HIA calls on Treasurer to task Productivity Commission with IR laws review
The Housing Industry Association is calling on the federal Treasurer to direct the Productivity Commission to review industrial relations laws. HIA Managing Director Jocelyn Martin made the public statement urging the review.
Could a Productivity Commission review change IR laws for builders and tradies?
Builders and subcontractors could face changes to workplace laws affecting wages, conditions and compliance costs on construction sites.
Key takeaways
- HIA wants the Productivity Commission to formally review current industrial relations laws.
- The call was made by HIA Managing Director Jocelyn Martin directly to the federal Treasurer.
- A review could lead to changes in workplace rules affecting builders and construction subcontractors.
- No specific reforms have been proposed yet — this is a push to start the review process.
Related
Construction needs an effective enforcer not a paperwork obsession
The Housing Industry Association (HIA) warns that proposed national construction standards and new procurement rules miss the mark. It says the measures land hardest on home builders and argues for an effective enforcer rather than more paperwork.
Why it matters: Home builders and small residential contractors could face extra compliance paperwork and procurement requirements, adding admin time and cost to jobs without necessarily lifting building quality.
Trades shortages persist as work on the ground remains solid
Skilled trade shortages remain widespread across Australia. The HIA says demand for workers is being supported by the recovery in home building activity over the past year.
Why it matters: Builders, carpenters and other residential trades should expect continued tight labour supply. That can mean higher wage pressure, harder hiring and longer lead times on jobs.
Potential Commonwealth Standards for the Construction Industry
The Housing Industry Association (HIA) says it backs a lawful, safe, productive and sustainable construction industry and has long called for structural reform. It says the consultation on potential Commonwealth standards proposes several measures it is concerned about.
Why it matters: Commonwealth standards could add new compliance requirements for builders and subcontractors across residential construction. The article gives no detail yet, so the practical impact on trades is unclear.