JUL - SEP 2 0 2 6
VOL 86
ISSUE 03
2026 MBV REGIONAL BUILDING AWARDS
YOUNG BUILDERS REDEFINE NETWORKING
Showcasing the Best from Our Finest Regional Builders
Introducing the Young Builders & Tradies Network
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2026 MBV EXCELLENCE IN CONSTRUCTION AWARDS VICTORIA’S BEST COMMERCIAL PROJECTS CROWNED
PAGE 08
Contents FOREWORDS 05 FROM THE CEO 06 FROM THE PRESIDENT
Our Story Master Builders Victoria (MBV) was established in 1875 by a group of builders intent on raising industry standards. For more than 150 years, our organisation has grown to become the pre-eminent industry voice, with circa 6,000 members. We support members with specialist updates and advice across legal, contracts, occupational health and safety (OHS), policy, people and culture technical building, registration, and employment and industrial relations (EIR) matters, as well as providing industry connections and networking opportunities. Not only are we a Registered Training Organisation (RTO #3935), but we proudly operate a state-ofthe-art simulated learning centre where we provide industry-leading training with our comprehensive training courses. We believe our accomplishments are the result of maintaining our ‘members first, all the time, every time’ approach throughout everything we do.
REGULARS 30 STATE OF THE INDUSTRY IT IS TOUGH OUT THERE
38 OUT & ABOUT WITH MBV
A LOOK AT SOME OF THE MEMBERS WE’VE VISITED OVER THE PAST FEW MONTHS
FEATURES 08 2026 MBV EXCELLENCE IN CONSTRUCTION AWARDS
INDUSTRY EXCELLENCE RECOGNISED: VICTORIA’S BEST COMMERCIAL PROJECTS CROWNED
20 2026 MBV REGIONAL BUILDING AWARDS
SHOWCASING THE BEST FROM OUR FINEST REGIONAL BUILDERS
26 YOUNG BUILDERS REDEFINE NETWORKING
BY TAKING IT OFFLINE INTRODUCING THE YOUNG BUILDERS & TRADIES NETWORK
34 OSCAR CHERRY
SUCCESS IS BETTER SHARED
40 TECH TALK
Our purpose
EXTERNAL PAVING
Empowering people to build a better future.
44 SAFETY IN CONSTRUCTION
HERE’S WHAT OUR MEMBERS HAD TO SAY
47 SUSTAINABILITY
Our vision
MANDATORY CLIMATE RELATED FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
Leading a future-ready industry that builds a better world.
Our values
54
EMPLOYMENT & INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS FIVE OPTIONS TO CONSIDER BEFORE MAKING SOMEONE REDUNDANT
56 LEGAL
• Members first – all the time, every time
MBV EDOCS: TRICKS & TIPS
60
• Brave enough to be different • Do the right thing, even when no one is watching • Always find another way
SITE MANAGEMENT TRAINING PROGRAM AT MASTER BUILDERS VICTORIA NOT ALL TRAINING PROGRAMS ARE CREATED EQUAL
SPONSOR & PARTNER FEATURES 18 CBUS SUPER
CONTACT: 332 Albert Street, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002
CBUS SUPER DELIVERS ANOTHER YEAR OF STRONG ANNUAL RETURNS
42 RUBIKSCRAFT AUSTRALIA
Tel: (03) 9411 4555 E-mail: MBassist@mbav.com.au Web: www.mbav.com.au
BUILDING BETTER, TOGETHER
52 XACT ACCOUNTING
WHY ARE VICTORIA'S BUILDERS MORE EXPOSED TO THE TRUST TAX?
58 PROSTATE CANCER FOUNDATION EDITOR:
JUNIOR EDITOR:
Natalie Nicolaou MBV Marketing Manager
Alice Goulko MBV Marketing Advisor
GET ACTIVE IN THE FIGHT AGAINST PROSTATE CANCER
62
TRUSTED INDUSTRY SUPPLIER DIRECTORY
Produced by Greenridge Group Australia for Master Builders Victoria
Volume 86 Issue 03 Master Builders Victoria
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Master Builders Victoria Key Contacts and Office Locations For all general enquiries, phone MBV on (03) 9411 4555, e-mail MBassist@mbav.com.au, or contact our key services using the details on this page:
KEY CONTACTS Executive Team CEO: Michaela Lihou Deputy CEO | Chief Legal Officer: Tristan Moseley Chief of Public Affairs: Dr Corrie Williams
MBV Sector Committees Regional Stuart Allen, Gareth King, Mark Little, Ross O'Neill, Belinda Egan & Steven Hedger MM&S Mark Phillips, Luke Hurley, Lawrence Pigot, Brenton Russo
Directors
Housing
Director Master Builders Training Institute: Anh Tran Director Advisory: Sam Smith Chief Financial Officer: Margarita Krasteva Director Policy & Industry Collaboration: Caroline Speed
Steven Peluso, Will Ireland, Alan Grollo, Steven Grayden, Angela Perry & Daniel Kingsley
MBV Board of Management President: Steven Peluso Deputy President: Stuart Allen Housing Chair: Alan Grollo Specialist Contractor Chair: Mark Welsh General Contracting Chair: Dale Kennedy Regional Chair: Belinda Egan MM&S Chair: Mark Phillips Housing Sub Contractor Chair: *Vacant General Board Member: Geoff Purcell
General Contracting Geoff Purcell, Bernie Nolan, Shayne Young, Richard Hansen, Dale Kennedy, David Waters & John Lehmann Specialist Contractor Mark Welsh, Angela Stevenson, Carl Calabro, Gregory Cole, Joshua Humphreys & Hugh Lockie Housing Sub Contractor Shane Gardner, Howard F Hunter & Raymond French
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OFFICE LOCATIONS Melbourne 332 Albert Street, East Melbourne, VIC, 3002 GPO Box 544 Melbourne, VIC, 3001 Phone: (03) 9411 4555 E-mail: mbassist@mbav.com.au
South Melbourne MBV Leadership Simulation Centre 49 Brady Street South Melbourne, VIC, 3205 E-mail: trainingenquiries@mbav.com.au
Wodonga Currently closed for re-development E-mail: mbassist@mbav.com.au
FOREWORDS
A Significant Period of Change We Remain Committed to Ensuring Your Voice is Heard Dear members,
T
his edition of Master Builder is a celebration of what our industry can achieve when skill, innovation and professionalism come together. The Excellence in Construction Awards continue to showcase the outstanding calibre of work being delivered by our members, recognising projects that not only demonstrate technical excellence but also set the benchmark for our industry. Congratulations to this year's Commercial Master Builder of the Year, Icon SI (Aust) Pty Ltd, Young Builder of the Year, Steve McKimmie – Colin Joss & Co, and Commercial Regional Builder of the Year, Nicholson Construction. These prestigious awards recognise outstanding leadership, craftsmanship and commitment to excellence, and reflect the strength and depth of talent across Victoria's building and construction industry. You can read more about our winners on page 8. Our Regional Building Awards reinforce that this excellence extends well beyond metropolitan Melbourne. Across Victoria, our members continue to deliver projects that strengthen communities, support local economies and reflect the high standards our profession is known for. Congratulations to every winner and finalist recognised throughout this year's awards program.
Your achievements are a testament to the dedication and expertise that drive our industry forward. While we celebrate these successes, we also recognise that the operating environment continues to evolve. The implementation of Victoria's new building reforms marks a significant period of change for our industry, and ensuring members are prepared remains a key priority for Master Builders Victoria (MBV). In July, we welcomed members to MBAV House for a Building and Plumbing Commission Industry Briefing, providing the opportunity to hear directly from the regulator, ask questions, and better understand how the reforms will be implemented in practice. The strong attendance and engagement demonstrated what we already know about our members: when faced with change, you seek knowledge, ask practical questions and focus on delivering the best outcomes for your clients and businesses.
ensuring your voice is heard and that you have the resources and support needed to navigate the road ahead with confidence. The achievements celebrated in this edition remind us that our industry's strength lies not only in the quality of the projects we deliver, but in the people and businesses behind them. MBV is proud to stand alongside you, championing your success today and helping build a stronger future for our industry. Warm regards, Michaela Lihou CEO, Master Builders Victoria
Supporting members through change is central to our role. That means continuing to advocate where it matters, providing timely information and practical guidance, and creating opportunities for members to engage directly with government and regulators. As the reforms continue to roll out, we remain committed to
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FOREWORDS
None of Us Succeeds on Our Own Creating Opportunities is An Investment in the Future of Our Industry Dear members,
O
ne of the things I have always appreciated about our industry is that no two days are ever the same. Every project brings its own challenges. Every site requires problem-solving. Every good outcome depends on the experience, skill and commitment of the people behind it. Building asks a lot of people. It requires long hours, patience, judgement and the ability to keep moving when things do not go to plan. But it is also an industry that rewards hard work, pride in workmanship, teamwork and the willingness to keep learning. Those qualities were clearly on display at this year’s Excellence in Construction Awards. Congratulations to every winner and finalist. The projects recognised this year represent some of the very best work being delivered across Victoria. They also remind us that great outcomes are never achieved by one person alone. They are built by teams of skilled people working together with professionalism, dedication and pride. Awards are important because they recognise excellence, but they also tell a bigger story. Behind every successful builder, subcontractor, supervisor, apprentice, supplier and business owner, there is usually someone
who took the time to teach, guide, encourage or open a door. None of us succeeds on our own. That is why it was so encouraging to see the launch of the Master Builders Victoria (MBV) Young Builders and Tradies Network (YBTN) in August. It brought together apprentices, tradies and young professionals to connect, learn from others and begin building relationships that can support them throughout their careers. Creating opportunities like this is an investment in the future of our industry. Technical skills will always matter. So will quality, safety and strong standards. But just as important are the relationships, mentors and support networks that help young people build confidence, resilience and leadership. If we want a stronger industry tomorrow, we need to keep investing in the people coming through today. To every member who takes the time to encourage an apprentice, support a young tradie, mentor a staff member or share lessons from your own career, thank you. Those conversations often make a bigger difference than you realise. Across Victoria, our industry continues to face pressure from rising costs, regulatory change, labour shortages and the ongoing need to improve productivity. These challenges are real,
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and MBV will continue to advocate for practical outcomes that support both industry and consumers. But what continues to give me confidence is the quality of people across our sector. The builders, contractors, apprentices, suppliers and professionals I meet every week care deeply about their work. They care about standards. They care about doing the job properly. And they care about the future of our industry. That is something we should all be proud of. Warm regards, Steven Peluso President, Master Builders Victoria
YOUR INDUSTRY. YOUR COMMUNITY. YOUR NETWORK. Follow MBV on social media for the stories, people and projects shaping Victoria’s building industry. @masterbuildersvictoria
Master Builders Association of Victoria Master Builders Association of Victoria Master Builders Victoria
www.mbav.com.au Volume 86 Issue 03 Master Builders Victoria
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EVENTS
Industry Excellence Recognised: Victoria’s Best Commercial Projects Crowned More than 800 guests attended the 2026 Master Builders Victoria (MBV) Excellence in Construction Awards gala dinner at Melbourne’s Crown Palladium on Friday 7 August to recognise the outstanding achievements shaping Victoria’s construction industry.
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he 2026 MBV Excellence in Construction Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of MBV members and recognise excellence in commercial construction across metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria. By bringing together industry leaders, project teams, and construction professionals, the awards offer an opportunity to connect, network, and celebrate the people and projects shaping the industry’s future. MBV CEO Michaela Lihou congratulated the winners, saying they represented the pinnacle of achievement for Victoria’s commercial building and construction industry.
“At the heart of every great industry are exceptional people. Through their vision, leadership and commitment to excellence, they are not only delivering outstanding projects today, but they are also setting new benchmarks for what is possible and inspiring the next generation of commercial construction professionals.” Ms Lihou said. “The calibre of this year’s nominees and winners is a testament to the extraordinary talent within our industry. Their vision, passion and commitment to excellence are transforming communities, raising standards and inspiring others to strive for even greater impact. Congratulations to all our deserving winners”.
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MBV President Steven Peluso also extended his congratulations to the winners, recognising their outstanding achievements and contributions to the industry. “These awards are an important opportunity to recognise the individuals, teams and businesses who continue to raise the standard across our industry. In an increasingly complex and challenging environment, this year’s nominees and winners have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, resilience and pride in their work. Their achievements remind us that construction is not only about the buildings we deliver, but also the people, skills and opportunities we build along the way.”
EVENTS
2026 MBV Commercial Master Builder of the Year Richmond’s Icon SI (Aust) Pty Ltd. won the 2026 MBV Commercial Master Builder of the Year Award for ‘Seafarers, Docklands’, a project that combines large-scale heritage restoration, luxury hospitality and complex mixed-use delivery on one of Melbourne’s most significant waterfront sites. Icon SI (Aust) Pty Ltd. received the prestigious title. ‘Seafarers Docklands’, built around the last remaining Goods Shed and Crane on the Northbank, required careful integration of historic fabric with a striking contemporary structure. A standout achievement was the delivery of the building’s highly intricate façade, incorporating thousands of unique components and bespoke installation methods to achieve its distinctive reflective form.
Seafarers, Docklands
The judges praised the project, saying: “This represents a remarkable achievement in construction. Through innovative engineering solutions, meticulous craftsmanship and close collaboration with specialist trades, the project successfully transforms a historic maritime landmark into a world-class destination”.
MBV CEO Michaela Lihou, Icon SI (Aust) Pty Ltd Victorian State Director Alistair Munro, and MBV President Steven Peluso.
2026 MBV Commercial Master Builder of the Year award winner Icon SI (Aust) Pty Ltd, represented by Victorian State Director Alistair Munro and team.
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EVENTS
2026 MBV Commercial Regional Builder of the Year The 2026 MBV Commercial Regional Builder of the Year title went to Wendouree’s Nicholson Construction for ‘Bunjil Wellbeing Place (BDAC Stage 3 Medical Clinic)’ North Bendigo. Delivered on Dja Dja Wurrung Country, this unique facility brings together innovative mass-timber construction, outstanding architectural design, and complex delivery in a live healthcare environment. Inspired by Bunjil’s outstretched wings, every element of the project reflects a deep commitment to Country, wellbeing and connection.
The judges said:
Bunjil Wellbeing Place (BDAC Stage 3 Medical Clinic), North Bendigo
“Bunjil Wellbeing Place is a project of profound significance, bringing together culture, community and construction excellence to deliver a truly landmark outcome. Through exceptional collaboration, technical expertise and a lasting commitment to social value, the team has delivered more than a building, creating a place of healing, pride and legacy for generations to come.”
MBV CEO Michaela Lihou, Nicholson Construction Project Manager Alison Brereton, and MBV President Steven Peluso.
2026 MBV Commercial Regional Master Builder of the Year award winner Nicholson Construction, represented by Director Stephen Allen, Project Manager Alison Brereton and team.
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EVENTS
2026 MBV Commercial Young Builder of the Year A passion for innovative, top-notch craftsmanship earned Steve McKimmie from Albury’s Colin Joss & Co the title of 2026 MBV Commercial Young Builder of the Year. With 20 years’ experience in the building and construction industry, Steve has built an impressive career grounded in technical expertise, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to quality. His dedication to exceptional outcomes begins with quality assurance in the design phase and a clear understanding of client expectations. His project portfolio includes landmark developments such as Sydney’s W Hotel, the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, and Kerribana Primary School in Leneva.
“Steve is a strong advocate for open communication, recognising it as the foundation of successful leadership, collaboration, and project delivery. His extensive experience delivering largescale and complex projects across Victoria and New South Wales has enabled him to bring valuable expertise and innovative thinking across Victoria,” said the judges.
MBV CEO Michaela Lihou, Colin Joss & Co Project Manager Steve McKimmie, and MBV President Steven Peluso.
A Big Thank You to Our Valued Marquee Partner: Scan here to view all the 2026 MBV Excellence in Construction Award winners.
Scan here to view our event photo gallery from the evening.
A Big Thank You to Our Valued Event Sponsors:
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EVENTS
The winners of the 2026 MBV Excellence in Construction Awards with MBV CEO Michaela Lihou and MBV President Steven Peluso.
Guest MC for the evening, Australian stand-up comedian, television presenter, actor and radio personality Dave Thornton keeping guests entertained.
Violinist Patrick Roberts performing the opening act.
MBV CEO Michaela Lihou welcoming guests.
MBV President Steven Peluso addressing guests.
MBV President Steven Peluso with Network 10 Weather Presenter and our Blue Carpet Host Jayde Cotic discussing the awards.
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EVENTS
2026 MBV Excellence in Fitout Under $5M
2026 MBV Excellence in Fitout $5M-$10M
Award winner MPA, represented by Project Manager Ryan Grant and Project Director Jeff Hunt, Collective Projects Director Michael Dimasi, Rider Levett Bucknall Head of Operations Naomi Coslovich and Director Arif Uzay.
Award winner Hunter Mason (VIC) Pty Ltd, represented by Director Andrew Murray and team.
2026 MBV Excellence in Fitout Over $10M
2026 MBV Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings Under $5M
Award winner Buildcorp Group Pty Ltd, represented by Construction Manager Andrew Stent and team.
Award winner AMS Constructions Pty Ltd, represented by Joint Managing Director Liam Panayi and team.
2026 MBV Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $5M-$10M
2026 MBV Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $10M-$20M
Award winner Newpol Construction, represented by Director Lukas Konieczny and team.
Award winner Building Engineering, represented by Project Manager Amani Eljari and team.
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EVENTS
2026 MBV Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $20M-$50M
2026 MBV Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $50M-$100M
Award winner Maben Group Pty Ltd, represented by Head of Delivery Manny Viskas and team.
Award winner Hacer Group, represented by Senior Construction Manager Rohan Hooper and team.
2026 MBV Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings Over $100M
2026 MBV Excellence in Lowrise Apartment Buildings
Award winner Kane Constructions Pty Ltd, represented by Senior Project Manager Jamie Rigg and Senior Site Manager Ben Edwards.
Award winner Murwil Construction Pty Ltd, represented by Directors Adam Wilkinson and James Mursell.
2026 MBV Excellence in Mediumrise Apartment Buildings
2026 MBV Excellence in Highrise Apartment Buildings
Award winner Hacer Group, represented by Project Director Shaun Florence and team.
Award winner Icon SI (Aust) Pty Ltd, represented by Victorian State Director Alistair Munro and team.
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EVENTS
2026 MBV Excellence in Civil Construction Under $25M
2026 MBV Excellence in Civil Construction Over $25M
Award winner McCollSmith, represented by Directors Dominic McColl and Jerad Smith.
Award winner Ireland Brown Constructions, represented by Director Ned Ireland, Project Manager Dermot Walsh and Site Manager Joseph Derbyshire.
2026 MBV Best Specialist Contractor
2026 MBV Excellence in Construction of Industrial Buildings
Award winner Facadex, represented by Project Manager Thomas Ruderman and team.
Award winner FDC Construction & Fitout (VIC) Pty Ltd, represented by Project Manager David Gibbeson and team.
2026 MBV Excellence in Health and Safety
2026 MBV Excellence in Community Engagement
Award winners, the joint venture between Kane Constructions and Nicholson Construction, represented by Kane Constructions Project Director Sam Birdseye and Project Manager David Purdue, and Nicholson Construction Director Paul Toye.
Award winner Nicholson Construction, represented by Director Stephen Allen, Project Manager Alison Brereton and team.
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EVENTS
2026 MBV Excellence in Construction of Education Facility
2026 MBV Excellence in Construction of Community Facility
Award winner ADCO Constructions, represented by Senior Project Manager Don Sherwood and team.
Award winner Constructive Group, represented by Founder and Managing Director Richard Harris and team.
2026 MBV Excellence in Construction of Health Facility
2026 MBV Excellence in Construction of Commercial Historical Restoration / Renovation
Award winner Fairbrother Pty Ltd, represented by General Manager Ben Millar and team.
Award winner Harris HMC, represented by Managing Director Andrew Headberry, Executive Chairman Dale Kennedy and team.
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EVENTS
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Strong investment performance built for you CBUS Super delivers another year of strong annual returns For the 2025/26 financial year, our Growth (MySuper) investment option returned 9.25%. Our High Growth option, which is popular with our younger members, returned 10.06%.1
Our Growth (MySuper) remains one of the top performing options over the long term and our High Growth option is the top performer over 15 years.2 While markets experienced periods of uncertainty throughout the year, our investment approach remained focused on the long-term. Diversification across shares, infrastructure, property and other asset classes helped support our long-term view and reinforced the value of our disciplined investment approach, delivering positive retirement outcomes for our members.
Watch the update on performance from CBUS Chief Investment Officer Leigh Gavin or read more here: cbussuper.com.au/eofy-returns
All investment returns are as at 30 June 2026 unless otherwise noted. The crediting rate is based on investment returns minus investment fees and costs, transaction costs and investment-related taxes and until 31 January 2020, the percentage-based administration fee. Excludes fees and costs that are deducted directly from members’ accounts. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. 2 The Growth (MySuper) investment option obtained a top quartile performance ranking over 10, 15 and 20 years from the SuperRatings FCRS SR Balanced (60-76) Index, for the period ending 30 June 2026. The High Growth investment option obtained the number one ranking in the SuperRatings FCRS SR Growth (77-90) Index over 15 years, for the period ending 30 June 2026. SuperRatings is a rating agency that collects information from super funds to enable performance comparisons - visit www.superratings.com.au for details of its rating criteria. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. This information is about CBUS. It doesn’t account for your specific needs. Please consider your financial position, objectives and requirements before making financial decisions. Read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Target Market Determination to decide if CBUS is right for you. Call 1300 361 784 or visit cbussuper.com.au United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 as Trustee for the Construction and Building Unions Superannuation Fund ABN 75 493 363 262 (CBUS and/or CBUS Super)
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07-26
1
An easier way to handle super at work Business is complex. Super doesn’t have to be. CBUS works alongside employers with straightforward admin, easy-to-use systems and local contacts who understand what you do. We also spend time with employees, explaining super in plain language so they feel more confident about their choices and what comes next. Your local CBUS Senior Employer Engagement Manager is here to help. Daniel Tentser M: 0439 372 365 E: daniel.tentser@cbussuper.com.au
Visit cbussuper.com.au/employers and see how CBUS supports employers. Call 1300 361 784 8am to 8pm (AEST/AEDT) Monday to Friday.
This information is about Cbus Super. It doesn’t account for your specific needs. Please consider your financial position, objectives and requirements before making financial decisions. Read the Employer Handbook, relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Target Market Determination to decide if Cbus Super is right for you. Call 1300 361 784 or visit cbussuper.com.au.United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 as Trustee for the Construction and Building Unions Superannuation Fund ABN 75 493 363 262 (Cbus and/or Cbus Super) An easier way to handle super at work_A4_07-26
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EVENTS
2026 MBV Regional Building Awards Innovation and Craftsmanship Shine at the 2026 MBV Regional Building Awards – Eastern
The 2026 MBV Regional Building Awards – Eastern winners with MBV Deputy CEO Tristan Moseley.
E
xemplifying exceptional structural innovation in a challenging coastal setting and showcasing advanced concrete construction, FAWK 1 & 2 residences took out the title of 2026 Master Builders Victoria (MBV) Regional Residential Builder of the Year – Eastern Region. The residences suspended-slab engineering and premium finishes balance bold architectural ambition with refined coastal living. A standout elevated pool and seamless integration with the surrounding dune landscape further elevate the project’s stunning design. Mornington Peninsula-based Gstruct Group Pty Ltd was the builder behind the FAWK residences in Blairgowrie, which were found by MBV judges to exemplify design excellence that blends beautifully with the area’s coastal location.
FAWK 1 & 2 residences
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EVENTS
2026 MBV Regional Commercial Builder of the Year – Eastern award winner BFN Developments, represented by General Manager Jye Neilson, and 2026 MBV Regional Residential Builder of the Year – Eastern award winner Gstruct Group Pty Ltd, represented by Managing Director Glenn Longstaff.
The Quest Bairnsdale In the Commercial sector, BFN Developments from Traralgon was awarded the title of 2026 MBV Regional Commercial Builder of the Year – Eastern, for delivering The Quest Bairnsdale. This mixed-use contemporary development strengthens Bairnsdale’s accommodation and commercial offering, combining modern apartment-style lodging with activated ground-floor retail.
The project creates a vibrant, wellintegrated destination that enhances the visitor experience while supporting the local community. The two top awards were among 20 honours presented for display homes, custom homes, commercial buildings, renovations and additions at a celebration held at the Lardner Park Events Centre in Warragul on Friday June 19, attended by more than 120 guests.
Scan here to view all the 2026 MBV Regional Building Awards – Eastern winners.
Scan here to view our event photo gallery from the evening.
“Despite the challenges currently facing our industry, we continue to see truly inspiring projects from the eastern region of Victoria. These builds reflect an exceptional commitment to quality, innovation and craftsmanship. I extend my warmest congratulations to all winners and finalists, and in particular to the teams at Gstruct Group Pty Ltd and BFN Developments for their outstanding achievements.” – MBV CEO Michaela Lihou
A Big Thank You to Our Valued Event Sponsors of the 2026 MBV Regional Building Awards – Eastern:
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EVENTS Showcasing the Best of the West: MBV Regional Awards Celebrate Excellence in Building and Design
The 2026 MBV Regional Building Awards – Western winners with MBV CEO Michaela Lihou.
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andcastle, Connewarre, a modern Spanish-inspired residence celebrating form, craftsmanship and atmosphere, was named the 2026 MBV Regional Residential Builder of the Year – Western Region. The home is defined by a striking façade and sculptural archways. It centres on light-filled living spaces and a tranquil internal courtyard. Handcrafted details, from terracotta tiling to timber portals, enrich the interiors, while a dramatic funnelled ceiling transforms the meditation room into a true architectural feature. Doherty Building Group, based in Barwon Heads, is the creative force behind Sandcastle, Connewarre, which was found by MBV judges to exemplify design excellence, resulting in a timeless, immersive home where texture and precision come together in perfect harmony.
Sandcastle, Connewarre
As representatives from Doherty were unable to attend the event, the award was collected on Doherty’s behalf by Peter Whyte, MBV Engagement Manager, West.
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EVENTS
2026 MBV Regional Commercial Builder of the Year – Western award winner Fairbrother Pty Ltd, represented by Director Construction Victoria Michael Josey.
Maryborough Hospital Redevelopment In the Commercial sector, Bendigo’s Fairbrother Pty Ltd was awarded the title of 2026 MBV Regional Commercial Builder of the Year – Western for delivering the Maryborough Hospital Redevelopment. The redevelopment delivers a new state-of-the-art hospital facility, introducing advanced surgical, maternity, urgent care and specialist services, alongside enhanced public and support spaces. Carefully integrated with heritage elements and enriched by Indigenous artwork and landscaping,
the project creates a modern, inclusive healthcare environment. It is a futureready facility that elevates patient care, supports medical innovation, and strengthens community wellbeing. The two top awards were among more than 20 honours presented for display homes, custom homes, commercial buildings, renovations and additions at a celebration held at the RACV Goldfields Resort, Creswick, on Friday June 26, attended by more than 150 guests.
Scan here to view all the 2026 MBV Regional Building Awards – Western winners.
Scan here to view our event photo gallery from the evening.
“We are seeing some truly superb projects emerge across western Victoria. These buildings reflect a strong commitment to quality, innovation, and top-tier craftsmanship. Congratulations to all winners and finalists, and in particular to the teams at Doherty Building Group Ltd and Fairbrother Pty Ltd for their exceptional work and craftsmanship.” – MBV CEO Michaela Lihou
A Big Thank You to Our Valued Event Sponsors of the 2026 MBV Regional Building Awards – Western:
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EVENTS Top Talent Recognised: MBV Regional Building Awards Celebrate Northern Victoria’s Finest
The 2026 MBV Regional Building Awards – Northern winners represented by MBV Chief of Public Affairs Dr Corrie Williams.
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unbartha project by Shepparton’s J Vella Builders was named 2026 MBV Regional Residential Builder of the Year – Northern. The thoughtfully designed two-storey family home strikes the perfect balance of stylish design with long-term adaptability. Generous, flexible living zones provide space for both everyday life and entertaining, while a private upstairs retreat captures sweeping river views, offering a peaceful sanctuary within the home.
In the Commercial sector, Wendouree’s Nicholson Construction was awarded the title of 2026 MBV Regional Commercial Builder of the Year – Northern for delivering Bunjil Wellbeing Place (BDAC Stage 3 Medical Clinic), North Bendigo. Bunjil Wellbeing Place is a culturally significant, mixed-use health facility delivered on an active site, designed to foster community care and connection. Featuring a sustainable cross-laminated
timber (CLT) structure and a form inspired by Bunjil’s wings, the project seamlessly unites architecture, culture, and wellbeing into a meaningful and cohesive outcome. The two top awards were among more than 20 honours presented for display homes, custom homes, commercial buildings, renovations and additions at a celebration held at The Sebel, Yarrawonga, on Friday July 17, attended by almost 200 guests.
Designed with a strong connection to its surroundings, the residence effortlessly combines practicality, comfort and lifestyle. Careful planning ensures the home meets today’s needs while remaining adaptable for the future, delivering a refined and enduring living environment for its occupants.
Bunbartha project, Bunbartha
2026 MBV Regional Commercial Builder of the Year – Northern award winner Nicholson Construction, represented by Project Manager Alison Brereton, MBV Chief of Public Affairs Dr Corrie Williams, and 2026 MBV Regional Residential Builder of the Year – Northern award winner J Vella Builders, represented by Director Jesse Vella.
Bunjil Wellbeing Place (BDAC Stage 3 Medical Clinic)
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EVENTS
Scan here to view all the 2026 MBV Regional Building Awards – Northern winners.
Scan here to view our event photo gallery from the evening.
“Across northern Victoria, we are seeing exceptional projects come to life that showcase a genuine commitment to quality, innovation and outstanding craftsmanship. Congratulations to all winners and finalists, and especially to the teams at J Vella Builders and Nicholson Construction for their remarkable achievements.” – MBV CEO Michaela Lihou
A Big Thank You to Our Valued Event Sponsors of the 2026 MBV Regional Building Awards – Northern:
The 2026 MBV Regional Building Awards recognise exceptional craftsmanship and excellence in the construction sector across regional Victoria. MBV CEO Michaela Lihou, MBV Deputy CEO Tristan Moseley, and MBV Chief of Public Affairs Dr Corrie Williams congratulated the winners on their outstanding achievements, highlighting the ongoing strength and resilience of Victoria’s regional building industry.
Sponsor Spotlight Together, we can help save lives. Scan here This year, the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) celebrates 30 years of supporting Australian men and families affected by prostate cancer through worldleading research, awareness and support. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia. Every 18 minutes, another father, son, brother, partner, or friend will hear the news that they have prostate cancer and over 4,000 will lose their lives to the disease this year. Yet when detected early, the five-year relative survival rate is close to 100%. That's why PCFA is proud to partner with Master Builders Victoria (MBV) to raise awareness across the building and construction industry. Together, we can encourage more men to understand their risk, have informed conversations with their GP, and seek early detection through a PSA blood test.
to learn more about fundraising.
Scan here to get involved with the PCFA Life Force Program.
Get involved by hosting a free prostate cancer awareness presentation at your workplace or by supporting initiatives. Contact: 1800 22 00 99 | www.pcfa.org.au
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EVENTS
Young Builders Redefine Networking by Taking It Offline Introducing the Young Builders & Tradies Network
I
n a world where professional connections are made online, a new generation of builders and tradies is proving that the most valuable networks are still built face-to-face. This August, Master Builders Victoria (MBV) launched the Young Builders & Tradies Network (YBTN) with its inaugural event at the Master Builders Victoria Centre for Innovation and Collaboration (MBVCIC) at MBAV House in East Melbourne, bringing together emerging industry professionals from across the sector to connect, learn and build meaningful industry relationships.
The evening commenced with a welcome from MBV Head of Strategic Partnerships & Business Development Mike Barouche, who shared the vision for the network: creating a platform where young builders and tradies can connect with like-minded peers, share experiences and support one another as they navigate similar challenges and opportunities throughout their careers. Among the group were MBV President Steven Peluso, MBV Chief of Public Affairs Dr Corrie Williams, and MBV State Apprentice of the Year Hall of Fame alumni Perin Breakell, Sebastian Blacket, Hannah Dillimore and Oscar Cherry, whose stories and insights helped bring the purpose of the network to life. Throughout the evening, a recurring theme was the power of showing up. It was discussed how some of the industry's most valuable opportunities began with a simple conversation at a networking event. Stories were shared about first jobs that came from industry connections, and relationships formed early in careers that have since grown into trusted partnerships still valued today.
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Conversations also explored the challenges, setbacks and lessons learned along the way. The honest experiences shared offered practical insights and fresh perspectives, demonstrating how learning from others can help young professionals navigate similar situations, approach challenges with greater confidence and make more informed decisions throughout their careers.
Conversations extended beyond networking, with ideas flowing around the topics that matter most to young professionals entering the industry. From personal branding and communication skills to leadership, business development, innovation, workforce management and navigating the transition from tradesperson to business owner, there was a strong appetite for learning and professional growth.
EVENTS
2024 MBV State Apprentice of the Year Award winner Perin Breakell, 2025 MBV State Apprentice of the Year Award winner Sebastian Blacket, MBV President Steven Peluso, 2026 MBV State Apprentice of the Year Awards' Junior Trades Award winner Oscar Cherry, 2026 MBV State Apprentice of the Year Award winner Hannah Dillimore and MBV Chief of Public Affairs Dr Corrie Williams.
While the inaugural gathering brought together young builders and tradies in Melbourne, the vision for YBTN extends far beyond the city. As the network grows, so too does the opportunity to take these conversations on the road, connecting the next generation of industry professionals in regional communities across Victoria. This is just the beginning of something great. We are taking on board the feedback, ideas and insights shared by our first group of young builders and tradies to curate a future program of events centred on the themes and topics that will add real value to their careers.
Stay tuned to MBV's social media channels for more information on upcoming YBTN events as we continue to grow this exciting new network across Victoria. ARTICLE AUTHOR Nadisha Wickramathilake MBV Senior Communications Specialist
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Say yes to great service. Join thousands of other builders and trades who count on Dahlsens to get the job done. What great service looks like at Dahlsens: No surprises, no excuses Your trades keep working, not waiting Right quality, right price A supply partner you can rely on Our extensive network across Victoria, NSW and the ACT is committed to your success.
BUILDING MATERIALS | TRUSS & FRAME Explore the range, get a quote or find a store
28 | Master Builders Victoria Volume 86 Issue 03
Volume 86 Issue 03 Master Builders Victoria
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NEWS
State of the Industry It is Tough Out There
A
sk any builder what they think of the current environment, and you will get much the same answer. It is tough out there, and it is not easing off any time soon. Interest rates remain high enough to keep dampening building activity and squeezing the households that would otherwise be contracting new work. Rising fuel prices are adding further cost pressure through transport, freight and site logistics, on top of the material price volatility the sector has been absorbing for several years now. For many builders, the margin for error has simply disappeared. And yet at the same time, government at every level continues to push hard for more homes to be built. Housing supply targets remain ambitious, and the pressure on industry to deliver is not letting up just because the conditions have got harder. That gap, between what government is asking of builders and what the current economic climate allows them to deliver, is one of the defining tensions of this period.
In the last few months, we saw huge changes to Building Act 1993 and the Domestic Building Contracts Act 1995 that have been amended by: • Building Legislation (Buyer Protections) Act 2025 Building and Plumbing Administration and Enforcement Act 2026 • Building Legislation and Treasury Legislation (Tax Relief) Amendment Act 2026 • Consumer Legislation Amendment Act 2026 • (Statutory Insurance Scheme) Regulations 2026 • Building Amendment (Rectification Orders) Regulations 2026 • Building (Developer Bond) Regulations 2026 • Building (Statutory Insurance Scheme) Amendment Regulations 2026 As well as numerous notices and direction made under the Building Act 1993 and published in the Victorian Government Gazette.
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The amendments from this legislation mostly came into effect on 1 July 2026, and it was one of the biggest overhauls of builder financial oversight and enforcement in decades. The key changes on 1 July 2026, are Domestic Building Insurance has been replaced by the First Resort Home Warranty Scheme. Sitting alongside it is a new Minimum Financial Requirements and Maximum Construction Capacity framework, which sets firmer limits on how much work a builder can carry out relative to their financial position. At the same time, the Building and Plumbing Commission (BPC) were given increased enforcement powers. New Rectification Orders and expanded intervention powers mean the regulator can now intervene where building work is defective, incomplete or not complaint. For apartments, we also saw the introduction for a Building Manual as well a Notice of Intention to the BPC before applying for an Occupancy Permit. This gives the BPC time to identify and respond to potential building issues before the permit is issued.
NEWS direction, and the detail is now being worked out in consultation with industry. MBV is preparing a formal submission on the reform package, with a clear focus on making sure reform does not come at the cost of certainty. Planning delay is consistently one of the sharpest frustrations members raise with us, so if this reform genuinely shortens timeframes without eroding decision quality, it will be one of the more consequential wins of the year. In case you missed it, the BPC has released the Guide to Standards and Tolerances 2026 Edition, the reference document that shapes how workmanship disputes are assessed and resolved. It is worth building familiarity with the changes now, before they come up on site rather than after. Individually, each of these changes is significant. Together, they signal something bigger: a sector under closer scrutiny, held to a higher standard, and asked to build more, in conditions that are anything but easy.
Members can scan here to access detailed summaries of the reform via MBV’s website.
Together the reforms and layered on top of the cost pressures already squeezing builders, it adds up to a genuinely transformed and more challenging operating environment.
It is a welcome outcome, and one that gives the sector a genuine chance work with government to ensure this reform program can achieve results for both the consumer and the builder.
More oversight means more compliance, more paperwork, and more pressure on margins that were already thin. Master Builders Victoria’s (MBV) position has been consistent throughout, regulation should build consumer confidence in the sector, not add friction to it.
There is more still to come.
All of this reform is landing in the middle of a change of government, with a state election due on 28 November 2026. Victoria now has a new Premier in Ben Carroll, with Gabrielle Williams as Deputy Premier, and transitions like this always carry a degree of uncertainty for industry, all the more so with an election on the horizon. MBV together with industry partners, wrote jointly to government calling for continuity in the Housing and Building portfolio under Minister Nick Staikos. That call was successful, with Minister Staikos retained in the role.
With the change of premier, came the announcement of a Royal Commission. MBV has supported a Royal Commission into Victoria's construction sector and believes clear Terms of Reference that ensure systemic issues are uncovered will be essential. This includes everyone in the contract chain and external influencers. We need to get to the bottom of the criminal infiltration, and the systems that have allowed it to happen, to make sure it doesn't happen again. As the industry navigates this important process, MBV will continue representing the interests of our members, ensuring their voices are heard and the realities of our industry are reflected in policy and reform. Planning is the other front where members are watching closely. The Planning Amendment (Better Decisions Made Faster) Act 2026 has set the
Scan here to view the Guide to Standards and Tolerances 2026 Edition
MBV’s task is to make sure that scrutiny is matched by fairness, that reform is genuinely workable on the ground, and that members have a strong and informed voice in shaping what comes next.
For more information contact our MBV Policy Team on (03) 9411 4555
or scan here to e-mail us.
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Helping you do what you want to do next Development Strategy
finance and real estate expertise
Cash Flow Lending
money to take the pressure off
Property Finance
home and investment loans
F I N A N C I A L P R O S P E R I T Y STA R T S H E R E 1 3 0 0 7 2 1 63 1 h e l l o @ o w n m o n ey.co m . a u Search Financial Group Pty Ltd, ACN: 616352697 (Credit Representative Number 49594) is a Credit Representative of 86 Issue 03 Master Builders Victoria Mortgage Specialist Pty Ltd (Australian CreditVolume Licence Number 387025)
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OUTREACH & FUTURE SKILLS
Oscar Cherry Success is Better Shared
W
inning an Apprentice of the Year award is a significant achievement. It recognises hard work, dedication and the commitment it takes to build a successful career in the building and construction industry.
to be divided into packs and gifted to apprentices who could genuinely benefit from the support. Three recipients have now received the donated prize packs, with presentations taking place in Ballarat and at MBAV House in East Melbourne.
For Oscar Cherry, however, the award was never just about standing on stage or taking home the prizes. Instead, it became an opportunity to make a difference for others.
It is a gesture that says a great deal about the kind of tradesperson Oscar is becoming. The building and construction industry has always been about more than bricks, timber and tools. At its heart is a culture of looking out for one another, sharing knowledge and helping the next person succeed. Oscar's decision perfectly reflects those values.
After receiving his Apprentice of the Year prize pack, valued at almost $3,000 and including tools, equipment and an $800 clothing voucher, Oscar made a remarkable decision. Knowing he already had the equipment he needed, he chose to pass his prizes on to other deserving apprentices rather than keep them for himself. Working with Master Builders Victoria (MBV), Oscar arranged for the prizes
For many apprentices, quality tools and equipment can make a real difference when starting out in the industry. By choosing to share his success, Oscar has helped ease some of that burden and provided support to apprentices who may need it most.
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Scan here to read the Inside Construction article.
MBV pitched Oscar’s story to selected media outlets, knowing that Oscar's selfless gesture would resonate beyond the building and construction industry. The response was overwhelming. Oscar’s remarkable generosity and desire to help other apprentices were
OUTREACH & FUTURE SKILLS
Scan here to read the Ballarat Courier article. (paid subcription required)
captured in dozens of stories and interviews featured in multiple local and national media, including the Herald Sun, News.com.au, Realestate.com.au, The Good Builder, Inside Construction, several regional radio stations, and the front page of the Ballarat Courier. While the recognition has been significant, the attention to Oscar’s story serves as a reminder of the positive impact that simple acts of kindness can have. Acts of generosity like this often happen quietly and without expectation of recognition, but they deserve to be celebrated. They remind us that success is not measured solely by awards and achievements, but also by character, humility and the willingness to support others.
Congratulations to Oscar on his welldeserved achievements and thank you for reminding us all that, sometimes, success is even more meaningful when it is shared.
ARTICLE AUTHOR William Sullivan MBV Outreach & Future Skills Officer
CONTRIBUTOR Melody Horrill MBV Media and Industry Collaboration Manager
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BE PART OF THE MBV PRESIDENT’S PODCAST This podcast is about real conversations with the people shaping our industry. From hard-earned lessons to proud successes, we're sharing honest stories from across Victoria's building and construction sector. Have a story to share? Join us, let's talk about it.
e-mail: media@mbav.com.au
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OUT & ABOUT Andrew Branson
Warrick Stevens
R M Hermans
Anthony Sarra
15-year MBV member Andrew Branson celebrating his Member Milestone.
MBV Member Warrick Stevens from Gippsland celebrating 40 years of membership.
30-year MBV member Ross Hermans celebrating his Member Milestone.
MBV member Anthony Sarra celebrating 10 years of membership.
NM & JM Stockman Nominees Pty 5-year MBV member Nick Stockman celebrating his Member Milestone.
Todd Beasy Building
Josh Ewart Constructions
Bruce Lee Builders
MBV member Todd Beasy celebrating 10 years of membership.
10-year MBV member Josh Ewart celebrating his Member Milestone.
MBV CEO Michaela Lihou at the MBV Connect Mildura event with the team from Bruce Lee Builders, winners of the 2024 MBV Regional Residential Builder of the Year.
Bowens Hastings BBQ Breakfast
Bunnings Trade Expo 2026
MBV Victorian Member Engagement Manager Fraser Walker and MBV Business Development Manager Luke Dale caught up with members and prospective members over a BBQ breakfast at Bowens Hastings.
The MBV team met with members, contractors, suppliers and professionals from across the building and construction industry at the Bunnings Trade Expo 2026 at Melbourne Showgrounds.
Design. Build. Connect.
MBV and DeWALT Bayswater Bunnings In-Store Takeover
MBV Victorian Member Engagement Manager Fraser Walker attended the Home Innovations Centre Design. Build. Connect. Industry Expo and Networking Event, where MBV Chief of Public Affairs Dr Corrie Williams joined the expert Q&A panel.
MBV Victorian Member Engagement Manager Fraser Walker and MBV Business Development Manager Luke Dale caught up with members at the MBV and DeWALT Bayswater Bunnings In-Store Takeover.
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WITH MBV Clean Energy Centre MBV Member Engagement Manager Andrew Ross toured the Clean Energy Centre at TAFE Gippsland's Morwell campus with TAFE Gippsland Senior Business Partner - Emerging Industries & Trades Rhonda Noble and Apprenticeships Victoria Priority Apprenticeships Manager, Gippsland Bridget McGrath.
Golf Afternoon at the RACV Creswick Golf Course Ahead of the 2026 MBV Regional Building Awards – Western, MBV Member Engagement Manager – Western Peter Whyte hosted a golf afternoon at the RACV Creswick Golf Course. Peter was joined by Lee from Enso Homes; Nick, Beau and Brandon from NSL Building Group; Nathan and Alex from Plan Group; and Regional Building Awards MC Lehmo.
Hamilton Marino MBV Workplace Relations & Safety Manager Adrian Ziccone and MBV Membership Engagement Manager – Metro West Peter Gatt visited the team at Hamilton Marino at their Elysium Fields project in Docklands, meeting with Director Shaun O'Connell and Project Director Christopher Madden.
If you’d like to organise a site visit or have a chat with the MBV team, give us a call on (03) 9411 4555
or scan here to e-mail us.
Not a Master Builder?
Johnstaff Projects (Vic) Pty Ltd
RubiksCraft
MBV Membership Engagement Manager – Metro West Peter Gatt celebrating Johnstaff Projects’ 20-year MBV Member Milestone with Johnstaff Projects Principal Victoria and Board Member David Russo.
MBV Membership Engagement Manager – Metro West Peter Gatt visited Founder & Managing Director Martin Zhang and Director of Sales and Business Development Carl Jetter from RubiksCraft.
Join today and discover the many benefits and services that come with a Master Builders Victoria membership.
Volume 86 Issue 03 Master Builders Victoria
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TECHNICAL
Tech Talk External Paving
W
hen considering building and construction, most people tend to look at the building in isolation from other ancillary works that are important to the building’s functionality.
Key LHDS Factors
What’s important to recognise is that external works like the driveway or paving around the building can either compliment the building if the works are done well or become problematic where works are performed poorly.
• Ensure any step free access pathways do not have a cross fall greater than 1:40 (25mm over 1000mm)
Since the Livable Housing Design Standards (LHDS) requirements have been adopted through the National Construction Code (NCC), external site works can play a key compliance component for a new home to meet the performance requirements of the NCC and to obtain an Occupancy Permit.
What builders should consider: • Ensure plans are appropriately detailed to comply with the provisions of the NCC and LHDS
• The access pathway must have a minimum width of 1000mm • Any gates incorporated in the access pathway must have a minimum of 820mm clear opening • Ensure that any impermeable surfaces like concrete that leads to an external step free entrance has a minimum landing of 1200mm x 1200mm, a cross fall less than 1:40 and is weatherproofed by providing a channel drain • Any required access path that leads to an external entry doorway to the dwelling is step free • A car parking space connected to the access pathway must be 3200mm wide x 5400mm long with a gradient of 1:33 for bitumen, or 1:40 for any other surface material • A 1200mm x 1200mm landing must be incorporated into the access pathway so a required 1:14 gradient doesn’t exceed 9m or 1:20 gradient doesn’t exceed 15m
Important Obligations The person responsible for building work must comply with the approved plans that form part of the building permit documentation and where there is doubt, consult the relevant building surveyor. Builders engaged by an owner to carryout domestic building work that
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exceeds $10,000 must be a suitably registered building practitioner and enter into a major domestic building works contract. Should the cost of building work exceed $20,000, builders must obtain home warranty insurance.
TECHNICAL
Other Key Factors Builders are reminded to consider these additional factors prior to constructing pathways or driveways: • Remove any loose soil and vegetation before preparing a well compacted base using crushed rock or other suitable similar material • The NCC does not prescribe the design and construction requirements for concrete, however AS 3727.1 is a commonly referred to Australian Standard for the design and construction of concrete pavement for general domestic applications; when in doubt or the limitations of this standard cannot be met, consult a suitably registered engineer • Ensure the concrete is graded away from the existing dwelling so it doesn’t impact the buildings performance, also directed the falls away from the adjoining property and the street so as not to cause a nuisance (falls to a drainage pit connected to your storm water drainage system is a good option) • Ensure the slab is of an appropriate thickness to support either foot traffic or trafficable loads to support vehicles
If you have any technical queries, we encourage members to contact the MBV Technical and Building Regulations Team on (03) 9411 4555
or scan here to e-mail us.
• Refer to the NCC and Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) Housing Provisions for further site preparation requirements • Paving must be a minimum 75mm below any damp proof course, flashings or weepholes for brickwork and a minimum 50mm below any wall cladding
ARTICLE AUTHORS
• Ensure that any paving does not impede the performance of any termite management system
Damien O'Kearney MBV Technical Advisor
This information highlights a number of key areas that builders should consider when carrying out external paving works to a new home, it is general in nature and is not to substitute professional advice. For technical queries, members are encouraged to contact the MBV Technical and Building Regulations Team.
Always refer to the NCC and LHDS as the primary reference documents for compliance.
Tony Bugeja MBV Technical and Building Regulations Manager
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RUBIKSCRAFT AUSTRALIA EDITORIAL
RubiksCraft Australia Building Better, Together
W
hen Martin Zhang stepped away from his family's residential building business to establish RubiksCraft Australia, it wasn't because he believed traditional construction was broken. Quite the opposite. After spending years working in residential development and construction, he saw an opportunity to combine the strengths of conventional building with the certainty and efficiency of modern off-site manufacturing. His goal was never simply to build modular homes; it was to build better homes. That idea remains at the heart of RubiksCraft today. Based in Melbourne, RubiksCraft was founded with a simple belief: innovation should always be supported by good design, strong engineering and uncompromising compliance. Every project begins in Australia, where our architects, structural engineers, energy assessors, building surveyors and project managers work together to develop solutions that meet Australian Standards, the National Construction Code and local council requirements.
RubiksCraft Founder and Managing Director Martin Zhang.
For our team, compliance isn't a final checklist, it's the starting point of every design. RubiksCraft first entered the market by developing architecturally designed Small Second Dwellings, responding to the growing demand for flexible housing across Victoria. As the business has grown, so too has the scope of our work. Today we deliver everything from compact backyard studios
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and secondary dwellings to custom family homes and multi-dwelling developments, always applying the same commitment to thoughtful design and quality construction. What has made this journey rewarding isn't simply the buildings we've delivered, but the relationships we've built along the way. RubiksCraft has grown through the support of clients, consultants, builders, suppliers and
RUBIKSCRAFT AUSTRALIA EDITORIAL
industry professionals who share the belief that collaboration produces better outcomes than working in isolation. We see ourselves as part of Australia's building industry, not separate from it. Modular construction is not a replacement for traditional building; it is another way to solve familiar challenges, including housing affordability, build quality, labour shortages and project certainty. Achieving those outcomes requires close cooperation across the entire construction supply chain. As our team continues to grow, so does our commitment to research, product development and local innovation. We continue investing in Australian design capability, improving construction systems and refining our products to better suit local conditions and community needs. At RubiksCraft, we believe every home should be built with purpose, delivered with confidence and designed to stand the test of time.
Because in the end, we're not simply building modular homes, we're helping build stronger communities, one project at a time.
RubiksCraft Australia • Established:
2024 • Head Office & Showroom:
Burwood, Victoria • Specialisation:
Modular Homes, Small Second Dwellings, Custom Residential Projects • Services:
Design, Engineering Coordination, Project Management & Construction • Mission:
Innovative Spaces. Limitless Possibilities.
Scan here to see more from RubiksCraft.
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OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY
Safety in Construction Here’s What Our Members Had to Say
S
afety isn't just about compliance. It's about protecting workers and making sure everyone goes home safely at the end of the day. To better understand safety from a builder's perspective, we spoke with two experienced members about their jobs. They shared their pain points, how they share safety information and even what would make the industry better. Here’s what they told us.
1
What Is the Main Safety Challenge on Your Projects? As builders, we rely on subcontractors to work with us to maintain safe sites. One common challenge is ensuring that the right safety documentation, such as Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) for high risk construction work, is provided and understood before work begins. We also continue to see situations where workers are exposed to unnecessary risks, such as working from unsecured ladders or undertaking work at height without appropriate fall protection. In some cases this comes down to a lack of understanding. In others it is about reinforcing safe behaviours and expectations on site. Improving safety is a shared responsibility. By working closely with subcontractors, communicating expectations clearly and providing ongoing education and support, builders can help create safer outcomes for everyone involved.
2
What Do You Find Is the Main Safety Issue That You Talk to Subcontractors About Regularly?
Working at heights is one of the main issues. If someone has a fall, there can be some pretty serious consequences for the worker and even us as the builder. Another issue is contractors entering information into our digital safety platforms. We’ve often found incomplete documentation, and we need to follow up the contractor. It is something that we need to constantly check to ensure we have the correct documentation before work starts.
3
What Does Safety Consultation Look Like on Your Projects?
Our digital platform is one of the main ways we communicate about safety on our projects. When we have critical works occurring on a project, we share this via our platform and require our subcontractors to review and acknowledge it. Toolboxes are also a great way to communicate with workers. Sometimes we will just have a chat about a particular safety issue, like using the correct personal protective equipment (PPE). It helps reinforce that we take safety seriously.
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4
What Tips Would You Give Other Businesses to Help Manage Safety on Their Sites? Be proactive in your approach to safety, it’s a big part of the building and construction industry and everybody has a stake in it! Even the apprentices. If there is an issue on a project or questions being asked that you can’t answer, reach out, talk to your colleagues and professionals. Industry bodies like the Master Builders Victoria (MBV) can help and support you with the right advice and services that assist you in reaching the safest possible outcome.
5
What Is Something That Could Change in Industry That Would Lead to Safer Construction Sites?
Getting the word out that safety is everyone’s responsibility. Further education and free training would also go a long way.
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY
So, How Can You Improve Safety in Your Workplace? Here are some practical things that members can do to improve safety:
Enrol in the Essentials Program - a free Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) program provided through MBV that helps small and medium business improve workplace safety.
Attend, rewatch, or share safety webinars: WorkSafe Victoria and MBV run them periodically on safety topics.
Review the WorkSafe Victoria pocket guide, compliance codes and industry standards to better understand how to perform work safely.
Whether you're struggling with SWMS, managing subcontractor compliance, or dealing with a site safety concern, getting the right advice early can save time, reduce risk and avoid delays to your projects.
The MBV OHS Team provides practical support to help members understand their obligations and improve safety outcomes. Contact our team on (03) 9411 4555 or scan here to e-mail us.
ARTICLE AUTHOR Rod Armstrong MBV OHS Advisor
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COMPLETE LEADERSHIP. COMPLETE SOLUTIONS. SCAN TO BOOK AN ONSITE DEMONSTRATION TODAY 46 | Master Builders Victoria Volume 86 Issue 03
SUSTAINABILITY
Mandatory Climate Related Financial Disclosure A ustralia has introduced mandatory Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) reporting requirements for large corporations and asset managers, requiring them to make climate-related financial disclosures in their annual reports. This legislation, effective from 1 July 2024, aims to improve transparency and accountability in climate-related financial reporting. Mandatory climate-related financial disclosures, a key aspect of ESG reporting, are now mandatory for many large Australian businesses and financial institutions after the introduction of the Treasury Laws Amendment (Financial Market Infrastructure and Other Measures) Act 2024 (Act). Large (Group 1) companies were required to lodge an annual sustainability report with Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) from 1 January 2025 (ASIC 2025) and smaller (Group 2) companies from 1 July 2026. Group 3 companies will need to start reporting from 1 July 2027. The table defines Group 1, 2 and 3 companies.
ESG reporting is the process of disclosing an organisation's activities and risks related to ESG factors. It aims to provide stakeholders with information about how a company is performing in these areas, helping them assess its sustainability and ethical impact. ESG reporting is increasingly important as investors, consumers, and other stakeholders place greater emphasis on a company's non-financial performance. Examples of ESG Reporting include: • Environmental: Reporting on greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, waste management, and resource efficiency • Social: Reporting on labour practices, community engagement, diversity and inclusion, and human rights • Governance: Reporting on board structure, executive compensation, ethics and compliance, and shareholder rights
Who Needs to Report? The Act requires relevant entities to disclose their climate-related plans, financial risks and opportunities, in accordance with Australian Sustainability Reporting Standards (ASRS) made by the Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB S2). Relevant entities include those required to lodge financial reports under Chapter 2M of the Corporations Act 2001 and fall within one or more of the sustainability reporting thresholds in section 292A of the Corporations Act (ASIC 2025). Entities that are not required to prepare a sustainability report or keep sustainability records include: • Foreign companies registered under Div 2 of Pt 5B.2 and entities incorporated in a foreign jurisdiction • Small proprietary companies with no Ch 2M reporting obligations • Other entities that are not subject to Ch 2M, such as registered charities • Entities that have obtained relief from the requirement to prepare an annual financial report for the relevant financial year (ASIC 2025)
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SUSTAINABILITY When Do I Need to Start Reporting? Commencement Date
Relevant Thresholds
1 January 2025 to 30 June 2026 (Group 1)
Entities, other than registered schemes, registrable superannuation entities (RSEs) or retail Corporate Collective Investment Vehicles (CCIVs) that meet at least two of the following three criteria: • The consolidated revenue of the entity (and the entities it controls) is equal to or greater than $500 million • The value of the consolidated gross assets at the end of the financial year of the entity (and the entities it controls) is equal to or greater than $1 billion • The entity (and the entities it controls) has, at the end of the financial year, 500 or more employees Entities, other than registered schemes, RSEs or retail CCIVs, that: • Are registered corporations under the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (NGER) Act or are required to make an application to be registered under s12(1) of the NGER Act • Are a member of a group (as defined in s8 of the NGER Act) that meets, for a financial year, the threshold in s13(1)(a) of the NGER Act
1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027 (Group 2)
Entities that meet at least two of the following three criteria: • The consolidated revenue of the entity (and the entities it controls) is equal to or greater than $200 million • The value of the consolidated gross assets at the end of the financial year of the entity (and the entities it controls) is equal to or greater than $500 million • The entity (and the entities it controls) has, at the end of the financial year, 250 or more employees Entities that are registered corporations under the NGER Act or are required to make an application to be registered under s12(1) of the NGER Act. Registered schemes, RSEs and retail CCIVs where the value of assets at the end of the financial year of the entity (and the entities it controls) is equal to or greater than $5 billion. Note: For retail CCIVs, the $5 billion threshold applies to the whole CCIV (i.e. the sum of the value of assets at the end of the financial year of all sub-funds).
From 1 July 2027 (Group 3)
Entities, including registered schemes, RSEs or retail CCIVs, which meet at least two of the following three criteria: • The consolidated revenue of the entity (and the entities it controls) is equal to or greater than $50 million • The value of the consolidated gross assets at the end of the financial year of the entity (and the entities it controls) is equal to or greater than $25 million • The entity (and the entities it controls) has, at the end of the financial year, 100 or more employees
Note: The Federal Government’s 2026 Budget has flagged a range of measures aimed at improving productivity and reducing regulatory burden. Some of these relate to financial and sustainability reporting which if enacted, will reduce reporting obligations for a wide range of Australian entities. Among the most significant measures are proposed increases to the size of companies that will need to report and reforms to simplify reporting requirements for corporate groups. Other proposed changes include clarifying the information required from suppliers.
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SUSTAINABILITY
Report Content Under the Corporations Act and AASB S2, reporting entities are required to disclose their absolute gross Scope 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, including financed emissions generated during the reporting period. Financed emissions include those associated with loans, investments and insurance underwriting. They typically cover Scope 1 and 2 emissions of borrowers or investees and are calculated using the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF). There is some understanding that at least in the initial stages it may be difficult to obtain the required information. AASB S2 requires a reporting entity ‘to use all reasonable
and supportable information that is available to the entity at the reporting date without undue cost or effort when the entity selects the measurement approach, inputs and assumptions it uses in measuring Scope 3 GHG emissions’: see paragraph B39 of Appendix B of AASB S2 and regulatory guide (RG) 280.108(a).’ Reporting entities have transition relief from the requirement to disclose Scope 3 GHG emissions and comparative information in the first annual reporting period in which they apply AASB S2: see paragraphs C3 and C4(b) of Appendix C of AASB S2. There are also proportionality mechanisms and exceptions under AASB S2 (ASIC 2025).
Greenhouse Gas Emissions – Scope 1, 2 and 3 Measured using the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHGP) unless required by an Australian authority to use another specific method. This can include methods in the NGER Scheme.
Scope 1 Emissions These are direct greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from sources owned or controlled by the business or entity. This includes emissions generated on-site through fuel combustion from machinery, generators, or the vehicle fleet operated by the business. They can also include emissions from processes such as refrigeration, heating systems, decomposition of vegetation, on-site welding, or asphalt paving operations. Examples include: • Burning natural gas for cooking, hot water or industrial processes • Refrigerant leakage from air conditioning equipment • Combustion of petrol or diesel in engines or generators • Cleared vegetation being burnt off or allowed to rot into compost
Scope 2 Emissions These are indirect emissions from purchased energy from the power grid.
Overview of GHG Protocol scopes and emissions across the value chain Source: World Resources Institute (2011)
Scope 3 Emissions These emissions often represent a significant portion of a company’s total carbon footprint and are the most complex. They are indirect, meaning they are not directly generated by the company's operations but are a result of activities in its value chain and produced goods and services. Value Chain emissions include emissions from suppliers and service providers,
transportation, product use, disposal and other activities outside the company's direct control. Scope 3 emissions can be categorised as either upstream or downstream. Upstream emissions from suppliers include the extraction, transportation of raw materials and production and employee commuting.
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SUSTAINABILITY Downstream emissions include those from product use, disposal and end-of-life treatment. Examples include embodied carbon of materials supplied or used, commuting associated with product and service delivery. The GHG Protocol (World Resources Institute 2011) identifies 15 categories of Scope 3 emissions to help companies systematically assess and report their value chain emissions. Detailed descriptions of the Scope 3 categories and the boundaries of the emissions to be considered can be found in the World Resources Institute (2013), Technical Guidance for Calculating Scope 3 Emissions.
Source: World Resources Institute (2011)
Useful Resources
1
he National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS) T Embodied Carbon rating tool enables eligible new buildings and partial rebuilds to measure, verify, and compare their upfront embodied carbon with similar buildings. The tool provides a certified measure of carbon intensity, incorporating material, transport and construction emissions.
2
nder the NGER Scheme, Scope 3 emissions are not reportable. However, U the National Greenhouse Accounts (NGA) Factors can be used to calculate an estimate of Scope 3 emissions.
3
ational Emission Factors Database is a new standard for building product N emission factors in Australia. The database is integrated into the NABERS Embodied Carbon rating tool and can be used independently when measuring embodied carbon. It will serve as a reliable resource for emission factors where product-specific Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) are unavailable.
The information contained in this briefing is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice.
For more information contact MBV Senior Advisor, Future Built Environment Dr Philip Alviano on (03) 9411 4555 or scan here to e-mail.
ARTICLE AUTHOR Scan here
Scan here
to view the NABERS emissions website.
to learn more about the NGA Factors.
Dr Philip Alviano MBV Senior Advisor, Future Built Environment
References Australian Securities and Investments Commission (2025), Regulatory Guide 280 – Sustainability Reporting, https://download.asic.gov.au/media/j4rhwyiz/rg280-published-31-march-2025.pdf Department of Finance (2025), Emissions Reporting Framework, Commonwealth of Australia, https://www.finance.gov.au/sites/default/files/2026-06/emissions-reporting-framework-2025-2026.pdf World Resources Institute (2013), Greenhouse Gas Protocol, Technical Guidance for Calculating Scope 3 Emissions, https://ghgprotocol.org/sites/default/files/2023-03/Scope3_Calculation_Guidance_0%5B1%5D.pdf World Resources Institute (2011), Greenhouse Gas Protocol Corporate Value Chain (Scope 3) Accounting and Reporting Standard, https://ghgprotocol.org/sites/default/files/standards/Corporate-Value-Chain-Accounting-Reporing-Standard_041613_2.pdf KPMG (2025), Australian Sustainability Reporting Legislation and Standards Finalised, https://mbav.sharepoint.com/:b:/s/CICSite/EW6rALb0yg9PhVusVzzRkQkByOlkfT2HPJujSKy1vi4N5w?e=GsgWvC
50 | Master Builders Victoria Volume 86 Issue 03
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XACT ACCOUNTING EDITORIAL
Why Are Victoria's Builders More Exposed to the Trust Tax? A ustralia is working through the widest ranging changes to its tax system since the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST). Whilst the recently passed legislation regarding Negative Gearing and Capital Gains Tax (CGT) will affect many Victorian builders, the biggest impact for many will come from the proposed changes to family trusts. Following is a breakdown of each specific change and how this will impact you.
The answer is not to restructure now. It is to start working out what this means for your structure.
Capital Gains Tax Is Law
Capital gains tax is the first of the two changes already law. It passed on 25 June 2026 and takes effect from 1 July 2027. Every CGT asset held on 30 June 2027 is treated as though it was sold and bought back that day. Any increase in the asset's value up to that date keeps the current treatment, including the 50% discount. From that date on, only the increase above inflation is taxable, and a minimum rate of 30% applies to it.
The work this creates is record keeping, not restructuring. It is about knowing what you own, when you acquired it, and what you paid. Small businesses do get one concession out of this. When you sell an asset used in the business, the small business 50% active asset reduction halves the taxable gain, and from 1 July 2027 the turnover threshold to qualify lifts from $2 million to $10 million. A lot of construction businesses will be inside it for the first time.
Negative Gearing Is Law Also from 1 July 2027, negative gearing is restricted to new builds. Anything owned at 7:30pm on 12 May 2026 is grandfathered and continues under the current rules. The definition
52 | Master Builders Victoria Volume 86 Issue 03
of a new dwelling is still being settled in separate rules, with the window for a property to count as new recently extended in an exposure draft. Treat that detail as still moving.
XACT ACCOUNTING EDITORIAL Then there is the cost. The rollover relief runs for three years from 1 July 2027 and covers income tax and capital gains tax. It does not cover stamp duty, which is a state tax the Commonwealth cannot switch off. In Victoria the exposure on property and vehicles is material and not recoverable. Add accounting and legal advice, a new Building and Plumbing Commission (BPC) registration, finance and lease consents, and the owner's time. Note carefully, with the new changes around financial requirements and eligibility from BPC, effective from 1 July 2026, many registered builders were grandfathered. However, with the proposed trust changes, you may essentially be forced to get a new registration. So, you then fall immediately under the new BPC rules. A double hit.
What to Do Between Now and Then The answer is not to restructure now. It is to start working out what this means for your structure, so that if a change is warranted you are not making it in a hurry.
Discretionary Trusts Are the One to Watch
Why Victoria Feels This Harder
The proposed 30% minimum tax on discretionary trusts is not law. There is no bill, and the proposed start date is 1 July 2028.
Builder Registration shapes structure. In states like Queensland,Minimum Financial Requirements (MFR) mean the registered building entity is rarely a trust, so the trust usually sits in the asset holding or income splitting part of the group.
Based on what has been announced so far, we understand that trustees will pay a minimum of 30% on the trust's taxable income, and that individuals who receive distributions will get a nonrefundable offset for the tax the trustee has already paid. Two aspects of the design are worth understanding. The first is that where a beneficiary's own marginal rate sits below 30%, the difference is not refunded to them, it is simply lost. The second is that a corporate beneficiary gets no offset at all, so the same income is taxed once in the trust and then again in the company, and on our modelling that pushes the effective rate on profit retained through a bucket company beyond 57%.
The first step is knowing which entities in your group distribute income and to whom. From there, work out how much of your current position depends on distributions to lower income family members or to a bucket company. Keep the wage option in mind for family members who genuinely work in the business. Beyond that, the legislation needs to pass and the full design needs to be known before anyone can say what the best structure for you looks like.
Victoria has worked differently, and a significant number of builders and trade contractors here trade through the trust itself. That changes the nature of the decision. Restructuring means replacing the entity that holds the registration, signs the contracts, carries the insurance and owes the statutory warranties. That means a new registration, a fresh eligibility assessment, contracts novated with client consent, and a trading history starting from zero. Home warranty eligibility is where that matters most.
ARTICLE AUTHOR Joshua Robertson Xact Accounting Partner and Client Director
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EMPLOYMENT & INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS
Five Options to Consider Before Making Someone Redundant R edundancies are expensive notice, severance and accrued entitlements are only the direct costs. You also lose good workers and may even end up paying to recruit and train new employees when the work returns.
While redundancy is sometimes unavoidable, there may be alternatives to consider. An open conversation with your employees can help identify practical solutions before making the decision to proceed with redundancy.
Here Are Some Potential Options to Consider: 1 Contractor and labour hire
hours - If you engage contractors or labour hire workers, reducing their hours should be the first option as it does not impact your permanent employees.
2 Annual leave or long service
leave - Reach an agreement with an employee, or a group of employees, to take accrued annual leave or long service leave during a quiet period. Always record this in writing.
3 Period of unpaid leave - If work is
expected to pick up at a later date, some employees may agree to take a short period of unpaid leave. Again, keep a record of this in writing.
4 Temporarily reduced working
hours - Employees may agree to temporarily reduce their working hours if work will pick up at a later date. This will vary their employment contact, so it is important to record this in writing, including stating the start and end dates. You should also be upfront about how the period affects the accrual of entitlements and continuity of service.
5 Voluntary Redundancy - If
positions do need to be made redundant, offering voluntary redundancies first can mean nobody leaves unwillingly.
Keep any alternative temporary. Set a rough time limit - it is not good practice to string employees along indefinitely.
54 | Master Builders Victoria Volume 86 Issue 03
EMPLOYMENT & INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS Next, Have the Conversation with the Employee/s Employees who understand the situation will generally work better with you in finding a solution. One approach is to explain the situation at a toolbox talk, and then follow up with employees individually and in writing. Being transparent early also makes the formal consultation process smoother if redundancies do become necessary.
We can help The MBV Employment and Industrial Relations (EIR) Team assists countless members who face a downturn in work. We can provide practical advice, help calculate entitlements, have best practice redundancy guides and various letter templates you need for this process.
If Redundancy Is Unavoidable • Consult before you implement You are generally required to notify affected employees once a definite decision on major change is made and to genuinely consider their input before you act. Getting this process wrong is a reason some redundancies are later found not to be genuine. • Check notice requirements and redundancy pay carefully - For example, clause 41 of the Building and Construction General On-site Award 2020 (Building Award) sets an industry-specific redundancy scheme that replaces the National Employment Standards (NES)
provisions. Under the Building Award, there is also no small business exemption from redundancy severance pay. • Make sure it is genuine - Under the Fair Work Act, the job must no longer be required, consultation obligations must have been met, and there must be no reasonable prospect of redeployment - including within associated entities. Getting the process wrong risks a potential unfair dismissal claim on the basis of a non-genuine redundancy. This creates headaches for businesses and often comes at an additional financial cost.
If you’re considering redundancies, you can contact our EIR Team on (03) 9411 4555
or scan here to e-mail us.
ARTICLE AUTHOR Bill Huang MBV Graduate Employment & Industrial Relations Advisor
Sponsor Spotlight
Business House Group (BHG) is a specialist business coaching and advisory firm helping builders and construction business owners build stronger, more profitable and sustainable businesses. We understand that growing a construction business is not simply about winning more work. It is about protecting margins, strengthening cash flow, building the right team, implementing effective systems and creating a business that does not rely on the owner to solve every problem. BHG works with construction businesses from startups to $40 million in revenue, providing practical, commercially focused guidance across financial management, profitability, leadership, systems, team performance, and sustainable growth.
Our focus is simple: to help good builders become great business owners - with more control, stronger profits and a business built to perform beyond them.
Scan here to visit the BHG website.
Contact: 1300 839 733 | businesshousegroup.com.au
Volume 86 Issue 03 Master Builders Victoria
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LEGAL
MBV EDocs: Tricks & Tips 3 S ince its launch, the Master Builders Victoria (MBV) eDocs system has been a welcome resource for our members. eDocs is a one-stop shop for the creation and signing of your building contracts and associated documents.
Throughout the article below, we have set out some tricks and tips to ensure you are getting the most of the system and make it work for your business.
1
Do not purchase the contract until you are sure details have been entered correctly. The eDocs system allows users to peruse all contracts at your leisure without purchasing them to do so. Certain items of the appendix will become locked upon purchase, preventing any edits beyond this point. For this reason, users should ensure that builders name, land on which works are being completed, and owner’s details are all correct and confirmed before you proceed with purchase.
2
Keep the contract in draft stage until all details have been completely finalised.
Sharing a draft version of the contract with your clients is as easy as copying a link or e-mailing them a downloadable copy via e-mail. This will allow your clients to read the contract and confirm details prior to signing. Users are encouraged to use this opportunity to finalise finer details and answer any questions your clients might have about the project. You are easily able to return to the draft at any time to make any necessary changes.
You can easily download a copy of your draft contract at any time.
Simply utilise the ‘Print’ function whilst accessing any of your contracts. This will provide you with a PDF version of your document so that you can review with ease. This is particularly useful when you are becoming familiar with the contract terms and clauses as it allows users to read the contract as a whole.
4
If you have multiple owners, ensure you add them as signatories when proceeding to signing stage. In instances in which you have multiple owners, the system will take the first name only and populate the signatory details. You must manually add the additional signatories whilst in the ‘preparing for signing’ stage. Ensure each individual signatory has an individual e-mail address listed here. This will ensure that all owners will be sent a copy of the contract to sign.
5
Once a contract has been signed by all parties it is a binding legal document.
Once signed, all parties are bound to the obligations as set out in the contract. Changing the terms of the contract is not as easy as ‘reverting to draft stage’. You will need advice as to the legal avenues which are available to you. This is why we always encourage that contracts remain in draft until you are absolutely sure you are ready to sign.
56 | Master Builders Victoria Volume 86 Issue 03
6
The eDocs system is not a long-term storage facility.
You should be downloading and saving all your contracts to your internal systems. The eDocs platform is not designed to save your contracts for an indefinite period, in fact, contracts are automatically moved from your dashboard to ‘Deleted Documents’ after 180 days of inactivity. After a further 180 days, the documents will be permanently removed from the system. For further assistance with utilising the eDocs system, be sure to check out the series of Help Videos. The link to these can found at the very bottom of your eDocs dashboard.
Disclaimer Finally, remember that any contract, whether it be a hard copy or an eDocs version, is a legal document. If you are unsure as to your obligations or require any legal advice, we encourage our members to contact the MBV Legal Team on 03 9411 4555 or scan here to e-mail us.
“We wanted to get involved with BCNA’s Pink Tradie campaign as my mum has had breast cancer twice and I had a preventative double mastectomy.” – Pink Tradie Ambassador Sarah-Jane Calleja with husband Tom.
HOST A PINK TRADIE BBQ OR SHOP NEW PINK TRADIE GEAR TO SUPPORT BREAST CANCER NETWORK AUSTRALIA (BCNA) BCNA’s Pink Tradie campaign encourages tradies to pink up at work, host a fundraising event and start a conversation with their workmates about breast cancer. You can get involved and host a BCNA Pink Tradie BBQ or purchase merchandise to help BCNA continue to provide information and support to all Australians affected by breast cancer. Scan the Qr Code below to find out more.
Need assistance? Call our Helpline on 1800 500 258 or visit bcna.org.au Volume 86 Issue 03 Master Builders Victoria
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PROSTATE CANCER FOUNDATION AUSTRALIA EDITORIAL
Get Active in the Fight Against Prostate Cancer T he building and construction industry is built on teamwork, looking after your mates and having each other's backs. This September, during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, Master Builders Victoria (MBV) members have an opportunity to make a real difference by helping raise awareness of Australia's most commonly diagnosed cancer.
Every day, 79 Australian men are diagnosed with prostate cancer, and more than 4,000 men will lose their lives to the disease this year. Yet when prostate cancer is detected early, the five-year relative survival rate is nearly 100%. Encouraging men to understand their risk and have informed conversations with their GP can save lives. MBV Business Development Manager Luke Dale said building and construction workplaces are ideally placed to start those important conversations. “Prostate Cancer Foundation Australia’s (PCFA) Life Force presentation is a powerful reminder that a simple conversation can make a difference. The information shared about prostate cancer and early detection could help someone take action for themselves, a family member, friend or colleague, and that’s why our partnership is so important."
A 15-minute Life Force presentation could be the conversation that encourages someone in your workplace to book a PSA blood test. That's how we save lives. – MBV Business Development Manager Luke Dale
There are plenty of ways your workplace can get involved this September. Host a free Life Force prostate cancer awareness presentation for your team, either in person or online, light up your office or building site in blue, or take part in The Long Run by walking, running or riding to raise funds and awareness. Whether it's a toolbox talk, morning tea or workplace challenge, every action helps start important conversations.
– MBV Business Development Manager Luke Dale
Scan here to get involved with the PCFA Life Force Program.
58 | Master Builders Victoria Volume 86 Issue 03
Scan here to learn more about fundraising.
PCFA's Life Force presentations provide practical information about prostate cancer risk, early detection, ProstateSpecific Antigen (PSA) testing and the support available to men and their families. They're an ideal addition to a safety meeting, toolbox talk or workplace wellbeing program. This September, let's stand together and help create a building and construction industry where talking about prostate cancer is as important as talking about safety on site.
JOIN THE FIGHT FOR ZERO DEATHS Run, walk or ride 72km for men with prostate cancer this September. Help love go the distance against Australia's leading cause of cancer.
TAKE ACTION FOR PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
SIGN UP NOW thelongrun.org.au
#thelongrun
1800 22 00 99
If you or your loved ones have been impacted by prostate cancer, contact PCFA for support today.
Volume 86 Issue 03 Master Builders Victoria
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TRAINING
Site Management Training Program at Master Builders Victoria Not All Training Programs Are Created Equal
W
e have had lots of discussions lately with members who are trying to decide what to do next with keeping staff during a period of uncertainty and how to operate a bit more efficiently.
You told us you couldn’t afford staff to be locked up in training for weeks at a time, so we created a course with six one-day modules over the course of a year.
While regulations are changing, finance is getting more complicated and approvals seem to get slower, there are a few things we can control, and that means getting your emerging leaders ready to step up and move projects along as efficiently as possible.
You told us that the lessons needed to be relevant, so that your staff would come back with skills that would enable them to contribute more, so we made sure each module was stand-alone, but linked to the overall course, equipping the people you want to work as site leaders with the skills they need most.
Which is exactly why we created the Site Management Training Program at Master Builders Victoria (MBV).
You told us that a day on textbooks or watching videos wasn’t much use to your staff, and we agreed.
60 | Master Builders Victoria Volume 86 Issue 03
The Site Management Training Program consists of six one or half-day modules over the course of the year, not enough to change the whole world, but certainly capable of changing your company’s site management capacity for the future.
TRAINING The Course Consists of Modules in: • Leadership Essentials • Time and Priority Management • Conflict Management and How to Have Difficult Conversations • Right of Entry Industrial Relations • Asbestos Awareness for Site Supervisors (Half-Day) • An Introduction to Using Microsoft Project (Half-Day) • An OHS Refresher
This program has become one of the most popular courses offered by MBV this year, as word of mouth spreads, and organisations see employees return to the workplace equipped with new skills to help them manage sites more efficiently.
Scan here for the MBV Site Management Training Program overview.
For more information about the next intake, contact the MBV Training Team at (03) 9411 4555
or scan here to e-mail us.
ORBITHOMES.COM.AU ORBIT HOMES AUSTRALIA PTY LTD • CDB-U 50505.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO VIEW OUR DISPLAY LOCATIONS OR MAKE AN ENQUIRY TODAY
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TRUSTED INDUSTRY SUPPLIER DIRECTORY ABPA
Apprenticeship Victoria
www.abpavic.org.au
www.apprenticeships.vic.gov.au
Trista Gu
Sangeeta Alex
E: info@abpavic.org.au
E: sangeeta.alex@ecodev.vic.gov.au
Archmap
BlueScope Steel / Colorbond
archmap.com.au
www.bluescope.com
Adele Selby
Julia Farrah
E: adele@archmap.com.au
E: julia.farrah@bluescopesteel.com
BONDOR Insulated Panels
Bosch Power Tools
bondor.com.au
www.bosch.com.au
Darryl Stephenson
Ranika Nand
E: darryl.stephenson@bondor.com.au
E: ranika.nand@au.bosch.com
Breast Cancer Network
Building and Plumbing Commission
www.bcna.org.au
Melissa Moyle E: mmoyle@bcna.org.au
www.bpc.vic.gov.au
Sally Locke E: sally.locke@bpc.vic.gov.au
Bunnings Trade
BYD
trade.bunnings.com.au
www.byd.com/au
Mark Phillips
Terry Corcoran
E: miphillips@bunnings.com.au
E: terence.corcoran@byd.com
Cbus Super
CR Kennedy
www.cbussuper.com.au
www.crkennedy.com.au
Meagan Ketkas
Bernie Edmonds
E: meagan.ketkas@cbussuper.com.au
E: bedmonds@crkennedy.com.au
Dahlsens
DECO
www.dahlsens.com.au
deco.net.au
Megan Rothwell-Jones
Kristen Sherlock
E: megan.rothwelljones@dahlsens.com.au
E: kristen@deco.net.au
62 | Master Builders Victoria Volume 86 Issue 03
TRUSTED INDUSTRY SUPPLIER DIRECTORY Dincel
Dell Technologies
www.dincel.com.au
www.dell.com
Anna Karas
Bruno Mazza
E: anna.karas@dincel.com.au
E: bruno.mazza@dell.com
ELWD Workwear
Foundation Technologies Australia
elwd.com.au
Lawrie Pigot E: lpigot@altabrands.com.au
www.foundationtechnologies.com.au
Steve Hassett E: steve@foundationtechnologies.com.au
HazardCo
Incolink
www.hazardco.com/au
incolink.org.au
Kenan Mamich
Tara Maree Lynch
E: kenan@hazardco.com
E: Tara-MareeL@incolink.org.au
Stanley Black & Decker / Irwin Tools / Dewalt
Kinaway
www.stanleyblackanddecker.com
Jo Konstandinou
www.kinaway.com.au
Alex Martins E: alexm@kinaway.com.au
E: Jo.Konstandinou@sbdinc.com
Master Builders Insurance Brokers www.mbib.com.au
James Lording
Midea www.midea.com/au
Mina Su E: marketing@mdhome.com.au
E: jlording@mbib.com.au
Milwaukee
Oracle NetSuite
www.milwaukeetool.com.au
www.netsuite.com.au
Joden Crothers
Tania Large
E: joden.crothers@milwaukeetools.com.au
E: tania.large@oracle.com
Own Money
Panasonic HVAC Group
www.ownmoney.com.au
www.panasonic.com/au/hvac/user-top/ residential.html
Rory Sercombe E: rory@ownmoney.com.au
Michael Tate E: michael.tate@au.panasonic.com
Volume 86 Issue 03 Master Builders Victoria
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TRUSTED INDUSTRY SUPPLIER DIRECTORY Rapid QS
Steel Blue Boots
rapidqs.com/au
steelblue.com/au
Jamie Henderson
Michael Rennison
E: jamie@rapidqs.com
E: michael.rennison@steelblue.com.au
Structerre Consulting
Total Tools
structerre.com.au
www.totaltools.com.au
Mathanki Aru
Leah Asaad
E: mathanki.aru@structerre.com.au
E: l.asaad@totaltools.com.au
Ultimate Windows
Valley Windows
ultimatewindows.com.au
www.valleywindows.com.au
Gary Smith E: bdmvic@ultimatewindows.com.au
E: garys@valleywindows.com.au
Vista Print
WorkSafe VIC
www.vistaprint.com.au
www.worksafe.vic.gov.au
Marissah Oakley
Josh Orr
E: marissah.oakley@vista.com
E: communitysponsorship@worksafe.vic.gov.au
Xact Accounting
Zingly
xactaccounting.com.au
zingly.com.au
Phil Brown
Vivek Singh
E: phil@xactaccounting.com.au
E: admin@zingly.com.au
Looking to Feature Your Brand in Our Magazine? As a sponsor, we offer multiple sponsorship and partner advertising options, as well as providing a platform and advertising opportunities for your business. For more information, e-mail sponsorship@mbav.com.au and see how we can best promote your company in the Master Builders Victoria Magazine.
64 | Master Builders Victoria Volume 86 Issue 03
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Volume 86 Issue 03 Master Builders Victoria
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