Interview with Natalie Barr, Sunrise
HIA Managing Director Jocelyn Martin appeared on Sunrise to discuss construction insolvencies, the Bathla Group collapse, warranty insurance, and investor confidence in the building sector.
What does the Bathla Group collapse mean for builders and warranty insurance?
Builders and related trades face ongoing risk from insolvencies. Warranty insurance gaps can leave subcontractors and clients exposed when head contractors fail.
Key takeaways
- HIA's Jocelyn Martin discussed construction insolvencies on national TV program Sunrise.
- The Bathla Group collapse was a key topic, highlighting risks in the building industry.
- Warranty insurance and its adequacy for homeowners and trades was raised as a concern.
- Investor confidence in construction remains under pressure amid ongoing insolvency issues.
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.
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.
Secure Australian Jobs Framework
The article argues that residential building and its supply chains should be exempt from the Secure Australian Jobs Framework and any related procurement obligations. It says government effort should go towards improving productivity instead.
Why it matters: Builders and the trades working in residential construction could avoid extra procurement obligations and compliance work if the exemption is granted. Otherwise, supply chain and tendering requirements may change.