Archives

Underage Workers

The current and on-going labour shortages have given rise to some unexpected risks for employers, including those in the building industry, in employing young employees. The Children and Community Services Act prohibits an employer from employing a young person under 15 years of age save for certain limited occupations such as working in delivering local […]

Union Right of Entry

This Fact Sheet provides information about the right of entry requirements in the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) (FW Act). Right of entry permits The right of entry provisions in the FW Act allow union officials who hold valid entry permits to enter employers’ businesses for certain purposes. Union officials can apply to Fair Work […]

Unfair Dismissal

The Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) (FW Act) increases the protection for employees who have been unfairly dismissed. Who can make an unfair dismissal claim? A person can make an unfair dismissal claim if they have: completed the minimum employment period; and are covered by a modern award (or award-based transitional instrument) or an enterprise […]

Water Meter Theft

Theft of water meters has been a problem on some Perth housing sites. Some sources suggests that the number of thefts has more than doubled in recent years to around 700 incidents per annum. At $200 per meter, this adds up to $140,000 per annum. Whether these meters are stolen for scrap metal or other […]

Water Efficiency

Survey information from the Water Corporation shows that only 32 kilolitres of water is used during a typical construction process. But despite this relatively low water usage, much can be done to reduce water consumption in a new home. The key to reduce poor water usage is to reduce water pressure. Triple A rated showerheads […]

Kitchen Benchtops

Termites – About

Termites have existed for approximately 100 million years. There are about 350 species in Australia, of which approximately 30 species are known to cause significant damage to timber and buildings. Most damage is caused by subterranean termites (those that form nests in the ground). These nests may be formed in the soil near ground level, […]

Skylights – Location of Skylights

The skylight should be located on the roof in such a manner that it is clear of overhanging trees and depending on aspect, is configured to meet lighting requirements of the room. They should also be located clear of obstructions including hips, valleys, air conditioning, vent pipes, solar water service etc. As skylights do not […]

Stamp Duty

Stamp duty generally applies to the purchase of existing homes and land in WA. First home owner exemptions are available. For more information visit the Department of Treasury and Finance.

Steel – Corrosion Protection

Hot dip galvanizing is a coating for steel made from an alloy of zinc and iron. Galvanizing is a once-only process – no substrate preparation and multiple coating is required. It offers total coverage – all exposed steelwork is coated both internally and externally. Galvanized coatings protect steel even at its most vulnerable areas. It […]