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.

ATO warns businesses against falsifying GST claims

29/07/2025

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has launched a crackdown on fraudulent GST claims in the building and construction industry. From 1 July 2025, the ATO can now withhold suspicious GST refunds for up to 30 days while investigating. Those caught face interest charges, penalties, potential prosecution, and promoter penalties...

Industry backs free access to Australian Standards

29/07/2025

Construction industry leaders and Standards Australia have united to call for free access to Australian Standards, aiming to boost productivity, safety, and innovation across the sector.

At a recent meeting in Canberra, industry representatives highlighted how paywall restrictions negatively affect compliance, workforce efficiency, and timely housing delivery.

Master Builders Australia...

SafeWork NSW is now an independent regulator

30/06/2025

From 1 July, SafeWork NSW is now an independent regulator. They’re using this change to boost visibility on job sites and provide more hands-on support to businesses.

This week, inspectors will focus on:

  • Construction sites in the Hunter, Central Coast, Wollongong, Sydney CBD, Sutherland Shire and Western Sydney

  • High-risk issues...

Builder banned for life after fraud findings

27/06/2025

Building Commission NSW has permanently disqualified Rodger Labib from operating as a builder and building practitioner.

Acting on data and intelligence, investigators found Mr Labib had obtained a financial benefit after fraudulent documents were produced to banks, council and NSW Fair Trading.

Building Commission NSW has since permanently disqualified Mr...

NCC changes in force as industry awaits 2025 update

27/06/2025

National Construction Code (NCC) 2022  now applies in NSW.

The Australian Building Codes Board advised that some minor amendments to NCC 2022 (Amendment 1) came into effect on 1 May 2025.

This includes updates, variations and additions for work completed in Western Australia, a variation for work completed...

Govt to underwrite off-the-plan sales

27/06/2025

The NSW Government has launched a five-year, $1 billion Pre–Sale Finance Guarantee to fast-track housing construction across NSW. This program allows the government to guarantee up to 50% of approved residential projects, helping developers who struggle to meet rising pre-sale requirements, now as high as 80% in some cases, secure funding...

New demolition supervisor training requirements

17/06/2025

From 1 July 2025, the units of competency required to become a demolition supervisor are changing. This follows consultation with industry and stakeholders in 2024 and 2025 on .
The changes will make sure training for demolition supervisors better reflects current industry needs while protecting workers...

Steel tariff shock adds fresh uncertainty for builders

05/06/2025

BESIX Watpac has warned that Donald Trump’s move to double US steel tariffs is set to create fresh uncertainty across global construction supply chains, just as the company returns to profit after two years of losses.

Key points for builders and contractors:

  • Steel tariffs rise: US steel and aluminium tariffs...