungles, el Questro, emma Gorge and Zebedee Springs.

My visit through the Kimberleys also highlighted the challenges in building in many of WA’s remote regional areas. With nearly 90 percent of WA’s population located in Perth and suburban areas, we take a lot for granted when it comes to building our homes and commercial projects. We have an excellent selection of reputable builders and first class tradespeople to choose from, a ready supply of building materials, good weather in which to build and generally straightforward locations in which to build. All of these favourable conditions contribute to an efficient building process, cost-effective outcomes and a manageable building experience.

Have you ever thought about what it might be like to build in some of our State’s more remote locations? Speaking to several of the local

Acknowledging the Support of our 2013 Partners:

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WA Master Builder

builders in Kununurra, i was reminded that the risks of building in the remote parts of the Kimberley region need to be managed very carefully. Think about the following issues that challenge some of our North West builders on a regular basis: • Attracting and retaining skilled and experienced labour, many of whom are transient.

• Ordering building materials and equipment from Perth more than 3000 kilometres away.

• limited telecommunications more than five kilometres away from major towns.

• Difficult hot and wet weather conditions to deal with 4-5 months each year.

• Road closures for extended periods during wet season, limiting site access.

• Natural hazards to contend with such as crocodiles and snakes.

• Difficult soil and rock conditions to build suitable footings.

• Costly fuel and housing to accommodate workers.

All of these issues contribute to a relatively more costly building project in the remote North West regions of our vast State. it is a great credit to our builders how they continually manage to overcome these challenges in completing impressive new homes, resorts, hospitals, schools, prisons and other building projects in the Kimberleys.

There have been many pioneers who have helped to open up our State for resource development, tourism and residential lifestyle. We owe them all great gratitude in enabling us to visit some unique landmarks and magnificent tourist attractions. i hope you get the chance like my wife and i did recently to visit them some day.

Michael McLean Director

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RepoRts: General News

Master Builders’ communications director Geoff Cooper.

There are lots of member services that many Association members don’t realise even exist, says Master Builders’ communications director Geoff Cooper.

Good news for members We ARe getting lots of feedback that many members don’t know about their own membership services! The good news is that i’ll unpack some of our services for you in this column. first, get on your soap-box and complain to us about any government red tape or mismanagement. We want to hear from you! it is Master Builders’ job to lobby on industry concerns, so let us know what is standing between you and better building in WA. it might be electricity requirements, planning laws, transport issues... tell us now! Phone 9476 9800 or email Geoff@mbawa.com. We want more affordable and quality building in WA. You CAN get assistance with subcontracting arrangements. We have on staff, our enormously experienced construction director Kim Richardson, who will assist you to minimise your exposure to regulatory risks that span from tax to superannuation to workers’ compensation.

Don’t lose sleep about these important issues. We also have our commercial partners who can assist you, including Jackson McDonald, Contracting Solutions and RSM Bird Cameron. Other employee relations support is available too.

Your housing director Gavan forster is available to help you navigate the complex builder registration requirements. Thinking about a new corporate/staffing structure? Just call Gavan to discuss.

The Master Builders Training Centre is there to build your skills base.

They have around 150 courses. These can be delivered at our training venues around the State, or if you have a few staff to train, we’ll arrange the training at your site or office.

Then there’s our technical adviser to help you. Romina De Santis can assist with BCA queries or other technical questions on matters such as universal access, fire requirements or energy ratings.

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WA Master Builder

Your contracts manager Charles Anderson is an experienced practitioner and helps guide many members with contractual questions or dispute resolution services. He’s also helped many members with government tendering issues as well. in addition, you have a range of contracts available from the Association to meet your needs. These can be ordered online or bought from our office.

Do you want more business? if so, you have networking, online and advertising options. There are regular networking events so that you can get known. You can sponsor events. We have a popular family of websites that attract hundreds of visits each day. Make sure your find a Member listing is up to date to channel business your way. We promote all members on mbawa.com. Many builders are choosing to have their display homes on our displayhomeswa.com.au website that is securing lots of visitors. We also run commercial, residential, safety and apprentice awards that can boost your profile with potential customers.

Our HOMe in WA TV show can get your business in front of thousands of people around the State and participation in annual expos and exhibitions sponsored by Master Builders from time to time can boost your client leads.

Don’t forget your Master Builders Member stickers too. Be proud.

Promote your industry involvement.

We also deliver to you and any of your staff, regular email and hard copy targeted building information. BuildiT Magazine, this Master Builder Magazine, express newsletter and member circulars all keep you up to date. Make sure we have the details of what you want to receive by calling Skye on 9476 9800. if you want other assistance, you can always enquire and we’ll do our best to find someone to help you.

RepoRts: General News

Kinsella a hit at boardroom lunch Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority CeO Kieran Kinsella was a hit at a recent Master Builders Jackson McDonald boardroom lunch.

MR KiNSellA outlined the MRA’s work to deliver some of the most important projects ever seen in Perth. He is playing a central role in the transformation and renewal of the metropolitan area, including the following projects: • elizabeth Quay, which eventually will be surrounded by multi-storey hotels, offices and residential towers.

• Perth City link, integrating Perth and Northbridge by sinking the rail line and creating a transit-oriented development favouring public transport options on nearby land.

• Riverside Waterbank, creating new housing and a beach along the eastern gateway to Perth through innovative urban design outcomes.

• Perth Cultural Centre, creating a unique and engaging place for people to gather.

• Redevelopment of Midland.

• Armadale expansion.

The boardroom lunch was told that WA has to accommodate population growth that equates to a new town the size of Mandurah

Taxable payments annual reports due THe TAx OffiCe has reminded building businesses which pay contractors for building and construction services that they must report the payments on the taxable payments annual report by 21 July or, in the first year, by 28 July where a business lodges its activity statements quarterly. The report has to include the contractor’s ABN, name and address, the total amount paid for the year and the total GST included in that amount. The ATO says this information generally will be contained in the invoices received from contractors. it also says the quickest, easiest and most secure way to lodge reports is online. Businesses will need software that can generate the annual report according to ATO requirements and an AUSkey. A short video showing how to lodge online is available at ato.gov.au/tpr.

The information reported about payments made to contractors will be matched against other information held by the ATO to detect contractors who have not lodged tax returns or included all their income in returns that have been lodged. The ATO website ato.gov. au/taxablepaymentsreporting has more information on the taxable payments reporting system including what needs to be reported, when reports are due, how to register for an AUSkey, other options for lodging annual reports and how to register for a free webinar.

Jackson McDonald’s Stuart Taylor (left) and Master Builders’ vice president and EMCO Building director John Ripp enjoying the Master Builders-Jackson McDonald boardroom lunch with Kieran Kinsella.

every year. The MRA projects will help facilitate the growth in the State’s population. Speaking after the event, Master Builders’ communications director Geoff Cooper said that the MRA was not bound by local government regulations. “The WA Government gives the MRA a great leg up by exempting it from having to comply with local government regulations that commonly confront private sector developers in other areas,” he said. “Nevertheless, it is great that the MRA is working closely with developers and builders in these prime locations to offer viable opportunities to provide quality buildings to meet the needs of our growing population.” Mr Cooper thanked Jackson McDonald and in particular, construction team partner Basil Georgiou for hosting the event.

Call for Nominations RiC New Medal foR exCelleNCe Selection Criteria • Entrepreneurial flair, examples of lateral or creative thinking, outstanding potential and achievements of a young person (35 years and under) to the building industry in WA. • Practical applied achievements, rather than academic performance.

Prize • In addition to the Ric New Medal, a return economy class airfare from Perth to London and $2,000 expenses.

RiC New “RiSiNg StaR” awaRd Selection Criteria • Outstanding potential, work ethic and commitment of a young person (25 years and under, other than apprentices) to the building industry in WA. • Achievements (rather than academic performance), overcoming adversity and potential contribution to the building industry.

Prize • $2,000 plus trophy.

Nomination forms, to be completed by third parties, can be obtained from Master Builders (ph: 9476 9800 or email: kelly.watt@mbawa.com). the closing date for nominations is 24 august 2013.

WA Master Builder

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RepoRts: General News

Master Builders Australia CEO Wilhelm Harnisch saw little for the building industry to enthuse about in the May Federal Budget.

Budget disappoints building industry The May federal Budget lacked the business orientated productivity and tax reforms required to boost flagging business confidence and growth and to set the groundwork to build a stronger economy, according to Master Builders Australia.

CeO Wilhelm Harnisch said the Budget put even more pressure on the Reserve Bank to do the heavy lifting in terms of stimulating consumer confidence and reviving the building and construction industry.

“The new $24 billion investment for urban road and rail infrastructure was welcome but its impact is many years away,” he said. “There were no other measures in the Budget which will impact positively on the building and construction industry. We were looking for a clear strategy to improve productivity, reform the tax system and help restore business and consumer confidence. The best way for the Government to address its revenue shortfalls is to ensure businesses are healthy and profitable.

“To achieve the planned surplus in three years’ time, the Government is overly reliant on projections of solid economic growth, not a foregone conclusion given the economic headwinds. in the current challenging economic environment, Master Builders believes the priority for fiscal policy should have been to complement monetary policy by adopting a pro-business strategy. The Treasurer and Reserve Bank Governor have consistently stated they are looking to the building industry to fill the gap created by the slowdown of activity in the resources sector. However, there was nothing in the budget that will help achieve this objective.”

Mr Harnisch also was critical of the Budget cutbacks to the fair Work Building and Construction agency saying this broke a clear Government commitment to the building and construction industry to maintain funding for a ‘tough cop on the beat’.

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WA Master Builder

The Government announced operational savings of $24 million over six years, with estimates that staff numbers will be reduced from 145 to 100.

Mr Harnisch said the cuts will see an already disempowered building industry watchdog become even weaker, to the point where it may become useless.

“These cutbacks prove the Government is not serious about maintaining the rule of law in the building and construction industry or improving productivity,” he said. “The cutbacks come as the building and construction industry faces an escalation in industrial thuggery as witnessed in Melbourne, Brisbane and Geelong last year.

“This is a retrograde step that will see increased unlawful behaviour and further erosion in productivity. it comes at a time when we need a cost effective and productive construction industry to underpin economic growth in the tough fiscal period ahead. The watchdog is now set to lose more than 30 percent of its staff.

“Building industry unions have proved they cannot be trusted to operate in accordance with the rule of the law. A strong building and construction industry watchdog has positive impacts on the industry and the economy. A 2012 independent economics report revealed that industrial relations reforms associated with the introduction of the Australian Building and Construction Commission generated $6.3 billion in consumer welfare benefits each year. The Government is jeopardising this community benefit. The announced cutbacks are a lose-lose for the economy and the community.”

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RepoRts: General News

Members and suppliers meet in Broome

John Doust (left) and Ron Kilcullen are prime movers in the AIB Chapter. Mr Doust was recognised in the Australia Day Honours list earlier this year when made a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to the building and construction industry through executive and leadership roles. Mr Kilcullen was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2011 for his service to the WA building industry and to the community.

Conference to mark aiB’s sixtieth The Australian institute of Building and Master Builders are combining to run a conference – Building the future – in September. iT Will Be aimed at both the residential and commercial building sectors and cover topics such as WA’s future growth, the future of modular construction, building information modelling, industrial relations and ACif construction forecasts.

The conference, on 5 September, will celebrate AiB’s sixtieth anniversary in WA. it also is further evidence of the renewed relationship between the two associations which has developed over the past few years.

The WA Chapter of AiB was formed in 1953 after lengthy discussions with the Perth Technical College. The result was that the Building Construction Diploma course was accepted by AiB as qualification for corporate membership of the institute. The Australian institute of Builders, as it was originally known, had been formed in 1951 by eminent builders and leading advocates intent on high professional and educational standards for building.

WA’s Chapter is active both locally and at the national level where immediate past president Graham Teede chairs the Young Builders Alliance. This initiative and the formation of the Building Degree Course at Curtin University are significant achievements of the WA Chapter.

The institute also conducts the Professional excellence in Building Awards, reinforcing the role of the building profession in managing the construction process. The awards provide a forum to acknowledge individuals and management teams who accomplish their missions with extraordinary levels of expertise. The WA awards will be held on 3 August and national presentations are in Melbourne on 6 September.

The national awards, stemming from the various AiB Chapter awards, demonstrate that building and construction professionals continue to be management innovators in the timely and cost efficient completion of construction projects.

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WA Master Builder

Master Builders’ Building excellence Awards weekend in Broome early in May gave local and visiting builder and supplier members the opportunity to meet to share information and discuss the state of the industry and check out new and existing products.

THe MeeTiNG took place in the relaxed and tropical atmosphere of a sundowner sponsored by Bankwest and Master Builders.

Regional manager Di Gilleland says that with so many changes over the past 12 months, gatherings such as the Broome sundowner are a vital tool for industry. She welcomed members and suppliers to the sundowner and introduced Association director Michael Mclean who gave a comprehensive update on industry matters.

The Building Commission’s Jane Vallance spoke briefl y on changes within the Commission.

Geraldton North West Branch committee personnel Andrew Crothers (immediate past chairman), Craig Johnston (vice chairman), Paul Kerr and Mick Desmond also attended and mingled with local members.

A lighter side to the evening saw Mr Crothers, who has just moved into a new home, win a convection microwave (from electsales Retravision) and Joe Sara (Ocean and earth Training Specialists) a $100 Bunnings voucher.

Sundowner sponsors were Bankwest, Bluescope lysaght, Breezway, Building Commission, Colorbond, MBA insurance Services, Valspar and The laminex Group, Bunnings and electsales Retravision.

Ray Ilott (left) of Skill Hire (Broome) with Master Builders’ Di Gilleland and Michael McLean at the members’ sundowner.

RepoRts: General News

Kate Findlater (Toyota), Master Builders’ president Robert Shaw and Benjamin Meakins (Alinta Energy) with the sought after hole-in-one prize Yaris.

Members make the cut at annual golf day Making the cut took on a different meaning for 80 keen Master Builders golfers, heading south to The Cut course at Dawesville for April’s twenty-eighth annual Members Golf Day sponsored by Bankwest.

There was plenty of tough competition to win an array of prizes, including the highly sought after hole-in-one prize, a Toyota Yaris.

Robert Shaw (left) and main sponsor Bankwest’s Paul Burnett (second from right) with the annual golf day winners Gary Copus and Ben Hall (Kone), Dean Goodliffe (Broad) and Jason King (Kone).

DeSPiTe BeiNG greeted by suspicious looking clouds, the teams of four enjoyed a relaxed lunch and then, buoyed by the beautiful scenery and great camaraderie, braved the weather to play 18 holes Ambrose. After a well-deserved hot shower, the teams were back in the clubhouse for a drink or two and the presentation function.

Winners on the day were Jason King, Gary Copus, Ben Hall (all from Kone) and Dean Goodliffe (Broad). Second were Austral Bricks’ Ryan Steel and Allan McGrath teamed with Barry Browning and Phil Jenner of Great living Homes. Pindan’s Andrew Shoemack, Hugh Gillespie and George Allingame, with Master Builders’ ring-in Gavan forster, finished third.

Other prize winners were: • Straightest drive: Robert Shaw (Daly & Shaw Building) and Gavan forster (Master Builders).

• Nearest the pin: Gary Copus (Kone).

• longest drive: Paul Serder (Boral Midland Brick).

• longest putt: Jason King (Kone).

• longest drive: ian Collins (Boral Midland Brick).

• Closest to pin second shot: Nathan Dibb (Ambience Air).

• Nearest to pin: Steve irons (Mechanical Project Management) and Hugh Gillespie.

• longest putt: George Allingame (Pindan).

Despite everyone’s best efforts and one competitor coming within two feet, no one took home the Toyota Yaris hole-in-one prize. Support for the event came from Master Builders’ principal partner Bankwest and WA Mechanical Services, Kone, Toyota, Alinta energy, Austral Bricks, MBA insurance Services, Boral Midland Brick and Hays.

WA Master Builder

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RepoRts: General News

Master Builders wants costing of Workplace Bullying Bill MASTeR BUilDeRS is calling for urgent clarification on the proposed purpose for the $21.4 million funding over four years for the fair Work Commission to deal with workplace bullying complaints. The Government announced the funding in the May Budget.

Wilhelm Harnisch, Chief executive Officer of Master Builders Australia, says the concern is that $21.4 million might not be sufficient to deal with the likely volume of complaints because the Bill does not have a proper screening process to validate claims. “No costings are understood to have been undertaken to quantify the amount of $21.4 million,” Mr Harnisch said. “Such costings should have been identified in a rigorous Regulation impact Statement, as called for by Master Builders Australia. After a precedent-setting OHS prosecution in 2010, WorkSafe Victoria received more than 6000 complaints in a year. The fWC can expect to be inundated if the fair Work Amendment Bill passes Parliament.” following the Budget, Mr Harnisch said that the funding allocation was curious given there was currently no finalised Bullying Code. if the Bill is passed, he said, the Commission must deal with bullying complaints potentially with uncertainty shrouding the work health and safety law which would properly found a complaint.

“Master Builders supports the intention of curbing workplace bullying, but is concerned that the Bill is being progressed with unseemly haste and the benefits and costs have not been properly weighed,” he said. “Due processes must be followed to ensure the laws will work in the way they are intended.

Currently there are too many unknowns surrounding the Bill, inclusive of the underpinning Code of Practice being still in draft form. Mr Harnisch said the worthwhile intention of thwarting bullies did not mean that the processes of Government and the assessment of the costs and benefits of new laws should be set aside. Master Builders was urging the Government to delay the passage of the Bill until a fully articulated Regulation impact Statement had been prepared.

Michael McLean and Opposition planning and finance spokesperson Rita Saffioti.

Opposition keen on planning MASTeR BUilDeRS’ director Michael Mclean says he is impressed with the professional approach of the labor Opposition spokesperson for planning and finance, Rita Saffioti, in speaking to key industry groups to get a better understanding of relevant issues affecting her portfolios.

Mr Mclean was commenting after a recent meeting with Ms Saffioti. He said that with so much happening on the planning and public sector nonresidential front, it was important that all politicians became aware of what is required to achieve better outcomes.

“Master Builders has been pressing State Governments for years to exempt single detached housing developments from the planning approvals process,” he said. “it would be good for this to finally happen.

“Rita Saffioti is well qualified and experienced to be successful in her role. i hope she appreciates our Association’s perspective on things. The fact that she made the effort to speak to us is a credit to her. Our discussions were free-ranging, from industry prospects to the planning approvals process and from subbies going broke to extending the CTf levy to the resource sector.”

Ms Saffioti has represented the labor Party in the seat of West Swan since the 2008 State election. She has completed a Bachelor of Business Degree and has worked as an economist in the Commonwealth Department of finance in Canberra. in 1995 she returned to WA to take up a position in the Department of Treasury and finance, leaving in 1997 to become the economics advisor to the Opposition leader Geoff Gallop. She eventually became chief of staff to Premier Alan Carpenter in 2006. A passionate Dockers supporter, she is married with three young children.

MBA and MTA come together

Michael McLean and his Motor Trades Association counterpart Steve Moir met at Master Builders recently.

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MASTeR BUilDeRS’ director Michael Mclean recently met his counterpart at the Motor Trades Association, Steve Moir, to discuss the potential for the Associations to work more closely together. ”The Motor Trades Association has a number of similarities to Master Builders,” Mr Mclean said. “Although our membership is very different, we both have more than 1800 members and provide similar services in Perth and regional WA. it was surprising how much we learnt about each other’s Association in a short time. “Because we don’t compete for members, there are a lot of opportunities to do things together. Training is an excellent example, especially in regional WA where the lack of numbers often can prevent a course going ahead. “The MTA comprises a diverse range of reputable companies which we would be keen to promote to our members and vice versa. We are very keen to explore an alliance with the MTA which i believe will benefit our respective members immensely over time.”

RepoRts: General News

Government boasts prompt payment THe feDeRAl Government settled 96.8 percent of invoices within 30 days in 2011-12 according to the 2011-2012 Australian Government Payments to Small Business Performance Report.

The report also shows that the Government improved its payment performance by paying more than 94 percent of invoices by value, up from 89 percent in the previous survey. Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business Bernie Ripoll says the Government sets the standard for paying small business on time because it recognises the importance of cash flow for small business.

“Small businesses shouldn’t have to face excessive waiting periods for receiving payments regardless of whether they are dealing with government agencies or other businesses,” he said. “This is one way that the Australian Government can support small business by setting an example and assisting in strengthening business cash flows. As more small businesses provide services, the Government is conscious that it cannot become complacent about on-time payments, and will continue to set the benchmark for paying businesses on time.” Mr Ripoll said to encourage agencies to improve their payment performance, the Government introduced a new requirement for agencies to automatically pay penalty interest on small business accounts overdue by 60 days or more. The Dun & Bradstreet Trade Payments Analysis for the December 2012 quarter showed businesses took an average of 52 days to pay their accounts.

“Steady cash flow is vital for small business survival,” Mr Ripoll said. “if a bureaucracy as vast as the Australian Government can pay its bills on time, there is no reason why big business and other levels of government can’t do the same.”

Master Builders slams additional 457 measures Master Builders strongly opposes proposed measures announced recently by immigration Minister Brendan O’Connor requiring businesses to prove all local labour options have been exhausted prior to recruiting skilled migrants.

MASTeR BUilDeRS Australia CeO Wilhelm Harnisch says skilled migrants on 457 visas typically are engaged because they have skills and experience not available in the local labour force. “Without skilled overseas workers, some projects in the building and construction industry simply would not eventuate;” he said. “Workers in building and construction on 457 visas are high level managers with skillsets not readily available in Australia. Having these skilled overseas workers on projects allows the transfer of knowledge to other workers on the project.

“There are already numerous safeguards in place to stop abuse of 457 visa arrangements.

Minister O’Connor’s proposal puts yet another unnecessary barrier in the way of the business community. for all of the union grandstanding, there is still no proof that the 457 visa system is being systematically and extensively abused. Simply spouting alleged abuses to the media does not show a widespread breakdown in the system.” Mr Harnisch said immigration policies must not be created simply to appease the trade union movement and give them more leverage over employers to dictate who they employ. Unions had a case of policy cognitive dissonance, he said. On one hand they wanted to ensure businesses only train locals, but on the other hand they were making that training process more difficult and expensive. Previously, Mr Harnisch has said new evidence has not been presented to suggest 457 Visas are being systematically abused or are undermining Australian jobs and the Government should not be jumping at union shadows.

“Genuine and proven cases of abuse of the skilled migration system are isolated and employers found guilty of misusing the system should rightly be punished,” he said.

“Demonising the 457 visa system and the use of foreign workers is not an appropriate policy response. “The ‘genuineness’ criterion, the removal of english-language exemptions and expanded regulatory powers

for the immigration Department and fair Work Ombudsman have only recently been introduced, albeit adding a significant compliance and red tape burden on the industry. The Government should wait to see the effects of these new measures before making further unsubstantiated attacks on the system.

“The unwarranted crackdown is a backward step for productivity and addressing the industry’s future workforce needs. it will have negative impact on productivity, undermine the right of a business to determine suitability for employment and potentially kill off major projects,” Mr Harnisch said. Master Builders Australia’s concerns have been encapsulated in a submission to the Senate legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee inquiry into the framework and operation of subclass 457 visas, enterprise Migration Agreements and Regional Migration Agreements. The Submission emphasises Master Builders’ commitment to train and employ Australians, with building and construction being the largest employer of apprentices and skilled tradespeople. “Of the one million people employed in the building and construction industry, fewer than 10,000 came in on 457 visas in the last year. They are certainly not the average tradesperson. They are on an average base salary of $90,000 and more than two thirds are people in highly skilled roles such as engineers and project managers with unique experience,” Mr Harnisch said.

“However, current projections show the building and construction industry will require 50,000 new entrants each year for the next ten years and approximately two-thirds of this demand will be for skilled positions. Compared with the current construction trades apprentice completions of 12,000 in 2012, there is a significant shortfall. The temporary skilled migration system plays a valuable role to help address the skills shortfall.”

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RepoRts: General News

Master Builders’ construction director Kim Richardson says employers are wary of the effect of union claims for higher apprentice wages.

apprentice wage claim reaches its finale in its final submissions to the fair Work Commission review of the Building and Construction General On-Site Award recently, Master Builders Australia argued that the CfMeU apprentice wage claim is unrealistic and unsustainable.

AT THe TiMe of preparing Master Builder Magazine, all submissions had been put to the fWC which had reserved its decision.

As part of the review, unions proposed an increase to the first year and second year apprentice training base wage of 38.7 percent and 25.9 percent respectively. Master Builders argued that such a dramatic wage increase is unsustainable and threatens future career opportunities for young Australians who wish to take up a rewarding career through a building industry apprenticeship. Master Builders national CeO Wilhelm Harnisch says the wage increase will dash the career hopes of many young people and effectively will lock them out of the industry which needs more skilled tradespeople. “if accepted, the wage increase and other award claims significantly increase the cost of training apprentices,” he said. “The point lost in the CfMeU claim is that apprentices are being paid to be trained.

The unions are being irresponsible in limiting the opportunities of young people to take up an apprenticeship. The CfMeU claim ignores commercial reality. “it would be irresponsible to dramatically increase apprentice wages in the current economic conditions. Many of the businesses that would

WACiRF rebrands as ReddiFund

be affected by the wage increase already are struggling through a prolonged downturn in activity. Small businesses employ 70 percent of apprentices and most such businesses will not be able to afford the increased cost of training apprentices.”

Mr Harnisch said the reduction in apprentices under training as a result of the union’s unsustainable wage increase would set the industry back years in its attempts to train the next generation of skilled tradespeople. “it will also lead to supply bottlenecks when industry activity eventually picks up to normal levels,” he said. Master Builders’ WA construction director Kim Richardson said a troubling development was that the federal Government’s closing submissions to the fWC supported several aspects of the union application including the purported benefits of the apprentice wage increases. “fWC is expected to place some weight on that position,” Mr Richardson said. “employer groups are concerned it will impose wage rises for apprentices, making them less attractive for small employers to engage. The federal Government position appeared to be more political rather than a public interest one.”

THe WA Construction industry Redundancy fund was recently renamed and rebranded to better portray its role in the building industry. The new name, Reddifund, is designed to be easier to use and to connote the organisation’s purpose - retention on behalf of construction industry employers of redundancy funds for employees in times of need. The initiative aims to encourage employers who are not party to the union enterprise bargaining agreement to contribute award obligations to protect employees’ entitlements against loss in the event of an unexpected business crisis.

Reddifund CeO Murray Rzepecki says the organisation is a very secure means of ensuring redundancy entitlements are not lost.

“Giving the organisation a new name has dispelled the image that we are a government body or an extension of the CfMeU,” he said. “We are independent with a board comprising representatives of employer and union organisations.”

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RepoRts: General News

The Australian War Memorial is the venue for the Master Builders National Conference dinner at which Corporal Ben RobertsSmith will speak.

VC winner Roberts-Smith at National Conference

THe MOST highly decorated serving member of the Australian Defence force, Victoria Cross winner Ben Roberts-Smith, has joined the speakers’ list for Master Builders National Conference, Building Australia, in Canberra in November. Corporal Roberts-Smith’s motivational and inspirational presentation will take place at the National Conference dinner hosted by Cbus on 15 November at the Australian War Memorial. it will draw on his life in the military and actions while serving in Afghanistan where he earned the Victoria Cross and Medal for Gallantry on separate occasions.

Conference organisers say it will be an inspirational opportunity to hear Corporal Roberts-Smith deliver his presentation, frontline leadership – the Battle for Success, focusing on leadership, teamwork, preparation and leading by example to inspire others to be the best they can.

The Master Builders National conference is in Canberra from November 14 to 16 as part of the capital’s centenary celebrations. it will feature high profile industry speakers and is complimented with an exciting social and partners’ program.

To find out more and to take advantage of the super early-bird end of financial year registration special visit www.masterbuilders.com.au/ events/national-conference.

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RepoRts: General News

Poor site signage risks penalties THe BUilDiNG Commission recently issued an industry bulletin reminding builders, painters, owner-builders and building surveyors that they must observe the signage provisions under 2011’s new building legislation.

The provisions under the Building Services (Registration) Regulations 2011 which took effect from 29 August 2011 have further requirements to those that previously existed under repealed legislation. The major differences are the stipulation of where the sign is to be placed on the site and inclusion of the building service contractor’s telephone number. Registered building and painting contractors must ensure that, attached to the site where the work is being carried out, there is a sign that complies with the following requirements: • located in a prominent position on the site and able to be read by members of the public from outside the site.

• Of reasonable dimensions and written in clearly legible letters and numerals.

• Contains the name, registration number and contact telephone number of the contractor and also the name and registration number of the nominated supervisor of the contractor.

Signs that contain a trading name and omit the registered name do not meet the requirements.

The Commission warns that a penalty of up to $5000 applies to builders and up to $2500 to painters for breaches of the signage rules. Ownerbuilders must meet similar requirements in relation to location and dimensions. Their signs also must contain the name, contact telephone number and approval number for the owner builder approval granted in respect of the work. The penalty in the case of owner-builders is up to $1000.

Building surveying contractors who carry out building surveying work in order to issue compliance certificates must ensure that there is a sign where they principally carry out their business that is located in a prominent position and able to be read by a person entering the premises. it must contain the registered name, trading name (if different to the registered name), class of registration and registration number of the contractor and the name and registration number of at least one nominated supervisor for the contractor.

A penalty of up to $5000 applies to building surveyors.

The name displayed on a sign must be the same as the name registered with the Building Services Board.

The full Regulations can be downloaded from the State Law Publisher at www.slp.wa.gov.au.

Green buildings mushrooming New research shows that there has been strong growth in the number of green rated buildings in Perth, says Master Builders communications director Geoff Cooper.

THeRe ARe two popular ‘green’ ratings. The first is the Government backed National Australian Built environmental Ratings Scheme (NABeRS) and its predecessor, the Australian Building Greenhouse Rating (ABGR), which have been in operation since 1998. in recent years NABeRS has expanded to also cover shopping centres, hotels and homes as well as developing tools to measure water use, waste and indoor environment quality. The second is the Green Star rating tool, developed by the Green Building Council of Australia, a private industry association. it was first released in 2003. This tool assesses nine categories, being management, indoor environment quality, energy, transport, water, materials, land use and ecology, emissions and innovation. Y Research, run by Damian Stone, has produced a research report that found that 110 office buildings have a NABeRS rating in metropolitan Perth.

This includes 18 buildings that also have a Green Star rating. Sixty-one of the buildings are in the Perth CBD, 19 in West Perth and 30 in Perth’s suburbs.

Source: NABERS/Commercial Building Disclosure/Green Building Council of Australia

With NABeRS ratings only valid for 12 months, the number of buildings that have had a NABeRS rating is higher. Between 15-20 buildings have not had NABeRS ratings renewed in the past 12 months. The main reason is that the rating was undertaken as part of the sale process and the new owners have not renewed. in terms of Green Star, there are nine Green Star Rated buildings in the Perth CBD, two in West Perth and seven in other suburbs. Mr Stone identified two factors that have changed the market dynamics in Perth in terms of green buildings: The wave of new buildings that have been completed since 2009. More than 500,000 square metres have been developed across metropolitan Perth including the CBD. Most of these developments, especially major CBD towers, have been designed to achieve a high Green Star and NABeRS rating. New buildings also have encouraged owners of older, existing properties to refurbish their buildings to compete to retain or attract tenants.

The introduction of the federal Government’s Commercial Building Disclosure regime, which took full effect in 2011. The legislation requires owners of office buildings larger than 2000 square metres to obtain and disclose a Building energy efficiency Certificate which outlines the building’s NABeRS rating. The sale or lease of space in the building triggers the disclosure requirement. increasing vacancies and a number of office sales have led to a substantial number of WA office properties getting a NABeRS rating.

To find out more, email damian.stone@yresearch.com.au.

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RepoRts: General News

An example of the chic corporate work wear on show at the WinBaC event.

Tina Whitton and Glen Whistler-Carr (who won the National Achievers Congress ticket prize) represented sponsors Contracting Solutions (and associated WRMC) and the sundowner.

Nigia Kingsley (left), Atin Swinyard and Wieke Gur at the WinBac sundowner.

Nothing taxing at WinBaC fashion sundowner WOMeN iN Building and Construction celebrated all things work wear at their mid-year sundowner recently. High-vis was made to look high-end by the models who strutted in the Totally Workwear fashion parade, which exhibited both corporate and heavy duty work clothing for women. Guests also were informed of the regulations surrounding tax deductable work clothes by Helen O’Brien from RSM Bird Cameron. There were many prizes up for grabs with one lucky winner, Glen Whistler-Carr from WRMC, winning a ticket to see Sir Richard Branson and Mark Bouris at the National Achievers Congress. The highly entertaining evening was sponsored by Contracting Solutions, MBA insurance Services, Brikmakers, Cbus and Steel Blue.

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RepoRts: General News Lorenna Grant’s sculpture Spring.

constellation of bulbs that make it visible at night.

A NeW public art sculpture has become a focal point of landCorp’s Springs Rivervale development, further enhancing the once underutilised parcel of land as a diverse riverside community. At an impressive eight metres high, the art piece entitled Springs was designed and created by awarded WA artist lorenna Grant who drew her inspiration for the work from the history of the site and the nearby Swan River. Ms Grant says she wanted to capture a sense of the Swan River.

“The way it undulates and bends where Springs Rivervale is located is the most beautiful feature of the area,” she said. “elements of the piece also reference the history of the site which was once used as a bathing place. To acknowledge the multiculturalism of those who live in Rivervale and those historically connected to the land, i have imprinted the words ‘spring’ or ‘water of life’ on the front of the sculpture in 16 different languages, from Noongar and italian, to Thai and Arabic.”

Made from cement and aluminium, the sculpture, which took 18 months to craft, also features 100 metres of leD lighting, creating a

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“in every community we develop, we always include an element of art that resonates with residents and visitors,” Mr Willcock said. “i think the community will be very pleased with the sculpture, which will provide something that both residents and commuters can enjoy.”

Ms Grant said she had received positive feedback since its installation and was happy with the sculpture. “i feel as though it’s been welcomed into the community. in the last few days of installation, people walking by would stop to talk about the work - i’ve had some lovely conversations with people from the area about it,” she said.

Springs Rivervale is adjacent to the Swan River and is bordered by the Graham farmer freeway and Great eastern Highway. The mixed use development will create more than 800 apartments and 10,000 square metres of office space. it is a short walk from public transport routes and will link to the city with pedestrian and cycle pathways.

More information on Springs Rivervale can be found at www.springsrivervale.com.au.

Image: Peter Phoenix.

Art springs up at landCorp Rivervale development

“My intention with this piece was to create a sense of place in the community; a connection, communion and sense of ownership for people who live and work here. i wanted to produce something that softened the area near the highway, generating a bit of magic,” Ms Grant said. landCorp general manager metropolitan luke Willcock said Springs was a welcome addition to the development and added character and interest to the public open space.

RepoRts: General News

More Western Power audits to avoid delays WeSTeRN POWeR will be increasing its quality assurance for assets being gifted by the land development industry back to Western Power. This is in response to civil contractors raising concerns about inconsistencies in quality assurance audits across various network areas. it also supports Western Power’s commitment to public safety.

Dale Alcock

alcock nominated for top wa award Master Builders has congratulated Dale Alcock on being selected as one of four finalists in the Business and Professions category in this year’s Western Australian of the Year Awards presented early in June as part of the WA Day celebrations.

Western Power says it is important to note the Underground Distribution Standards have not changed. Rather, there will be a more consistent auditing of the standards. The authority’s quality control auditors will be on-site more often, Western Power says, and will be assisting and mentoring construction managers while projects are under construction, avoiding issues at the completion of works and energisation delays. it says following the Underground Distribution Standards and making sure construction is according to approved designs, will help ensure projects get connected on schedule. A complete run-down of all current standards can be found at www.westernpower.com.au/UDS.

MR AlCOCK and the other finalists demonstrated “leadership excellence and innovation through advanced professional knowledge and/or entrepreneurial expertise resulting in major social, scientific or economic impact at a State, national or international level”.

The citation for Mr Alcock’s nomination said he is a third generation home builder who started his career as an apprentice bricklayer in the wheat belt town of Kellerberrin. in 1987, he joined partners John Webb and Garry Brown-Neaves to establish Dale Alcock Homes, and he is now managing director of the Alcock Brown-Neaves Group, Australia’s leading construction, property and finance company.

The citation said Mr Alcock has been instrumental in the spectacular, yet controlled, growth of the ABN Group, and has become one of the most recognised names and faces in the industry, synonymous with quality, leadership and innovation. He has been honoured with the Sir Philip lynch award for his outstanding contributions to the residential building industry.

A past president of the Housing industry Association WA and Asia Region, Mr Alcock also has been recognised as ernst & Young Western Region entrepreneur of the Year Winner for industry 2012, has been nominated for Australian of the Year and has been praised for supporting industry training programs and promoting careers in residential building. Master Builders’ director Michael Mclean said that the winner of the Business and Professions category, Professor Bruce Robinson, also was judged Western Australian of the Year for 2013. “it is a tremendous acknowledgement and promotion for the building industry to have a builder like Dale Alcock nominated for the Western Australian of the Year Award,” Mr Mclean said.

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RepoRts: Word from the Hill

From time to time, Master Builder invites Government members to contribute on current topics and developments.

Housing affordability continues to be a challenge and here Housing Minister Bill Marmion posits…

Greater density opens door to better outcomes WA has recorded the fastest growth rate among Australian states in recent years, adding approximately 3.4 percent to its population annually and presenting significant challenges as well as opportunities for the Government and the construction industry. How the State can accommodate its rapidly increasing population, both affordably and with easy access to existing services and infrastructure, is of particular concern to the Government. in response to this challenge, the Government launched the State Affordable Housing Strategy 2010-2020 – Opening Doors to Affordable Housing and Directions 2031 and Beyond.

Directions 2031 provides for different lifestyle choices, vibrant nodes for economic and social activity and a more sustainable urban transport network. The framework also encourages a long-term approach to provision of infrastructure and importantly promotes long-term housing affordability.

The Strategy has opened more than 7000 doors to date for Western Australians on low-to-moderate incomes, with a target of at least 20,000 by 2020. People assisted to date range from the homeless to key workers in the North and working families who just need some help to get into private rental or home ownership.

Cockburn Central is an example of higher density development working for residents and the broader community. Through careful planning, residents of the 136-apartment development benefit from easy access to the Mandurah train line, Kwinana freeway, shopping, entertainment and public open space. As the area further develops it will become a vibrant hub, with shops and restaurants located on the ground floor providing jobs and helping stimulate the local economy.

New homes are only part of the story. Through partnerships with the private and community sectors, the Government has led innovations in procurement, design, construction and project finance which see a greater supply of affordable housing and better housing outcomes for our community into the future. for Perth to cope with continued strong population growth and demand for more housing, a move towards higher-density living must be part of the solution. Historically there has been substantial opposition to increasing residential infill in Perth. Much opposition surrounds the belief that increased density means an increase in poorly-located, multi-storey apartment blocks. in fact, increased density takes very different forms depending on the location and desired outcome for residents. No one travelling in europe would deny the amenity and sense of community that higher-density housing creates in towns and cities. Some of the Government’s recent housing developments are leading the way in addressing the need for density and desirability by being strategically located with a mix of elements such as local transport options, schools, places of work and shopping precincts.

The Government understands that a level of housing density that works in one location may not be appropriate in another.

Our capital city strategic plan, Directions: 2031 and Beyond, will guide change and growth in Perth over coming decades.

The strategy focuses on a split of approximately 50/50 between residential infill and creation of new subdivisions.

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The majority of the Government’s developments offer a variety of opportunities for private home ownership and provide properties for housing assistance schemes which may include shared equity, affordable rental and social housing.

Recent developments in ellenbrook further demonstrate the quality of increased density and diversity while also supporting affordability.

The largely private sector driven initiative to create a ‘five metre’ built-form development opened the minds of Western Australians both within and outside the building industry to potential benefits of compact, efficient housing development at an affordable price.

The One on Aberdeen development in Northbridge offers 161 apartments, all within CBD walking distance. This high-density development will provide a range of accommodation including social housing and affordable rentals, traditional rentals, and both shared and private home ownership opportunities.

The Government will continue to build on the success of its partnerships with the building industry to increase supply of affordable homes through residential infill and new subdivisions. industry continues to help the Government maximise the potential of new developments by using the latest designs, material and methodologies to construct innovative solutions to the State’s housing needs.

These types of projects are real examples of how increased density is helping to create active and vibrant communities and provide housing opportunities that meet current and future needs of Western Australians.

RepoRts: Branches

With work on refurbishing the building complete, attention has turned to finalising the parking, landscaping and break-out areas of Master Builders’ recently acquired Bunbury premises.

South West premises looking good MASTeR BUilDeRS’ investment in regional areas continues with the Association’s South West facility nearing completion. An extensive drainage works program has been carried out and car parking, landscaping and break-out areas are being finalised.

Top numbers at Albany golf

The Master Builders’ premises in the Halifax light industrial Area in Bunbury include offices suited to businesses servicing the building and construction industry and a storage-warehouse area that also could accommodate a range of complementary businesses. Regional manager Geoff Bosustow reports that the final touches are being added to the facility increasing its amenity for Master Builder members and the wider building industry.

“The design of the training, presentation and function area opens up a myriad of possibilities for our members to take advantage of including training, boardroom meetings and celebrations,” he said.

“We have off-street parking catering for approximately 40 vehicles putting the South West facility in a class of its own.”

Contact Geoff Bosustow on 9726 0939 or Geoff.bosustow@mbawa.com to take advantage of the exciting opportunities offered by Master Builders’ new premises.

Eventual winners, the Holcim team, out on the Links Golf Course.

MASTeR BUilDeRS’ Great Southern Golf Day at the links Golf Course in Albany in April saw a record 100 competitors participating. Teams teed-off in the morning sunshine following registration and a sausage sizzle and broke for a ploughman’s lunch during the early afternoon. Refreshments taken care of, battle resumed out on the links, with competitors keen to knock off the hole-in-one prize of a RAV4 supplied by Master Builders’ partner Toyota.

While the vehicle remained unclaimed, many of the golfers were rewarded with the range of prizes on offer. The day’s overall winners were the Holcim team of Shane Nani, lyndon St Jack, Mark Adams and Paul Gerrard (who also won the door prize, a garage door motor worth $600 donated by Merlin and Albany Garage Doors). in second place was the Bunnings team closely followed by Pocock Building Company.

Regional manager linda Gibbs says the day was a huge success and the Branch is looking forwarded to topping the numbers next year and perhaps giving away a major prize for the hole-in-one. She thanked Toyota and other event sponsors.

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RepoRts: Branches

Appointments to lead Goldfields, Esperance MASTeR BUilDeRS has reviewed the Goldfields esperance region Branch situation and has appointed Jade Hayes and Doug Backhouse as regional liaison officers in Kalgoorlie and esperance respectively. The appointments aim to provide members in both locales with greater access to Master Builders’ activities and services following the closure of the Association’s Kalgoorlie office.

Master Builders regional operations manager Gavin Connaughton.

Master Builders’ regional operations manager Gavin Connaughton says that Ms Hayes and Mr Backhouse have lived in their respective communities for some time and are looking forward to the challenges ahead. He said Ms Hayes is keen to meet with as many members as possible and help to raise the profile of Master Builders and Mr Backhouse will be getting out and about to understand the members’ issues and provide necessary assistance.

The Branch also held its Annual General Meeting recently with Westralia Homes’ sales and project manager Michael Young elected unopposed as the chairperson. Mr Young said he was honoured to take on

the role after Ken Norton had stepped down after many years of outstanding service with the Association.

“Ken has certainly given a significant contribution to the membership and the Association and is greatly respected for his many years in the chair,” Mr Norton said. “i now take on this role to continue the great work that has been done and to bring new vision for the future of Master Builders.”

Mr Connaughton says the Branch committee is focussed on ensuring that the presence and benefits of Master Builders are reflected in building a better industry for the community.

“Michael has a great depth of experience ranging from steel frame fabrication, administration and previously as a representative within the local real estate market,” he said of Mr Young. “Combine this with our regional representation of Jade Hayes in Kalgoorlie and Doug Backhouse in esperance, and the community and members will greatly benefit from the talent mix.”

Kim Jones (left), Zoe Marsh, Rhonda Roe and Michelle Culleton enjoy the Broome Women in Building and Construction champagne breakfast.

“gems” to be admired. The company’s owners, Bruce and Alison Brown, were surprise attendees at the breakfast, having flown in that morning. They displayed the $5000 pearl pendant to be won by a lucky attendee at the Kimberley Pilbara Building excellence Awards ceremony that evening.

Pearls for breakfast A liVe demonstration of removing pearls from the shell was a highlight of a Women in Building and Construction champagne breakfast organised by Master Builders’ Geraldton North West Branch in Broome in May. Cygnet Bay Pearls’ manager Kevin Jackson gave the hands-on demonstration including screening the finer details inside the oyster shell by way of a camera attached to his scalpel and passing round the extracted

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The WinBaC breakfast attracted strong support from the region’s female building industry participants.

Ocean and earth Training Specialists’ Naiomi Harris was guest speaker, describing her journey in her new business which has expanded from Broome to Geraldton and the Midwest. Regional manager Di Gilleland said the successful WinBaC breakfast has been locked in again for 2014. She thanked Cygnet Bay Pearls (which also provided attendees with gift packs), fire and Safety Services and Ocean and earth Training Specialists for their support.

Call for Nominations MaSteR BuildeRS aPPReNtiCe awaRdS The Master Builders Association invites employers of directly indentured apprentices to nominate their best building apprentice(s) for this year’s Master Builders’ Apprentice of the Year Awards. There are also categories for the best Wall and floor tiling, Best female apprentice and best bricklaying apprentice. Apprentices engaged by Skill Hire, ABN Group Training and the Department of Treasury & finance (Building Management & Works) will also be participating in these prestigious awards.

How to nominate? employers wishing to nominate an apprentice should complete the nomination form which is available from the MBA. The nomination form must be received by friday 16 August 2013.

Nominations should include sufficient information to allow the judging panel to properly assess the nominees and include details such as: • • • • •

academic results plus any favourable reports from teachers/lecturers; information on work skills, special skills, knowledge of trade and ability to relate to fellow workers; achievements or awards received by TAFE or other training providers; testimonials from teachers, lecturers, employers or community groups; and reports of involvement in community groups/projects.

Recognising our best apprentices is a major step in encouraging more young persons to choose a career in the building industry with employers of direct indentured apprentices urged to support these awards. the Master Builders apprentice of the Year awards will be held on friday 1 November 2013 at the Hyatt Regency, Perth in conjunction with the “Ric New Medal” for young high achievers.

for more information contact: training director, Neil du Rand on 9441 8000 or via email to: neil@mbawa.com.

Call for Nominations RiC New Medal foR exCelleNCe Selection Criteria • Entrepreneurial flair, examples of lateral or creative thinking, outstanding potential and achievements of a young person (35 years and under) to the building industry in WA. • Practical applied achievements, rather than academic performance.

Prize • In addition to the Ric New Medal, a return economy class airfare from Perth to London and $2,000 expenses.

RiC New “RiSiNg StaR” awaRd Selection Criteria • Outstanding potential, work ethic and commitment of a young person (25 years and under, other than apprentices) to the building industry in WA. • Achievements (rather than academic performance), overcoming adversity and potential contribution to the building industry.

Prize • $2,000 plus trophy.

THE IMPORTANCE OF KEEPING

CONTRACTING ALIVE The question of “are your contractors really your employees” is one that must be clearly defined by anyone engaged in contracting because the risks of getting it wrong are major.

Through our associate company, Workplace Relations Management & Consultants (WRMC) we can provide a free, no obligation review of your current contracting arrangements.

So call us now on 1300 857 722 or email info@contractingsolutions.com.au

Nomination forms, to be completed by third parties, can be obtained from Master Builders (ph: 9476 9800 or email: kelly.watt@mbawa.com). the closing date for nominations is 24 august 2013.

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RepoRts: Branches

Geraldton Barefoot Bowls fundraiser’s best dressed Happy Hippies.

Bowled over for a cause MASTeR BUilDeRS’ Geraldton Branch had a strong industry turn-out for its Barefoot Bowls fundraiser at the Wonthella Bowling Club in April. Money raised will be distributed between Midwest Men’s Health and Camp Quality, important causes supported by the Branch in previous fundraisers. Regional manager Di Gilleland reports that a large industry contingency gathered to bowl the night away.

Master Builders’ Royal Flush team of Megan Parker, Shane Tapper, Crystal Bagley and Di Gilleland.

“listening to the bowlers’ comments was like Goldilocks and the Three Bears – ‘oh that was too soft’, ‘oh too hard’ and ‘just right’,” she said. “But it was a lot of fun and laughter was plentiful.” event sponsor Gary Smith from Combined Metal industries presented the annual winner’s trophy to the Chesters 1 team, Corey O’Donnell, Melinda Gartner, Tanj Zimmermann and David Chester. Happy Hippies took out the best dressed team for the night. Master Builders’ team – the Royal flush - wore red and white and carried toilet brushes and matching accessories.

Ms Gilleland thanked Branch members who enthusiastically supported the fundraiser and also acknowledged Combined Metal industries for its valuable sponsorship and the willing help of members and staff at the Wonthella Bowling Club.

Geraldton golfers on par WiNNeRS Of the Master Builders’ Geraldton Branch sixteenth annual golf day, Jason Perry, Michael Scarpuzza, Steve Patience and Brett Wallace, celebrate their success in beating off about 70 other serious and not so serious competitors. Despite a doubtful weather forecast, the Ambrose event in May, sponsored by Boral Midland Brick and commencing with lunch provided by Red ink Homes, was a great success. Runners up were les Wassell, Mark Bellemore, Steve Wilkins and Brad Preston while the questionable skills of Mick Desmond, Paul Williamson, llewyn Connolly and Joel Harcourt were duly rewarded with the NAGA mantle.

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RepoRts: Branches MBA Insurance Services’ Nick Vernon attended the Albany quarterly dinner meeting.

Ben Castlehow, Kerrilea Ryde and Murray Philip enjoy the social side of the quarterly meeting.

Dinner shows off new premises All good MATES at the South West Branch committee presentation (l-r): Shannon Barnes (MIC WA), Geoff Bosustow (Master Builders), David Atkinson and Rade Ristovic (WA Country Builders), John Buckingham (Bunbury Building Company), Sam Karamfiles (Karamfiles Builders), Sergio Del Borrello (MIC WA) and Graeme Davis (Ventura Home Group).

THe GReAT Southern Branch quarterly dinner meeting in April at the Association’s new Graham Street, Albany premises was an opportunity for members who had not previously done so to take a look around the offices, training and display areas and warehouse.

The meeting, attended by more than 40 members, also covered an agenda of hot topics including ownerbuilder reforms.

MATES in the South West MATeS in Construction, the building industry program of suicide awareness and prevention, has commenced in the South West with Perkins Builders now boasting three accredited sites in the region.

MATeS also was the subject of a recent presentation to Master Builders’ South West Branch committee with three committee members taking up the challenge of further training as ‘connectors’ – mates who keep others safe while connecting those at risk to help. The presentation dealt with mental health issues which don’t always get a proper airing and with the sometimes confronting

realities and triggers affecting those at risk.

The MATeS program is designed to open up lines of communication and assistance.

The relationship between MATeS in Construction WA ltd and Master Builders in WA began in 2011 and has strengthened each year, allowing many more Association members to easily get high quality help for any concerns they or their families are experiencing. Since 2011 MiC WA has assisted almost 200 people through difficult times. To find out more about the MATeS program take a look at www.matesinconstruction.org.au.

MBA insurance Services sponsored the event with WA state manager Nick Vernon attending and speaking about the benefits of dealing with an industry broker.

The Graham Street premises have welcomed an influx of visitors to the display area and there has been continuous hire of the training rooms.

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adveRtoRial

Steel fit for purpose?

ACRS provide peace of mind to designers, certifiers and builders when the integrity of steel structures is in question.

Historically, builders sourced steel from local manufacturers, operating to long-understood standards. The quality of the steel was known and consistent and so they and their customers knew what they were getting. Then around 15-years ago, imported steels began arriving, offering new and often financially attractive alternatives – a larger world of choice.

But increased choice of steels has also brought problems, as not all these steels meet Australian Standards. As the Managing Director of the Australian Certification Authority for Reinforcing Steels (ACRS), Philip Sanders points out, construction steels available in Australia today fall into three categories: those that meet Australian Standards, those that meet other Standards and those that meet no standards at all. The last two categories mean products might not be fit for the purpose for which they are intended and in extreme cases using them could be downright dangerous.

“Steel is one of the major components holding up a structure, whether it’s a house, a school, a bridge or a tunnel, and the standards and specifications for each assume steel will perform in a particular way, across a range of performance measures. if you can’t be sure it’s right for the job you tend to get a little nervous.”

Clearly there was a need for a testing and certifying organisation which could give designers, certifiers and builders the peace of mind that the materials being used are fit for purpose. That was when the concept of ACRS was born, and ACRS formed with support from professional bodies, including engineers Australia, Austroads and the Australian institute of Building Surveyors. Commencing operation in 2003, today ACRS certifies steels from 40 manufacturers and processors in 16 countries, including China and europe.

“The major difference between ACRS and the normally understood type of certification system is that ACRS is a

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specialist. We assess and certify only construction steels and only in relation to Australian and New Zealand standards; we are not a generic certifier,” he said.

“We also operate a strictly verification-based system, whereas some certification systems accept a suppliers’ own test reporting without further checking. That is anathema to us.

“Our steel auditors are highly-qualified construction steel specialists, auditing under strict conditions and as experienced metallurgists they know what to look for, selecting the samples for testing during the audit, and managing the subsequent verification process though independent testing laboratories selected by ACRS not the supplier “ACRS’s reputation rests on the quality of our auditors and ACRS independence from both suppliers and customers. We are expert and entirely neutral.

“Of course, the provision of materials is just one part of a very complex equation in the building industry, but if you don’t have the right materials, every other assumption that comes after that is potentially ‘suspect’. This is where ACRS verification-based system comes into its own.

“As ACRS has found from the more than 700 audits against AS/NZS steel standards conducted at steel suppliers around the world, what you don’t actively check, at some point, you won’t get.”

For more information contact: Phone: 02 9965 7216 Email: info@acrs.net.au Website: www.acrs.net.au

ACRS SETS THE STANDARD FOR THIRD PARTY PRODUCT CERTIFICATION > ACRS certifies products to comply to 7 Australasian Standards: AS/NZS4671 Reinforcing Materials, AS3600 Concrete Structures, AS2870 Slabs & Footings, AS5100 Bridge Design, AS/NZS4672 Steel Prestressing Materials, AS/NZS3679.1 Structural Steel Hot Rolled Bars & Sections, and AS/NZS1163 Cold Formed Structural Steel Hollow Sections

> ACRS quarterly verification to ensure compliant products: ACRS reviews and verifies production every three months throughout the year via independent testing, backed by rigorous annual site assessment.

Certificates have only 12-month validity prior to annual re-assessment

> ACRS is focussed on product certification as core competence: It is not a quality certification or testing certification body. Product sampling, testing, reporting and assessment are undertaken by ACRS expert assessors who have technical backgrounds in construction steels

> ACRS full coverage of products, processes and locations: ACRS certifies all products, all processes and all locations of each certified firm against AS/NZ Standards. ACRS is non-discriminatory, and certifies over 40 companies in 14 countries

> More products covered by ACRS means more reduction in risk: ACRS certificates reduce risk of non-compliant materials arriving on your site.

Customers don’t have to ask for proof of product compliance. ACRS rebar certificates can replace individual test certificates, reducing workload and process complexity.

YOU NEED TO CHECK COMPLIANCE OF MATERIALS TO AVOID RISK OF FAILURE. AN ACRS INDEPENDENT CERTIFICATION CAN SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE THIS RISK.

INSPECTION CHECKLISTS NOW AVAILABLE!

Full details of current ACRS certificate holders are at www.acrs.net.au or www.steelcertification.com If there’s any doubt, please contact ACRS on (02) 9965 7216 or email info@acrs.net.au The Australian Certification Authority for Reinforcing Steels Ltd ABN 40 096 692 545 trading as ACRS

www.acrs.net.au

KiMBeRley pilBaRa awaRds

Broome’s new Master Builders Bankwest Building Excellence Awards venue at Zanders makes a brilliant but tranquil picture before the 300-strong crowd arrives for the evening’s drama.

One of the highlights of the night: Dene and Irene Purdon receive the $5000 pearl pendant from Bruce Brown of Cygnet Bay Pearls.

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With Geraldton North West Branch past president Andrew Crothers (right) overseeing proceedings, Tim Fleisher of Timik Developments (left) holds the Best Country Home plaque with sponsor Rob Menzies (Roebuck Estate).

Smiles all round from DORIC’s Tim Indrisie and Renae McNamara on being presented with the Best Commercial Building Award by Andrew Crothers.

KiMBeRley pilBaRa awaRds

awards night a pearler Set in Broome at the heart of one of the world’s oldest landscapes, and with a theme of Ancient Construction Wonders, the 2013 Kimberley Pilbara Master Builders Bankwest Building excellence Awards provided a great opportunity for contrast, presenting the latest and best in the region’s construction.

TiMiK DeVelOPMeNTS Pty ltd was a major winner on the night, taking out the Roebuck estate Best Country Home award for an outstanding Baynton, Karratha residence. The Bankwest Best Commercial Building award went to DORiC Contractors for its recreational precinct development in Wickham, a project which also won the Judge’s innovation Award. A record crowd of 300 came together early in May to celebrate the awards under the stars at Zanders, the new venue for the event, overlooking Cable Beach. Builders entering the awards were eligible to win a $5000 pearl pendant, conceived and handcrafted with the building and construction industry in mind. Cygnet Bay Pearls owner Bruce Brown drew the winner, Brolga Developments & Construction, with builder Dene Purdon accepting the prize and presenting it to his wife irene to wear with effect throughout the remainder of the evening.

Master Builders’ Geraldton-North West regional Manager Di Gilleland said that with the tremendous growth in construction throughout the

North West, it had not been surprising that there was an increase in both commercial and residential entries in this year’s awards.

“The increase didn’t make judge Charlie Baggetta’s job an easy one,” she said. “He made comment that points this year were just so close due to exceptionally high work standards.”

Other winners on the night included KJ’s Construction carpentry apprentice Jonathon falconer who won the region’s Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Kimberley Roof Design, and Sean Gregory from Kimberley Training institute who took home the Skillhire encouragement Award. luck might have played a part with Brolga Developments and Construction’s pearl pendant, but not so when it came to the company earning both the employer Trainer of the Year award and the $500,000- $650,000 Contract Homes category prize.

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KiMBeRley pilBaRa awaRds

Brooklyn in Karratha Timik Developments’ Best Country Home winner, The Brooklyn, is one of the best finished houses in Karratha.

Completed in nine months, it included substantial input from the client into both design and fitout. Brick veneer construction was used in the two-storey project. The front facade is rendered, there is gyprock lining throughout and carpet, timber and tiles have been used in the floor coverings.

An ultra modern kitchen is one of the highlights of the masterly home.

Another notch in DORiC belt DORiC Contractors is no stranger to Master Builders’ awards, having topped the state-wide Construction excellence Awards a couple of times in recent years.

The group’s success in the Kimberley Pilbara Building excellence Awards came with the delivery of the Wickham Recreation Precinct, a 3500 square metre multipurpose facility. The recreational and sporting infrastructure involved an upgrade to existing ovals and new tennis, netball, basketball, beach volleyball and outdoor and indoor cricket facilities. A major lighting refurbishment also occurred, which is essential for year-round participation in outdoor sports in the hot climate. The new precinct also includes a purpose-built centre with a gymnasium, children’s play area, change rooms, restaurant (pictured) and alfresco café. There are new car parking facilities and dual use pathways throughout the precinct.

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KiMBeRley pilBaRa awaRds

AWARD SPONSORS

Regional Apprentice of the Year Jonathon Falconer flanked by Luke Sharland (left) of award sponsor Kimberley Roof Design and long-time Master Builders’ Geraldton North West Branch office bearer Andrew Crothers.

Apprentices to the fore JONATHON fAlCONeR was named Kimberley Pilbara Apprentice of the Year at the Building excellence Awards in Broome in May. employer KJ’s Construction nominated the carpentry apprentice saying he had approached the firm in his last term of year 11 and had come across as someone who knew what he wanted to do in his life.

“His drive was apparent from the first meeting,” the KJ’s Construction nomination says. “After meeting with his school and parents, it was decided that we would employ Johnny over the holidays and if he was still interested in a carpentry and joinery apprenticeship we would sign him up. His eagerness to impress was apparent from day one, working hard in the Kimberley heat, asking many questions and showing great hand skills.”

Mr falconer will be part of the field for Master Builders’ state-wide recognition at the Association’s annual apprentice awards in Perth later in the year.

Second year Kimberley Training Institute carpentry and joinery apprentice Sean Gregory, described as resourceful, skilful, thorough and an effective communicator and collaborator, received the Skillhire Encouragement Award at the Broome awards.

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KiMBeRley pilBaRa awaRds

Award Results BeST COUNTRY HOMe Sponsor: Roebuck estate Developments Timik Developments Pty Ltd Bardurra St Baynton Design: le Roberts Drafting & Design BEST COMMERCIAL BUILDING Sponsor: Bankwest DORIC Contractors Pty Ltd Wickham Recreation Precinct Carse St Wickham Design: franco Carozzi Architects DiSPlAY HOMeS OPeN CATeGORY H&M Tracey Construction New Magabala Rd Broome North SUPeRViSOR Of THe YeAR Sponsor: Kimberley Bug Busters Khal Traeger BeST KiMBeRleY HOMe Sponsor: Ocean & earth Training Specialists KJ’s Construction Frangipani Dr Broome Design: Star Designs BeST PilBARA HOMe Sponsor: Karratha Contracting Pty ltd Timik Developments Pty Ltd Bardurra St Baynton APPReNTiCe Of THe YeAR Sponsor: Kimberley Roof Design Jonathon Falconer KJ’s Construction BeST NeW BUilDeR Sponsor: Hays Shoreline Designer Homes BeST CUSTOMeR SeRViCe SMAll – MeDiUM BUilDeR Sponsor: Bankwest Shoreline Designer Homes BeST CUSTOMeR SeRViCe VOlUMe PROJeCT BUilDeR Sponsor: Bankwest Broome Builders TRANSPORTABle HOMeS OPeN CATeGORY Ausco Modular Pty Ltd Tharnda Rd Baynton West JUDGE’S INNOVATION AWARD Sponsor: Bluescope lysaght DORIC Contractors Pty Ltd Wickham Recreation Precinct Carse St Wickham eMPlOYeR TRAiNeR Of THe YeAR Sponsor: Kimberley Group Training Brolga Developments & Construction

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KiMBeRley pilBaRa awaRds

CONTRACT HOMeS $300,000 - $350,000 Williams Homes Marul Rd Broome CONTRACT HOMeS $350,001 - $400,000 Broome Builders Honeyeater loop Broome CONTRACT HOMeS $400,001 - $450,000 Broome Builders Greenshank Dr Broome CONTRACT HOMeS $450,001 - $500,000 Williams Homes eleanor loop Broome CONTRACT HOMeS $500,001 - $650,000 Sponsor: Technika Brolga Developments & Construction lapwing loop Broome

COMMeRCiAl iNDUSTRiAl BUilDiNG $2,500,000 - $6,500,000 Sponsor: McKeno Blocks & Pavers Ri-Con Contractors Pty Ltd Kununurra Renal Dialysis Centre ironwood Dr Kununurra COMMeRCiAl iNDUSTRiAl BUilDiNG over $6,500,000 DORIC Contractors Pty Ltd Wickham Recreation Precinct Carse St Wickham COMMeRCiAl AlTeRATiONS & ADDiTiONS under $1,000,000 Australian Eco Constructions Cable Beach Club Reception Refurbishment Cable Beach Rd Cable Beach

CONTRACT HOMeS $650,001 - $850,000 Timik Developments Pty Ltd Mujira Ramble Baynton

COMMeRCiAl AlTeRATiONS & ADDiTiONS over $6,500,000 Colin Wilkinson Developments Broome Multipurpose Arts & Community Venue Weld St Broome

CONTRACT HOMeS $850,001 - $1,000,000 Sponsor: The laminex Group Eaton Building Mujira Ramble Baynton

WATeRWiSe HOMe Sponsor: Water Corporation Timik Developments Pty Ltd Mujira Ramble Baynton

CONTRACT HOMeS over $1,000,000 Timik Developments Pty Ltd Bardurra St Baynton

MOST AffORDABle fAMilY HOMe Sponsor: Department of Housing Broome Builders Greenshank Dr Broome

ReSiDeNTiAl AlTeRATiONS & ADDiTiONS $100,000 - $200,000 KJ’s Construction Jigal Dr Broome MUlTi ReSiDeNTiAl DeVelOPMeNTS $1,000,000 - $2,500,000 Ri-Con Contractors Pty Ltd el Questro Cliff Side Villas el Questro Wilderness Park MUlTi ReSiDeNTiAl DeVelOPMeNTS $2,500,000 - $6,500,000 DLR Building Co Pty Ltd Dugong Close exmouth MUlTi ReSiDeNTiAl DeVelOPMeNTS over $6,500,000 Thomas Building Pty Ltd The Ranges Karratha Rd Karratha COMMeRCiAl iNDUSTRiAl BUilDiNG $1,000,000 - $2,500,000 Sponsor: McKeno Blocks & Pavers Timik Developments Pty Ltd Augustus Dr Karratha

MOST liVeABle BUilDiNG/HOMe Sponsor: Disability Services Commission Broome Builders Greenshank Dr Broome SilVeR TROWel Sponsor: Boral Midland Brick M & M Masonry Ganbarr St Baynton iNNOVATiVe USe Of BUilDiNG MATeRiAlS Sponsor: Ray White Broome DORIC Contractors Pty Ltd Wickham Recreation Precinct Carse St Wickham exCelleNCe iN BUilDiNG PRACTiCe Sponsor: Building Commission Williams Homes exCelleNCe iN CARPeNTRY Sponsor: Kimberley Truss D & N Subcontractors el Questro Cliff Side Villas el Questro Wilderness Park exCelleNCe iN CABiNeT MAKiNG Sponsor: Jackson McDonald Leading Edge Cabinets Brushtail St Karratha

exCelleNCe iN CeiliNGS Sponsor: Cbus T & K Interiors frangipani Dr Broome exCelleNCe iN CONCReTiNG Sponsor: McCorry Brown & Holcim WA Concrete Constructions Wickham Recreation Precinct Carse St Wickham exCelleNCe iN PAiNTiNG Sponsor: Valspar Broome Painting Service Shiosaki Brace Bilingurr exCelleNCe iN WAll & flOOR TiliNG Sponsor: Carpet Paint & Tile Centre S S Ceramic Tiling Bardurra St Baynton exCelleNCe iN eNeRGY effiCieNCY Sponsor: Breezway Timik Developments Pty Ltd Tharnda Rd Baynton exCelleNCe iN ROOfiNG Sponsor: Market Creations Mainstream Roofing Gardugarli Dr Baynton West BeST STeel BUilDiNG Sponsor: Colorbond Exmouth Building Company Pty Ltd Madaffari Dr exmouth BeST APPOiNTeD BATHROOM Sponsor: MBA insurance Services Timik Developments Pty Ltd Bardurra St Baynton BeST APPOiNTeD KiTCHeN Sponsor: electsales/Retravision Shoreline Designer Homes Brushtail St Karratha exCelleNCe iN GlAZiNG Sponsor: Toyota WA Pilbara Glass Brushtail St Karratha exCelleNCe iN iNNOVATiVe ClADDiNG Sponsor: James Hardie Australia Pty ltd Com-al Wanangkura Stadium Hamilton Rd South Hedland exCelleNCe iN STRUCTURAl STeel Sponsor: B & J Building Consultants & Steel Supplies Metro Lintels Wanangkura Stadium Hamilton Rd South Hedland

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Updates: Personal Pars

Personal Pars proudly sponsored by Hays

Master Builders’ membership assistant Siobhan Harvey (centre) returned from an overseas holiday late in May just in time to celebrate her twenty-first birthday.

The staff’s bevy of young beauties gathered to help her party. Pictured are (l-r) Pippa Tearne, Monique Milne, Skye McCartney, Siobhan, Kelly Watt, Daniela Nakahara and Lucy Oakley.

Congratulations to Peter and Dianne Airey (Airey Taylor Consulting) on celebrating their golden wedding anniversary.

A cheerio to Peter Ratty who hasn’t been enjoying the best of health of late. Unfortunately this prevented Peter joining the judging panel for Master Builders Bankwest Excellence in Construction Awards this year.

Paula West has been appointed general manager of Armano Homes.

Regrettably, our Construction Excellence Awards judge Adrian Ridderhof had a slip on his boat recently necessitating a knee reconstruction. Fortunately, Adrian is making a speedy recovery just in time for his European holiday.

Former director general of the Department of Training Robert Player is now working as a management consultant in his own business, Robert Player & Associates. Robert’s expertise is training-related issues and workforce development. He can be contacted on 0409 088 099.

Lee Elgood is now working as a carpentry lecturer at Pundalmurra College in Port Hedland.

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Imogen Lance has been appointed project manager, building industry liaison with the newly formed Building Industry Liaison Unit (BILU) within Department of Finance, Building Management and Works.

BILU has been formed to gather business intelligence, conduct industry analysis and work more closely with industry representatives to be more proactive and attuned to the building industry. Jodie Smythe has taken over from Ms Lance as the manager of the Apprentice Management Unit at BMW. Ron Dwyer (Jason Windows) has been elected national president of HIA. Bala Suppiah has been appointed the executive officer for Stirling Skills Training, a registered training organisation in Malaga providing training to businesses and community organisations for 35 years. SST specialises in the warehouse, transport and logistics business, mining and manufacturing industries. It offers a range of WorkSafe accredited courses such as the forklift licence and elevated work platform and also short courses such as working at height, load restraint training, dangerous goods, confined space and other safety related training. Mr Suppiah is also a member of Master Builders’ Training Committee.

Former president of the Master Painters Association, Jim Elphick, has passed away after a long illness. Condolences to his family.

Adrian O’Grady has left the Civil Contractors Federation to take on the general manager of membership and marketing role at the National Electrical and Communications Association. Ray Harris has left NECA after a two-year stint.

Alan Layton, the executive director of the Air Conditioning and Mechanical Contractors Association has had his position made redundant after seven years’ service.

Former Dockers and Saints footballer Brett Peake has joined MPA Skills as a plumbing apprentice employment field officer.

Geoff Kelly has been elected president of the Master Plumbers and Gasfitters Association. Ron Grant is the vice president.

A cheerio to Rod Harris (WA Country Builders in Albany) who hasn’t been enjoying good health of late.

Congratulations to Steve Keys, marketing and sponsorship manager with Master Builders Australia, on becoming a grandfather for the first time.

Peter Kennedy, a former lecturer at Notre Dame University, has been appointed chief policy officer with Housing Minister, Bill Marmion.

Master Builders South Australia executive director Rob Stewart has retired after a 19-year stint at the helm. Rob has done an outstanding job at MBASA and his contribution to the Master Builder movement will be greatly missed. John Stokes, former Australian Institute of Management state manager in South Australia will be taking over Mr Stewart’s role.

Eachem Curry, the former chief of staff for then Commerce Minister Simon O’Brien, has been appointed managing director (WA) of Barton Deakin, a government relations consulting firm.

Chris Carman, the managing director of Benchmark Projects Australasia, has been appointed WA Chapter president of the Australian Institute of Project Management.

Updates: Personal Pars

Personal Pars proudly sponsored by Hays

Gavin Connaughton TAKiNG UP the new position of Master Builders’ regional operations manager in September last year, Gavin Connaughton has had a challenging start to his tenure. Albany and Bunbury building projects, staff changes and the balancing act between maintaining member services and the bottom line have kept him on his toes as he approaches the end of his first year.

What is your general work background before joining Master Builders?

My career has focussed on the function of human resources, training and development, safety management and administration. i was very fortunate while working with the WA State Government for 18 years, to have the mobility and opportunity to gain experience in various departments which provided a solid foundation for my development and career skills.

After leaving the State Government, i joined our (then) family business of Pioneer Water Tanks, now BlueScope Water, in growing the business to what it is today – a provider of global water storage solutions. i consider this being my most significant achievement to date, being an integral part of developing the business through its manufacturing capabilities, managing the human resources and safety management, and playing significant roles in project management and administration.

Our growth saw the landscape change in regard to water storage solutions, being modular rather than being ‘set in concrete’. Portability, ease of construction and cost benefits saw our business expand rapidly, especially in rural communities and international locations where water storage was a critical issue. i feel very proud in being part of that solution that has significantly benefited and improved lives over the years.

Why did you move?

Our business was acquired by BlueScope in 2005 and i continued on until late 2009.

After nearly 14 years of being part of the

organisation, i took a redundancy package and then returned to university to ‘sign off’ on a personal goal of attaining the tertiary certification to complement my other studies in management and safety disciplines. i then undertook some operational roles within the medical and retail sectors, but with the opportunity the role at Master Builders offered, it generated great enthusiasm to participate in involving myself to build a better industry for the Association’s members and the community.

How do you feel you’ve settled in your role?

Since joining Master Builders as the regional operations manager, i have been striving to ensure i have an active participation in regional events through regular attendances and to increase the presence and profile of Master Builders. it is very apparent that each region has a tremendous community spirit and involvement in the activities to make Master Builders the premier industry association. Being part of that growth through the members and valuing how they are presented in each region is quite fulfilling. i am settling in, but still have a lot to learn and to understand the complexities in each of the regions. fortunately, the team and membership are very informative and provide that helping hand of support when i ask.

What can you offer to the regional managers and members?

The regional managers in Geoff Bosustow (Bunbury), linda Gibbs (Albany) and Di Gilliland (Geraldton), all have a unique connection with their members and take great pride in the facilities they now manage.

With a small change in the operational structure of the Goldfields-esperance Region and having our regional liaison officers of Doug Backhouse (esperance) and Jade Hayes (Kalgoorlie) in each centre, we can really raise the profile of Master Builders and contribute back to the community.

Master Builders’ regional operations manager Gavin Connaughton.

i feel that my overall skills and experiences can assist each of the managers to further develop each of the three business centres, into the ‘preferred choice of location’ to hold events, functions and training courses for both the members and community at large, at the same time, ensuring that the investments made by Master Builders continue in a positive manner for the longevity of the Association and its members.

When you’re not at Master Builders, what keeps you busy?

Since we are almost in the category of having an ‘empty nest’, with our daughter as a pilot in South Australia and son involved in iT, we seem to think we have a bit more time on our hands but it now appears to actually go faster! i do still enjoy the outdoors through playing cricket with Kingsley Woodvale CC, four-wheel driving (with secret fishing spots), the occasional golf game and travelling. in among all that, is the home maintenance list and going through my shed.

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RepoRts: Building Business

Can i build in my sMsF? One of the most common investment questions asked by builders is can my building business build on a property inside my self-managed superannuation fund? The answer is yes, if you do it correctly.

SUPeRANNUATiON lAWS provide that a self-managed superannuation fund (SMSf) can invest in a wide variety of asset classes.

There are, however, some restrictions on transacting with what the legislation classes as related parties such as the SMSf members, their families or any business they control.

The rules restrict what an SMSf can invest in, who it can loan money to and assets that Peter Nicol it can acquire from these related parties. in some circumstances the SMSf is permitted to lend money to or invest in a related party but only up to prescribed limits. in other cases, such as acquiring assets from related parties, the SMSf is only permitted to acquire certain types of assets like land and buildings that are currently being used in a business. These rules are complicated and provide some significant traps for the unwary.

Traditionally, when a building is constructed under contract, the builder acquires all things necessary for construction via its normal avenues and then provides a service of construction. This means that there are two parts to the contract; firstly the supply of the building materials and secondly the construction service. Herein lies the problem. The services provided as part of the contract do not contravene any legislation but because, under the contract, the SMSf acquires the bricks and mortar from the related party, that is, your building company, it has breached the acquisition rules. So if your SMSf wants to develop land by using the services of your building company how does it go about doing it? The building company must act as an agent for the SMSf when acquiring all building materials. it then charges a fee for the service of construction.

This may sound like it is splitting hairs but it is within the rules. in order to make it clearly evident that the building company is only acting as agent there are a few areas that you must address correctly.

No margin on materials An agent should have no legal rights to any assets acquired under the agency agreement. To that extent this means that the agent, in this case, your building company, cannot add any margin to the costs of any construction materials acquired on behalf of the SMSf. You can use your ability to obtain your usual trade discounts and pass the savings on to the SMSf but do not charge any margin.

Margin on the service component One of the most important considerations when undertaking this activity is to make sure that you do not over- or undercharge your SMSf for the construction service. Overcharging could mean you are being provided benefits or borrowing money from the SMSf. Undercharging could mean that you are making a contribution into the SMSf. The only way to remain free from any issues with the service fee is to have a service contract drawn up and charge your usual mark-up.

Borrowing The superannuation laws generally prohibit a SMSf from borrowing.

There are some exceptions but none that apply easily under these circumstances. The issue of borrowing can arise when the building company provides a line of credit to the SMSf by delaying the repayment of materials purchased on its behalf. There are also areas of concern for the ATO if you provide for progress payments that incorporate the materials as well as the service component throughout the term of the contract. The safest avenue is to have the SMSf reimburse the agent for materials as soon as possible after they have been purchased. The service component of the contract can be paid for monthly or at certain stages as is customary during the contract.

GST An agency agreement means that any materials purchased by your building company on behalf of the SMSf create a creditable acquisition for the SMSf, not your building company. from a GST perspective your building company does not claim nor pay GST for any of the SMSf’s building material acquisitions. This is quite simply because as discussed above the materials are the SMSf’s and not any other entities. if the SMSf is registered for GST, it claims the GST credits on the materials purchased by the building company on its behalf. GST on the service part of the contract is payable by the SMSf to your building company. if the SMSf is registered for GST it claims the GST credits on the service payments.

Paper work failure to maintain proper records will cause significant headaches if you travel down this path. it is imperative that the building company does not account for any of the materials purchased on behalf of the SMSf. By accounting for them in the building company you will place serious doubt over the arrangement being an agency agreement. further to that, your accountant will have to reconcile all the SMSf purchases out of your books and resolve your GST issues.

Most importantly, have an agency agreement This is by far the most important document for these transactions.

As SMSfs require an audit every year, the agency agreement will be your main evidence when convincing the auditor that you have not broken any of the rules. it is important to seek legal advice and obtain an appropriate agreement before starting any development planning. failure to do so could see the ATO knocking on your door.

Conclusion There are funding issues that need to be addressed but if you have the available resources within the fund, this is an option. The end result is that your building company can construct on property already owned by the SMSf, provided you are methodical and follow the rules. Note that you always should seek appropriate advice before commencing any investment activity within an SMSf.

This article was prepared by Peter Nicol, principal in RSM Bird Cameron’s Superannuation Solutions division. He can be contacted on 9261 9316 or peter.nicol@rsmi.com.au.

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adveRtoRial

Construction Training Fund Members of MBA know how the Construction Training fund can reduce the costs of employing apprentices in WA’s building and construction industry.

The Training fund has introduced a range of new incentives for eligible employers of apprentices in construction trades, with up to $19,000 in cash now available to help reduce the costs of adding a new apprentice to your business.

The minimum standard grant available to an eligible employer is now $4,000 (for a 12 month traineeship), rising to a maximum of $10,000 for a 48 month apprenticeship in core construction trade areas. in addition to the standard grants, the Training fund can provide a one-off bonus to an eligible employer of up to $4,000, depending on trade qualification. existing allowances for employment of indigenous and regional trainees/apprentices remain, bringing the maximum grant available to a total of $19,000.

The new grants are available to employers of trainees/ apprentices registered with the Department of Training & Workforce Development on or after 1 July 2013. Direct indenture employers receive the grant in three equal instalments. The first is paid after probation and six months of employment; the second at the half-way point of the indenture and the final payment is made after successful completion of the qualification.

Trade bonus payments – up to $4,000 – are paid to the employer together with the first instalment.

You’ll also receive the grant from the Training fund if you host an apprentice through a group training organisation (GTO). The GTO claims the grant on your behalf each month and then passes it on to you in full as a reduction in the GTO’s hire-out rate. look for the note on the GTO’s invoice that says “less Construction Training fund subsidy”. The new one-off trade bonuses will be claimed by GTOs after the apprentice has completed six months of employment, and then passed on in full to the host(s) that employed the apprentice.Visit bcitf.org or call 9244 0100 for more information about the Construction Training fund’s apprenticeship grants and other support programs for the construction industry. it’s your training fund.

RECEIVE UP TO $19,000 CA$H WHEN YOU EMPLOY A NEW APPRENTICE

Employ and register a new apprentice or trainee in a recognised qualification after 1 July 2013 and you may be eligible to claim a grant of up to $19,000 from the Construction Training Fund.

Visit bcitf.org or call 9244 0100 to find out how you can reduce your training costs.

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RepoRts: Building Business

sick of putting out fires – learn how to delegate effectively Rueben Taylor

As a business coach i often hear business owners and managers complaining about a lack of performance and dedication from their employees and subcontractors. When i dig behind it i often find that too many tasks are being abdicated not delegated. So what is the difference?

WHeN YOU abdicate a task or role, you are essentially abandoning all responsibility. A job is simply given to someone and they are expected to perform. Often this is not the case and you end up having to fix up mistakes and end up taking the task back.

The solution is delegation which relies on you keeping control of the situation but not actually doing the work. Delegation enables your people to gain the skills and confidence to master the roles and responsibilities they were employed to do.

Here are my top eight keys to delegating effectively: • Clearly define and agree the outcome.

Make sure the outcome is specific and both parties understand. leave no room for ambiguity.

• Delegate it to someone with demonstrated competence. The key word here is demonstrated. is the person you want to do the job competent? Sometimes you need to invest additional time in training before they will do the task effectively. in some cases you may need to replace the person.

• Set up the boundaries of the delegation process. This is where you provide a framework of what they can and can’t do, sometimes this may be a budget to stick to or as simple as how far they can take the project before having to check in.

• explain the resources available. Make sure you clearly explain what tools, materials and resources are available. Be clear on who they need to speak to, who else may need to be involved and any past history or work already done on the project so you don’t reinvent the wheel.

• Have a deadline. Without a deadline things are left open ended. Get specific times and dates so everyone is clear. for bigger projects you may want to have key milestones or a schedule.

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• invite questions and feedback and have the person repeat instructions. This is a critical step where the person receiving instructions repeats back what you have said. People often avoid this step as they are too busy but it is essential to test if you have communicated effectively. This can be as simple as asking: ”What is your understanding of what i want you to do?”

• Agree what you will measure to ensure you are on track. This is critical for bigger tasks and projects. it can be as simple as reporting back progress when complete or at the end of the day giving an update on where things are at.

• Define the consequences/rewards. Decide and define what the consequences/ rewards are to be if the task does not happen according to schedule or agreement. Sometimes this is about explaining the natural consequences if it does not happen in the required time frame, or consequences can be introduced, for example, a fine, donation or a requirement to complete things in their own time. Also look for bonuses or rewards for tasks to be completed on time.

Remember like any skill, to master delegation requires practice. it can take a little bit longer upfront to start with but longer term effective delegation will help you get more out of your employees and subcontractors.

Rueben Taylor is a business coach and trainer who specialises in working with trades, manufacturers and contractors in sustainably growing their business. Learn more at www. ruebentaylor.com.au

RepoRts: Building Business

Changing super landscape – Cbus quick guide

Commissioner for Consumer Protection Anne Driscoll has some advice for building businesses in relation to significant consumer protection laws.

from 1 July, the federal Government is rolling out changes that will improve the way super is run, paid and invested.

Be concrete with product or service claims

YOU DON’T need to do a thing to benefit – the changes happen automatically. Here’s a quick rundown on how the changes could boost final super payouts. from 1 July, Superannuation Guarantee (SG) rates will rise to 9.25 percent of ordinary time earnings, gradually increasing to 12 percent in 2019. That means all employees eligible for SG will receive more super with their pay packet. The SG age limit also will be removed, so if you work past age 70 (and are eligible) you can keep on building your super. if you earn under $37,000 per year, the Government will add up to $500 to your super account each year. This benefit is called the low income super contribution. The extra contribution will make it easier for low income earners to save more for their future.

You don’t need to do anything to receive it – the ATO will work out if you’re eligible.

On 1 October, Cbus MySuper will launch. This simply means Cbus’ existing default investment option (where more than 90 percent of members are invested) has been authorised as a MySuper product. This recognises Cbus’ default option as a cost-effective one, designed to meet the needs of most super fund members.

So if you’re already in the Cbus default option, you don’t need to do anything.

To find out more, contact WA Cbus coordinator Allan Hughes on 9463 3942 or email ahughes@ cbusmail.com.au. Cbus can be joined online at www.cbussuper.com.au/join.

This information is about Cbus. It does not take into account your specific needs, so you should look at your own financial position, objectives and requirements before making any financial decisions. Read the relevant Cbus Product Disclosure Statement to decide whether Cbus is right for you. You can call Cbus or obtain a copy from www.cbussuper.com.au. Cbus’ Trustee: United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 Cbus ABN 75 493 363 262.

Consumer Protection Commissioner Anne Driscoll

liKe ANY business in Australia, those in the building industry have a responsibility under the Australian Consumer law (ACl) not to misrepresent products or services to consumers. By knowing where you stand and ensuring you don’t make false, misleading or deceptive claims, you can look after your business and your customers.

Examples of questionable claims in the building industry may be: • An environmental one such as ‘100 percent eco-friendly’.

• Using express warranty statements about ‘lifetime guarantees’.

• Promises made in relation to the time it will take to supply goods or services, for example, ‘sign up today and have your new extension fully built within four weeks’.

Other types of conduct which may be classed as a misrepresentation include: • Claiming an affiliation (for example, using the Master Builders’ logo when not entitled to).

• Offering free items or inclusions when they are not actually free.

• Claiming that a price is discounted when it is not.

• Claiming that a company is ‘family owned and run’ when it is not. essentially you need to look at statements you are making about the products or services you provide and ask whether you can back them up. The old maxim about truth in advertising has never been more important. if you promote something that is not correct or a ‘half-truth’ to sell products or services you could open yourself up to prosecution for making a false or misleading representation and misleading or deceptive conduct. The financial penalties are harsh if legal action is taken, let alone the damage to your reputation which often has been forged by many years of hard work and sometimes expensive advertising campaigns.

Know that under the ACl, substantiation notices can be issued which require companies to prove to consumer protection authorities that their claims via advertising, social media or any other sales/marketing methods are truthful. Serious penalties apply for failing to comply with notices as well as the prospect of a prosecution for the misleading information.

If you would like to report concerns about misleading practices in the building industry in WA you can do so, confidentially, by calling 1300 30 40 54 or emailing consumer@commerce.wa.gov.au.

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Updates: Membership

struggling with mobile devices costs?

Accessing business applications on the go is a key enabler to staying connected with clients and mobile staff, but managing diverse fleets of mobile devices and business applications can be costly. Master Builder members now have access to Telstra Mobile Connect Solution at an exclusive member-only price, making it easy to manage the costs of mobile fleets.

THe MASTeR BUilDeRS Telstra Mobile Connect Solution data plans offer access to business applications via the Next G network. Master Builder members can receive a tablet, plus a mobile data plan for a single monthly cost.

“i can now easily read and respond to emails without having to be in the office or at home in front of a computer screen,” Mr Andrews said. “i’m also using a great estimating application which allows me to narrow down the costs of a job while i’m on site.”

The plan is accompanied by a range of benefits for users including:

Using the tablet also has decreased the amount of paperwork he would normally need to carry around while completing a job.

• Greater flexibility – sync work email, calendar and contacts to tablets for use while out of the office.

• increase productivity – make use of business applications and documents online, so that mobile staff can conduct work while on site.

• extend security – enjoy the option of being able to use devices over a more secure connection.

• Tailored plans – Master Builder members can choose the right plan for their business needs.

“One of the most productive ways i use my tablet device is to download building plans. This means i don’t have to take hard copies on site and it also reduces printing costs. everything is in the one spot. i also regularly use the tablet to take photos to publish on social media sites. The built-in camera allows me to take the photo and upload it immediately. i use my tablet every day as much as i can and in the future, as industry-related applications continue to be developed, i’ll be using it much more.”

Working remotely has never been so easy Accessing business applications through mobile devices is fast becoming the easiest solution to staying connected with clients and staff while on the go. The ability to check email, download important documents and look up useful information not only means productivity in the workplace increases, but more time can be spent ensuring the job gets done right the first time. eighteen months ago Brisbane-based Master Builder member Justin Andrews, from Abode Constructions, started using a tablet device to conduct business remotely and, since then, he hasn’t looked back.

Using a tablet device in the workplace is changing the way many builders and contractors are doing business. finding the right data plan to suit the business is just as important as it will help manage costs and allow business applications to be used freely.

Increase work productivity, stay connected with clients and manage and reduce bills at the same time by signing up to the exclusive Master Builders Telstra Mobile Connect Solution. Call Master Builders on 1300 88 13 72 to get connected or email phones@masterbuilders.asn.au to find out more.

Free legal advice for Master Builder members MASTeR BUilDeR members have access to the Master Builders-Jackson McDonald legal hotline which provides up to 15 minutes of immediate, free advice. leading commercial law firm Jackson McDonald is a longstanding supporter of Master Builders and has been assisting members with the hotline service for many years. in 2012, the firm provided guidance to more than 100 Association members through the hotline service. if legal issues arise, the hotline offers quick and knowledgeable initial advice for both commercial and residential builders.

Jackson McDonald partner Basil Georgiou heads the firm’s construction law team, the first point of contact for the Master Builders-Jackson McDonald legal hotline.

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it complements in-house Master Builders’ services covering legislation and regulations, dispute resolution, contract and industrial assistance, standard form contracts, insurance products, safety and training. Call Master Builders on 9476 9800 for information on taking advantage of the exclusive Jackson McDonald legal hotline member benefit.

Updates: Membership

Master Builders welcomes the following

new members Active Sustainability

08 9842 2258

Albany Concrete Pumping

08 9844 4763

Alinta Energy

08 9210 2005

APZ Construction

08 9358 4611

Aristocrat Synthetic Lawns

08 9844 3089

Bass Formwork Pty Ltd

08 9277 9504

BB Construct

0488 190 484

BDI Wall and Ceiling Contractors

0427 441 541

Brian Coulson Construction

0427 029 102

Built

08 9218 9828

Bunnings Broome

08 9191 9400

Car Parking Solutions WA

08 9204 9800

Challis Builders

08 9791 2206

Crumps Canvas

08 9841 3866

Employment Innovations

0424 195 133

Expand Constructions

0421 630 530

Fiducia Developments Pty Ltd

0410 621 484

Freelife Homes

08 9347 1600

Glover Carpentry Pty Ltd

0451 126 025

Houspect Franchising Systems

0400 113 980

IP & ST Elson Pty Ltd

0413 141 728

Jan Dam Kitchens

0400 347 886

Jim’s Fencing (Butler)

08 9562 7876

Jim’s Fencing (Maddington)

0420 722 720

Kleenheat Gas

08 9312 9327

Lakes Bathrooms

08 9244 1544

Moduform Construction Pty Ltd

0417 223 315

Ocean and Earth Training Specialists

08 9192 5022

Randstad Pty Limited

08 9320 1670

Ravlich & Clent Constructions

08 9377 0021

Rivett Construction Services

0419 767 906

Sanpro Construction

08 9277 9955

Satoa Homes Pty Ltd

0417 957 606

Sidi Construction Pty Ltd

08 9433 3977

Soil Solutions

08 9845 7688

Swan Valley Freight (WA) Pty Ltd

0408 905 076

THP Plumbing Solutions

0427 712 067

Todd Hammond Carpentry

08 9851 1018

Vancouver Waste Services

08 9845 7688

Visionaire Homes

08 9204 0911

Waco Constructions

0448 812 000

The Master Tradesman Committee recently met Master Builders’ apprentice engagement officer Nathan Zskoruda (right) to discuss mentoring and career promotion.

Master Tradesmen initiative grows MASTeR BUilDeRS’ Board recently approved five new Master Tradesmen who are available to assist builders and clients in WA. The Master Tradesman Classification was introduced to the WA building and construction industry to recognise tradespeople who are committed to quality workmanship and customer service.

Approved Master Tradesmen include tiling, painting, carpentry, bricklaying, security and maintenance specialists. Members can be found on www.mastertradeswa.com.au.

A Master Tradesman Committee has been formed to ensure Master Builders provides relevant services and promotions.

Master Builders is proud to list the following as members of Master Tradesman: Glenn Schilling – GP Carpentry Building and Maintenance Martin Cuthbert – Martin Cuthbert Landscaping Hugh Smith – Hugh & Co Contracting Pty Ltd Robert Wilkie – Bobrick Constructions (Bob the Brickie) Vince Terribile – Crosby Supply and Fix Shane Callan – West Oz Roofi ng Pty Ltd Stephen Cochrane – Arklen Developments Clifford Warner – Warner Bricklaying Services Pty Ltd Stuart McCann – Just Tile and Stone Dean Lancaster – D and L Renovations Paul Hobson – Prowest Bricklaying Michael Wybrow – Fineline Carpentry

“The construction industry’s success relies on having subcontractors who deliver quality building work,” says Master Builders’ communications director Geoff Cooper.

“The Master Tradesman classification ensures that we provide a dedicated product and service to encourage and support quality trades in WA.

Troy Dye – Multi-Power Electrical Services

“Members who know of an individual tradesperson who is dedicated to quality work should contact Skye McCartney on 9476 9800 to nominate them for their achievements. “The cost is only $99 per annum, and applicants can access relevant insurances, training, and information – as well as stickers and a website listing to promote their services. “i acknowledge the terrific work done by Master Builders’ Board member Jack Pleiter - director from Genesis Homes – in supporting the initiative and the work of the Master Tradesman Committee.”

Ian Gibbs W.Gibbs & Son

Scott Roediger – SMR Construction William Walls – William Walls Mal Lothian – Yanchep Plastering Services Daryl Milburn – Urban Concrete (WA) Pty Ltd Gary Hodgson – Gary Hodgson Gregory Walker – Addjoin Carpentry Maintenance

Jay Tenbrobke – Desired Paint Effects Kam Fai Cheng – KF Cary Tiling Service Scott Fagan – Dragon Fly Home Improvement Stuart Lobegeier – KKS Communication Todd Hammond – Todd Hammond Carpentry John Bowness – Bowsan Property Repairs Jason Holl – Jason Holl Lee Roughton – Settlers Painting David Hewson – DJ.AJ and Sons Trust Lennon Daw – Lennon Daw

WA Master Builder

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Updates: Membership

Master Builders’ membership services manager Veronica Mill.

New Bankwest customers save on Master Builder membership MASTeR BUilDeR members are entitled to exclusive benefits from the Association’s principal partner Bankwest for both business and personal banking needs and also might be eligible to save $300 on membership by taking out a Bankwest loan for more than $150,000.

Members have access to competitive rates and finance conditions and better business banking products for their businesses and owners and staff also have access to exclusive Work Perks. This provides for a personal banking contact who will visit the member’s office or any other convenient location.

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“Work Perks enables you to save on a range of home loan options,” says Master Builders’ membership services manager Veronica Mill.

“You or any of your staff could save over $2000 every year for the life of your loan. Terms and conditions apply. The program is designed to give you and your employees an even better deal on personal loans, insurance and investments.

“All you need to do to take advantage of these exclusive offers is contact Chris Hutchins on 0457 541 200 regarding business banking or Paul Burnett on 0459 802 312 regarding Work Perks and mention that you are a Master Builders member.”

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Updates: Member Profile

Savvy Construction’s Ryan Cole made his mark in the first year of his company’s operation, winning the 2010 Ric New Medal. He was pictured at the award presentation with judges Marylyn New and Rob Spadaccini, the inaugural winner of the medal.

savvy advice from high achiever Ryan Cole A career path is often full of twists and turns but Ryan Cole, founder of award winning Savvy Construction, has some pretty savvy advice to those embarking on a career in the building industry.

“The key is to take time in establishing a business plan and setting goals,” Ryan says. “Make sure realistic goals are set – and most importantly - take small steps.”

Ryan was born into a ‘building family’ with his father, grandfather and uncle in the industry, so his career path was obvious at a very young age, but his success most certainly came from taking one measured step after another. Ryan acquired fundamental industry skills from his home environment early in life and went on to complete work experience with a large Perth architectural firm. He left school for a carpentry and joinery apprenticeship with the clear view to eventually become a builder.

During his apprenticeship Ryan was nominated for several awards, winning first Year and Third Year Carpentry and Joinery Apprentice Awards, before completing the four-year apprenticeship in less than three years. After receiving his Trade Certificate, Ryan worked as a qualified carpenter for four years until 1999 when he was diagnosed

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with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and forced off the tools to have both hands operated on simultaneously. This event was life-changing for Ryan as it forced him to re-evaluate his chosen career path. Being a builder was his ultimate goal but he felt he wasn’t ready to take the plunge – either personally or financially. it was after a few more years persevering as a housing scheduler, housing estimator, site-works estimator, commercial estimator and site supervisor that Ryan met his next turning point.

Working as a financial controller with a large construction company in the United Kingdom in the refurbishment division on projects in central london ranging from $4-40 million, he realised his own potential and decided he was ready to become a builder - sooner rather than later.

Returning to Perth, Ryan worked full-time as a commercial estimator while he completed a Diploma of Builder’s Registration and then commenced making plans for his new building company.

“After many months spent on my business plan and paying particular attention to my ‘branding’; securing a bank overdraft; meeting and negotiating with trades and suppliers; securing credit; implementing occupational health and safety procedures and ensuring all insurance matters were in place, Savvy Construction began trading,” said Ryan, “We are now in our fourth year.”

The first large project, which came as the result of a referral from his engineer, was an external works package in Swanbourne. Ryan says, “from that one job all works undertaken since have been generated by word of mouth. i have projects booked until 2014 as i cap the amount of jobs on the ground at any one time. This allows personal and handson supervision and this allows me to use only my regular trades.”

Updates: Member Profile

During Savvy Construction’s first year of building Ryan won the prestigious Ric New Medal (named in honour of the Midland Brick founder). The Master Builders’ award annually recognises a young building industry achiever both for current contribution and future potential. Since then, Savvy Construction has been in the winner’s circle with many housing awards including Best New Builder at the 2013 Master Builders Bankwest Housing excellence Awards. As the company works from referrals and is not locked into any particular market niche through advertising, it can participate in various types of projects including external works packages, single and multi-storey renovations and additions (both small and large), restorations and additions to period homes, and single and multi-storey new builds.

“A complex project at Deakin Street in Swanbourne is by far one of my proudest and most rewarding achievements to date,” Ryan said. “This started as a large single storey renovation but it became evident that it would also require extensive restoration. This was due to the age and condition of the structure that was revealed only after the layers were stripped back. Although challenging, this resulted in great personal and professional rewards and very happy clients.”

Ryan is currently working on an extensive renovation to an Art Deco home in east fremantle. The project is posing some challenges due to the complexity of the build but Ryan states, “i am optimistic enough to know that at the end of the project the owners will have

a fantastic outcome. This is due to my dedication to quality and attention to detail, and is in no small part due to the commitment and quality of my trades. “i am very fortunate to have a wonderful mentor in Tore Madafferi.

Tore not only does my engineering, but he has owned and operated a building company himself. Tore is always willing to offer advice and his opinion is greatly valued. it’s great to have someone with his experience, knowledge and integrity to bounce off from time to time,” said Ryan. The quality of his work and making clients genuinely happy with the results is behind every step Ryan takes. “While winning industry awards and being recognised by my peers is pleasing, being respected and appreciated by my clients for a quality outcome and satisfying journey is my key objective,” he said. in the not-too-distant future Ryan hopes to also achieve a healthy work-life balance. “My wife and three young daughters motivate me.

My aim is to spend more time with them and this is what i am working towards,” he says. “Of course i want to provide financial security for them too.”

Ryan is optimistic about the future of the building industry. Along the way he has made friends of his many clients and he continues to receive numerous referrals. Ryan says he’s hard pressed to think of any downsides. “i am looking forward to my next project - whatever it may be!”

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WA Master Builder

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Updates: Safety

Basic scaffolding training conducted

by Master Builders.

High risk work licence holders need to have been prepared with adequate skills.

Fake high risk work licences found in wa WorkSafe has issued warnings to check workers’ high risk work licences after fake documents turned up in WA. iNiTiAllY WORKSAfe WA commissioner lex McCulloch said fakes issued in New South Wales had been found, but after being given information on the availability of fake licences overseas, he issued a further warning.

Mr McCulloch said the advice to check on NSW licences was issued after two fake licences were discovered in WA. “We have since received unconfirmed reports that fraudulent licences can be obtained overseas quickly and at low cost in places such as Thailand,” he said. “Although the report is hearsay at this stage, it is good practice to make sure licences are genuine. Hence, i am repeating the warning on checking these licences and recommending that all high risk work licences be verified before accepting them, no matter where they were issued.

“Western Australian licences can be very simply verified in a matter of minutes on the home page of the WorkSafe website. Simply click on ‘Advanced Search’ in the ‘Search for licence Holders’ box, then select the type of licence from the drop-down menu and enter the licence number. The checking facility will verify the authenticity of the licence. “licences issued in locations other than WA can be verified with the relevant authority in the State or Territory of issue. A list of contact numbers for interstate authorities can be found on WorkSafe’s website at www.worksafe.wa.gov.au.”

Mr McCulloch said it was important that high risk work licences were only issued to workers who had been appropriately trained. “in agreeing to adopt the national licensing standard back in 2007, the important role high-quality training plays in helping provide workers

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with the skills to perform high risk work safely and competently was acknowledged,” he said. “These licences apply to anyone engaged in work considered to be ‘high risk’, including scaffolding, dogging and rigging work and the operation of cranes, hoists, pressure equipment and forklifts. it’s quite alarming to think that there could be workers out there who believe they have received the proper training when they may not have – they may be endangering themselves and everyone else around them.”

The two fraudulent high risk work licences were discovered recently in Karratha when two workers visited the Department of Commerce office to have additional rigging classes added to their licences. The men, who previously had worked as riggers, had been provided with NSW high risk work licences. Procedures were in place to verify the validity of licences issued in other States, and these procedures uncovered the fact that the licences were fraudulent.

“The good news is that the checking procedures did work and the fraud was discovered,” Mr McCulloch said. “Only two of these fraudulent licences have been detected, so there is no reason for unnecessary alarm. However, we need to maintain our vigilance and spread the message that high risk work licences need to be verified.”

He also advised assessors and registered training organisations to verify licences before accepting them as prerequisites for further training and assessment.

“These licences are called high risk work licences for a good reason, and it is of great concern that licence holders may not be adequately trained to perform these types of work safely and competently,” he said. “i urge employers, assessors and trainers to verify any high risk work licences presented to them.”

Updates: Safety

He was seen working near the edge of the roof by a WorkSafe inspector. He was not wearing any fall injury prevention system and did not have any edge protection in place. A harness was located in Mr long’s vehicle, and there were anchor points available on the roof to be used with the harness. The inspector issued a prohibition notice to stop Mr long carrying out any further work on the roof without an adequate fall prevention system.

Between 2005 and 2008, Mr long had been issued with five prohibition notices in relation to working at heights without an adequate fall prevention system. WorkSafe WA commissioner lex McCulloch said it was disappointing that there were still people in the building trade who did not take the risk of falls seriously. “it is evident that Mr long just assumed that he was not going to fall from the roof and consequently did not bother to take any preventative measures,” Mr McCulloch said. “falls are a significant cause of workplace death, and 16 Western Australian workers have died as a result of falls in the last four years.

Fall injury protection systems are essential when working at heights.

Roofing contractor fined over lack of fall prevention measures A self-employed roofing contractor has been fined $2500 for working on a roof without an adequate fall prevention system.

MATHeW DAViD long pleaded guilty to failing to provide adequate fall prevention where there was a risk that a person could fall two metres or more, and was fined in the Mandurah Magistrates Court recently. in May 2011, Mr long was working on the roof at a construction site in Mandurah where he had been engaged by a roofing company to fit all the roofing material including the flashing and capping. The roof on which he was working was on a single-storey tilt-up panel warehouse and the roof height was 6.5 metres.

Consultation a must for asbestos plan MASTeR BUilDeRS Australia says the federal Government must consult with industry before implementing the asbestos inspection strategy endorsed by employment and Workplace Relations Minister Bill Shorten recently. Master Builders CeO Wilhelm Harnisch said the strategy to inspect all homes for asbestos prior to sale or lease is well intentioned, but is fraught with implementation risks for households. “Asbestos is difficult to identify with the naked eye,” he said. “in many instances, in order to accurately identify asbestos, a sample needs to be taken to a lab for examination. The risk is that materials containing asbestos will be disturbed during an inspection or when getting a sample

“This contractor would clearly have been aware of his responsibilities with regard to safe work practices, having been issued with prohibition notices on a number of previous occasions. But despite all the warnings, he still did not get the message that he was obliged to provide and maintain a safe work environment, even if it was only for himself, and despite the fact that he actually had a harness in his vehicle. “fortunately, he did not suffer a fall, highlighting the value of WorkSafe’s program of proactive inspections of construction sites. falls are almost always readily preventable, and it need not be difficult or costly to ensure that safe systems of work are in place at all times.

“A Code of Practice on fall prevention has existed in WA for more than 20 years. The current code is comprehensive, providing information on the identification of common fall hazards. i urge any person or entity in control of a workplace that presents a risk of falls to ensure safe systems of work are in place and that this code is available in the workplace at all times.”

Further information on the prevention of falls can be obtained by telephoning WorkSafe on 1300 307 877. The Code of Practice on the Prevention of Falls in Workplaces can be downloaded at no cost from the WorkSafe website at www.worksafe.wa.gov.au.

for testing which could increase the chance of exposure to asbestos fibres. “Asbestos should only be handled by a trained professional who might have to spend time getting samples in hard to reach places such as ceilings, walls, under carpets and floors and even in or around swimming pools to get a sample. in good condition and undisturbed, asbestos does not pose a risk to public safety. The best time to remove asbestos is when a building is undergoing renovation or alteration, based on principles of risk management. “Master Builders supports the removal of asbestos from Australia’s built environment in the long term. We believe a risk management approach to asbestos in domestic premises should be adopted. To inspect each house before the need for alteration or renovation using properly qualified personnel becomes an extremely costly exercise.”

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Updates: Industrial Relations

Master Builders’ construction director Kim Richardson sees some positives in the Opposition IR policy, despite criticism that it is too cautious.

The federal Opposition has released details of its iR policy. Master Builders’ construction director Kim Richardson takes a look from the building industry’s point of view.

Cautious or practical?

THe OPPOSiTiON issued its industrial relations policy in May in the lead up to the federal election. As expected the Gillard Government and ACTU immediately branded it a return to WorkChoices while many employer groups criticised it as being too cautious and doing little to correct many of the flaws in the fair Work Act. in essence, much of the current federal law remains as it is and this is what labor introduced and what the ACTU championed in 2009.

While Master Builders would have preferred the policy to contain more meaningful change to the federal iR laws, the past seven years have seen significant levels of change following the introduction of Workchoices in 2006 and the fair Work Act in 2009. The upheaval for employers, industry and employees in such short time frames has not been helpful for stakeholders and more major upheaval is not needed. Arguably, this approach looks at trying to work out the more impracticable aspects of the fW Act over the next three years should the federal Opposition win power come September.

Nevertheless, the construction sector will welcome the intent of the Opposition to restore the former Australian Building and Construction Commission as well as a strengthened National Code of Practice for the construction industry. The scrapping of the ABCC by the Gillard government in 2012 was a retrograde step for the construction industry and it then was coupled with watering down the effective Code of Practice.

As a precursor to the launch of the policy, Opposition iR spokesman Senator eric Abetz, in an industry forum, warned employers that a future Coalition Government would not condone employers who do sweetheart deals with unions to try and buy industrial peace but then seek Government assistance when unions conduct themselves in an irresponsible manner. in some respects, this signals a future Coalition Government’s return to a more accountable construction industry including major contractors.

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don’t mention the result In an episode reminiscent of Fawlty Towers, the State Labor Party has welcomed back into its membership, CFMEU assistant secretary Joe McDonald, saying he had been very helpful in this year’s State election. Just don’t mention the election result!

win the battle, lose the war A Federal Court judge was moved to criticise a law fi rm when awarding a damages claim of $18,000 to an employee. Why? Her itemised legal costs were a whopping $224,475.80. The judge commented the case seemed to have been conducted for the benefi t of the applicant’s lawyers.

No ticket no entry A CFMEU organiser had his union right of entry ticket suspended on the $29 billion Wheatstone gas plant project for the rest of 2013. This follows the organiser’s obnoxious, threatening, intimidating and racist abuse of a site manager.

This is the type of conduct Federal Workplace Relations Minister Bill Shorten wants to reward by expanding union right of entry powers.

the union wants what?

Incredibly, the CFMEU is going to the High Court demanding resource sector employers provide striking employees with free accommodation, food, TV-internet and laundry when the same workers strike on these mega projects. And some thought the union’s ‘blue fl u’ was a joke!

457 rubbery complaint figures The most recent Federal Government complaints on 457 visa rorts seem curious with Immigration Minister Brendan O’Connor claiming there had been up to 10,000 breaches justifying the changes but then saying he was not aware of the number of breaches. In cricket terms, this is spin.

Something about the kettle and pot The NSW union movement is outraged the NSW Government is scrapping legislation that mandates union representation on State Government boards and replacing it with appointment on merit. Bizarrely, the unions claim the Government will reward individuals who fi nancially support it and will not represent wider community interests. The unions clearly miss the irony.

Updates: Industrial Relations

Fair work Commission decision a warning for employers A recent case before the fair Work Commission involving a redundancy pay claim against an iT company serves as a warning to employers on the need to conduct proper redundancy procedures before making an employee redundant. iN THe CASe in point, the employer failed to observe the requirements and was ordered to pay $10,000 to the former employee for unfair dismissal. The circumstances were that the employee was made redundant due to a downturn in business. The employee filed an unfair dismissal claim against the employer. The fair Work Act provides a defence for an employer when an employee is terminated for reasons of redundancy so long as the redundancy was genuine. The onus falls on the employer to prove this was the case.

in short, the consultation provisions require an employer who has made a definite decision to make an employee redundant, must consult with the employee about what is intended and discuss other options. Termination of employment may be the only option given the situation and can be pursued, but the emphasis on prior consultation is important and assessment of any other options. Absent that step and employers might find themselves open to possible claims of unfair dismissal and orders as in this case.

fWC found the employee was genuinely made redundant and ordinarily this should have ended the matter with the unfair dismissal claim dismissed. But during the hearing it became evident the employer had failed to comply with the relevant modern award’s consultation provisions with employees about major change at the workplace. This includes termination of employment.

Master Builders recommends employers considering making an employee redundant or terminating the employee’s employment for any reason to first seek appropriate advice from Master Builders or a legal adviser to minimise costly oversights.

Backing for return of ABCC MASTeR BUilDeRS Australia has strongly backed the Coalition’s proposal to reinstate the Australian Building and Construction Commission and restore the rule of law in the building and construction industry. Chief executive Wilhelm Harnisch says the abolition of the ABCC in 2012 resulted in a significant rise in unacceptable unlawful behaviour by building unions.

“Since the introduction of the fair Work Act in 2009 and the abolition of the ABCC, the industry’s productivity has been stifled,” he said.

“Building and construction industry unions have shown for a long time they cannot be trusted to abide by the rule of law and therefore the industry needs a strong cop on the beat.

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SolutionS you Can Rely On Cooktops • Rangehoods • Dishwashers • Washing Machines

“The proposal to limit the right of entry provisions is also strongly supported by Master Builders. The abuse of right of entry provisions were put to the fair Work Act Review Panel but the response was inadequate to address the genuine concerns of employers. Master Builders also supports a Productivity Commission inquiry into the fair Work Act to focus on the role the industrial relations framework can play to raise Australia’s productivity. Mr Harnisch said the national organisation was disappointed the Coalition iR policy does not address individual contracts.

“Overall, the range of proposals announced by the Coalition, including changes to the Greenfield agreements, will help restore balance to the industrial relations system and improve the building and construction industry’s productivity,” he said. “The proposals will play an important role to restore confidence in the business community and contribute to a reduction in costs in the construction sector.”

Congratulations to the winners and nominees of the MBaWa awards night.

sales@electsales.com.au www.electsales.com.au

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Updates: Members’ Health

BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE MASTER BUILDERS HEALTH ALLIANCE Holyoake (www.holyoake.org.au), Perth Integrated Health Clinics (www.pihc.com.au), Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (www.prostate.org.au), Conan Fitness (www.conanfitness.com), The Well Men Centre (www.wellmen.com.au), Usana Health Sciences (www.cheeseman.usana.com)

holyoake - reaching out to young people Young people are Australia’s future. Their enthusiasm, drive, hopes and dreams will power the engines of growth and prosperity.

SO WHY do so many of them misuse alcohol and drugs? is it peer pressure, role modelling, cultural norms, lifestyle choices, media influences, disillusionment? There are no easy answers, but the statistics paint an alarming picture. A study conducted by the McCusker Centre for Action on Alcohol and Youth in 2012 revealed: • Thirty percent of young people aged 16-17 consumed alcohol at levels that put them at risk of harm from a single occasion of drinking at least once a month.

• People aged 18-24 years were more likely than any other age group to drink alcohol in risky quantities, with 31 percent doing so on a weekly basis.

• More than 43 percent of 16-17 year old WA school students said one of the main reasons they drink is to get drunk.

• fifty percent of 16-17 year old WA school students said drinking alcohol is the best way of relaxing.

Community service organisations are doing their best to stem the tide.

Holyoake, one of the leading providers of alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment services in WA, believes that a one-size-fits-all approach may not be ideal for young people. This is why they offer a range of programs designed especially for children, adolescents, and young adults. “We understand the importance engaging young people with a holistic, non-judgemental, specialised approach in a safe and caring environment,” says Angie Paskevicius, CeO of Holyoake.

Holyoake offers four main programs to reach out to young people: Art and Play program, Adolescent program, Young People’s program and Young Adults’ program.

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Art and Play is a unique program for mothers with a history of AOD use, and their children. Using art and play, it aims to build the motherchild relationship while reducing parental stress, providing support, and improving communication.

The Young People’s program is for children aged between 3 and 17 years who have been affected by parental or a significant other’s problematic use of AOD. it helps young people develop skills to cope with their experiences and fosters an increased sense of self-esteem.

The Adolescent Program helps young people aged 13-17 years to address their problematic use of AOD. it encourages participants to develop their own identities, to stay safe, and reduce the harm of substances impacting on their lives.

The Young Adults’ Program is for 18-24 year olds who would like to understand and address their problematic use of AOD. it is interactive and thought-provoking, as well as educational and supportive.

Participants are supported as they work towards empowering themselves to make informed decisions and choices. if you know of any young people who may need help, let them know that they do have choices. More often than not, substances are misused to cope with deeper issues. Counsellors at Holyoake are well aware of this, and help support young people to develop the skills to manage their own health and wellbeing through early intervention. for more details, call 9416 4444 or visit www.holyoake.org.au.

adveRtoRial

Strength of steel opens options for timber fabricators With increasing demand for steel framing in the residential market, timber fabricators are adopting new technologies and software and expanding their offering to include TRUeCORe® steel framing.

SiNCe iTS introduction to the market almost 50 years ago, steel framing has increased in distribution and demand and is now widely used as an alternative to the more traditional timber frames. Many of Australia’s largest and most successful builders, manufacturers and building solutions companies now supply steel framing as standard as it is widely available and made in Australia to Australian standards.

AusSteel – innovators in the steel frame and truss industry – has developed a completely engineered, fully designed steel building system to meet the rapidly growing demands for steel framing in Australia. “it’s an exciting time to be involved with light Gauge Steel (lGS),” said Simon love, General Manager APAC at AusSteel. “We are seeing significant and rapid growth across many regions and it’s no secret that the largest residential builder in NSW now builds exclusively with steel,” “Coming solely from a timber frame and truss background initially, we noticed significant gaps in the support, services and products that were readily available to the timber frame and truss industry, but not there for lGS manufacturers. To counter this, we developed and built a complete system for our own use, before quickly realising we had something that others would value as much as we did.”

The AusSteel system is based on providing a product on site that carpenters can easily understand and trades can easily work with. The designs, site plans and layouts replicate the efficiencies of timber frame and truss techniques with what AusSteel believes are advantages of lGS; it’s lightweight, dimensionally stable, structurally consistent and straight. from a fabricators perspective, the AusSteel system streamlines the process from quotation to design engineering, manufacturing, material handling and packaging for transport. A partnership with Buildex – specialists in industrial fasteners – has also helped AusSteel develop and refine fastener systems for quicker and easier assembly. Over the past decade, many timber frame and truss plants have closed their doors. Mr. love explains how businesses are now adopting a lGS system as a method of future proofing their business; “Adopting a lGS system opens new doors for manufacturers. The skills and capabilities required to detail and manufacture lGS replicate the efficiencies of timber fabrication and are therefore already in place. The set up cost, including all equipment, is also lower than the cost of the more popular linear saws.”

With greater options for builders and homeowners to build with steel, AusSteel has been successful in partnering with timber manufacturers to provide an efficient steel framing system in line with their timber business. “We have been fortunate enough to work with several major building companies across NSW, Queensland and Western Australia to supply a lGS frame and truss package that meets the growing demand from investors, home owners and builders.” said Mr. love.

Originally called Timber Trader Cockburn, Worldwide Timber Traders in Bibra lake, Western Australia commenced operation in 1966 and are recognised specialists in timber engineering and manufacture. Mr. Serge Guerini, a company director and engineer identified that adding a lGS frame and truss system provided opportunity for profitable growth in their business. After assessing many options Worldwide Timber Traders selected the AusSteel System because the product, manufacturing and engineering processes made sense with their knowledge of timber manufacturing and construction techniques.

“The AusSteel system has engineering advantages that are not possible with timber wall frames. The simplicity of the system has also opened opportunities in the category “D” cyclonic regions of Western Australia,” said Mr. Guerini.

“Because it closely replicates the timber set out, we essentially had the technical design and manufacturing skills in house. This also meant there was greater acceptance from our builders with a system that was very easy to understand, cost efficient and incorporates TRUeCORe® steel which carries a warranty of up to 50 years.”

For more information about the AusSteel LGS steel framing system, call 02 4955 5422 or visit www.aussteel.net.au For more information about TRUECORE® steel call 1800 022 999 or visit www.truecore.com.au

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Updates: Training

Nathan Szkoruda visited Hayden Iliano on site to present him with the Home Timber and Hardware voucher.

Bonus for CAMS apprentices Six apprentices have received Home Timber and Hardware gift vouchers, rewarding them for signing up to the Construction Apprenticeship Mentoring Scheme.

Mr Szkoruda with youngsters at the 2013 Careers Expo.

THe CAMS program revolves around volunteers supporting construction trade apprentices by providing a helping hand with practical and pastoral support. The six won the gift vouchers on signing mentoring agreements as part of the mentorship program. Master Builders’ apprentice engagement officer Nathan Szkoruda personally handed one of the Home Timber and Hardware vouchers to CAMS mentee Hayden iliano. Mr iliano was surprised to receive the gift voucher on top of the career guidance and support he already has enjoyed under the mentorship of Scott Thomson. Mr Szkoruda says Mr Thomson has proved invaluable in his effort to make a genuine difference for the apprentices he is mentoring. Mr Szkoruda also recently visited the 2013 Careers expo and, with many school students in attendance, spoke to the young up-and-comers about the construction industry and its many opportunities.

Apprentices interested in CAMS and employers interested in becoming volunteer mentors are welcome to personal support from Master Builders. Contact Nathan Szkoruda on 0423 799 303 or Nathan@mbawa.com.

New BMw program to foster apprentices, trainees fOllOWiNG TeNDeRS, the Department of finance, Building Management and Works has a new procurement arrangement in place, the Apprentice and Trainee Management Services Panel, with nine Group Training Organisations having been contracted to engage, indenture and manage building and construction apprentices and trainees on agreed Government and construction sites across WA. Managing and working with the panel members, GTOs and local contractors will be carried out by the Apprentice Management Unit (AMU), providing a wide range of opportunities for new recruits by rotating apprentice placements on Government projects.

This will ensure that apprentices and trainees are given relevant experience and challenges on projects ranging from small to more complex and commercial.

Contractors and subcontractors delivering BMW projects will be offered a flat rate subsidy, as a means of reducing apprentice and

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trainee wage costs. The AMU will support apprentices and trainees in construction related trades including electrical, plumbing and gas fitting, painting and decorating, carpentry and joinery and general construction (traineeship).

Apprentices will have access to additional training in line with their chosen trades as an incentive towards completing their apprenticeships.

The AMU continues to develop partnerships with employers, subcontractors, industry bodies and training organisations in order to facilitate the placement and support of apprentices and trainees within the building and construction industry.

For more information about the apprentice management arrangements, contact the program coordinator Jodie Smythe on 6551 1801 or jodie.smythe@finance.wa.gov.au.

Updates: Training

skills training under threat Master Builders has expressed strong concern over two proposals threatening the viability of many small to medium sized training providers.

THe NATiONAl Skills Standards Council is seeking to introduce changes which will massively increase the compliance burden for registered training organisations and the Australian Skills Quality Authority is proposing to triple some fees as part of a cost recovery strategy.

Master Builders Australia CeO Wilhelm Harnisch says if the proposals are adopted it will be a double blow for RTOs at a time when industry conditions are tough. ”Many registered training organisations in the building and construction industry are one or two person operations which deliver high quality and specialised industry training,” Mr Harnisch said. “The proposals are a big concern to the building and construction industry as the largest employer of trade apprentices and one of the largest users of the VeT system overall. The proposed changes by the NSSC are not guaranteed to improve training standards, but will massively increase an organisation’s compliance burden. “Small and medium sized RTOs offer workplace-based training and assessment to small groups often in regional areas. The trainers are industry people with decades

of experience and deliver trades training in specialist areas such as scaffolding, rigging and crane operation. Smaller registered training organisations have expressed concern that the NSSC’s proposal will cripple their ability to run a commercially viable business. it would be a great loss to the industry if these operators were forced to close.” Mr Harnisch also said that the Australian Skills Quality Authority’s proposal will triple many compulsory fees to small training providers and in essence would force the small organisations to subsidise larger ones. He said this was neither fair nor sustainable.

“Master Builders supports initiatives to ensure high skills training standards are maintained in Australia,” he said. “However, the case has not been made that the proposed changes do anything more than add to the seemingly endless red tape and costs facing small providers. Tripling the registration costs and imposing a massive compliance burden on training organisations is not the way to improve skills training. it will only limit training options across the country and exacerbate Australia’s future skills needs.”

Call for Nominations MaSteR BuildeRS aPPReNtiCe awaRdS The Master Builders Association invites employers of directly indentured apprentices to nominate their best building apprentice(s) for this year’s Master Builders’ Apprentice of the Year Awards. There are also categories for the best Wall and floor tiling, Best female apprentice and best bricklaying apprentice. Apprentices engaged by Skill Hire, ABN Group Training and the Department of Treasury & finance (Building Management & Works) will also be participating in these prestigious awards.

How to nominate? employers wishing to nominate an apprentice should complete the nomination form which is available from the MBA. The nomination form must be received by friday 16 August 2013.

Nominations should include sufficient information to allow the judging panel to properly assess the nominees and include details such as: • • • • •

academic results plus any favourable reports from teachers/lecturers; information on work skills, special skills, knowledge of trade and ability to relate to fellow workers; achievements or awards received by TAFE or other training providers; testimonials from teachers, lecturers, employers or community groups; and reports of involvement in community groups/projects.

Recognising our best apprentices is a major step in encouraging more young persons to choose a career in the building industry with employers of direct indentured apprentices urged to support these awards. the Master Builders apprentice of the Year awards will be held on friday 1 November 2013 at the Hyatt Regency, Perth in conjunction with the “Ric New Medal” for young high achievers.

for more information contact: training director, Neil du Rand on 9441 8000 or via email to: neil@mbawa.com.

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Updates: Training

Plans afoot for bigger and better apprentice awards Master Builders’ Apprentice Awards Committee met for the first time recently, reviewing last year’s highly successful Apprentice of the Year Awards and looking towards making the 2013 award line up even better.

MASTeR BUilDeRS’ events manager Pippa Tearne says that with the 2012 awards at the esplanade Hotel labelled the best ever, it will be a challenge for the Association’s events team to raise the bar. However, this year’s event is shaping up as something special, with new categories, a new venue and what promises to be a spectacular entertainment line up.

The Master Builders Apprentice of the Year Awards are open to those who are, or have been, apprentices in the building trade in the 2013 calendar year. Master Builders’ Training Committee chairman Sean Gavin joins the Association’s training director Neil Du Rand and Dean Pearson of the Australian Brick and Blocklaying Training foundation to judge this year’s search for the most outstanding candidates in each field and category.

“With up to 58 award categories there’s one that will be the best fit for your budding apprentice,” says Ms Tearne. “Those interested in putting forward a worthy applicant should do so by the 16 August. We hope to see even more entrants this year with the winners of the coveted race for the Ric New Medal and Rising Star Awards also being announced.”

Ms Tearne said that the Awards Committee would be meeting regularly to oversee the progress in the 2013 program. BMW’s imogen lance had left the committee with her role being taken on by BMW apprentice program coordinator Jodie Smythe.

Ms lance’s contribution was acknowledged with best wishes for her new endeavours.

For more information on the awards and entry details, contact Neil Du Rand on 9476 9800.

Closing date is 16 August. Bookings for the awards night can be made with the Events team on events@mbawa.com or 9476 9800.

Natural Wings aerialist – part of the entertainment at last year’s Apprentice of the Year Awards, entertainment which organisers aim to top at the 2013 event.

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Updates: Training

Rhyse Moroney pictured at the 2012 Master Builders Geraldton Midwest Building Excellence Awards where he was awarded the Bricklaying Apprentice of the Year. With him are Master Builders’ vice president John Ripp (left) and Ian Fitzgerald of award sponsor, Australian Brick and Blocklaying Training Foundation.

Geraldton brickie continues to excel TOP GeRAlDTON bricklaying apprentice Rhyse Moroney has come up trumps again, winning the Apprentice of the Year Award at the Durack institute of Technology Graduation function recently.

Mr Moroney started his apprenticeship with Tuddenham Bricklaying in 2009 and competed in the 2012 WorldSkills Australia competition in Sydney. in 2012 he also won the Master Builders Geraldton Midwest Building excellence Awards Bricklaying Apprentice of the Year.

Durack institute of Technology bricklaying lecturer Peter Watters says Mr Moroney has an outstanding attitude to work.

“When at Durack, Rhyse approached every task - whether it was a simple corner or the most challenging of decorative brickwork - striving for one thing, perfection,” Mr Watters said. “Rhyse has been taught by his employer to produce quality and that comes easily to him as he takes pride in his work. He is one of those guys who will get along with everyone. His communication skills are great and his willingness to learn is excellent.”

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Updates: Legal

Changes to rules on individual flexibility agreements Joanne Alilovic

in the recent decision Modern Awards Review 2012 — Award flexibility [2013] fWCfB 2170 (15 April 2013), the full Bench of the fair Work Commission decided to alter the model flexibility clause contained in all modern awards. The clause allows an employer and an individual employee to enter into an individual flexibility agreement (ifA).

THe PROPOSeD changes, which have not yet taken effect, will have a number of practical implications for all employers who have previously entered, or who may in the future enter, into an ifA with an employee. in particular, employers and employees will not be able to enter into an ifA until the employee has commenced employment, and the notice period to terminate an ifA will be 13 weeks.

What is an IFA? Modern awards set out the minimum terms and conditions of employment for groups of employees performing similar tasks. ifAs allow employers and individual employees to vary the effect of an applicable modern award to meet the genuine needs of the employer and that individual employee. However, the employer is required to ensure the employee covered by the ifA is better off overall on the ifA compared to the modern award. This is referred to as the ‘Better Off Overall Test’ (BOOT). Considering whether the employee is better off overall means comparing the employee’s personal circumstances and financial benefits under the ifA with the financial and nonfinancial benefits under the applicable modern award. employers and employees may choose to enter into an ifA for a wide variety of reasons. for example, employees can negotiate flexible arrangements which better accommodate their personal circumstances. it also has been suggested that ifAs can encourage improved productivity and efficiency through greater job satisfaction, motivation, retention of staff and reduced absenteeism.

IFAs not to be entered into before employment commences The most important aspect of the full Bench decision was to amend the model flexibility clause to expressly clarify that an ifA can only be made after the relevant employee has commenced employment. This change was made on the basis that Parliament never intended ifAs to be made pre-employment because it is extremely unlikely that an employee will genuinely agree to an ifA in such circumstances. That is, they will be unable to properly engage in an assessment of the potential worth of benefits foregone pre-employment, and the potential employee may feel he or she has no real choice other than to accept employment on the terms offered. Therefore, when the changes take effect, employers will not be able to require employees to sign an ifA as a condition of commencing employment. Those employees instead will commence employment subject to the full terms and conditions in the applicable modern award (save for where an enterprise agreement applies).

Accordingly, many employers who have used ifAs in the past will need to change their usual practices, and will need to ensure they are familiar with and comply with their obligations under the applicable modern award. This might cause some administrative difficulties for employers, as new employees will have different entitlements to existing employees who are on an ifA, and new employees might be less willing to enter

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into an ifA which alters the entitlements they have become accustomed to receiving. if an employer fails to ensure that an ifA is properly made in accordance with the fair Work Act, which will include not entering into an ifA before employment commences, the employer may be liable to significant penalties (up to $51,000 per breach for a corporation).

Jackson McDonald recommends employers who routinely use ifAs, and any employers who are intending to use ifAs in the future, seek legal advice to ensure they understand and comply with legal obligations.

Extension of the period of notice required to terminate an IFA The full Bench also addressed one of the key issues faced by employers using ifAs by increasing the notice period required for either party to terminate an ifA from four weeks to 13 weeks. The proposed amendment to the model flexibility term will provide greater certainty for employers who bear the expense of negotiating and preparing an ifA, making ifAs a more attractive option for employers.

IFAs can only vary certain clauses of modern awards and the employee must be better off overall Currently, the flexibility terms within modern awards only allow ifAs to vary modern award entitlements relating to the following matters: • Arrangements for when work is performed.

• Overtime rates.

• Penalty rates.

• Allowances.

• leave loading.

The full Bench decision rejected applications to expand the subject matter that ifAs can vary. However, the full Bench did accept that greater clarity was required on the meaning of the phrase ‘arrangements for when work is performed’ and on what entitlements therefore can be varied, but decided that this clarity should be provided on an award by award basis. The full Bench also indicated that the model flexibility term will be amended to make it clear that the BOOT is assessed only at the time the ifA is made; that is, the requirement to meet the BOOT is not a continuing obligation over the life of the ifA.

When will the changes take effect?

The date on which the amendments described above will take effect is not yet clear, as the determination will be finalised only after another full Bench hears and determines the applications made to vary the annual leave aspects of the model flexibility clause.

This article was prepared by Jackson McDonald Senior Associate Workplace Relations and Safety Joanne Alilovic. For further information, contact Ms Alilovic on 9426 6794 or jalilovic@jacmac.com.au.

Updates: Technical

Romina De Santis

Master Builders’ technical consultant Romina De Santis has some cautionary words on guarding against corrosion on WA’s extensive surf coast.

Care needed with corrosion protection requirements OVeR THe lAST few years, the Australian Building Codes Board has been increasing the stringency of corrosion protection requirements in the Building Code of Australia due to concerns raised regarding the durability of accessories and built-in steel members in masonry.

BCA 2012 replaced the prescriptive masonry provisions with the new AS4773 and maintains the AS3700 Masonry Structures references.

Removing the Acceptable Construction Practice from the BCA and replacing it with Australian Standards references forces builders to invest in the new standards to ensure compliance. Most builders are aware there are a number of additional requirements when building near the coast compared with inland areas, but how far from the coast do these extra provisions phase out – 100 metres, one kilometre, 10 kilometres? if you responded 10 kilometres, you are correct.

Although there is a drop in requirements once you are past the BCA’s previously prescribed ‘one kilometer from breaking surf’, the exposure category within 10 kilometres of the coast still is deemed ‘marine’ and has higher requirements for corrosion protection. in WA, our entire coastline is considered a surf coast and deemed ‘severe marine’ exposure category. Appropriate protection of steel in buildings is required including stainless steel or polymer wall

New zincalume roof sheeting to be launched Change is afoot for Zincalume. The registered trademark name doesn’t change, but the promise is of a new product for the construction industry which is more durable, efficient and sustainable. Zincalume steel takes its name from the coating applied to steel to protect against corrosion, out-performing galvanised steel previously used. Zincalume was launched in 1976 and its most recent improvement was in 1994 when a resin coating was added to improve mark resistance. Extensive research and testing over 17 years has produced a new generation Zincalume that provides increased warranty periods for marine exposure categories. The new product, Zincalume steel AM125, will be launched in August. It includes two percent magnesium in the zinc and aluminium alloy coating to deliver a higher level of durability and reduced carbon footprint. Visit www.nextgenzincalume.com.au for more information.

ties, duplex coated steel lintels and stainless steel connectors and accessories. Technical bulletin TB-1a issued by BlueScope Steel defines recommended roofing products to be used depending on the exposure categories. As manufacturers, they have nominated the suitability of their products dependent on the environment. it is recommended that you contact the manufacturer or supplier of roofing material to confirm the suitability of the product and warranty conditions for installation and maintenance. for marine environments – defined by AS3700 and AS4773 as being within 1-10 kilometres of a surf coast, R3 durability class is required to all built-in components. The masonry standards nominate a secondary reference to three additional Australian Standards each covering the three main built-in components for masonry - wall ties (AS2699.1), connectors and accessories (AS2699.2) and steel lintels (AS2699.3).

The R3 durability class requires a minimum 470g/m2 coating mass for hot dip galvanizing for wire ties and accessories and connectors, and minimum 600g/m2 for steel lintels for compliance. With much of the residential development in WA concentrated along our coast, it is important to ensure suitable corrosion protection is provided and that suppliers’ and installers’ product and installation warranties meet the conditions of the building site.

As a builder, you are responsible for ensuring the construction of the building is in accordance with the exposure category and includes the minimum requirements for corrosion protection. even though corrosion protection might not be noted specifically, a reference in the specification or on the architectural or structural drawings to the masonry standards automatically references AS2699, so must be complied with. if you feel you are in the moderate or mild exposure environment due to specific characteristics of the site or location of the building, a suitably qualified person may determine the appropriate category and the components of the building can be protected accordingly. The ‘expert judgment’ must be qualified and reference appropriate standards or BCA Performance Criteria to enable the documentation of the project to be assessed for compliance.

Teamed with some good advice regarding maintenance for the building owner once the building is handed over, corrosion protection is covered!

BlueScope Steel’s sustainability manager Richard Rowe says that with the launch of next generation Zincalume steel the company is taking a big step towards creating a smaller environmental footprint.

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Updates: Insurance

MBA Insurance Services’ WA state manager Nick Vernon has the expertise to assist contractors with surety bond inquiries.

surety bonds – an alternative to bank guarantees Surety bonds are specialised products that access insurance capital to provide a ‘capital guarantee’ to contractors bidding on projects. Since the global financial crisis, surety bonds have become a real alternative to bank guarantees.

worthiness to perform the contract and they protect against losses suffered as a result of contractual default. Surety bonds are a more efficient and cost effective way to finance contract security obligations, replacing the need to lodge cash or other forms of security for performance obligations under a contract. Bonds are an integral part of the construction process, providing protection to the principal client (project owner) against the default or non-performance of a contractor.

They offer a unique alternative to bank guarantees, the traditional form of contract security. from the principal client’s view, there is the added advantage that the contractor’s performance ability has been risk assessed by our underwriters. Approved contractors have access to a facility providing highly rated surety bond ’paper’.

BANK GUARANTeeS have been the default security for many companies for many years, so changing long-held company policy and practice can be challenging. Before the GfC, banks had the capacity to market bank guarantees more aggressively, but they then made it much harder to get funds and pricing became more realistic.

As surety bonds are unsecured, they don’t tie up working capital for a contractor. This enables the contractor to achieve greater financial leverage from its asset base. Using surety bonds can considerably enhance working capital. Surety bonds are cost effective and comparable to bank guarantee rates.

Features

Underwriting criteria

An insurer, (called a surety) guarantees that a business (called a principal) will carry out an obligation to a third party (called an obligee).

Wherever a contract states that there must be a form of security for tangible contractual obligations, surety bonds can be used. examples include bonds for performance, maintenance, retention release, advance payment, bids or off-site material. if the principal does not fulfil its bonded obligation, the obligee can make a claim demanding that the surety satisfy the obligation or pay the bond penalty. The surety has the right to reimbursement from the principal in the case of a paid loss or claim. Typically if there is a claim, bonds are paid within 24 hours.

As a quick guide, a bonding facility is suitable for firms meeting these criteria: • Company must turnover at least $25m per annum.

• Must have a net tangible worth of $5m.

• Positive cash flow.

• Positive working capital.

• At least three years of continuous profitability.

• And have been operating for at least three years.

Surety bonds carry an identical wording as a bank guarantee and follow the Australian Standards templates, such as AS2124 and AS4000. The bonds carry exactly the same obligations at law as bank guarantees. Sureties cannot call their product a bank guarantee, as they are not a registered bank, otherwise the products are identical.

The bank guarantee and the surety bond contain identical wording (generally) which states “it is unconditionally agreed that the financial institution will make the payment or payments to the principal without reference to the contractor and notwithstanding any notice given by the contractor not to pay same”.

Benefits Surety bonds arranged by MBA insurance Services in the insurance market can provide benefit to both the contractor and beneficiary.

To the bonded contractor, they provide protection of the underlying contract conditions, they do not restrict bank facility limits, they are off-balance sheet and are classed as a contingent liability. To the employer or beneficiary, they provide a commercial assessment by the surety underwriter that the bonded contractor has the ability and credit

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In an application we will look for: • A well developed business.

• A solid track record.

• evidence of professional financial and operational management.

• Demonstrated capital retention within the business.

• Technical ability to deliver on contractual requirements.

• Control over exposure to existing projects.

• Specialist knowledge Surety bonds are not an insurance product. Many brokers have heard of the surety product, but only some brokers actually have had experience or have clients with surety bond exposure. The product is complex and requires corporate finance expertise rather than general insurance expertise. MBA insurance Services works hand-in-hand with clients to set up surety bonding facilities.

Contact WA state manager Nick Vernon on 9476 9806, email nvernon@mbais.com.au or national development manager (specialist products) Bill Korakis on 02 8586 3541 or email bkorakis@mbais.com.au for more details.

Updates: Housing Town of Cambridge Mayor Simon Withers with the Housing Options brochure at Tony Perrin’s adaptable home.

Cambridge promotes innovative housing options The Town of Cambridge recently launched a Housing Options brochure aimed at people who are considering building a new home or adding to their existing home in Cambridge.

The Perrin home is suitable to be transformed into two dwellings in future – one at ground level and the other upstairs.

THe BROCHURe is part of an innovative housing strategy being developed by the town to encourage people to build adaptable houses and increase the variety of dwellings available to residents.

Cambridge Mayor Simon Withers said the brochure was designed to give people different ideas on how to future-proof their home so that it would continue to meet their needs as their circumstances changed over time. ”People who buy into Cambridge usually want to live here for a long time but when the kids leave home they are stuck with a house that is too big,” Mr Withers said. ”We are suggesting that large family homes should be designed so they can be easily split into two homes at a later date. This will allow residents to downsize in their own home. They can rent out the other ’home’ to give them an income or they can let a family member move into it.”

Cambridge resident and Australand general manager residential WA, Tony Perrin, has recently built a home designed to suit the current needs of his family, but which with only minor modifications, can be split into two homes in the future. Having viewed the property Housing Minister Bill Marmion said he was impressed by the forward thinking. it was a concept which people should consider seriously when designing a home.

The Cambridge Housing Options brochure also includes examples of back yard granny flats which can be built under the Supplementary Dwellings Guidelines, as well as examples of aged and dependent persons’ dwellings. it illustrates eight housing types that can be built under the current rules. A further nine house plans, each of which would require a Scheme Amendment, will be put out for community consultation as part of the housing strategy.

For more information and to view the Housing Options brochure, visit www.cambridge.wa.gov.au/housingoptions.

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Updates: Housing

Housing help for senior Australians wins approval MASTeR BUilDeRS has welcomed the federal Government’s announcement to make it easier for older Australians to downsize their home without negatively impacting on their pensions. The pilot program, announced by Housing Minister Mark Butler as part of the federal Budget, will exempt the proceeds from the sale of the family home from means testing for entitlement to the aged pension.

Master Builders Australia chief executive Wilhelm Harnisch says the current aged pension rules are locking many older Australians into staying in a home that no longer suits their needs because they are fearful revenue from the sale could lead to a reduction in their pension income and associated benefits.

“Many of these people do not have sufficient income to make improvements to their homes such as bathrooms, modified entries and other aids to make living in the home more comfortable and safe,” Mr Harnisch said.

Under the proposed trial program, eligible pensioners who have lived in their own home for at least 25 years and want to downsize will need to put at least 80 percent of the excess proceeds from the sale of their former home into a special account with up to $200,000 plus earned interest. The funds in these accounts will not be counted under the pensions income and assets tests for a period of 10 years, or until monies are withdrawn from the account.

“Master Builders is continuing its efforts working with government and industry to construct new housing that meets the needs of older Australians and those who wish to ‘right-size’ their accommodation needs,” Mr Harnisch said.

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Gavan Forster

Peter Jones

Builders push for indemnity insurance reform

Volatile approvals make up lost ground

WiDeSPReAD RefORMS to WA’s indemnity insurance arrangements are necessary to ensure greater stability in the availability of insurance for builders. This was the major conclusion of Master Builders’ submission on the economic Regulation Authority’s draft report on the future of housing indemnity insurance arrangements in the State.

Master Builders’ housing and economics director Gavan forster said that in its submission, the Association argued that the current system of insurance is unpopular with builders, consumers and insurers. With effectively only one insurance provider, many builders faced rapidly increasing premiums and impediments. insurers were a ‘de facto licensing authority’. Consumers received only limited protection under the scheme.

“Master Builders did not agree with the eRA’s recommended model to restrict mandatory cover to construction period only as a way of attracting additional insurers to the market,” Mr forster said. “According to Master Builders, there is no guarantee that more insurers will enter the market under the proposed regime. Moreover the proposal does not address other concerns such as instability in the availability of insurance, differentials in premiums paid between builders and the disproportionate benefits to some builders by the provision of State Government underwriting of large losses.”

He said Master Builders’ preference is to have insurance provided by a Government agency such as the insurance Commission or Building Commission, perhaps administered by private insurers. New, permanent arrangements are expected to be announced later in 2013.

APRil BUilDiNG approvals figures released at the end of May by the Australian Bureau of Statistics have made up lost ground following a disappointing fall in March. The total number of dwellings approved seasonally adjusted in April rose 9.1 percent, with private sector houses rising 2.5 percent and ‘other dwellings’ including units, townhouses and apartments rising 18 percent.

Peter Jones, Master Builders Australia’s chief economist, said the April figures are a welcome lift in the forward indicators following a disappointing construction work done figure just released.

“The lift in the building approvals forward indicator has restored optimism that was not evident in the construction work done data,” Mr Jones said. “it should, in time, lead to stronger residential building activity. looking through the bounce-back in multi-unit approvals and solid lift in house approvals in April, it is encouraging to see that in trend terms dwelling approvals are up 6.3 percent from the corresponding figure in April 2012.

“The residential building industry is looking for a sustained run of positive approvals figures to help the fledgling housing recovery over the next few months. low interest rates should continue to encourage cautious new home buyers into the market and allow a housing recovery to gain momentum.”

Updates: Housing

Website for liveable home design hints fOllOWiNG exTeNSiVe consultation between industry and disability groups the WA Government has developed the liveablehomes.net.au website, an easily accessible, free resource to use in the design and building process of liveable homes. The website sets out accessible design features and guides with measurements and plans for kitchens, bathrooms, entrances, showers, bedrooms, taps, stairways, flooring and more. it also has free plans for users to download. Builders are becoming more aware of the need for liveable homes due to WA’s ageing population. According to the WA Government, mortality rates due to disease continue to decline but disability rates are not declining at the same pace, meaning the demand for liveable homes is set to increase. industry is encouraged to use the free resource to assist clients to build homes that meet the diverse needs of occupants as they change over time.

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advaNtaGes oF doUBle GlaziNG

The advantages of double-glazing

High-performance glass - a WiN for windows

By John Power Freelance Journalist and regular contributor to Glass Australia magazine

Glazed areas in contemporary housing are increasing, and windows and doors are becoming larger and more inventive in their design – but with so many different types of glass and glazing products on the market, how can you make sure your selections are right for your building and its climate?

MODeRN GlASS products offer opportunities to achieve so much in terms of energy efficiency, comfort, amenity and safety…but Australians have been slow to grasp the benefits of using modern, high-performance glass in windows, doors, walls and other fittings around the home.

While glass makes up only about eight percent of an average building envelope, we lose about 60 percent of our heating energy through ordinary windows in winter, and in summer we gain about 91 percent of unwanted heat through such windows. Sadly, there is still an abundance of old-fashioned, poorperforming windows, (standard, single-pane glass) in

the nation’s homes contributing to escalating energy infrastructure overloads, higher energy bills and sorely compromised comfort levels. The good news is that modern ‘high-performance’ glass and glazing products can dramatically overturn these deficiencies, which is why it is so important to choose the right glass and glazing: the energy efficiency and basic comfort of a home depend on it. in an effort to provide information to the building sector and its partner industries, AGGA has teamed with the Australian Window Association (AWA) to form the Sustainable Windows Alliance, or SWA, to educate building professionals and their customers on the merits of high-performance glass.

According to Nigel Carpenter, former AGGA executive

Unwanted heat gain and heat loss is easily controlled with energy efficient glass, working 24 hours a day, every day of the year for the life of the building

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Double-glazing beats the heat Affordable double-glazed windows are available in Australia to ensure homes are kept at the right temperature all year round.

Pierangelo Verzeroli has been in the window industry for 35 years, beginning his career in his hometown of Milan italy.

He opened Casver Windows Systems in 2000 and initially struggled to supply double glazing windows in Australia, as the weather doesn’t often call for them, unlike in europe.

Now though, in the 21st century, the cost of electricity in Australia has risen and people are becoming more aware of double-glazing systems. The systems reduce cooling and heating costs making it more affordable to run a home year round. Casver are one of the first Australian companies to supply double glazing windows in PVC, aluminium and

timber and were the first to import from europe. it is one thing to have double-glazing on windows but without the correct prices you aren’t getting enough value from european products. They are made of 1:1 low e glass filled with argon, not available in Australia, and the aluminium used needs to be of a certain size in thermal break. Any client that comes to the Casver Windows Systems showroom will learn the value of the products and be shown the difference in the market, ensuring the customer always returns. These days if you are building any premise with a commercial profile, or bifolds, Casvers’ double-glazed system is competitive in price. Once their customers learn about the cost saving on a daily basis and compared to standard Australian windows systems, Casver believe the affordable price won’t even matter. Casver urge you to visit their show room for a complementary explanation on all there is to know about double-glazing.

For more information contact: E: admin@casver.com.au P: 08 9444 0300 www.casver.com.au

ADVANTAGES OF DOUBLE GLAZING Heat Insulating Qualities • Safety/Security • Modern Design Sound Insulation • Stability/Comfort • Quality & Value STAY WARM/ Stop up to 70% of heat loss – STAY COOL / Stop up to 77% of solar heat gain by using a high performance LowE double glazed unit in your window

Double glazed windows and doors are fully manufactured in Europe with the latest technology. Available in uPVC, thermally broken Aluminium, Timber and combinations of these materials and fitted with low emission glass in sealed Argon filled double glazed units. (1:1 Emission values come from Europe, not manufactured in Australia).

We believe our product will beat any of the current local suppliers in terms of quality, reliability, aesthetics and most of all energy efficiency ratings and noice reduction qualities.

WINDOW & DOOR DOUBLE GLAZING SYSTEMS

9444 0300 • SHOW ROOM 11 Ruse Street Osborne Park • www.casver.com.au

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Director, only about five percent of Australia’s homes are fitted with high-performance, energy-efficient glass – a state of affairs that must be addressed urgently.

with industry accreditation and membership. This is the best way to make sure products are indeed compliant with Australian Standards and will perform as labeled.”

“Our mission is to provide an open door to all industry professionals, from glass and glazing manufacturers and suppliers to builders and architects, to help them understand why high-performance glass and glazing products are the only option for long-term, healthy, sustainable building growth,” Mr Carpenter said.

Contemporary architectural glass and glazing systems are subject to vigorous research and development, so performance benchmarks have become more specialised in recent years in line with our ability to do more with glass. As glass panels have increased in size, and framing systems have evolved to accommodate greater surface areas, the value of glass as a building material has become more fundamental – as have the responsibilities of specifiers to make sure the best systems are chosen.

”AGGA’s web site (www.agga.org.au) can assist building professionals with information about compliant glazing solutions for their local area, as well as providing a resource on skilled, accredited installers that offer fully compliant product. Only deal with local, reputable companies

PREFERRED GlASS & GlAziNG: WA Main Issues

(Hot) Keep solar radiation outside.

Retain coolness from air-conditioned air.

(Mixed) Balance the requirements of reducing solar heat gain in summer and keeping warm in winter.

Reduce heat transference all year.

Preferred U-value

(Hot and Mixed) low

Preferred SHGCw

(Hot) low (Mixed) Mid-range (tuned according to elevation)

Other considerations

(Hot) Allow for operable windows to enhance opportunities for ventilation.

(Mixed) Allow for season-specific shading, such as eaves over north-facing windows. enhance opportunities for ventilation.

Star Impact

(Hot) SHGCw optimised (clear): potential to improve up to 1 Star.

U-value: potential improvement up to 0.25 Stars for each unit reduction in U-value.

Ventilation: potential to improve up to approximately 0.25 Stars per additional 20 percent of openable area.

(Mixed) SHGCw optimised (clear to toned): approximately 0 to 0.5 Stars.

U-value: potential improvement of approximately 0.33 Stars for each unit reduction in U-value.

Ventilation: little impact beyond the average 20 percent of openable area.

Heating/Cooling Impact

(Hot) each Star corresponds to a 15 - 30 percent reduction in heating/cooling requirements. improved U-values reduce cooling load, though they may marginally increase heating requirements in cooler weather.

(Mixed) each Star corresponds to a 20 - 30 percent reduction in heating/cooling requirements. improved U-values reduce cooling load, though they may marginally increase heating requirements in cooler weather.

Cost and GHG Savings

(Hot) Approximately 3,000MJ of energy saved per Star, mostly cooling – worth about *$150-$200pa and up to 0.35t of GHG. (Based on Brisbane, 240m2 house.)

(Mixed) Approximately 3,000MJ of energy saved per Star, mostly cooling – worth about *$250pa and up to 0.4t of GHG. (Based on Sydney/Perth/Adelaide, 240m2 house.) *Cost savings are based on 2010 energy costs when the research was undertaken.

Window Options

(Hot and Mixed) Aluminium, Aluminium thermally broken, Timber, uPVC, fibreglass, Composite.

Glass Options

(Hot) Tinted, High-performance Tint, Tinted low-e (low gain), Tint iGU, Tint iGU low-e (low gain).

(Mixed) Tint, Tint Clear low-e, Tint Clear iGU, Tint Clear iGU low-e.

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Phil Alviano, Sustainable Building Advisor, Master Builders Victoria, says the elemental status of glass makes the use of high-performance product all the more vital. “The difference between standard glass and some of the more thermally efficient, high-performance products is truly staggering,” Mr Alviano said. “While strict building regulations address the need for high-quality product in new homes and extensions, we must do everything we can to encourage the rollout of high-performance retrofits in older homes for obvious environmental reasons.”

Be prescriptive The first thing to note is that there are now generic and specific glass types and glazing systems designed to suit the varied climates of Australia. Australia has defined Hot, Mixed and Cold climate zones. each zone calls for glass with different characteristics and qualities, though, of course, unusual orientations, sloping terrains, etc, may require atypical solutions.

Common sense indicates that in hot climates it is desirable to minimise unwanted solar heat gain and preserve air-conditioned cool air inside; while in cold climates we are likely to be more concerned about retaining internal heat – some solar heat gain (properly managed) may even be a good thing. The main point is that a glass and glazing solution is always available to suit a specific home, location and climate.

The solar heat that passes through a window is often measured as a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGCw), expressed as a figure between 0 and 1. The ‘w’ refers to the ‘whole’ window assembly, not just the glass. A ‘low’ SHGCw (i.e. close to 0) applies to the performance rating of a glass and frame option combined; that transmits very little heat.

A low SHGCw, therefore, is ideal for hot climates where the aim is to prevent as much solar energy as possible from entering the building. By contrast, in colder climates, a high SHGCw can deliver much-needed solar warmth into a building. But be careful: you should restrict the use of high SHGCw systems on east or west-facing windows, as high solar gain can still prove uncomfortable in cooler climates during summer. Regardless of where high SHGCw products are used, some form of accompanying shading will probably be required in summer. in a Mixed, temperate climate zone, a mid-range SHGCw is an ideal compromise to accommodate potential extremes of hot and cold throughout the year.

Another quality of high-performance glass you should always consider is heat conductivity, as measured by its U-value (Uw), which shows the level of insulation in a window assembly. The performance of ordinary

advaNtaGes oF doUBle GlaziNG

glass, for instance, might have a high U-value of between 5 and 6, while extremely high-performance systems might approach a 1 on the scale. in other words, the better the insulation characteristics of the system, the lower the U-value. in all climates, a low U-value is desirable, as good insulation is desirable in all circumstances. it’s also important to note that in all climates, performance glazing systems work to bounce the heat back to the original source, keeping the heat indoors in winter and heat outdoors in summer months.

You should also know…

Other terms you might have come across in glass specifications are ‘low-e’, ‘Tinted’, ‘iGU’ and ‘Visual light Transmittance’. low-e, or ‘low emissivity’ refers to glass that has been treated with a coating to minimise infrared and ultraviolet energy transmission, while allowing ordinary visible light to enter. low-e glass can reflect external heat to help keep homes cooler in summer, or it can reflect internal heat back into a room to retain warmth in winter.

The AGGA is a member-based association, representative of glass processors, wholesalers, importers, manufacturers and suppliers. The AGGA aims to heighten awareness of the benefits of glass can provide, including increased energy efficiency, improved safety and outstanding design freedom. For further information phone 03 8669 0170 or visit www.agga.org.au.

The information provided is current at the time of print, and intended as a general guide. The AGGA recommends that you undertake your own investigations when specifying windows and glass products to ensure they comply with all relevant regulations and are fit for purpose.

GLASSCENE

‘Tinted’ glass has the obvious feature of reducing light transmittance and solar heat gain, and can be a highly desirable feature in settings where high-intensity heat and light cause discomfort to occupants. ‘iGU’, or ‘insulated Glazing Unit’, typically refers to a double glazed window system featuring inner and outer panes, separated by an airtight gap (or cavity often filled with inert gas). iGUs, particularly when installed with high-performance glass to maximise their effectiveness, are the best performing systems on the market.

‘Visual light Transmittance’ refers to the degree of light transmittance through glass. Newly developed products can maintain a high level of transparency while still delivering outstanding thermal protection with low U-values and low SHGCw qualities.

By insisting on correct, compliant, high-performance glass and glazing specifications to match particular building envelopes and climates, the building industry can help make a genuine difference to the efficiency, comfort and health of Australia’s main infrastructure – our homes.

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Thermal break aluminium window system Double glazing Multi Locking points Thermal efficiency, Low U & SHGC values Low e glass, tinting options Internal Blinds (located between the two panes of glass) Hidden fixing on the frames (ideal for retro fit) SYSTEMS: Tilt and Turn I Awning Sliding doors and windows I Bifold doors P 08 9452 7004 Mobile 0433 984 244 10 Mcintyre Wy Kenwick, WA 6107 Email: dave@glasscene.com.au www. glasscene.com.au

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aiRCoNditioNiNG

The features • 25m2 test area.

• 20kw capacity balanced ambient calorimeter.

• integrated hot water supply and storage allowing testing of solar cooling and other heat driven equipment.

• 16m2 flat panel and 120 evacuated tube solar collectors.

• Real time simulation of remote ambient conditions and building thermal loads utilising energy simulation software.

The calorimeter is comprised of two test rooms with precisely controlled ambient temperature and humidity conditions to simulate an indoor and outdoor environment.

Putting the AC to the test CSiRO engineers have designed and commissioned a new, state-of-the-art air conditioner test facility to evaluate the electrical, cooling and heating performance of conventional and solar-powered systems.

Carly forded explains.

THe fACiliTY is called the National Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC) Performance Test facility and is located at the CSiRO energy Centre in Newcastle, New South Wales. it expands Australia’s capacity for product testing and has the flexibility to evaluate both conventional and innovative solar-powered air conditioning technologies (up to 20kW thermal). The facility houses a balanced ambient calorimeter, built to Australian and international standards, which can be connected to a simulation package for hour-by-hour heat load analysis.

How does it work?

unit is placed in one room in a simulated indoor environment, while the outdoor unit is placed in the other room in a simulated outdoor environment. Without the need to be relocated, air conditioners can be tested using climate conditions from all regions of Australia. A sophisticated control system can use historical weather data to simulate a typical winter in Melbourne or Cairns, or summer in Adelaide or Darwin. The facility also features a variety of solar thermal collectors, which can be swapped via a ”plug and play” arrangement, to evaluate the performance of solar air conditioners with flat panel or evacuated tube solar collectors.

The calorimeter is comprised of two test rooms with precisely controlled ambient temperature and humidity conditions to simulate an indoor and outdoor environment.

Test equipment is placed inside the rooms of the calorimeter and then exposed to the desired indoor and outdoor test conditions.

Precision instrumentation, data acquisition and control equipment are used to tightly control the desired room temperature and humidity and monitor the test air conditioner’s electrical and thermodynamic performance. for example, if a split system air conditioner was being tested, the indoor

According to Dr Stephen White, M.AiRAH, solar cooling research leader at the CSiRO’s energy Transformed flagship, the facility will greatly enhance Australia’s capability to perform ratings and Minimum energy Performance (MePS) testing of new and existing products on the Australian market.

MePS require specified appliances to meet a minimum level of performance when tested under Australian Standard conditions.

Achieving this energy performance level or better is mandatory for products manufactured in, or imported into Australia.

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“for the large number of HVAC systems available in the Australian market, only a few test facilities exist to validate manufacturer’s claims regarding the thermal and electrical performance of their product,” Dr White says. “it offers industry new resources to develop innovative products, test new product assembly combinations or undertake specific tests on novel and conventional air conditioning systems,” he says. “Consumers are also winners because they will be able to have accurate information they can rely on to assist in making better purchase choices.”

The facility is already assisting the CSiRO to develop innovative and cost-effective solar cooling technologies, to cut emissions and reduce seasonal peak loads. Air conditioning contributes significantly to peak load pressure on the electricity network and is driving the demand for upgrades to the existing electricity infrastructure.

The National HVAC Performance Test Facility is available to industry for research and development. For more information and to find out how you can hire the facility, visit www.csiro.au This article was originally published in HVAC&R Nation magazine (issue 48, February 2012), and is reproduced with permission from AIRAH. For more information, visit www.airah.org.au/HVACR_Nation

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Improve Your Business with the Right Software Having the right software platform in place can drastically improve your business and cash flow; framework is here to show us how.

There’s little getting around it; today’s residential builders are fighting an uphill battle against the ever increasing demands of the residential construction industry. from optimising processes and policies through to streamlining workflow, the pressure is on for builders to achieve more with fewer resources.

According to Mr Chris Grigsby, Managing Director of framework Software, there’s never been a more pressing time for businesses to ensure that their software systems and processes are working at full capacity.

“We have seen a number of builders struggle recently because they just didn’t have the correct processes and software systems in place to manage their day-to-day tasks efficiently and effectively”, says Chris. framework has been designed specifically to target the industry’s most pressing issues by reducing administration and build times, improving productivity and cash flow, and removing many manual and tedious tasks that must be completed on a daily basis. framework offers the ideal platform for residential builders that require a fully integrated client and work flow management software package. Never before has there been a system that could management everything from point of sale, client management, product and variation price books, to sales estimation, contract administration and construction logistics. framework also offers online tools for enhanced customer service, and support for remote staff, suppliers and tradespeople. ”One of the most common problems that we find with building and construction businesses is that their systems are rarely integrated. This results in a lot of double handling, duplicate data entry and disjointed systems” said Chris. framework has been designed to seamlessly integrate with existing systems including Timberline, BuilderMT, Databuild, Microsoft Dynamics, MYOB, QuickBooks, Bizprac and more.

So you will be pleased to know that any investment in existing accounting and ordering systems can be preserved. framework is revolutionising on-site supervision with the industry’s most advanced Tablet PC software for supervisors. framework’s Construction logistics Tablets are used by hundreds of supervisors nationally. “The Construction

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logistics module has greatly improved the efficiency and level of communication for many of our clients” says Chris.

With the tedious tasks under control, framework allows builders to grow, supporting the completion of hundreds of homes annually. framework is widely used by many of the country’s most professional builders. in 2013 framework has evolved even further, now allowing builders to choose whether to deploy the software onpremises, or have it hosted for them in the cloud. A new rental option is now available, where instead of an outright purchase builders can pay as they go. These initiatives allow builders of all sizes to save on infrastructure costs.

With active client involvement in product direction and new features, framework receives continual investment and development to remain the only serious choice in work flow management for home builders.

Make the change today and give framework a call.

For more information contact: Phone: 03 8574 4800 Email: sales@insulagroup.com.au Website: www.frameworkecm.com.au

Which Software Manages More Homes Under Construction Than Any Other?

✓ Flexible Options Available...

Outright Purchase OR NEW Monthly Rental

Install On Your Premises OR NEW Hosted In The Cloud

✓ Industry Standard Work Flow Management...

✓ Integrate And Enhance Your Existing Systems...

All marks, names, and trademarks may be trademarks of their respective owners

Web www.frameworkecm.com.au Email sales@insulagroup.com.au

Phone 03 8574 4800

BUildiNG soFtwaRe

eRP software evaluation for Australian construction companies evaluating enterprise resource planning (eRP) systems can be a daunting task. The system and vendor chosen is a strategic decision and can have a significant impact on the future of your business and the extent of the benefits gained from your eRP implementation.

However with many alternate providers to choose from, all sales people telling you theirs is best, and knowing that the Australian construction industry has its own requirements that differ from other industries, how do you choose a vendor that is best fit for you and who will deliver you the most benefit?

Three considerations A combination of 23 years in the industry plus comprehensive research has shown the successful choice in eRP vendor is a decision made in three parts – Software fit, Supplier fit and Ongoing fit.

As demonstrated by the inverted triangle diagram, construction companies will see fewer and fewer software vendors able to meet their requirements as the company progresses through each consideration.

And of course, the best choice in eRP software will see the greatest return on investment achieved.

One: Software Fit Software fit is usually the first consideration people think of when commencing their software evaluation. Within this category, it is very important to consider both how closely the vendor’s offering aligns to your software functionality needs and any associated technology you may require. When it comes to functionality requirements, it is particularly important to ensure your eRP system is built specifically for Australian construction companies. Our industry has its own processes and requirements and a one-size-fits-all software will not see you become your most efficient. in terms of software capability, base functionality required will definitely include functionality that: • streamlines your jobs and gives you control, • includes accounts receivable and payable, • delivers full control of your General ledger, and • usually includes a Construction industry specific Payroll module. further to this, your company may require additional functionality including: • call out service jobs, • fixed assets, • customer and supplier relationship management, • quotes and estimates, • procurement, • planned asset maintenance, • inventory, • document management, and • customised reporting capabilities.

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Construction companies prepare for better times forward thinking construction companies are investing in systems now in order to capitalise later.

Special report by Veronica Alcobio

JUST AS an athlete must prepare rigorously in order to win an event, Australian construction companies preparing to lead the building industry into its brighter future are training up to be fighting fit now – in the down times.

One currency all companies have equally is time – and it is the construction companies who are using these slower times to implement best-practice, scalable, streamlined systems who will be the ones to watch out for as the industry improves, suggests Mark Gravolin.

“We’re seeing a notable increase in eRP system sales at present,” said Mark Gravolin, owner of the constructionfocused software company leVeSYS. “it’s been tough going for construction companies of late, but in true Aussie style business owners are staying resilient and implementing smart systems that will mean greater profit margins, less risk and intelligent business practices going forward.” large-scale software system sales appear to be on the rise as construction companies realise that the best preparation for better times comes from within the company. Having the right systems in place can make your projects more profitable, increase productivity and increase competitive advantage. leVeSYS is an example of an eRP (enterprise Resource Planning) system. Construction-specific eRP systems integrate the project, financial and business aspects of a construction company so that information flows from end to end, minimising duplication and error and delivering decision makers the information they need in real time.

Reasoning behind implementing a company-wide software system in the down time is twofold. firstly, it takes time to choose your system, implement it and train your people. Secondly though, tough times force business owners to look analytically and critically at where the leaks in their businesses are. When revenue and profitability are healthy or abundant, it is easy to miss the inefficiencies. When times are tough, fixing the leaks and streamlining your business can make a world of difference to business viability.

And the research backs the reasoning of these savvy Australian construction companies. Aberdeen research from 2009 found that companies who implemented an eRP system saw between a 6-19 percent reduction in operational costs and an 8-22 percent reduction in administrative costs. Wayne Carter, Managing Director of Williams electrical Service in Perth explains, “leVeSYS has helped us track service and, in capturing all chargeable costs, has made us more profitable. Plus we have reduced our risks as we now know which jobs to choose and which to let go.” “it pleases me to see such a steep adoption of technology within Australian construction businesses.

Contraction is physical by its very definition, which i believe makes investment in intangibles such as software and systems traditionally a difficult purchase to justify,” explained Mr. Gravolin. “Research and experience are proving the value of such systems now though, and this is definitely showing in the number of implementations we are completing. My company alone has increased new system sales significantly this financial year – as much a testament to intelligent construction business owners as to my team here at leVeSYS.” Yes, we’ve been in a difficult and trying time recently.

The future is looking brighter though, with the Australian Construction industry forum and Master Builders Australia both forecasting improvements across most sub-industries in the not too distant future.

For more information contact: Phone: 07 3004 6100 Email: info@levesys.com Website: www.levesys.com

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BUildiNG soFtwaRe

When investing your money and time into an eRP system, it is imperative to ensure the technology required for your eRP is up to date and justifiable within your assigned budget.

A good vendor will be able to demonstrate that they are utilising current technology and be able to articulate why this will benefit your business. Some eRP vendors run their systems on out-dated technology which can potentially mean less then satisfactory operation, limited future development and increased cost of technology purchase.

Two: Supplier Fit An eRP implementation is a strategic decision. in order to gain the greatest return on your software investment, it is necessary to find a supplier who is committed to working with your business for the long term and who is invested in providing software and services designed to assist you plan and grow your business. ideally (although you may not always be able to tick all of these boxes), your chosen vendor will be an established provider whom you can count on for the long haul, have developed their own software (rather than be a re-seller of the software), hold deep industry and software knowledge, have a good understanding of the business processes of your company, and be compatible with your construction company in terms of values and culture match, availability and location.

Craftsman is an accounting program designed specifically for the building and construction industry.

It analyses the profitability of each job from start to completion and includes all accounting functionality in an easy to use format.

• • • • • • • • •

Estimating Job Cost Control Cost Plus Claims Automated Progress Payments Purchase Orders Contractor Reporting Extensive Range of Reports Payroll Phone & On-line Support

Turbocharge your business skills.

it is also beneficial to have your software vendor (the people who made the software) and your software implementer (the people who will put the system into your organisation) be one and the same. This cuts out potential communication problems, streamlines all implementation, training and support activities, and ensures the people implementing the software have a deep knowledge of the system to best design it for your organisation.

Three – Ongoing Fit Your new eRP system will be a key component of your organisation – a vital piece of capital equipment! like a machine, it will need maintenance, upgrading and care – and taking this approach to your eRP will see it become an ever-improving and evolving tool for your company. Saying this though, how well your software vendor can support, maintain and enhance your system, and the associated costs, can make or break your company. Therefore, while Ongoing fit is the final evaluation consideration, it remains a significant consideration.

Questions to ask your shortlisted vendors should look at their guaranteed support call back time, the qualifications and experience of their support personnel, whether help text is in built within the software system, training costs, consulting options, expected cost and frequency and usefulness of upgrades, expected total cost of ownership, and importantly your expected return on investment (including how you will measure this).

Next software steps

www.softwareobjectives.com.au

Phone (03) 9762 3155 72

WA Master Builder

This article presents a proven approach for eRP evaluation and a summarised list of considerations for your construction company throughout your search. for a more detailed explanation of software vendor considerations, including a detailed checklist you can use in your search, email info@levesys.com and receive your copy fRee. If you have any questions about the information covered here, please do not hesitate to contact our team of specialists on +61 7 3004 6100 or at info@levesys.com.

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Cheops - Construction Management System WEB developments.

WeB based functionality is now available for the new Cheops modules, Business Analytics, Document Management, invoice Scanning and Workflow with more modules on their way.

The Document Management Module allows you to customise the system to create your own Project folder structure. As you would expect, this integrates seamlessly with Cheops, allowing easy use of existing Cheops project data. integration with Cheops provides the capability to store all document types (excel, PDf, Word Project and scanned images) in the Document Management system to be viewed from the one place. As each document is stored it is automatically OCR’ed so the content can be searched.

You also have the ability to create custom templates or forms and these store the data directly into database fields you define and additional functionality is available for Minutes of Meeting, Submittals etc.

CSSP became part of the global explorer Software Group in 2011 and, since that time, have released the SQl Module, upgraded the Asset Management and Payroll systems and released new WeB based modules.

The invoice Scanning lite Module allows invoices to be viewed from within Cheops and approval of invoices to be done electronically via email, thus removing the need for viewing of the physical invoice.

The Business Analytics Module, is a pure web application, allowing users to produce role based or individual real time dashboards easily and with full security control as set up within Cheops. The user interface is quick, direct, and intuitive - allowing new ways to understand, analyse and visualize your data. filtering, formatting, grouping, drilling and charting are all directly accessible and all views can be saved for later access and distribution.

The Workflow Module allows role, individual or value based controls on transactions in the Cheops environment.

For more information: Phone: (08) 8139 1915 Email: info@cssp.biz Website: www.cssp.com.au

Cheops

Construction Management Software

Project Budget // Procurement // Job Costing // Sub-Contract Management // Variation Management // Forecasting // Progress Claims // Payroll // Accounts Receivable // Accounts Payable // General Ledger //

Developed in Australia – Proven Internationally

info@cssp.biz // www.cssp.biz

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Things go better for Coca-Cola with innovative building products The huge Coca-Cola Amatil distribution warehouse shows how local technologies can lower costs and increase the quality of industrial buildings.

GiVeN THe immense scale of the warehouse at Hazelmere, which covers an area of 40,000 square metres, a key consideration was to keep construction expenses to a minimum without compromising the quality of the project. Key time and material saving solutions were supplied by Stramit Building Products, including exacta® optimised purlins and the farlap® roof lap joint system.

Patrick Chaney, Construction Manager for builders Gavin Construction, said using local products and technology resulted in major savings. “By utilising the Stramit exacta purlins and software, we reduced the roof pitch and lowered the ridge height, which saved more than 30 tonnes of steel and almost four kilometres of bridging,” Patrick said.

“Additionally, the use of the farlap joining system eliminated the need for step joints, which meant the roofing could be roll formed off-site.”

Another key issue was the large quantity of quality products required to ensure the structure embodied the strong aesthetic of the overall design. By using BlueScope Steel products, Gavin Construction could rely on the high-tech manufacturing and quality control processes to ensure the steel components of the building would meet or exceed the requirements of AS1397:2001. A further advantage was BlueScope Steel’s ability to create custom Colorbond® steel colours, which allowed the creation of a one-off colour for the cladding used for the iconic Coca-Cola wave sign.

The individual farlap® units are joined into longer lengths using links supplied with each unit. The roofing contractor, JT Contracting, were very impressed with the farlap® system installation, with the leading hand on site stating that “the farlap was brilliant”.

Massive savings in steel On large commercial buildings, any reductions in structural steel can translate into significant cost savings. Stramit Building Products offers an advanced solution for reducing steel in those structural members usually taken for granted – purlins and girts. The system comprises special high performance purlins, an exclusive purlin moment capacity design methodology, and Stramit® bridging. An interactive software application completes the solution, allowing engineers to easily design for optimum purlin efficiency with complex loadings and irregular configurations. Stramit exacta® purlins are dimensionally optimised for the most commonly used spans. This small but significant dimensional change from the standard purlin profile can deliver capacity improvements of up to 20% with consequent savings in steel.

Technical support Stramit Building Products worked with Gavin Construction, Oldfield Knott Architects and eTeC Consultants on the design and engineering.

Stramit assisted eTeC with the Stramit ex-facta™ software, as well as providing technical support to the engineers and the fabricators, fremantle Steel. Training was also provided for the roofing contractor, JT Contracting, in the use of the farlap® roof joint system.

Long runs without steps The Stramit farlap® roof lap joint system allowed long decking runs to be broken into shorter sheets that could be lapped, without the need for conventional stepped joints. The system uses a patented connecting unit that allows sheets of Stramit Speed Deck Ultra® concealed fixed decking to be lapped. The unit provides both a strong joint between the lapped sheets as well as a weather-resisting seal. Using shorter sheets eliminates the need for structural modifications or on-site roll forming. There is no need to design lapped joints and no need for the steel detailer to “step” the cleats with additional purlins along the roof run. The system is simply installed by snapping on to the ribs of the bottom sheet, above a supporting purlin. The top, overlapping sheet is then pushed on to the connectors, providing a structural connection.

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Aaron feast, Business Development Manager for Stramit Building Products in Perth, said: “The end result is an innovative and striking construction that uses Stramit Speed Deck Ultra roof decking, longspan cladding, and Mini Corry in a custom Colorbond red, all in high quality BlueScope steel, which was a big win for all involved.”

The distribution warehouse is also distinctive in that all the products and companies involved were Australian and based in WA.

For more information contact: Phone: 9493 8800 Website: www.stramit.com.au

Roof decking breakthrough: Lapped joints on long runs!

Patent Pending.

Australian Registered Design 329703.

Stramit FarLap Roof Lap Joint System ®

This innovative system from Stramit Building Products allows deck roofs to be designed to any length without stepped joints or on-site roll-forming.

With the Stramit FarLap® jointing system, long roof runs can be broken into shorter sheet lengths, with no need for structural modifications. The Stramit FarLap® joint provides a strong, weather resisting joint between lapped sheets of Stramit Speed Deck Ultra® concealed fixed decking.

Shorter sheets means safer work practices, less thermal expansion and contraction, plus lower transport costs and smaller cranes.

For further information contact your local Stramit office.

www.stramit.com.au

(08) 9493 8800

Amtel Pty Limited ABN 79 009 107 733. Trading as Stramit Building Products. A member of the Fletcher Building Group. ® Registered trademark

steel

Building with steel The selection of construction materials on the basis of their contribution to the finished project is an important consideration for builders. When it comes to framed construction – the most common choice for Australian homes – the contribution of the frame to the durability and longevity of the home is immense.

The frame bears or transfers almost all loads to which the home is subjected, and also supports all cladding and lining materials and most fixtures. failure of the frame to fulfill these functions in any part of the home can have serious consequences.

STeel fRAMiNG means a long life, trouble free frame that will not warp, burn or rot.

The frame of the home should always be made from durable material that will resist all forms of environmental attack. Any part of the structure made from anything else should be easy to inspect in order to assess and rectify any deterioration. The manner in which most homes are designed and constructed makes this inspection difficult and costly for many parts of the frame, including wall frames, intermediate floor framing and lined rafters in sloping ceiling structures. The frame’s contribution to the serviceability of the building is also significant. it provides the strength, stiffness and geometric stability of the building. its ability to stay straight and square indefinitely, through varying seasons with temperature and humidity changes, is vital to just about everything which is attached to it – the exterior skin (brick or other cladding), roof tiles or sheeting, window units, door frames, plasterboard wall linings and so on.

Superficial and so-called ‘nuisance’ defects, like sticking doors and windows, brickwork and cornice cracks, nail popping in wall linings and sagging roof lines, can often be traced to instability in the frame and contribute to the overall cost of ownership.

Advantages for building When strength, durability and quality are the important selection factors, steel framing is the natural choice for brick-veneer and direct-clad home construction. Steel framing offers outstanding homebuilding advantages: • Durability: You need never be concerned that the structural frame you can’t see is deteriorating due to environmental or biological attack by termites, borers or fungi.

• Stability: Steel frames will not absorb moisture or dry out. Steel has outstanding dimensional stability to keep your home in shape indefinitely.

• Structural efficiency: engineered steel frames are extremely strong yet are light in weight.

• Design flexibility: Create optimum architectural forms to suit your living needs and building conditions, including long clear spans for open plan living and even curved trusses.

• Wide availability: The design you want can be built virtually anywhere in Australia.

• Fire resistance: Does not burn nor contribute fuel to the spread of a fire.

• Low maintenance: low cost and effort to keep its design qualities intact • Trade familiarity: Steel frames are easy to construct and finish, and you’ll always have access to the skills to modify or extend your home.

• Environmentally friendly: Steel is 100 percent recyclable, easily accommodates energy efficient design concepts, enables minimal site disturbance and produces little site waste.

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Advantages for builders As steel framing is an engineered product, it is important to adhere strictly to the supplier’s instructions on the number and positioning of fasteners, brackets, bracing etc. The builder will particularly benefit from the following steel framing advantages: • Steel framing is light but strong. There is less mass of material to be handled on site at frame stage, so it is safe and easy to handle and quick to erect.

• Steel framing fabricators supply prefabricated frame sections in easily transportable and manageable panels and trusses.

• frame erection is simple. All components are identified to ensure the correct erection sequence. Connections are quick and easy using screws, bolts and rivets applied with tools from any hardware store.

• Verifiable quality. Steel is a consistent, engineered product free of natural imperfections. Steel framing is versatile and adaptable.

Depending on the home’s architectural design, you can choose steel framing for part of it and combine it with other structural materials. At every stage and for every detail, it’s your choice.

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The Real Deal on Steel looking the same doesn’t make it the same. Make sure you are getting the real deal.

With the high Australian dollar we are seeing more and more imported products enter our country, contractors now have local access to light gauge steel products from a range of offshore manufacturers. The risk this creates for the building trade is the absence of knowledge on how these products have been tested and whether or not they comply with Australian Standards.

Although some inferior copies may look identical, only Rondo metal render finishing beads come with a comprehensive Rondo Warranty that guarantees the quality of the protective coating used and ensures the beads are fit for purpose, whether installed internally or externally.

Rondo internal corner bead products (R01, R02) have a Zinc coating known as Z275 (the equivalent of 275gms of Zinc per surface square metre of steel). This coating provides protection to the bead when installed indoors in dry conditions and is the industry standard for all internal steel wall framing components.

The exterior texture coat finishes zinc coating of Z450 is applied to Rondo eP32 Corner Bead (suitable for Blue Board applications) and a zinc coating of Z200 is applied to Rondo eP17, eP50 and eR11 Stopping Beads. All of which are additionally protected by powder coating after manufacture.

This is why Rondo confidently guarantees the performance of all of their beads. So why risk it?

For more information and to see a copy of the Rondo Warranty, visit www.rondo.com.au or call your local Rondo WA Office on (08) 9251 9400.

A cheap copy may even feel sturdy, but that is usually only due to the extra thickness of the metal used at the expense of a thinner surface coating, and it is the coating that provides the protection.

one of these is an inferior copy.

the other comes with a full rondo written warranty.

Only Rondo metal finishing beads come with a full written Rondo warranty that guarantees the quality of the surface coatings used, to ensure the beads have an appropriate protection for their intended purpose. So why risk it?

The Rondo Warranty is the only way to make sure you are getting the real thing.

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steel

Limitations Steel is an extremely durable long life material. Nevertheless, there are certain environments and situations where it may be unwise to use standard steel framing products without expert advice. fortunately these are very few, and will affect only a small number of builders.

Generally speaking, where steel is unsuitable you will also find some limitations on the use of other building materials including aluminium, tiles and bricks. The main environments where precautions are advisable are marine and heavy industrial areas. for marine environments, the Building Code of Australia Volume Two (Housing Provisions) specifies that metallic coated steel comprising 275 grams of zinc per square metre (Z275), 150 grams of aluminium/ zinc per square metre (AZ150) or 150 grams of aluminium/magnesium/ zinc per square metre (AM150) may be used for steel framing that is fully enclosed within the building envelope, beyond 300 metres from breaking surf conditions.

Where the framing is outside the building envelope, such as sub-floor or exposed verandah framing, the same metallic coated steel may be used: beyond 1km from calm salt water, such as a lake or estuary; or beyond 10km from a coastal area with breaking surf. Breaking surf normally occurs in areas exposed to the open sea, with regular breaking of waves about four days per week. it doesn’t include choppy, white-capped water.

if you are proposing to build closer to an adverse environment than these distances, painting systems are available to increase the corrosion resistance of steel.

Living with steel Apart from the frame, there are a wide variety of factory pre-painted architectural steel products available when you reach the finishing stages of your project. These products inherently have a very long lowmaintenance life, which is particularly helpful on the higher parts of the home where maintenance access is difficult or hazardous.

Much of the environmental impact of buildings is determined at the design stage, through materials decisions, inbuilt efficiencies and performance criteria incorporated into the design. it is therefore important that environmental impacts be considered early in the design process, where the greatest potential is available for influencing outcomes.

Virtually all steel products used in residential construction are highly recyclable, contributing to steel’s reputation as the most recycled metal on the planet. Steel generates a very low mass and volume of construction waste, and the small amount finding its way to landfill is basically inert and nonpolluting.

DOMESTIC I COMMERCIAL I TRANSPORTABLE

89mm 140mm steel wall frames trusses roof panels 250mm floor joist cassette system 10 Mcintyre Wy Kenwick WA 6107 P 08 9452 7004 M 0418 922 008 F 08 9448 5058 E drafting@steelscene.com.au

www.steelscene.com.au

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framing steel is fully recyclable and contains approximately 20 percent recycled materials. Methodologies and opinions vary on the assessment of the embodied energy of construction materials. The embodied energy due to the manufacturing process is still considered by some to be higher for steel than for timber framing. The longevity of steel framing along with the advantage of not having to use preservativetreated timber are two of many factors to be considered in the overall equation of lifecycle energy consumption.

Getting started To start the process, all that is necessary is to have designer/architect drawings of the house or extension, showing details such as floor layout, elevations and room dimensions. The frame supplier will be able to quote a price for the structural frame, including floor, wall and roof framing, and this will usually include any required beams or columns.

The scope of supply and the range of included materials will vary slightly from place to place, so be sure that you and your designer are quite specific as to what you require and verify what is included.

The frame supplier will also be able to supply all the necessary components such as brackets, fasteners, and grommets from the same basic design information.

Article by The Owner Builder magazine www.theownerbuilder.com.au or 0402 428 123.

The National Association of Steel-Framed Housing Inc (NASH) website provided information for this article. NASH has a great source of up to date information on residential and low-rise steel framed construction www.nash.asn.au or 1800 656 986.

tRaNspoRt

Tyre care is crucial for safe vehicle transportation TYRe CARe is essential for maintaining vehicle safety. Tyres should be checked on a regular basis and before any long driving trips. Correctly maintained tyres will improve fuel economy, extend tyre life and improve vehicle safety. Tyre inflation should be checked every two weeks when cold, the recommended pressure can be found in the owner’s manual. Abnormal wear patterns indicate possible wheel alignment or suspension problems and vibrations in the steering indicate the tyres may require balancing. Make sure that tyres have a minimum of 1.6mm of tread depth.

The comfort and safety of you, your passengers and other road users depend to a large extent on the condition and quality of your car’s tyres, which must be capable of satisfying a number of conflicting requirements. Tyres must be flexible, yet strong enough to resist and cushion impact damage. They must respond accurately to steering and not be deflected by bumps in the road nd they must provide good grip for accelerating, cornering and braking, and they must do all these things in all weathers and on all surfaces without overheating. All tyres are a compromise solution to a complex series of problems. Modern tyres are hard wearing with built in strength and safety factors, enabling them to withstand the stresses of modern motoring conditions. There are many issues that can affect the rate of tread wear and tread life, such as speed, cornering, braking, accelerating, wheel alignment, road surface and terrain, climatic conditions and most importantly of all inflation pressures.

Inflation inflation pressures are determined by three factors; the type and size of the tyre being used; the load being carried; and the speed at which the tyre is operated. Correct inflation pressure is essential to good tyre maintenance and performance, as it is the air in the tyre not the tyre itself, that carries the weight of the vehicle and its load. incorrect pressure, whether over or under, has a marked effect on the rate of tread wear and vehicle handling characteristics. it is essential in maintaining tyre pressures to use a reliable and accurate gauge. Do not trust a gauge that is unfamiliar to you. Determining tyre pressure most inflation pressures quoted are absolute minimum pressures, with the tyres in a cold condition, and that more air is needed to meet heavy

Daily 4x4

load and/or fast driving conditions. Consider your usual driving style.

Normal motoring is usually two or three occupants including the driver, carried at speeds up to 100 km per hour. Heavy load conditions are more than two or three occupants plus luggage, or if towing a trailer, caravan or boat. High speed motoring is continuous high speeds over some distance in excess of 100 km per hour. if your driving habits include frequent variations from normal to heavy load conditions or low to high speed driving, assume the most severe type of motoring as your type and adjust the inflation pressure to suit. This will avoid necessary inflation adjustment, which might easily be forgotten, or be inconvenient at the time when the greater stress is being applied to the tyres. establish the type and size of tyre on your vehicle. This will be stamped on the sidewall of the tyre. Consult your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendation. later model vehicles have a tyre placard attached to the bodywork with the manufacturer’s recommendation. Remember that all inflation pressures quoted will be minimums and can be increased by two to three psi (14 to 21 kPa) for optimum performance. But do not exceed: • 32 psi (221 kPa) for 4 ply rating bias tyres.

• 36 psi (248 kPa) for 6 ply rating bias tyres.

• 40 psi (276 kPa) for 8 ply rating bias tyres.

• 40 psi (276 kPa) for all radial ply tyres.

• Or the maximum pressure stamped on some tyres, which may be less.

• All inflation pressures quoted are cold and a tyre that has been driven two to three km is no longer cold.

Do not bleed air from a hot tyre that has been correctly inflated when cold – the rise in pressure due to heat is allowed for and reducing the pressure generates more heat again. if your tyre pressures are consistently rising above the original cold pressure by more than 10 percent when hot, it may be that you have the wrong tyres fitted or that the cold inflation pressure is too low. Consult a tyre specialist for advice. Do not exceed the maximum load indicated on the tyre. Check your vehicle’s spare tyre regularly.

Reproduced with permission of The Royal Automobile Club (RAC). RAC was formed by a small group of enthusiastic car owners in 1905 and has come a long way since then.

With more than 750,000 members, RAC is now a vital part of Western Australian life.

For more information visit: rac.com.au

-ROAD OFF-R

EuroCargo 4x4

• 24 forward and 4 reverse gear ratios • Diff lock front, centre and rear • Single or dual cab options • Ideal for off-road support, emergency services and construction support • Permanent all-wheel drive • Diff lock front, centre and rear • Day or sleeper cab options • Ideal for off-road maintenance, construction and crane truck applications

052113-261

View the full IVECO range at www.waiveco.com.au 268 Great Eastern Hwy Belmont | waiveco.com.au | Ph: 6365 2932 | AFTER HOURS: Crag Maddox 0417 179 753 DL1571 MRB2731

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what’s New

LifeProof, the awardwinning maker of allprotective, everyday cases for smartphones and tablets, has been launched into the Australian market. iPad controlled temperature, iPad controlled quality! for several years, Stinson Air have offered systems controllable with smart phones or tablets and this year, there are at least three new upgrade releases to their technology. Contact us to learn more about the exciting changes.

Speaking of iPads...

What we are currently excited about is our new iPad controlled quality control - with an iPad in hand a Stinson Air Supervisor does a 28-point quality control check on every ducted reverse cycle system installed. This has dramatically helped us to pinpoint problem areas, which are instantly identified and corrected. if innovative design, the right price and industry-leading quality control are important to you, contact the team at Stinson Air. P: 08 9444 6744 e: info@stinsonair.com.au www.stinsonair.com.au

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Australian-born entrepreneur and inventor, lifeProof founder Gary Rayner was inspired to create the all-protective cases when he was unable to find a product on the market to effectively protect his own smartphone from his active lifestyle. lifeProof debuted in the US in 2011, and has since sold over six million cases worldwide. lifeProof cases are waterproof, dirt proof, snow proof and shock proof while providing full functionality and interactivity under any condition encountered in daily life. The lifeProof product line includes cases and accessories for the iPhone, iPad and iPod touch with additional products launching shortly. lifeProof sleek and ultra-slim cases are tested to meet or exceed recognised standards including Military Standard 810f516 against shock, and section iP 68 of the iel 60592 standard against dirt and water ingress. lifeProof Case for the iPhone 4/4S and lifeProof frê Case for iPhone 5: lifeProof offers the slimmest and lightest water proof, dirt proof, snow proof, and shock proof case for Apple’s iPhone while providing full access to all device functions. form fitting yet completely waterproof down to two metres and designed to survive a drop of two metres. lifeProof gives individuals complete freedom to use their iPhone in any wet, dirty, or rough situation. The lifeProof Case for the iPhone 4/4S and the lifeProof frê Case for the iPhone 5 are available for $79.95. lifeProof nüüd Case for iPad: The lifeProof nüüd case for iPad offers an unprecedented user experience that combines the ultimate touch of the iPad’s naked screen while offering protection from water, dirt, snow and drops. Unleashing new freedom for mobile computing, the lifeProof nüüd case for iPad protects iPad 2, Gen 3 and 4 devices. Accessories include a Cover + Stand, Hand and Shoulder Straps, lifeJacket and Mounting Cradle. The lifeProof nüüd Case for iPad is available for $149.95.

Laminex wins Australian international design award laminex impressions textured surfaces is a range of decorative laminates with embossing that delivers the look and feel of timber or stone. The product received a Design Award in the Architecture and interiors category of the 2013 Australian international Design Awards – one of the most prestigious global design awards. laminex impressions is manufactured in Australia using world class digital and plate technology to create a range of decorative surfaces with highfidelity prints that are accompanied with textures, resulting in a realistic, naturalistic and authentic finished product. The range of 76 decors in three attractive textured finishes – Nuance, Riven and Spark – enhances the beauty of vertical and horizontal surfaces and can be used to create entertainment units, bookshelves, cabinetry, kitchen benchtops and bespoke furniture.

The laminex impressions textured surface range is one of laminex’s most popular products and since its launch in October 2012 has been specified in a variety of commercial projects, including hotels, homes and workplace fitouts. This year, 66 products and services across 15 categories in Australian international Design Awards were awarded for their design excellence. to find out more about the australian international design awards, visit www. gooddesignaustralia.com/awards/ and to find out more about laminex impressions textured surfaces, visit www.laminex.com.au.

6 Brolo Court, O’Connor, WA 6163 PO Box 2065, Palmyra DC, WA 6961 abn: 87 712 338 613

Phone: (+61) 08 6363 5953 Fax: (+61) 08 9331 3384 Email: gary.grimes@octagonlifts.com.au

www.octagonlifts.com.au

OUR RANGE HOME LIFTS from 250kg - 1000kg DUMBWAITERS from 5kg - 450kg GOODS HOISTS from 500kg - 3000kg PANORAMA Lifts from 450kg - 4500kg MRL Passenger Lifts from 300kg - 3500kg HANDICAPPED Access Lifts from 225kg - 400kg HYDRAULIC Passenger Lifts from 250kg - 4500kg

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BEAMS - it’s the better way to manage your building business.

ESTIMATION Nothing is more convenient than using a software package that just works, one that does

everything you want to it without having to switch between different programs. Everything you need to estimate, quote, manage and complete your projects is in one program thats’s completely integrated within itself.

CAD Image Takeoff allows you to simply load a plan, whether it be PDF, BMP, PNG or a JPEG file, select the

type of measurement you would like to make and you’re away. Start clicking on the perimeter of a house to measure the entire floor area, click on the plan to get the length of pipes needed for a plumbing job or count the number of doors needed for the house.

CONTRACTS Prepare variations, update quantities, raise purchase orders, create construction timelines, track quotes, scheduling and progress tracking. To make your work even easier Beams now offers BeamS Mobile an app for iPhone or iPad that allows you to, from site, access the plans, orders and construction time lines in real time, back in the office. How’s that for convenience. The possibilities are endless.

ACCOUNTS processes creditor/debtor transactions, issues progress claims, pays invoices, maintains

and tracks BAS, GST and payroll provides full financial reporting. Now also with the newly required ATO reporting features. It’s fast, accurate, easy and affordable. You can be up and running in a day and with the time you will save, plus the costs you will contain, It’ll probably pay for itself in less than that.

Big or small, more builders are switching to BEAMS.

BEAMS

CRM is coming soon!

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