hunter building news hunter building news

Transcription

HUNTER BUILDING NEWS
ORSTER
I GOSFORD
I LAKEI MACQUARIE
I MAITLAND
I CESSNOCK
I NEWCASTLE
I PORT
STEPHENS
I SCONE
I SINGLETON
FORSTER
I GOSFORD
LAKE MACQUARIE
I MAITLAND
I CESSNOCK
I NEWCASTLE
I PORT
STEPHENS
I SCONE
I SINGLETONI WYONG
I WYONG
Changes to the Home Building Act p6
BCA free online from 2015 p27
Understanding CPD p7
HIA Supporting Small Businesses p14
Magazine of the Housing Industry Association | Hunter Region
Issue 4, October 2014
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Greg Elsworthy
HIA President - Hunter
Australia is one of the most highly regulated countries in the world. We have laws, codes and
standards for everything we do – the building industry is no exception. What about the products
we use to build with? Do all products meet the same standards? it would appear not.
The ACCC recently issued a voluntary recall of electrical cable supplied by the Infinity Cable
Company between 2010 and 2013 through a range of hardware suppliers.
The cables fail the required ageing tests of AS/NZS 5000.2:2006. Tests have shown that the cable
insulation may become prematurely brittle, which could cause fires or electric shock if the cables
were then disturbed, such as by human or animal activity. While the risk is not imminent, people
need to be aware and take careful steps to manage the risk in coming years.
The voluntary safety recall means that the suppliers of the cable have agreed to pay the costs of
undertaking an inspection of any property where the builder or electrician believes the product
has been used. A list of the outlets and dates of sale is available on the ACCC webpage.
It is recommended that builders make contact with your electrical contractors to determine
whether they are aware of using these cables in any work they have undertaken for you. If they
have, then the supplier (hardware outlet) of the cable should be contacted to make arrangements
in accordance with the recall procedure.
This case unfortunately reinforces HIA’s recent focus on the important issue of ensuring building
products and components used in Australia comply with relevant codes and standards.
It also confirms that the cost of failure and subsequent replacement of substandard materials
– and the damage they can cause - will invariably outstrip any initial savings on the original
purchase. In the case of structural materials, sanitary and electrical components particularly, the
potential cost to the health and safety of staff or customers is far greater.
A HIA Information Sheet regarding this matter is available on the HIA website. Members who
have concerns can contact HIA’s Building Services staff in relation to the technical details of the
recall or HIA Workplace Services staff in relation to any legal questions.
Craig Jennion
HIA Executive Director - Hunter
Without a doubt over the past ten years the use of social media has evolved. Forums such as
Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and a range of online review platforms, are extensively utilised by
businesses as a form of brand positioning and marketing.
Social media is often a successful forum for businesses to platform their products and services.
However, there is a ‘dark side’ to social media. Social media is now being utilised as a mechanism
to vocalise both the good and bad experiences of consumers. The inability of businesses to have
control over such comments can be detrimental to a business’s reputation.
It is prudent to keep in mind that any content or comment generated regarding competitors,
can also be subject to ACCC intervention. For example, if you ‘tweet’ that your business is the
first in the industry to deliver a 100% environmentally friendly service without having conducted
research to support this claim, and it comes to light that your competitor has in fact been offering
this service, you may have engaged in misleading and deceptive conduct.
Similarly, if a ‘fan’ of your Facebook page posts untrue comments about a competitor on your
page and you know these comments are untrue but do not delete them, you may be held
accountable for the fan’s comments. More serious cases could also lead to defamation suits.
In order to avoid the potential for an alleged breach through the use of social media and online
reviews, members should view the HIA Information Sheet titled The ‘ins’ and ‘outs’ of online
reviews: What you need to know, in addition to monitoring their social media sites.
I recently established a HIA Hunter Twitter account, should members wish to receive my industry
updates, comments or thoughts follow @HIA_Hunter.
this issue
Executive Director Update
3
Member Profile
4
Apprentices
5
Workplace Services
6
Building Services
12
Home Inspirations
14
Training Services
16
Small Business
17
HIA Shop
19
Economic Update
21
Fresh Face at HIA Insurance
22
Planning Update
23
WorkCover Safety Alert
24
Safety Services
26
Industry News
27
GreenSmart
28
Events
30
FRONT COVER: Finalist 2013 HIA-CSR Hunter
Residential Building Designer - Sorensen Design
BUILDING NEWS HUNTER
PUBLISHED BY Housing Industry Association Limited ACN 004 631 752 17 Murray Dwyer Circuit
MAYFIELD WEST, NSW, 2304
Editor Craig Jennion
Design & production Jenna Chapman - HIA Hunter Region
Advertising enquiries
Jenna Chapman - HIA Hunter Region
P 02 4014 2000
F 02 4014 2020
E: [email protected]
printed by
NCP Printing
Disclaimer The authors, editors, publishers and their
staff and agents are not responsible for the accuracy
or correctness of statements made or the information
contained in this publication or for the consequence of
any use made of the products, plans and information
referred to in this publication. All liability of whatsoever
nature is expressly disclaimed for any consequences
arising from any errors or omissions contained in
this publication whether caused to the reader of the
publication or otherwise. The views expressed in the
articles and other material published herein do not
necessarily reflect the views of the editor and publisher
or their staff or agents. It is impossible for the publisher
and editor to ensure that the advertisements and
other material herein comply with the Trade Practices
Act 1974. Readers should make their own enquiries
in making decisions and, where necessary, seek
professional advice. All rights reserved. Reproduction
in whole or part without written permission is strictly
prohibited.
Hunter Building News | 3
MEMBER PROFILE
Jenna Chapman
Office Administrator - Hunter
5 Minutes with Stephen Murray
Y
arrum Designer Homes owner Stephen
Murray is an accountant by trade
having started his working life outside
the construction industry.
Stephen’s connection with the residential
construction industry began in 1993 when he
began working as an accountant at Clarendon
Homes. "After working at Clarendon Homes
for 8 years I became a shareholder in 2001
and was then CEO from 2002 to 2005"
Stephen said. In 2005 the business was sold
to a publically listed company.
Stephen started his own building company in
the Hunter Region in 2008, Yarrum Designer
Homes. Yarrum Designer Homes mainly build
large custom homes and houses that have a
large degree of individuality. “We dare to be
different and have a real can do approach”,
said Stephen. “For example we are currently
working with a client to construct an
observatory as part of his home where he can
teach astronomy to his students.”
“Building homes that are different, timeless
and have the ‘wow’ factor is what I enjoy
most about my work”, said Stephen. “When
you are an accountant and you work
hard to prepare a tax return it can be a bit
demoralising. But when you work hard and
provide a great home for people to live in and
love, then that’s a pleasure.”
Looking back over his career Stephen sees one
of his most notable achievements as working
at Clarendon Homes, “We had a great team
that took a small Penrith based business to
being the second largest home builder in
Australia." Another notable achievement for
Stephen is winning HIA Hunter Home of the
Year at the 2012 HIA-CSR Hunter Housing and
Kitchen & Bathroom awards.
hard on my exit strategy by upskilling and
empowering my staff to make decisions and
reward them on their performance within
the business."
Stephen enjoys spending his down time
playing golf, going on holidays and enjoying
local food and wine. “All things synonymous
with the Hunter Valley!,” says Stephen.
Stephen plans to spend less time in the
business over the next 5 years. “I’m working
PHOTOS: (top right) 2012 HIA-CSR Hunter Home
of the Year by Yarrum Designer Homes. (left)
Stephen & his wife Amanda at the 2012 HIA-CSR
Hunter Housing and Kitchen & Bathroom awards.
(above) Projects by Yarrum Designer Homes.
4 | Hunter Building News
APPRENTICES
WHY TAKE ON AN APPRENTICE?
Apprenticeships are an extremely cost effective, efficient and practical wa
train your workforce so they have the relevant skills and qualifications to
Engaging apprentices offers an excellent return on your investment. You
early age, helping to shape their approach to work. Not only can you equ
you get the chance to create the ideal employee for your business.
THE BENEFITS TO YOUR BUSINESS
Bronwyn Carlyle
Apprentice Field Officer - Hunter
As an employer recruiting an apprentice, you are more likely to:




Improve your bottom line
Fill your skills gaps
Keep up with the latest industry developments
Gain a motivated and satisfied worker.
The benefits of hosting a HIA Apprentice HOW HIA APPRENTICES CAN HELP
Why take on an apprentice?
Apprenticeships are an extremely cost
effective, efficient and practical way to
get an extra set of hands and to train your
workforce so they have the relevant skills and
qualifications to do the job.
Engaging apprentices offers an excellent
return on your investment. You can mould
your employee from an early age, helping to
shape their approach to work. Not only can
you equip them with the basic skills needed,
you get the chance to create the ideal
employee for your business.
The benefits to your business
As an employer recruiting an apprentice, you
are more likely to:
•
•
•
•
Improve your bottom line
Fill your skills gaps
Keep up with the latest industry
developments
Gain a motivated and satisfied worker
How HIA Apprentices can help
HIA Apprentices offers a simple and easy
solution which removes the complexity of
apprentice management from your business.
Today HIA Apprentices has almost 500
apprentices in training nationally, with over
200 apprentices successfully completed
their apprenticeship in 2013. We understand
and meet the unique needs of over 350
businesses, just like yours.
HIA Apprentices offers a simple and easy solution which removes the com
from
business.
Today HIA Apprentices has almost 500 apprentices
• your
Leave
balances
apprentices successfully completed their apprenticeship in 2013. We und
•
Super
of over 350 businesses, just like yours.
•
TAFE
BREAK
DOWN OF RATES
• WH&S
HIA Apprentices offers a cost effective solution to getting the labour you n
• Training and mentoring
to maximise your businesses output while managing costs. We’re happy
• indenture
Workersand
compensation
direct
our rates, so you can see that HIA Apprentice is valu
hidden charges or on costs. Below is a breakdown of our charge out rate
•
IR
compliance
Apprentices charges? You get simplicity and ease; which reduces the co
• additional
Pastoral
care
The
cost
of using HIA is not profit margin, but what we charge
Break down of rates
HIA Apprentices offers a cost effective
solution to getting the labour you need.
We understand that you need to maximise
your businesses output while managing
costs. We’re happy to show the comparison
between direct indenture and our rates, so
you can see that HIA Apprentice is value for
money and that there are no hidden charges
or on costs. Below is a breakdown of our
charge out rate. What do you get for the 1%
HIA Apprentices charges? You get simplicity
and ease; which reduces the complexity of
having an apprentice. The additional cost of
using HIA is not profit margin, but what we
charge to provide the following services.
We take care of:
•
•
•
WE TA











To directly employ an apprentice you need to manage the items above. W
do in house? By using HIA Apprentices, you’re freed up to do more impo
just enjoy some extra free time.
To directly employ an apprentice you need
to manage the items above. What would this
MORE INFORMATION
costBronwyn
your business
to do
house?
Byhow
using
Call
Carlyle on 0418
688in
137
to discuss
we can help.
HIA Apprentices, you’re freed up to do more
important money making activities…or just
enjoy some extra free time.
More information
Recruitment
Administration
Wages
Call Bronwyn Carlyle on 0418 688 137 to
discuss how we can help.
First female apprentice for HIA Hunter
C
onstruction is in Cherie Morton’s blood, so it was understandable
that she would pursue a career in the building industry.
Cherie’s ambitions are well on track with very favourable reports from
both Dixon Homes and Belmont TAFE.
After completing thirteen months as an apprentice carpenter with her
father’s family business, Cherie realised she needed to broaden her
building experience. She had undertaken predominately commercial
work embracing concreting, formwork and roof sheeting. However,
now with Dixon Homes as her host, she is tackling the residential
side of the trade to achieve the training requirements needed in the
CertIficate III in Carpentry.
When asked what her goals were for the future Cherie replied “I
would like to stay with Dixon Homes if they are happy to keep me on.
I would also aim to do a construction course or project management
course, as well as a Certificate IV in Building and Construction.”
Recr
Adm
Wag
Leav
Supe
Tafe
WH&
Train
Work
IR co
Past
WORKPLACE SERVICES
Luke Winchester
Workplace Adviser - Hunter
Changes to the Home Building Act
I
n May this year the review of the NSW
Home Building Act 1989 (Act) came to an
end with the passing of the Home Building
Amendment Bill 2014 (Bill) through the NSW
Parliament.
In a win for HIA, the Bill introduces a number
of positive changes including providing a
clear definition of a ‘defect’, a source of much
frustration within the industry.
The Bill also introduces a number of changes
to the mandatory requirements that must
form part of a residential building contract.
These will be reflected within HIA’s contracts.
In addition, on 21 July draft Regulations
containing additional changes were released
for public comment and include a proposed
commencement date for the changes of 1
December 2014.
HIA will keep members up-to-date on the
commencement of the new laws through
eNews and Member Alerts.
Please find outlined below further details of
some of the key changes.
Changes to allowable deposits
A deposit of 10% will be permitted for all
residential building work. Currently builders
can only take 10% where the works are less
than $20,000 and 5% where the works are
over $20,000.
New requirements in relation to
progress payments
Under the changes a progress payment will
only be allowable if the contract:
•
•
provides a progress payment of
a specified amount or specified
percentage of the contract price that
is payable following completion of a
specified stage of the work, and
describes each progress payment stage
in clear and plain language.
Members will also need to ensure that
their contract includes a progress payment
schedule, such schedules are currently
contained within HIA contracts.
Contracts must include
‘termination statement’
While HIA contracts already contain specific
provisions relating to the ability of a party
to terminate the contract, HIA will update
its contracts to comply with this new
requirement.
duties
on
•
notifying their builder of a defect within
6 months of becoming aware of the
defect; and
•
not unreasonably refusing access to the
builder in order to carry out the required
rectification works.
a
Most residential building contracts will
need to contain a statement alerting home
owners to their general rights in relation to
their ability to terminate the contract. The
statement will also indicate that the parties
may agree to additional circumstances in
which the contract may be terminated.
Additional
owners
The Bill provides that a home owner can
mitigate their loss by:
home
A home owner will have a duty to mitigate
loss arising from a breach of the statutory
warranties; this means that a homeowner
now has an express obligation to prevent
alleged defective work causing avoidable
damage.
New defence to a breach of the
statutory warranties
Builders will be able to defend a breach of a
statutory warranty if the claim arises from
reasonable reliance by the builder on written
instructions provided by a person who is a
relevant professional acting for the home
owner. These instructions can be provided
before or after the work was done. A relevant
professional would include an architect or an
engineer who has been engaged by the home
owner.
This is in addition to the existing defence
which enables a builder to rely on written
instructions given to a home owner prior to
carrying out works warning that those works
are non-compliant.
A clearer definition of a ‘defect’
As mentioned above the definition of a
‘structural defect’ has been the source of
much confusion and uncertainty within the
industry, a home owner having 6 years within
which to claim for a breach of statutory
warranty on the basis of such defective work.
As a result of the amendments, the 6 year
statutory warranty period will now apply
to ‘major defects’ which occur in a major
element of a building. A major element
includes:
•
internal or external load bearing
components of a building that are
essential to the stability of a building, or
any part of it,
•
fire safety systems, and
•
waterproofing
HIA is hopeful that this new definition will
provide greater certainty for the industry,
ultimately helping to resolve disputes in
relation to alleged defective work.
New limitation on owner builder
work
Concerns over the use of owner-builder
permits for commercial purposes has seen
the introduction of a limitation on the
granting of these permits in relation to dual
occupancy work. Such permits will only be
issued where Fair Trading is satisfied that
special circumstances exist such as, where
a family could demonstrate legitimate noncommercial reasons for the work.
At the time of writing, the
Regulations had only been released
in draft form however they propose
the following key changes:
Powers of Fair Trading
•
Increasing the threshold for
when you require a small
works contract from $1,000 to
$5,000.
•
Increasing the threshold
for when you require a fully
compliant contract from
$5,000 to $20, 000.
•
Increasing the threshold for
requiring a license to complete
residential building work from
$1,000 to $5,000.
•
An exemption from the
requirement to obtain Home
Warranty Insurance (insurance
under the Home Building
Compensation Fund) for
contractors who enter into
contracts only to complete
built-in furniture and cabinetry
work
(including
kitchen
cabinetry).
Changes under the Bill will provide NSW Fair
Trading with the ability to, amongst other
things, cancel a contractor license in the
event of non-compliance with a Fair Trading
rectification order. Fair Trading will also have
the power to impose a jail sentence in certain
circumstances, for example, where a builder
repeatedly fails to take out Home Warranty
Insurance (HWI), including failure to take out
HWI for works carried out for owner builders
above $20,000.
Changes to Home Warranty
Insurance
Members should be aware that Home
Warranty Insurance will be known as
Insurance under the Home Building
Compensation Fund.
As mentioned above the commencement
of these changes is proposed for early
December 2014. Until then it is business as
usual - HIA will advise members when the
commencement date is confirmed.
Workplace Services Q and A
Q:
I have never been involved in a serious
dispute before, but now I have a client
threatening to take me to the NSW Civil
and Administrative Tribunal (Tribunal) for
defective work? What should I do, or what
should I expect?
A:
Despite the best efforts of builders and
contractors, it takes both parties to resolve
a dispute and unfortunately at times you
may have clients who are unwilling to do
anything other than take a claim straight to
the Tribunal or the courts.
have preconceived notions that as experts
in their field, contractors should understand
and comply with all aspects of building and
constructions laws, codes and standards.
Most disputes about defective work in
the Tribunal require each party to obtain
independent expert advice, usually in the
form of a building report. I spoke with Craig
Hutchinson, director of Craig’s Building
Advisory Services and a building consultant
with experience in over 150 Tribunal or court
submitted building reports for his opinion.
“This situation is at times exacerbated by
initial legal advice where the person giving
the advice does not understand the technical
aspects of the claim” says Craig.
“It is imperative that any contractor who
receives a claim against them or their
company obtain prudent advice as to the
best method of dealing with the claim” says
Craig.
Craig believes builders and contractors
must also be mindful that in the Tribunal or
the courts they may be disadvantaged as
Tribunal members and judges sometimes
In most instances, it is best for builders
and contractors to make a commercial
decision when dealing with a claim and not
let emotions blind them of the chances of
successfully dealing with a claim. It is quite
common for the cost of litigation to vastly
exceed the amount of the claim being made.
As a HIA member, Craig is happy to provide
discounted rates to members, and encourages
members to call him free of charge on 4963
4343 for an initial consultation about a defect
dispute.
Underperforming employees: how to reduce the risk of unfair
dismissal claims
H
IA is often asked for advice about how to deal with unfair
dismissal claims brought by former employees who were
dismissed for poor performance.
A misconception amongst many employers is that you only need a
‘valid’ basis for firing or dismissing the employee. However even gross
incompetence may not be enough. In order to successfully defend an
unfair dismissal claim, or more hopefully prevent the circumstances
of a claim arising, it is important that your business have in place clear
processes and procedures to issue appropriate warnings to poorly
performing employees and provide them opportunities to improve.
When will a dismissal be “unfair”?
rather than directly addressing it, not only impacts on productivity
and workplace morale but may expose you to a greater risk of unfair
dismissal claims. For instance if your employee has been doing the
same job for a long time without criticism or warning the view may
be taken that your business did not in fact expect a certain level of
performance from the employee. A number of practical steps can be
implemented within your business to manage underperformance:
•
In the first instance, you should identify the performance issues
in question (including the dates on which it occurred, what took
place and witnesses present);
•
Have a formal meeting with the employee. However, make sure
that you do not ambush the employee with the meeting – advise
them of the purpose of the meeting beforehand, and invite them
to have a support person from your business present. At the
meeting you should:
An unfair dismissal will occur when an employee has been dismissed
from their job in a ‘harsh, unjust or unreasonable manner’. In addition
to considering whether there was a valid reason for termination, the
Fair Work Commission will also examine whether the employee was
“fairly” treated in a procedural sense. For instance:
•
Was your employee given prior notice of the actual performance
issues in question?
•
Did they have an opportunity to respond to the issues raised
regarding their performance?
•
Did they have a reasonable opportunity to improve their
performance?
It is also important that a fair and transparent performance
management process is utilised so that the reasons for the dismissal
are clear. Your processes do not need to be overly complex or
convoluted but the key thing is to be able to demonstrate that your
employee was afforded procedural fairness and that the termination
was not arbitrary.
•
How should performance issues be dealt with?
If your employee is not meeting the expectations of their position
then it is important that you communicate your concerns directly with
that employee. Allowing poor performance to fester and continue
•
provide the employee with an opportunity to respond to
the performance issues which have been raised and clarify
why their performance has been below expectations. For
example, there may be circumstances that you do not know
about, e.g. an illness or other personal circumstances;
•
detail what needs to be done to improve work performance,
as well as what you can do as an employer to reasonably
accommodate or assist the employee; and
•
set a timeframe within which an improvement in work
performance needs to occur
If your employee is given a formal warning then this should be
followed up with written correspondence to this effect, and
which should also reiterate the timeframes for improvement,
the plan for improvement, as well as the consequences to the
employee if there is no improvement in work performance (e.g.,
further disciplinary action including termination).
Your role as manager
A key task as manager is to identify the reasons for underperformance:
•
Did your employee clearly know what was expected of them,
including key deadlines etc.?
•
Do they have the proper skills sets to perform the role in the first
place, and if not is it possible to upskill them?
•
Have they been able to get away with poor performance in
the past without being disciplined? Are other employees being
treated differently?
Proceeding to termination
If your employee’s performance does not improve then they should
be advised to this effect. Depending upon the circumstances of the
given case, the above process may be repeated, and the performance
management plan may need to be adjusted. Ultimately, if you come
to the conclusion that termination is appropriate then you should
invite your employee to a formal meeting to advise them of this, offer
them the opportunity to have a support person present, and give
clear reasons for your decision to terminate. After the termination
meeting, your employee should be provided with a letter formally
stating the reasons for the termination.
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It is also important to ensure that appropriate records are kept
demonstrating the performance management process. For example,
you should detail specific meetings which you have with the
underperforming employee in order to record what was discussed
and what the outcome of those discussions were, and retain copies of
any formal letters of warning sent to them.
Small business employers
A small business employer (defined as an employer with 15 or less
employees based on a simple headcount) is able to utilise the Small
Business Fair Dismissal Code. The Code provides protection against
unfair dismissal claims, where an employer follows the Code. The
Commission will deem a dismissal to be fair if the employer follows
the Code and can provide evidence of this.
The Code consists of a checklist of 10 questions that clarifies the size
of the business, the role the employee had in the business and the
reasons and circumstances surrounding the dismissal. It ensures that
the employee received adequate warning and counselling prior to the
dismissal.
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For more information, call your Workplace Adviser on 1300 650 620.
Want free safety advice tailored to your business?
Join WorkCover’s house construction mentor program.
This free program connects small builders with mediumlarge builders to address common health and safety issues.
To find out how the program can benefit your business,
visit workcover.nsw.gov.au/mentor or call 13 10 50.
Working safely makes good business sense and can
help you save time and money.
WC01514
HR Docs just a click away
G
ood employee management is at the
very core of any business’s success.
But the legalities and paperwork
load associated with hiring and firing staff –
and everything in between - are often costly,
time consuming, and somewhat daunting for
the small business owner.
While HIA Workplace Advisers have always
been available to provide information and
help on recruitment, management and other
HR issues for our members, we are now
offering HR Docs powered by HR Advance - a
brand new service designed to simplify and
streamline your HR management.
HR Docs is an extensive online library of HRspecific documents – ranging from letter
templates and employment contracts, to
workplace policies which can be customised
to your business’s requirements. The
documents are written and created by
specialist industrial relations lawyers from
Australian Business Lawyers & Advisers, and
are continuously reviewed and updated.
So how does HR Docs powered by HR Advance
work? The documents can be purchased
through HIA Workplace Services individually
or in kits as the need arises, or members
can pay a twelve-month subscription fee for
continuous access to the documents.
The documents fall into three categories:
•
HR agreements – for example
engagement
letter,
contract
of
employment, and deed of release
•
Kits of HR documents – all the
documentation
you
need
for
management areas such as flexible work
arrangements, payroll, parental leave,
or performance management
•
HR policies for your workplace – these
can be purchased individually or in
bundles of five or ten, and cover areas
such as attendance and absenteeism,
leave, equal opportunity and first aid
HR Docs operates with the full support of
HIA’s Workplace Advisers who can provide
help, information and advice to members on
all HR-related matters. Workplace Advisers
can also assist members by advising them
which documents are best suited to their
particular requirements and facilitate the
purchase of the correct documents. For
a discounted member rate, HIA can also
customise agreements and policy documents
purchased from HR Docs with members’
details and logos.
Subscribers to HR Docs can select and
customise documents themselves at any
time, and as often as needed. Subscribers
can also access help and advice from an HIA
Workplace Adviser.
HR Docs is a flexible, convenient and costeffective system, designed to save HIA
members time and money by offering
unprecedented access to professional,
legally-compliant,
customisable
HR
documentation. Created to accommodate
the HR requirements of small to medium
businesses, HR Docs powered by HR Advance
provides HIA members with everything they
need to recruit and manage good staff.
For more information on how to make HR
Docs powered by HR Advance work for your
business, call your HIA Workplace Adviser on
1300 650 620.
HIA Business Assist
Is managing your people becoming a hassle?
Is your business up-to-date with the latest
Australian employment laws?
Do you need employment advice?
Dealing with day-to-day workplace relations and HR matters can be
time consuming, complicated and risky. However, employing a
dedicated experienced HR resource can be costly.
Introducing HIA HR docs – a comprehensive HR
document library designed to help you access compliant
contracts, letters, templates, policies, forms and
checklists quickly and easily, with complete confidence.
Through HR docs our friendly team of qualified workplace advisers can
now offer you an extensive range of support and assistance to help you
manage your HR needs.
Regardless of your business size, HIA has your HR solution.
Purchase a single document or a full subscription – it’s up to you.
let HIA be your HR solution
For full details contact your local workplace adviser on 1300 650 620 or go to hia.com.au/hrdocs
HIA HR docs is powered by
TM
CERTIFIED BY
Y
Australian Business
ss
Lawyers & Advisors
rs
.
GEN
.
U WIN
$±50,000
You could win more customers and win $100,000 cash*
THE COLORBOND® STEEL GEN-U-WIN PROMOTION COMMENCES 1 OCTOBER 2014 AND ONE
LUCKY ELIGIBLE HOMEOWNER WILL WIN $150,000 CASH AND YOU COULD WIN $100,000.*
Every time an eligible homeowner nominates you as the supplier and if you are eligible and have registered,
you get a chance to win the $100,000 trade prize. There is also over $100,000 in secondary prizes to be won.*
Eligible homeowner purchases from 1 January 2014 up to 1 May 2015 are eligible for entry.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL 1800 732 704 OR VISIT COLORBOND.COM/GENUWIN AND REGISTER.
YOU MUST BE REGISTERED TO WIN!
✓ BLUESCOPE WARRANTY 1 for peace of mind
✓ TRIED AND TESTED for Australia’s harsh climate
BlueScope Australia and
look for our brand mark.
✓ DURABILITY from patented Activate™ technology
If it’s genuine, it’s printed
Thermatech®
technology2
✓ AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS guaranteed
FENCING
Ask if it’s made by
✓ ADVANCED paint technology looks better for longer
✓ THERMAL EFFICIENCY with
ROOFING
MAKE SURE IT’S GENUINE
WA L LI N G
GUTTERING
SHEDS
with the COLORBOND ®
steel trade mark and backed
by a BlueScope warranty1 .
CARPORTS
PAT I O S
PERGOLAS
GAR AGE DOORS
*FOR FULL DETAILS, ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA AND TERMS & CONDITIONS see the COLORBOND ® steel website COLORBOND.COM/GENUWIN. Promotion starts 01/10/14 and ends 01/05/2015 (“Promotion
Period”). Entry is only open to Australian residents who are aged 18 years, or older, who purchase genuine COLORBOND® steel products for personal, private or domestic use, or for use in a small business, with
the total annual revenue less than AU$2 million (exc. GST) to the value of at least $1,500 (material only – excludes installation) on or after 01/01/14 and from a participating COLORBOND ® steel supplier and/
or installer (Eligible Consumer). Entry also open to Australian residents who are aged 18 years, or older, who supply and/or install genuine COLORBOND ® steel products in Australia (Eligible Supplier/Installer).
Eligible Consumers must register at COLORBOND.COM/GENUWIN during the Promotion Period. Proof of purchase required. Eligible Supplier/Installers must register at COLORBOND.COM/GENUWIN from
01/09/14 and before 01/05/2015. One Entry per person. The Promoter is BlueScope Steel Ltd (ABN 16 000 011 058) Level 11, 120 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000. For all enquiries call 1800 732 704. Authorised
under: NSW Permit No. LTPS 14/05439, ACT Permit No. TP14/02417, VIC Permit No. 14/4619, SA Permit No. T14/1247. Minor Prizes, Survey Prizes and Major Prize: Eligible Consumers: Minor Prize: Three $2,000
cash prizes x 15 (each fortnight), total value $90,000. Minor prize draws will take place on 15/10/14, 29/10/14, 12/11/14, 26/11/14, 10/12/14, 24/12/14, 07/01/15, 21/01/15, 04/02/15, 18/02/15, 04/03/15, 18/03/15,
01/04/15, 15/04/15 and 29/04/15. Survey Prize is a $2,000 cash prize randomly drawn on 08/05/15 from the Market Research Survey Registration database where Eligible Persons may be asked to complete an
optional Market Research Survey on registration to be eligible to win the Survey prize. Major Prize is $150,000 cash, randomly drawn from the Consumer Registration database at 11.15am AEST on 08/05/2015. First
valid Eligible Consumer entry drawn will receive Major Prize. Major Prize for Eligible Supplier/Installers is $100,000, to be determined by the participating and pre-registered Eligible Supplier/Installer nominated
on the form of the Eligible Consumer that wins the Major Prize on 08/05/2015. Draws at Building 6, 41-43 Burke Rd, Alexandria NSW. Minor, Survey and Major Prize winners will be notified by phone, email or mail
and published on website COLORBOND.COM/GENUWIN and in The Australian within 2 days of the applicable draw. 1. Warranty subject to application and eligibility criteria. For full terms and conditions and to
determine the eligibility of your building for the warranty visit BLUESCOPESTEEL.COM.AU/WARRANTIES or call BlueScope on 1800 800 789. 2. Thermatech ® technology is not available in the colour Night Sky ®
and is not available in COLORBOND ® Stainless steel. COLORBOND ®, Thermatech ®, BlueScope and the BlueScope brand mark are registered trade marks of BlueScope Steel Limited. Activate™ is a trade mark of
BlueScope Steel Limited. © 2014 BlueScope Steel Limited ABN 16 000 011 058.
BUILDING SERVICES
David Lawrence
Senior Building Services Advisor - NSW
Compliant building products
Suitability of Materials
“Every part of a building must be constructed
in an appropriate manner to achieve the
requirements of the Housing Provisions,
using materials that are fit for the purpose
for which they are intended.”
the BCA. Using only compliant products is
essential for BCA and certification approval.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Fit for Purpose
Manufacturers of building products design
them to be ‘fit for purpose’ so they deliver
the performance required in the intended
application. This means it is essential to not
only read the manufacturers installation
instructions but also follow them to the
letter. All the components that go to make
up a building need to be ’fit for purpose’
including:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
concrete and reinforcing steel (mesh
and bar)
structural grade timber, nails and fixings
structural steel
steel framing
strappings, bracing and tie down fixtures
masonry, aerated concrete panels, and
lightweight wall systems
plaster and tiles
windows and glazed doors
balustrading
roofing and wall claddings
doors & windows
plumbing and electrical products
flooring products
Many of these product areas are covered by
Australian Standards that are referenced by
Plumbing and Drainage Products - are
required to have a WaterMark on
them which indicates that the product
conforms with the Plumbing Code of
Australia and AS 3500 National Plumbing
Code. The WaterMark trademark must
be placed directly onto the product.
•
Water fittings and fixtures including taps,
showerheads, toilets, flow controllers,
clothes washers and dishwashers
must be registered, rated and labeled
according to the requirements of the
WELS Standard AS/NZS 6400:2005.
This provided evidence of the water
efficiency of the product and is shown
in ‘stars’.
•
Electrical products , since 2012, a new
regulation came into effect, which states
that an electrical product will only be
required to have the one mark, the
Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM)
Fit for Purpose Benefits
These words from the BCA make it clear
that using compliant materials is essential
for compliance. The ‘requirements of the
Housing Provisions’ are covered by meeting
the performance requirements in the
following areas:
Structural Adequacy
Damp and Waterproofing
Fire Safety
Health and Amenity
Safe Movement and Access
Energy Efficiency
•
•
•
Ensures you are fulfilling your legal
obligations by conforming with building
regulations
Maintains a safe building for workers
and future occupants
Minimises rectification work where
material failure can occur
Minimises potential litigation claims
arising from the use of non-conforming
products
If you don’t comply with the BCA you
put your license at risk and you put the
home owner at risk
Using only compliant products protects your
reputation and your business, saving you
time and money!
Evidence of Compliance
There are a number of product areas where
the manufactures have introduced labelling
systems to make the compliance more
obvious including:
•
Windows and doors - All window
manufacturers must comply with AS
2047 and all residential windows and
glazed doors must be marked with
a Performance Label that confirms
conformance.
Tips for Using Compliant Products
•
Know what standards apply to products
for compliance
Ensure the supplier understands what
products you require and that they
must be compliant with the required
standards
Purchase products from reputable
manufacturers and suppliers that you
can develop a long term relationship
with
Purchase products from companies that
participate in industry accreditation
programs
Check new products for compliance
before you purchase them
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Check the authenticity of any evidence
provided, especially with imported
products
Check the goods when they arrive
on site to ensure there has been no
substitution
Discuss the use of any client supplied
products before work starts and get
evidence they comply
Test & Tag Colours
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
Discuss any supply and install contracts with
your subcontractors to make sure they are
using compliant products.
NOVEMBER
For assitance with technical matters contact
David Lawrence on 1300 650 620.
DECEMBER
Just Ask with David Lawrence!
Q:
There is a NSW variation in the
BCA that states that you cannot
use an out of ground pool wall as
a pool barrier. In all circumstances
is this always the case?
A:
In March of 2014 the department of Local
Government released Practice Note 17,
Application of Section 22 of the Swimming
pools Act 1992. This means that an exemption
may be granted if the out of ground pool
wall provides no less effective than the
requirements of the Act for limiting access.
Q:
Can I use chicken wire to reinforce
a tile bed?
A:
No! ‘Chicken wire’ can be used to provide an
improved key, but should not be used in place
of reinforcement. Welded wire mesh should
comply with AS/NZS 4671. It should have a
mesh size between 25 × 25 mm and 75 × 50
mm and should be fabricated with wire of
between 1.2 mm and 2.0 mm diameter. Also
the mesh should be galvanized in accordance
with AS/NZS 4534. Fixings for wire should be
austenitic stainless steel, i.e. 300 series.
Q:
What determines the bracket
mounting centres for eaves
gutters?
A:
The BCA states; “Eaves gutters must be
supported by brackets securely fixed at stop
ends and at not more than 1.2 m centres.”
While this is the maximum distance, each
product manufacturer will have a determined
distance in their installation specifications
and this must be followed.
BUILDING OR RENOVATING IN A MINE SUBSIDENCE DISTRICT?
Phone your nearest office for advice on:
Surface development guidelines
Housing and construction techniques
Mine subsidence issues
Subdivision of land
NEWCASTLE
4908 4300
SINGLETON
6572 4344
WYONG
4352 1646
24 Hour Emergency Service FREE CALL 1800 248 083 [email protected] • www.minesub.nsw.gov.au
11449
•
•
•
•
Quality
ISO 9001
Putting service and the needs of PeoPle first
HOME INSPIRATIONS
Laurence Antcliff
Home Inspirations Coordinator - Hunter
HIA Show attracts thousands
T
he second Building & Renovation Show
of 2014 was held on Saturday 13th
September and proved to once again
be a great success. The perfect spring day
saw over 5,000 consumers come through the
doors.
The show has always been a family-friendly
event and this year was no different with
lots of children’s entertainment including a
2 story play maze, face painting and guest
appearances by Prime Possum and The
Ranbuild Man.
HIA Executive Director, Craig Jennion said,
“We have had an overwhelming day with
great crowds and a really positive response
to all the activities that were on offer”.
The Lions Club barbeque was again popular
with the team selling more then expected
with all proceeds donated to the charity.
Tasty Trucks and The Bean Machine moile
cafe were also onsite for consumers looking
hungry and thirsty consumers.
The
event
featured
live
product
demonstrations, an “Ask an Expert” area
where visitors could ask questions with
an interior designer, builder, bathroom
renovator and land developer or alternatively
visit the complimentary colour consultant’s
courtesy of Bristol.
The greatest drawcard on the day was the
Suncoast Bathroom Renovations display with
the prize barrel being the busiest location in
the centre. All attendees had the opportunity
to go into the draw for the major prize that
was drawn on the day, a $15,000 bathroom
renovation package. The winner of the prize
was for the first time on site for the draw
and was ecstatic with her win. Sheree and
Greg Doodson of Suncoast Bathrooms look
forward to working with the prize winner on
her bathroom renovation.
As always the HIA Building & Renovation
Show brings together a sensational group of
exhibitors to showcase the latest trends in
renovation, building, home improvements
and outdoor living. HIA is pleased to be able
to offer this type of event in the Hunter as
it showcases what is possible in the housing
industry using local builders and suppliers.
We would like to thank all that attended
for their support and we look forward to
planning the next show which will be held in
May 2015.
For further details regarding the Hunter
Home Inspirations centre visit www.
housinglocal.com.au.
ABOVE: HIA Hunter Regional Executive Director Craig Jennion, Sheree and Greg Doodson from
Suncoast Bathrooms and Laurence Antcliff, HIA Home Inspirations Coordinator.
Home Inspirations – The ‘Hub’ where builders meet clients
T
he HIA Home Inspirations centre is home to a fantastic range of
building materials, suppliers, home design concepts and great
ideas.
Both clients and builders can use the Home Inspirations centre
as a meeting ‘hub’ to gain inspiration and begin forming ideas and
concepts for new dwellings, renovations & additions. Anything from
initial design concepts, product selection or those final product
touches such as door furniture, paint finishes and pavers, the HIA
Home Inspirations centre aims to be a one-stop-selection-shop.
Have you considered meeting with your clients at the Home
Inspirations centre to engage in the selection process and pour over
plans? You can use our brochure request cards to mark the client’s
choices as you make your way around the centre, sit and discuss plans
at one of our table and chair meeting hot spots located throughout
the centre and at the end both you and your client can then take
home brochure information on the selected materials.
What a great way to build good ‘client-builder’ relationships and
ensure smooth communications between both parties.
The HIA Home Inspirations centre makes it easy for dreams to become
reality for clients, as concepts can be easily visualised by both parties
and design features agreed upon easily to finalise plans.
We have a break out area on the ground floor which exhibitors
use often to meet with consumers to discuss colour selections for
upcoming projects. Throughout the Home Inspirations centre we also
have designated areas for exhibiters to meet with clients.
Open Monday to Friday 9.00am to 4.30pm and 10.00am to 4.00pm
Saturday and Sunday, why not book a time with your client today to
meet at the HIA Home Inspirations centre – Newcastle’s ‘Hub’ where
builders meet clients.
For a list of our Home Inspirations centre Exhibitors visit HIA’s
consumer website www.housinglocal.com.au
New showroom
in HIA centre
20% OFF
ALL PRODUCTS
LIMITED TIME
www.completeblindsnsw.com.au
TRAINING SERVICES
Nina Sainsbury
Training Coordinator - Hunter
Understanding Contracts
T
he Understanding Contracts course
provides all of the important
information for using HIA contracts.
The course is interactive and participants are
able to ask the HIA Hunter Workplace Adviser,
Luke Winchester questions or scenarios that
are unique to their business situation.
This course also encompasses the large range
of different contracts that HIA offers, plus
some of the general legal aspects that are
involved with contracts such as licensing and
engaging contractors
Our next Understanding Contracts course is
schedule for:
Date: 28th November 2014
Time: 8.30am -12.45pm
Location: Mayfield West
To register visit www.hia.com.au or for more
information contact Nina on 4014 2000 or
email: [email protected].
Some of the courses for the remainder of
2014 can be seen in the below calendar.
UPCOMING TRAINING
Training
Location
CPD points
Professional Development Workshops
Date
Time
Newcastle
4
15 October
8.30am - 12.45pm
Central Coast
4
24 October
8.30am - 12.45pm
Newcastle
4
14 November
8.30am - 12.45pm
Wet Area Waterproofing
Newcastle
14
16 & 17 October
9.00am - 5.00pm
each day
Safety testing & inspecting for electrical
equipment
Newcastle
6
7 November
9.00am - 5.00pm
Central Coast
6
27 November
9.00am - 5.00pm
Newcastle
12
10 October
8.30am - 3.30pm
Newcastle
12
5 December
8.30am - 3.30pm
26 November
8.00am - 3.00pm
Asbestos Awareness
HIA Supported Training
Provide First Aid - HLTAID003: Provide first aid
This training requires some work to be completed prior to
attending class.
Nationally Recognised Training
General Induction for Construction - CPCCOHS1001A:
Work Safely in the construction Industry
Newcastle
12
SMALL BUSINESS INFORMATION SERIES
Business basics
Don’t know your VOIP from your
USP? HIA has a series of practical
guides to help members become
business all-rounders.
Business Information Series – a set of guides
and infosheets aimed specifically at the
needs of business operators in the housing
industry.
Do you feel like some days you’re a builder,
other days you have to be an advertising
executive? Or an accountant? IT expert?
Today’s small business owners wear many
hats as they juggle the multitude of tasks
required to drive success in an increasingly
competitive marketplace.
The guides take a comprehensive look at
a range of topics that HIA members find
challenging, or are currently unable to access
relevant information on. They’re designed
to provide you with accessible, useable
tips and techniques for generating effective
marketing strategies and more efficient
business systems.
Recognising the challenges facing its
members, HIA has put together the Small
The series broadly covers four main areas.
These include:
•
•
•
•
clients; managing email; implementing
VOIP; record-keeping; and writing effective
marketing and business plans.
Importantly, the guides include practical tools
such as checklists, contact lists, worksheets
and case studies, enabling you to easily apply
your new-found knowledge and strategies
directly to your business.
marketing and communication
business planning
management systems
business systems
Within each area, the guides and infosheets
take you through, in a clear, simple, stepby-step format, specifics such as accounting
concepts; how to measure and monitor
‘promises to pay’; customer service basics;
the do’s and don’t’s of communicating with
So if you want to know how to make SWOTs
and PESTLEs work harder for your business,
visit hia.com.au/sbg or contact your local
HIA office to find out more about the Small
Business Information Series.
contracts
online
produce your contracts the fast, simple and secure way online
Whether you are a small business needing a few contracts or a medium-tolarge business with many contracts, you can now create all your hard copy
contracts online.
There are heaps of features like customising and personalising your contracts,
creating templates, secure storage, unlimited and instant downloads. Plus as
legislation changes, you can be assured that the contracts are always up-to-date.
‘A process that used to take a staff
member 15 minutes has been
reduced to 1-2 minutes per job’
You can also get integrated and have your business system talking directly with
HIA Contracts Online which means you’re no longer entering the same information into
different systems.
Jeremy Bree, Henley Properties, Victoria
Contracts Online takes the hassle out of managing contracts so you can focus on running
your business.
Get online today!
To get contracts online jump on to hia.com.au/contracts
Or to get integrated call 1300 650 620
3026_HIA_CO_BN_HP.indd 1
4/06/14 2:06 PM
The building industry’s insurance broker
Why HIA insurance services?
• Industry experience.
We are a joint venture between Aon, Australia’s largest and most experienced residential
construction insurance broker, and the Housing Industry Association.
call us now
• Tailored solutions.
Our policies provide comprehensive cover, based on the knowledge we have gained over
20 years about what can go wrong for builders and tradespeople.
NSW 1300 200 201
With over 20,000 building and trades customers nationally we develop insurance that
addresses the real needs and risks of the building industry. This may include cover for
home warranty, tools and equipment, motor insurance, contract works, public and products
liability, sub-contractor and trades liability, workers compensation, income protection and
professional indemnity, commercial property insurance.
• Fast and efficient service.
With 80 staff located in HIA offices in every state of Australia, we are ready to assist you
when you need it.
HIAIS0013 0513
To request a quote or discuss your insurance needs,
contact HIA Insurance Services today.
HIA Insurance Services Pty Ltd ABN 84 076 460 967 as authorised representative number 275925
for Aon Risk Services Australia Limited ABN 17 000 434 720 AFSL 24114.
QLD 1800 633 467
VIC
1300 554 227
WA
1300 800 801
SA
1300 600 601
ACT 1300 400 401
TAS
1300 500 501
or visit
hiainsurance.com.au
HIA SHOP
Samantha Tull
Receptionist & Stationery Officer
Prepare for the future with a HIA Home Owner’s Manual
A
ll too often HIA members are dragged
into defect disputes where the cause
of the defect isn’t arising from the
builder’s workmanship, but rather damage
caused by a lack of maintenance from the
home owner. The problem for members
is that over a warranty period of 6 years, it
can be difficult to prove this, and the home
owner will proceed with a claim for defective
work regardless.
OWNER/S:
SITE ADDRESS:
the complete
home
owner’s
manual
Earlier in this edition HIA Hunter Workplace
Adviser Luke Winchester wrote about
defect disputes in the Tribunal and the cost
and effort involved with defending claims.
However, for any dispute prevention is the
best cure and the HIA Home Owner’s Manual
is a document that sets out to achieve that.
The most important part of the Manual
simply explains to home owners what to
expect with their new home or renovation
and things they can do to help maintain the
works and prevent issues from occurring.
This can assist the builder in two ways; first,
by explaining to home owners that small
problems such as cracks and chips may not
be necessarily defects, and can be caused
by the slab settling or seasonal changes that
affect the home. Second, the Manual can
explain ways the home owner can maintain
the home to prevent defects from occurring
at a later date and a dispute arising.
The Home Owner’s Manual has another
important function with a carbon copy
inspection form at the back. While a builder
has no legal obligation to inspect the home
with the home owner, it can help to prevent
issues from coming up at a later date. The
Manual allows for both parties to inspect
the home together in structured manner
and place ticks against various areas of a
standard home. Once completed and signed,
each party receives a copy of the list and
the builder is tasked with making the small
repairs during the defect liability period (13
weeks in NSW HIA contracts).
Because any issues the home owner has are
complete and quantified, it becomes difficult
for the home owner to make further claims at
a later date. The builder can keep the carbon
copy inspection form and use it as evidence if
Fair Trading or the Tribunal is ever involved in
a dispute. It can be used to prove that at the
time the builder left site, both parties agreed
that the home contained no defects, and may
help prove that the issue was caused by wear
and tear or an action by the home owner.
It may not absolve the builder on its own, but
when used properly the Manual is a fantastic
preventative tool.
To purchase Home Owner's Manuals please
call HIA Shop on 02 4014 2000.
Do you use a HIA trade contract with your sub-contractors?
A
s a builder, when you engage a sub-contractor to perform
works you should ensure that the agreement is put in writing
in a legally binding contract. Too often builders are left to fend
for themselves when all they have to rely on is a hand written quote
from a sub-contractor or the builder’s invoices doesn’t include terms
and conditions.
Each trade contract comes in a pad of 20 with each individual contract
carbon copied so both parties can receive a copy quickly and easily.
Both the Project and Period Trade Contracts also require a subcontractor to make a declaration that they are licensed (if required)
and hold necessary insurances such as public liability, worker’s
compensation or personal sickness and accident insurance.
To assist members, HIA produces Project Trade Contracts and Period
Trade Contracts. Both documents achieve the same purpose, which
is to place the agreement between the builder and the sub-contractor
in writing, with some template terms and conditions to ensure quality
of work and prompt payment.
The template terms and conditions on the back of the one page
contract are also important. They state that the sub-contractor must
provide a warranty on their work as well as a defect liability period
that is agreed to between the parties. They also confirm that the
sub-contractor must abide by all safety regulations as well as being
responsible for any damage they may cause to the site or otherwise.
While both contracts achieve this purpose, they are structured
differently based on how the sub-contractor is engaged. A Project
Trade Contract is used for each individual project the sub-contractor
performs work on, while a Period Trade Contract is used when the
sub-contractor performs work over a period of time.
To buy a pad of 20 Project or Period Trade Contracts, please call HIA
Shop on 02 4014 2000.
On the hunt for a new vehicle?
We’ve got just the thing for you ...
Everything you need
to get some wheels
for your business
HIA Vehicles will:
° Find the right vehicle for you
° Help with the financing
° Sort out your insurance
Provide you with any additional services
° you
require during the life of your vehicle
Your hunt is over. Call HIA Vehicles today for more information.
Any vehicle, any where, any time.
Call 1300 650 776 or visit hiavehicles.com.au
WE ARE WORKING
TOGETHER
HIA and Bupa are working together to offer you and
your family the benefits of health insurance including:
° gap free general dental and physio for kids up to the age
of 25 at Members First Providers on selected covers*
° no excess on hospital cover for kids under 25**
° keep your mind and body active with some
great member discounts on things like gym
memberships, movie vouchers and theme park
entry. Visit bupa.com.au/memberexclusives for
more information.
Call 134 135 and quote ID 2083473
Email [email protected]
Visit bupa.com.au/corporate
username: hia and password: health
*Gap free general dental and physiotherapy is available on Ultimate Corporate Health Cover and Corporate Advantage and Corporate Classic covers (gap free general dental only on Platinum
Visitors Cover) when taken with hospital cover on a family membership, when treatment is provided by a Members First dentist or physiotherapist. Major dental only available in VIC and
SA, excludes orthodontics and hospital treatments. Annual limits, waiting periods and fund rules apply. Child dependants only. **No excess for kids is available on selected covers, including
Corporate Hospital Top, Corporate Hospital Intermediate and Platinum Visitors Cover with excess on family memberships. Bupa Australia Pty Ltd ABN 81 000 057 590.
115640514P
HIA ECONOMICS GROUP
Housing Scorecard: NSW surges up the league table
T
he Housing Industry Association recently released our biannual Housing Scorecard report. The HIA Housing Scorecard
report benchmarks the performance of fourteen key indicators
of activity in residential building against long term averages in each
state and territory. This analysis is aggregated in a scoring system to
generate a league table ranking the relative strength or weakness of
residential building conditions in each jurisdiction.
Western Australia has once again topped the rankings, remaining the
strongest residential building market in the country, ahead of New
South Wales. There is daylight between the two strongest states and
the rest of the pack.
Amongst the other states, the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria and
the Northern Territory are clustered closely together in the middle of
the pack. South Australia and Queensland are still just off the pace,
but there were some improvements in both those states.
Tasmania remains the weakest residential building market in the
country. This is an unenviable position the state has now held for
six consecutive quarters. There have been some signs of improving
conditions in the Tasmanian economy, but we are yet to see this flow
through into the residential building sector.
Excitingly the rapid turn of fortunes in NSW is the big story in this
report. Six months ago we noted there was momentum building
in NSW and this has been confirmed by the latest analysis. NSW is
now the second strongest residential building market in the country,
having been ranked number five only six months earlier.
Much of the recovery in NSW can be attributed to the surge in activity
in the multi-unit sector, but the detached home market in NSW ranks
among the strongest in the country. The renovations market remains
a soft spot for NSW, but there are signs that conditions in this part of
the market are improving.
For further information regarding the economic performance of our
industry visit http://economics.hia.com.au
Free HIA Economic Publications
Did you know that as a HIA member you have access to various HIA Economics Group publications for no cost? See below for a selection of
reports that are complimentary for HIA members. To order these documents visit: visit http://economics.hia.com.au
HIA–RP Data
Residential Land
Report
RESIDENTIAL
MEDIAN
LAND SALES LOT VALUES
TRADE
AVAILABILITY
INDEX
REGIONAL
MARKETS
RESIDENTIAL
LOT SIZES
LAND
VALUE
HIA
HIA Trades Report
Kitchens
& Bathrooms
TRADE
AVAILABILITY
BY REGION
RANKING OF
MARKETS
PRICE
MOVEMENT
IN TRADES
TRADE
PRICE INDEX
2013/14
A quarterly update on the change in the
price and availability of building trades
A quarterly update on the sale of residential land
March 2014 Quarter
Past Growth and Future Prospects
June 2014 Quarter
Population & Residential
Building Hotspots
March 2014 Quarter
HIA
HIA Housing
New Home Sales
HALF
YEARLY
REVIEW
STATE BY
STATE
ANALYSIS
STATE
RANKINGS
Scorecard
N
E
W
FASTEST
GROWING
AREAS
VALUE
OF NEW
HOUSING
APPROVALS
VALUE OF
ALTERATIONS
& ADDITIONS
APPROVALS
POPULATION
GROWTH
DETACHED
MULTI-UNIT
SALES
Australia’s Fastest Growing Towns, Cities & Regions
2014
H
O
M
E
APPROVALS
MULTI-UNIT
DETACHED
A monthly update on the sales of new homes
June 2014
B
U
I
L
D
I
N
G
A state by state performance review of residential construction
Winter 2014
HALF
YEARLY
REVIEW
STATE BY
STATE
ANALYSIS
STATE
RANKINGS
NEW HOME
BUILDING
A state by state performance review of residential construction
November 2013
FRESH FACE AT HIA INSURANCE SERVICES
Introducing Barry Katipunan
How long have you been with HIA Insurance?
I have been working for HIA Insurance in total for 8 years. In 2011 I left
to gain valuable experience as an insurance broker within the London
Markets and have since returned to HIA Insurance.
How can you help HIA members?
Whilst my background is in Home Warranty Insurance, I can also
advise on Construction & Public Liability insurance, Motor Vehicle and
General Property/Tool Cover.
What is one service that members would be
surprised that HIA Insurance offer?
Builders may or may not be aware that HIA Insurance Services are an
insurance broker and can tailor insurance solutions for their business.
How do you spend your free time?
I donate my time to the Smith Family helping disadvantaged kids gain
confidence with their reading skills.
Why the move to the Hunter and what do you like
about the Hunter region?
I moved to the Hunter region as there was an opportunity to assist
local builders with Home Warranty Insurance. The best part about the
Hunter region are the friendly people!
For assistance with insurance contact Barry by
calling 0414 404 287 or email: b.katipunan1@aon.
com
hia.com.au
is on the move
Now you can access all the latest
HIA info on your smartphone
Find a HIA office
Access all the latest industry info
Book a training course or event
Shop online
and more
We know your time is important, which is why we offer a handy
call back feature so we can contact you at a suitable time.
PLANNING UPDATE
Michael Buckley
Senior Planning Advisor
Changes to the assessment of development on bushfire
Prone Land
T
he NSW Government has introduced
bushfire reforms to remove the need
for multiple assessments and referrals
by enabling bushfire risk to be addressed once
at subdivision stage. The reforms will also
reduce unnecessary bushfire assessments
by allowing bushfire prone land maps to be
updated to accurately reflect bushfire risk.
and building work has satisfied numerous
requirements.
The changes will only apply to land in an urban
release area. This land is to be identified
on the Bushfire Planning – Urban Release
Area Maps which are to be approved by the
Department of Planning and Environment.
The changes are not mandatory therefore,
you are not legally required to do an
assessment of bushfire risk at subdivision
stage, nor do you have to apply to update
a bushfire prone land map for your land. If
bushfire risk is not assessed at the subdivision
stage, an assessment at the development
application stage will still be required.
Development applications on bushfire
prone land trigger multiple assessments
at subdivision and building stage. The
requirement for assessment of bushfire risk
at the building stage is often a duplication of
matters which have been considered by the
NSW Rural Fire Service at the subdivision
stage.
Where bushfire risk for future dwellings
is addressed at the subdivision stage, the
The changes will only apply to residential
housing that is NOT on land with a high
bushfire risk, that is land classified as Bushfire
Attack Level - 40 (BAL-40) or in the ‘Flame
Zone’.
reforms allow the construction of dwelling
houses, dual occupancies and secondary
dwellings on land in an urban release area to
be excluded from assessment under Section
79BA of the EP&A Act providing certain
obligations are met.
Under Section 79BA, the consent authority
(generally councils) has to be satisfied
that development such as subdivisions
Further detail can be obtain from the
Department of Planning and Environment’s
web site: http://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/
bushfire-protection
For more information contact Michael
Buckley, HIA’s Senior Planning Advisor on (02)
9978 3342.
Bushfire property protection
T
he new laws came into effect on the 1 August 2014. Under the
new laws, people with homes in a designated bushfire zone will
be able to clear trees within 10 metres of their house. They
will also be allowed to clear shrubs and other vegetation, except for
trees, within 50 metres of the house (not neighbouring properties)
in accordance with the ‘Code of Practice’. The locations of the
designated bushfire zone areas have been determined by the Rural
Fire Service (RFS). The new provision is known as a ‘10/50 vegetation
clearing entitlement area’.
Where do these changes apply?
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Private homes
Seniors housing
Boarding homes, group homes and hostels
Tourist and visitor accommodation
Caravans in caravan parks
Schools
Hospitals
Childcare centres
The NSW Rural Fire Service has published a ‘Code of Practice’ to guide
homeowners and others looking after hospitals, school and childcare
centres on what clearing activity will be permitted under the laws. The
changes do NOT allow fire (e.g. burning off) to be used as a method to
clear trees and vegetation within the specified areas.
Copies of the Code of Practice are available on the RFS web site.
People conducting clearing outside of what is permissible under the
new laws and the Code of Practice will still need to obtain relevant
approvals.
Where clearing is conducted in breach of the laws and the Code of
Practice, the people involved may be subject to enforcement action
by local councils or other government agencies.
More information can be obtained from the RFS web site:
http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/news-and-media/general-news/1050vegetation-clearing
WORKCOVER SAFETY ALERT
Collapse of scaffolding
T
his safety alert is published as a result of recent scaffolding
collapses in the NSW and Victorian construction industry. It
alerts people to the potential risks of scaffolding collapses and
provides general guidance on prevention measures.
Scaffolding that is overloaded or inadequately tied to a building is
vulnerable to collapse. It is important that principal contractors,
scaffolding contractors and employers assess the risks and develop,
implement and maintain appropriate risk control measures.
Occupational Health and Safety Requirements
Clause 58 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001
requires that a scaffold and its supporting structure be inspected by
a competent person if someone or something can fall more than four
metres from the scaffold or structure. The inspection must take place:
prevent unauthorised access.
The erection and dismantling of scaffolding must be carried out in
accordance with AS/NZS1576.1:1995 Scaffolding, Part 1 General
requirements and WorkCover’s industry safety standard Erecting,
altering and dismantling scaffolding, Part 1 - Prefabricated steel
modular scaffolding.
Risk Controls
Use the following control measures to prevent the collapse of
scaffolding:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
before the scaffold is used for the first time
after an incident that might reasonably be expected to affect the
stability or adequacy of the scaffold or its supporting structure –
eg after a severe storm
before the scaffold is used following repairs
at intervals not exceeding 30 days.
If inspection of a scaffold or its supporting structure indicates safety
flaws, appropriate repairs, alterations or additions must be carried
out and the scaffold and its supporting structure re-inspected by a
competent person before its further use.
•
•
•
If a scaffold is incomplete and left unattended, appropriate controls,
including the use of danger tags or warning signs, must be used to
•
•
•
Select and install scaffolding that is suitable for the tasks and the
sequence of construction processes.
Provide and maintain adequate means of tying the scaffolding to
its supporting structure.
Develop a system of work that allows construction activities – eg
bricklaying, painting, rendering, façade installation, or window
installation – to be completed without unplanned changes to, or
removal of, scaffolding ties For example, undertake these tasks
by working down from the top of a building as the scaffolding is
progressively dismantled, or provide alternative means of tying
the scaffolding to its supporting structure that does not interfere
with the work.
Do not overload the scaffolding with excessive amounts of
materials.
Ensure that the scaffolding is able to withstand any anticipated
loads or forces, such as strong winds.
Assign an on-site scaffold coordinator to control the use of
various scaffolding platforms and sections of platforms with the
relevant subcontractors – see the industry safety standard
Engage a competent person to erect, alter and dismantle the
scaffolding if someone or
something can fall more than four metres from it – only those
with the one of the following certificates of competency can
undertake these activities:
o SB = basic scaffolding
o SI = intermediate scaffolding
o SA = advanced scaffolding.
Provide on-site workers and subcontractors adequate
information, instruction, training and supervision regarding
the control measures required to prevent the collapse of the
scaffolding.
Further Information
Further information regarding scaffolding can be found in the:
•
•
•
•
Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001
Erecting, altering and dismantling scaffolding, Part 1 Prefabricated
steel modular scaffolding
AS/NZS 1576 series
AS/NZS 4576 Guidelines for scaffolding
This alert contains safety information following inquiries made by WorkCover
about an incident or unsafe practice. The information contained in this alert
does not necessarily include the outcome of WorkCover’s response to an
incident or unsafe practice. WorkCover does not warrant that the information
in this alert is complete or up-to-date and does not accept any liability to any
person because of the alert’s information or its use.
Erection and dismantling of formwork
T
his safety alert is published following
an incident on a construction site
where a form worker was killed by
falling formwork. The worker was struck by
one-half of a steel column shutter, which was
left on a poured concrete column while the
other side of the shutter was removed during
the stripping operation.
Occupational Health and Safety
Requirements
The Occupational Health and Safety
Regulation 2001 (OHS Regulation) requires
employers to identify hazards, and assess and
control risks at the workplace in consultation
with their workers. It also requires principal
contractors and subcontractors to provide,
implement and maintain safe systems of
work. In many cases, employers are required
to develop and implement safe work method
statements for hazardous construction tasks.
The OHS Regulation also requires employers
to ensure that the risks associated with
falling objects are controlled by providing a
safe means of raising, securing or lowering
plant, materials and debris that may present
a fall risk.
Risk Controls
Employers must ensure that:
•
•
•
•
•
the dismantling of formwork is done
in a safe manner that is planned and
controlled in accordance with AS 3610 –
1995 Formwork for concrete
safe work methods are reviewed and
amended regularly as conditions change
all persons involved in the work are
provided with appropriate training and
instruction, which also covers the safe
work method statements
the risks associated with objects falling
are identified and that appropriate
controls
are
implemented
and
maintained
all parts of formwork and false-work
assemblies are stable and secure at all
times during the forming and stripping
operations, as well as during temporary
storage on site.
•
•
•
OHS Regulation
Code of practice for formwork
AS 3610-1995 Formwork for concrete.
This alert contains safety information following
inquiries made by WorkCover about an incident
or unsafe practice. The information contained in
this alert does not necessarily include the outcome
of WorkCover’s response to an incident or unsafe
practice. WorkCover does not warrant that the
information in this alert is complete or up-to-date
and does not accept any liability to any person
because of the alert’s information or its use.
Further Information
Further information regarding safe systems
of work for formwork can be found in:
IT’S WINE
O’CLOCK
HIA members and their staff are now able to buy Tyrrell’s wines at 15% off the regular prices
(not including special offers), online at any time. The HIA wine club offers a wide range of
products at reduced rates – for home or the office.
All sales benefit the HIA Charitable Foundation.
To take advantage of this exclusive offer visit hia.com.au/foundation and apply the code HIA15 at the checkout
SAFETY SERVICES
Jane Fayad
Business Safety Manager - NSW
Providing training and instruction to construction workers
U
nder the WHS Legislation, all Builders
and Sub-Contractors must provide
relevant
information,
training,
instruction and supervision. This is to protect
all workers from risks to their health and
safety arising from construction work.
Builders and Sub-Contractors must ensure
that information, training and instruction
provided to a worker are suitable for the:
•
•
•
Nature of the work carried out by the
worker;
Risks associated with the work at the
time and
Appropriate Control measures to be
implemented.
Supervisors should be aware of and provide
the level of supervision necessary to
ensure the health and safety of workers,
including checking workers’ level of skills and
competency to undertake the work.
Supervision is particularly important where
workers are unfamiliar with the site or the
nature of the work. Workers in a supervisory
role should be trained and authorised to
ensure the work is carried out in accordance
with relevant policies, procedures and the
SWMS.
A range of activities can assist in ensuring
people have the appropriate knowledge and
skills to work safely on construction sites,
including:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
General Induction into safety systems,
policies, plans and procedures;
General construction induction training
(White Card);
Site specific induction training;
Emergency
Response
Procedures
training;
Pre-start meetings or toolbox talks;
First Aid Training and
Asbestos Awareness Training.
Site specific induction training aims to
provide information about safety issues and
safe work practices that are particular and
unique to the construction workplace. Site
specific induction training may cover the
following:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Hazards and control measures that are
relevant to the site;
Site specific safety documents, policies
and plans (e.g. WHS Management
Plan – Construction Project and Traffic
Management Plan)
Supervisory, consultation and reporting
arrangements;
Site safety rules
First aid provisions;
Emergency
response
Procedures
including
assembly
points
and
emergency contacts;
Process for resolving safety issues and
Location of underground services.
All workers should attend site specific
induction training so they can become aware
of procedures, management and reporting
arrangements, as well as other issues that
are relevant to a particular construction
workplace. Other persons who visit the site
may also require some workplace specific
induction training.
Site specific induction training can be
delivered in several ways, including:
•
•
•
•
Toolbox talks;
Pre-start meetings;
On-the-job instructions and
One-off sessions or events called for a
specific purpose.
Other training may also be necessary to
ensure that the worker has the relevant
information
and
instruction
when
undertaking a particular construction activity.
For example, task specific training on how to
use fall arrest equipment may be provided
to a worker required to work at heights. Task
specific training should be developed for
the actual task carried out and be regularly
reviewed and updated whenever there are
changes to the task, processes, systems of
work, or plant and substances that may affect
health and safety.
If you need help or advice, have any safety
concerns or would like assistance with
complying to the WHS legislation, HIA Safety
Services can be contacted on 02 9978 3357.
INDUSTRY NEWS
BCA free online from 2015
I
n an historic decision by the Commonwealth Government and
all States and Territories, it has been agreed that the Australian
Building Codes Board (ABCB) will provide the National Construction
Code (NCC) series, which includes the Building Code of Australia (BCA)
and the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA), for free online from 1 May
2015.
The ABCB has now released a timeline for roll out of free online
access:
•
•
•
1 December 2014 – you can register you details as a subscriber
to the NCC
1 February 2015 – subscribers will be allowed to view the 2015
edition of the NCC
1 May 2015 – subscribers will be allowed to download and print
copies of the 2015 edition of the NCC
Once the NCC is available for free online, the ABCB will stop publishing
hard copies. Subscribers will be able to print the Codes as suits their
own purposes.
and timeframes and are pleased with the announcement from the
Commonwealth Government.
More information about free access to the BCA from 2015 is available
from the ABCB webpage (www.abcb.gov.au)
HIA members can contact HIA’s Building Services team for more
information on 1300 650 620 or [email protected].
As part of this decision it was also agreed that from May 2016, the
Codes will only be updated every 3 years, rather than every year as
currently happens.
As part of the HIA Federal Election Policy Imperatives campaign at the
last election, HIA lobbied for these important changes to BCA access
Looking for BETTEr
finAnCing oPTionS?
HIA Finance can help with a suite of financial
services for the residential building industry.
With HIA Finance you are guaranteed that
our initial approval will be honoured.
1 Construction loans
2 Residential mortgages for your customers
3 Low-doc loans
4 Commercial mortgages with no annual review
Not sure what you need to get started?
Need more information? Call for a consultation.
Call 1300 889 442
email: fi[email protected]
or visit hiafinance.com.au
Funding solutions are provided by Beyond The Banks, Australian Credit License Number 387381
GREENSMART
Michael Buckley
Senior Planning Advisor
Home automation
I
n the home, appliances and equipment can be controlled
automatically and remotely. Automated controls can turn
equipment on or off, or adjust operating settings at predetermined
times; they can be triggered onsite or remotely; they can adjust
equipment operation in response to changes, such as temperature, in
the home environment.
Home automation systems can improve the energy efficiency of your
home only if they are designed for this purpose. Home automation
can either be centralised and programmable, or consist of dispersed
and isolated sensors and controls. Systems range from sophisticated
electronic programmable controls for lighting, heating, cooling and
entertainment devices using special wiring or wireless, to just a few
isolated, automated systems, such as motion sensors to control lights.
Make designing an energy efficient home, and installing high energy
efficient appliances and lighting, your first priority. Automotive
systems use an electrical signal to switch equipment – usually a light,
a motor or heating/cooling appliance – on or off on demand or based
on timers or sensors. Valves and dampers can allow water or air to
flow while motors can open and shut blinds, vents, fans, pumps and
the like, and can be triggered by timers, sensors or thermostats.
Relays are more sophisticated switches that can activate any electrical
or electronic device. Computers or specific controllers can automate
all of these devices.
•
Control heaters and air conditioners so they are used only when
and where they are needed and to achieve a desired temperature
Before considering automation options, ensure that your home is
designed to make the best use of solar energy and natural ventilation
for passive heating and cooling. Use thermostats or temperature
sensors in different rooms to control heating and cooling. Appropriately
placed, they, along with timers to control heating/cooling appliances,
can significantly reduce energy use, even if automated systems are
not used.
Analyse your heating/cooling needs and how to manage them. Ask
yourself: which rooms need to be heated/cooled, when and to what
temperature? Aim to heat/cool living areas when people are home
but heat/cool bedrooms only at night and in early morning when they
are occupied bedrooms do not need to be made as warm or cool as
living areas to be comfortable for sleeping. Don’t heat or cool areas
such as halls and laundries, and use the appropriate heating systems
for the purposes.
Hot water control
Heating and cooling control
Automate the hot water system so it can be switched on and off as
required, e.g. off when going on holidays, on again just before your
return. Solar systems can be controlled so they do not require the use
of an auxiliary booster during periods of poor solar gain in summer or
when demand increases, e.g. family home for Christmas.
A well-designed automation system can:
Appliances and equipment control
•
Use controls to operate appliances and equipment only when they are
needed. Remote control and timer control of appliances, from coffee
makers to home theatres to spas, can save energy if the appliances
can be switched off when not required. But take care not to turn on
appliances automatically or at preset times – more energy may be
consumed if there is no need for the appliances to operate.
Improve passive solar heating and passive cooling through the
control of blinds, awnings, windows, vents and fans
Automating equipment control to reduce operating times is particular
useful if the appliances normally use stand-by power when they are
not operating, e.g. stereos, TVs, DVDs and home office equipment.
It is also useful when the need for the equipment to operate varies,
such as for pool pumps, where daily operating hours can be matched
to the season.
Energy monitoring
The home automation system can monitor the total energy use
of the house or even individual circuits or appliances. Current
is measured by a measuring device at the meter board, and is
converted into power and energy consumption. This information
The Hunter House of Inspirations, within the
Home Inspirations centre, displays a range
of home automation products. Products on
display have the ability to operate devices
such as motorised blinds, air conditioning,
pool and spa pumps, security systems and
home theatres… just to name a few.
HIA acknowledges the support o f
our Hunter GreenSmart Regional
Partners
is transmitted wirelessly to an inside display unit or directly to the
automation controller. Depending on the system installed, the user
can view power, energy, cost and estimated greenhouse gas emissions
associated with the whole house. The system can be configured to
measure the renewable energy generated by a photovoltaic system or
wind generator, and show how much electricity has been exported to
the grid. Users can also view this information in real time, or view the
past week’s or month’s use. The display can also show environmental
or other measurements, such as outside/inside temperature, and hot
water temperature.
Automation equipment, sensors and controls
Home automation systems work by managing the electric power
of the equipment being automatically controlled. The degree of
intelligence and how it is distributed between the elements of the
home automation system varies with the design and manufacturer.
Control can be implemented by isolated sensors, timers and
processors embedded in the switches and relays. Centralised control
can be obtained through networked sensors linked to a controller
or computer which then operates the power system of equipment
throughout the house.
The operation of more sophisticated equipment such as central
heaters, air conditioners or home theatres can also be brought under
the control of the automation system, but with more intelligent
controlled devices.
In the future, home automation systems may be linked to the electricity
utility in a number of ways in which the utility may communicate
variations in electricity prices to a smart electricity meter, which
interfaces with the home automation controller. Householders can
then program appliances to reduce power, save energy or switch off
altogether during high price periods.
(Source: Your Home - Australians guide to environmentally sustainable
homes – Energy: Home Automation - Australian Government)
HIA CHARITABLE FOUNDATION HAMMERHEAD ALE
A limited edition mid-strength ale that has a base of
classic ale barley with a touch of Vienna malt for sweet
creaminess and Carapils malt for body and texture.
Ideal to finish a long day!
By purchasing this limited edition beer you will also
be supporting the HIA Charitable Foundation. Great for
home, the workplace or for your Christmas function!
For a limited time cartons are available to purchase with
collection from your local HIA office.
By purchasing any Hammerhead Ale products from
Newstead Brewery you confirm you are over 18 years
of age. The HIA Charitable Foundation supports the
Responsible Service of Alcohol. For specific legislation in
your state or territory visit our Liquor Licensing Acts page.
For more information email [email protected]
3140_CF_Hammerhead_BNQPad.indd 1
19/08/14 12:36 PM
EVENTS
Leigh Cooper
Events Coordinator - Hunter
HIA Port Stephens trade night
H
and hope to make the event a regular on the
HIA Hunter Events Calendar.
IA Hunter members and their
guests were able to attend the HIA
Port Stephens Trade Night on 10th
September. This was the first trade night
that HIA have held in this region for several
years. The event was well-supported by HIA
members who enjoyed a major presentation
from Workplace Adviser, Luke Winchester
who spoke on dispute resolution and how
builders can avoid large claims at the NSW
Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT).
Luke gave some tips on managing disputes in
general, then some specific examples of what
to expect at the NCAT and how to maximise
their chances of a favorable outcome. HIA
Hunter Region Executive Director, Craig
Jennion also provided attendees with an
update on the Building Code of Australia and
the changes to bushfire regulations.
Special thanks to all partners for the HIA
Hunter Port Stephens Trade Night:
Guests also received product updates and
presentations from the Major Sponsors:
James Hardie, Wideline Windows & Doors
and Apricus Solar Hot Water.
HIA Hunter was pleased to host a trade night
for our members in the Port Stephens area,
HIA – Kingspan GreenSmart Showcase
H
Insulation, Trend Windows & Doors and
Clipsal.
IA members and guests who
attended the recent GreenSmart
Showcase on the 6th August were
given some extremely useful information on
how to achieve comfortable homes and low
energy bills.
Dr Stephen White of the Commonwealth
Scientific
and
Industrial
Research
Organisation (CSIRO) divulged details of how
research has developed new technology such
as cooling systems using solar thermal energy
to build better, more affordable homes that
keep energy bills down.
CSIRO are creating the technologies to help
with energy efficiency and have programs to
help people understand how to make small
A huge thank you to all sponsors on the night
for their support with HIA and this event:
changes to the way they use energy. You can
visit CSIRO’s website for top tips on how to
save power, money and reduce your carbon
footprint.
Product updates were also given by our
Naming Rights and Major Sponsors, Kingspan
DATE
TIME
CPD
POINTS
MEMBER COST
NON MEMBER
COST
Wests - Mayfield West
6th November
7.30am - 9.30am
2
$55.00
$55.00
HIA Mayfield West
11th November
5.00pm - 7.00pm
2
$16.50
$22.00
7.00am - 2.00pm
N/A
$85.00
$85.00
EVENT NAME
VENUE
Economic Breakfast
Information Night
Information Night
Gosford Golf Club
12th November
Information Night
Club Forster
18th November
Information Night
Scone Timber and Hardware
25th November
Golf Day
Toukley Golf Day
20th November
are you accessing all your
IAmember
benefits?
Being a member of HIA
allows you to take
advantage of substantial
savings on an exclusive
range of products and
services related to
your business.
HIA Telecommunications
HIA Vehicles
HIA Telecommunications helps in
selecting the right communication
technologies for your business. From
tailored business solutions to advice on
internet and data products, HIA
Telecommunications can assist.
As a HIA member, you, your family and
your employees all have access to a
range of vehicle services. HIA Vehicles
can provide assistance with purchasing
a new or used vehicle, tailor financial
solutions to assist with purchasing your
vehicle, provide vehicle insurance
options through HIA Insurance Services
as well as warranties and servicing.
Fuel Discounts
Save on fuel and simplify your
paperwork with a Caltex Starcard.
HIA Health Plan
HIA Health Plan offers members access
to Bupa health insurance options. Join
Bupa and your corporate health plan
will include one month free for both
hospital and extras cover and up to
90% back on selected options.
Among other benefits members also
get a waiver of two and six month
waiting periods on some essentials.
Conditions apply.
Qantas Club
HIA members have exclusive access to
HIA’s Qantas Club corporate scheme.
This HIA membership benefit allows
members to join the Qantas Club at a
significantly reduced rate including the
Qantas Club Lounge and the Frequent
Flyer Program.
HIA Shop
The HIA Shop has essential stationery
tools and business products to help
you run your business including
contracts, building guides, first aid kits,
site signs and a range of other products
at special member prices. Remember
HIA’s workplace advisers are here to
help and provide assistance when
using HIA’s contracts.
Contracts Online
Contracts Online is the quick, secure
and easy way to purchase your
industry contracts.
HIA Finance
Looking for better financing options?
HIA Finance can help with a suite of
financial services for the residential
building industry.
Want to know more about HIA’s products and services? Contact your local HIA office.
T: 1300 650 620 E: [email protected] or visit hia.com.au
H3

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Transcription

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