Master Builders calls for skilled migration system to prioritise tradies
Master Builders Australia wants construction workers given higher priority in the skilled migration system. New analysis highlights tradies' economic contribution as the industry faces ongoing labour shortages.
Will skilled migration changes make it easier to hire tradies from overseas?
Builders, carpenters, plumbers and electricians face ongoing skills shortages. Easier migration pathways could bring more workers onto job sites and ease project delays.
Key takeaways
- Master Builders Australia wants construction workers prioritised in the skilled migration system.
- New analysis highlights the significant economic contribution tradies make to Australia.
- The push comes amid ongoing labour shortages across the construction industry.
- Easier migration pathways could help builders fill skills gaps and reduce project delays.
Related
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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.
WA passes new payment protection laws for subcontractors
Western Australia's Parliament has passed new payment protection laws for subcontractors. The changes, made through an amendment to the Building and Construction Industry (Security of Payment) legislation, aim to give subcontractors stronger protection against insolvency.
Why it matters: Subcontractors in WA, including plumbers, electricians, carpenters and other trades, get stronger protection if a head contractor becomes insolvent. This could reduce the risk of unpaid work and cash flow problems.
ATO ramp up of small business debt collection
Master Builders Australia has published a news item saying the ATO is stepping up its debt collection against small businesses. The text provided gives no further detail on the measures, timing or amounts.
Why it matters: Builders and other trade businesses with outstanding tax debts may face firmer ATO collection action, which could strain cash flow. Details are not in the source text, so check the ATO or Master Builders directly.