Discover the latest updates and essential insights in the building and construction industry. For all significant news and developments, this is your go-to source.
Major funding injection to upskill next-gen tradies
In a significant move to bolster the construction workforce, the Albanese government has announced a $90 million construction workforce package in the upcoming federal budget. This initiative aims to provide free pre-apprenticeship programs for high school students, facilitating early entry into trades such as carpentry, plumbing, and electrotechnology.
About 5,000...
NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler to Depart After Five Years
David Chandler, the Building Commissioner renowned for his crackdown on substandard construction in New South Wales, will step down from his role in August this year. Commissioner Chandler advised the NSW government that he will not seek a contract extension beyond a noteworthy five-year tenure.
During his time in office, the Chandler...
Certifier cancelled and disqualified for 10 years
A recent decision by the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) is the most significant decision made against a certifier in NSW since 1998.
NCAT found that building occupants could have been fatally impacted by errors made by certifier, Mr Mohamad Orfali. These included wrongly issuing complying development certificates...
Australia's Building Code to undergo significant update
Australia's National Construction Code (NCC) is set for major changes in its 2025 update. Amendments proposed in the draft address tighter energy efficiency, water leaks, condensation, public toilets for women, carpark fire safety, and clearer pathways for code compliance.
Focus on Energy Efficiency
The most significant changes center on energy...
State of the Housing System Report
Responding to the National Housing Supply and Affordability Council’s State of the Housing System 2024 report, Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn said it’s clear more needs to be done to reduce the cost of home building to increase housing supply.
“The report rightfully acknowledges the housing system’s inability to...
The NCC Public Comment Draft is now open for your feedback
The Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) is seeking feedback on proposed changes to the next edition of the National Construction Code. These changes are shown in the NCC Public Comment Draft. A list of changes is also available.
Submissions provided will help inform the final version for regulatory consideration. Feedback...
March lowest month for new detached home approvals since 2012
New building approvals data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics today has once again painted a concerning picture of the nation’s housing crisis.
Master Builders Australia Chief Economist Shane Garrett said March was the worst month for new detached house approvals since July 2012 – almost 12 years ago...
New home starts sink to 11-year low
The latest building activity data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics has confirmed there is still a long way to go before Australia overcomes the housing crisis.
Master Builders Chief Economist Shane Garrett said work started on just 163,285 new homes during 2023, a 10.5 per cent reduction on...
Urgent workforce survey
Dear Members,
We need your help. As you know, workforce shortages continue to impact the industry across all sectors. We know it will take significant effort to boost apprenticeship numbers, increase the skilled migration workforce and retain existing workers.
Master Builders is advocating on your behalf at a state/territory and...
2024 industry forecasts are out now
Master Builders Australia's 2024 industry forecasts are out now, covering the full 5-year Housing Accord period to 2028-29. With inflation nearing targets and expected interest rate drops, the investment market looks favourable over the medium-term. Government housing measures aim to boost supply, yet challenges like workforce shortages and industrial relations...