Discover the latest updates and essential insights in the building and construction industry. For all significant news and developments, this is your go-to source.
NSW “Local Jobs First” Exposure Bill released for consultation.
The Minns Labor Government is inviting the community to have their say on the Local Jobs First Bill, which will establish the Local Jobs First Commission, which is targeted to support local jobs and apprentices and help grow local businesses.
The intention of the Local Jobs First Bill is to...
Workers Compensation Legislation Amendment
The NSW Parliament has passed the Government’s Workers Compensation Legislation Amendment (Reform and Modernisation) Bill 2025 (“Bill 2”). This follows the passing of a modified version of the Workers Compensation Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 in November last year.
Key changes in the new Bill for workers who have a primary...
Rate hike will put further pressure on NSW housing target
MEDIA RELEASE: The first increase in official rates in more than two years will make it even less likely that NSW can achieve the housing targets set by the Federal Government despite the NSW Government's microeconomic reform agenda to speed up new housing approvals.
Matthew Pollock, Executive Director of the...
NCC 2025 – key changes NSW
Building ministers have confirmed the next steps for NCC 2025, including the publication timeline, an adoption window from May 2026, and a national pause on further residential NCC changes (except essential safety and quality fixes) until around 2029.
Key dates
- NCC 2025 preview released: 1 February 2026
- Jurisdictions can...
NSW planning reforms: Key changes in 2026
NSW has set out a package of planning reforms intended to speed up approvals, make assessment clearer, and reduce agency bottlenecks. For Master Builder members, the practical takeaway is straightforward: some decision-making is being pushed back to local pathways, State agency input is being centralised, and DA requirements and conditions...
2026 Australia Day Honours list
Congratulations to MBA members Dan and Tim Murphy of Fugen Holdings Pty Ltd on being recognised with an OAM in the 2026 Australia Day Honours. Dan’s long service to Master Builders Association of NSW includes roles as President, Deputy President and Vice-President, plus decades as a Councillor and committee contributor...
Quick tip: floor wastes now trigger mandatory falls (NCC 2022)
NCC 2022 does not force you to install a floor waste in wet areas. But if you do install one (even voluntarily), you must grade the floor to drain to it. Clause 10.2.12 now makes this mandatory, with a continuous fall between 1:80 (minimum) and 1:50 (maximum) to the...
Are you working safely with silica?
If you work with crystalline silica substances and products, the new year is the perfect time to review your work systems and make sure you're complying with your legal obligations.
It’s important to check:
It’s important to check:
- Have you reviewed your silica risk control plans?
- Have you registered any workers undertaking high risk silica processing on the Silica...
2026 review of the Work Health and Safety Scheme
The Standing Committee on Law and Justice, in accordance with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 started its review into the Work Health and Safety scheme on 15 December 2025. The review focuses on the rights and roles of Health and Safety Representatives and workplace health and safety training...
Quarterly super is ending as Payday Super arrives
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has released a new checklist, giving employers a clear roadmap to prepare for Payday Super.
Deputy Commissioner Emma Rosenzweig urged employers to make it their new year’s resolution to get ready for Payday Super.
The new year brings a big change to the super system...