New standards for Australia's construction industry
The Albanese Government is inviting feedback on Commonwealth standards aimed at improving performance and strengthening expectations across the construction sector. in May this year, consultation on the proposed standards represent the next step in implementing the National Construction Industry Forum's (NCIF) Blueprint for the Future , which makes 44 recommendations to build a productive, fair, safe and sustainable construction industry for the future.
A discussion paper released today seeks feedback on the design of properly targeted Commonwealth standards. The paper seeks feedback on where the Commonwealth can have the greatest impact on issues including productivity, project delivery, workforce outcomes and systemic industry challenges, while avoiding duplication and unnecessary regulatory burden. The NCIF’s Draft Joint Construction Industry Charter has also been released today for feedback.
The Draft Charter complements the proposed standards and represents an industry-driven process to set shared goals and behavioural expectations across the sector. Driving change in the construction sector is a shared responsibility. Construction standards should be effective, proportionate and workable, while recognising the roles and responsibilities of other governments, police, regulators and all industry participants.
Feedback on the proposed Commonwealth construction standards can be provided through the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations' consultation hub until 16 October 2026. Feedback on the Draft Charter can be provided to [email protected] until 16 October 2026. Quotes attributable to Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Amanda Rishworth: "The construction industry is critical for Australia’s future.
The NCIF’s Blueprint for the Future sets a path to build a stronger construction industry for all.” “Today’s announcements on the Draft Charter and Standards are significant steps forward in implementing the NCIF’s Blueprint.” " We are keen to hear views and perspectives from all parts of the industry. What we hear through this consultation on proposed construction standards and the Draft Charter will help inform the Government’s next steps." Quotes attributable to Master Builders Chief Executive, Denita Wawn: “Master Builders Australia acknowledges that the release of this discussion paper is an important step towards a more productive and lawful building and construction sector.
“It is critical that these new standards are consulted on so that the final product is fit for purpose and drives genuine reform across the industry.” Quotes attributable to Australian Constructors Association Chief Executive, Peter Colacino: “We all know the most successful projects are the ones with aligned behaviours between all parties. “The Charter attempts to elevate these behaviours to the whole industry.
“These behaviours must apply to all parties, so this consultation is critical to not only understand what should be done but also how to make it stick.” Quotes attributable to Civil Contractors Federation Australia Chief Executive, Nicholas Proud: “The development of national construction standards is a significant reform process for Australia’s construction industry.
“This early consultation is an important opportunity for industry to help shape the direction of that work. “If we get the approach right, there is a real opportunity to deliver positive and lasting improvements across the construction industry.” Quotes attributable to Australian Workers Union National Secretary, Paul Farrow: “The AWU strongly supports the process of industry collaboration that has been built by the NCIF.
“This is what it takes to drive real long-term change. “Every other industry is expected to uphold certain standards of behaviour and the construction sector should be no different. “The NCIF’s work through the Blueprint, the Draft Industry Charter and now the Standards are important steps towards improved outcomes for all in the industry.” Quotes attributable to Australian Manufacturing Workers Union National Secretary, Steve Murphy: “The NCIF has brought the industry together to drive a genuine, lasting commitment to reform.
"The Industry Charter and the Blueprint are our collective plan to deliver real positive change across every job site in Australia. "This is how we will secure a higher performing and fairer construction sector, where safe, secure and well-paid jobs are not negotiable."