McGowan cabinet changes - 10 January 2019
The Premier has made some significant changes to his cabinet with Attorney General John Quigley securing the Commerce portfolio, which will take ownership of the review into security of payments. Bill Johnston received Energy from Ben Wyatt, who secured Lands. Rita Saffioti will now have a heightened focus on delivering Metronet and implementing planning reform across the state.
Funding boost for housing services - 10 January 2019
West Australian housing and homelessness services will be strengthened through a new deal that will deliver approximately $830 million in Commonwealth funding over five years. The Federal Government and West Australian Government signed a National Housing and Homelessness Agreement in December. It will help to provide for crisis and transitional accommodation, long term social housing, maintenance of social housing, builds and acquisitions.
New President - 13 December
Congratulations to Jason Kunkler from Pact Construction who was voted in as Master Builders 56th President at this week’s Board meeting. We look forward to working with Jason during his term as President.
Fiocco’s radical payment plans - 13 December
Tuesday’s Fiocco Report recommends revolutionary industry changes including overhauling security of payment laws and introducing construction trusts. Master Builders backs fair payment but is disappointed that equally effective, even-handed amendments to the Construction Contracts Act were ignored.
Ministerial reshuffle - 13 December
The Premier has today announced changes to his Cabinet. Of relevance to members, Commerce (which includes security of payment) goes to John Quigley; Rita Saffioti has responsibility for delivering Metronet and planning reform and the lands portfolio goes to Ben Wyatt. Master Builders is seeking to meet with each of these Ministers in the new year.
Government expands use of project bank accounts - 6 December
The WA Government this week announced it will expand the use of project bank accounts on government construction projects. Master Builders has responded with our key messages that everyone deserves to be paid what’s due and on time but project bank accounts will increase building costs and don’t protect all subbies and workers.
Master Builders Board - 6 December
The last monthly Board meeting for the year will be held on Tuesday. Topics for discussion include office-bearer elections, pre-Budget submissions, a finance broker alliance partner, ethics, rules changes and plans for 2019.
