STATEWIDE NEWS

April 2020

Master Builders applauds Planning Minister 03/04/2020

Master Builders welcomes the announcement today for amendments to planning and development regulations to assist the State during the current pandemic.“The amendments to planning regulations, giving the Planning Minister authority to temporarily override requirements and conditions with local planning schemes is warmly re ceived by industry,” according to Master Builders Housing Director Jason Robertson.

March 2020

Local councils ease the strain on builders 31/03/2020

Master Builders is calling for local councils across Western Australia to match the City of Stirling’s efforts to ease the pressure on businesses during the COVID-19 crisis. “Stirling has introduced several measures to assist businesses, the building industry and ultimately their residents during this unprecedented situation,” said Master Builders housing director Jason Robertson.

Construction work continues across the state 31/03/2020

The State Government announcement that the construction industry will continue to operate despite intrastate travel restrictions is the declaration of support Master Builders has been seeking. “Coronavirus is a health crisis first but an economic one second. Master Builders thanks Premier Mark McGowan for giving the building and construction industry the clarification it needs to continue,” executive director John Gelavis said.

Industrial manslaughter sparks industry concern 26/03/2020

Master Builders Western Australia joins industry groups across the agriculture, livestock, transport, building and construction, electrical, communications, hospitality and property sectors in voicing strong concern regarding the State Government’s proposed new industrial manslaughter laws. The proposed new offences are set out in the Work Health and Safety Bill 2019. The bill, introduced in November, is currently before the Legislative Council of Parliament.

Plan to rebuild WA economy 25/03/2020

Master Builders has created a plan for the WA building and construction industry to help minimise the economic fallout of COVID-19. “Coronavirus is a health crisis first but an economic one second. Care for our community is the priority in these anxious times but keeping people in jobs and small businesses going is also important,” executive director John Gelavis said.

Stimulus Measures and State Action Commended Building and Construction Must Be Essential Service 22/03/2020

Master Builders Association of Western Australia welcomes the Federal Governments second stimulus package containing welcome measures to support the viability of businesses, particularly the viability of small businesses (including sole traders) and non-profit-organisations to keep people in jobs.

Safety laws need careful consideration 17/03/2020

Master Builders has a deep and long-standing commitment to safety. We understand what works and what doesn’t in the construction sector because we have been at forefront of improving safety standards, awareness and training for decades.

Bolster small businesses with cash injection 16/03/2020

The State Government’s COVID-19 economic package is a relief for small businesses, but Master Builders WA Executive Director John Gelavis says some may need more help to stay afloat. “The State Government has given some respite to the building sector by targeted support for small businesses because there are more in our industry than any other,” Mr Gelavis said.

Builders welcome coronavirus support 12/03/2020

The Federal Government’s $17.6 billion stimulus package should bolster economic resilience in the face of the coronavirus challenge. Master Builders WA executive director John Gelavis welcomed the leadership demonstrated by the economic support, which will be a relief for many small businesses in the state.

Coronavirus impact on the building and construction industry 11/03/2020

The coronavirus health threat is a fast-evolving situation which is likely to affect the West Australian building and construction industry in the months ahead. Master Builders is assisting members to be prepared by offering information and support.