Tasmanian builders shouldn't be shut out of housing work over union membership
The HIA has written to the Tasmanian Government urging that state-funded housing contracts be awarded on merit, not union membership. The industry body wants assurance builders won't be excluded from government work based on industrial arrangements.
Can Tasmanian builders be locked out of state housing jobs over union membership?
Affects builders and subcontractors in Tasmania bidding for state-funded housing projects. Could determine whether non-union contractors remain eligible for government work.
Key takeaways
- HIA has formally written to the Tasmanian Government over concerns about contractor selection criteria.
- The concern is that union membership could become a factor in awarding state-funded housing contracts.
- HIA is pushing for merit-based tendering on all state-funded and state-partnered housing work.
- Non-union builders in Tasmania may face exclusion from government housing projects if practices change.
Related
Inquiry into the financial and operational performance of TasWater
HIA's Tasmanian Executive Director Benjamin Price addressed the Public Accounts Committee regarding TasWater's financial and operational performance. The statement covers issues relevant to the water utility's impact on the building and construction industry in Tasmania.
Why it matters: Builders and plumbers in Tasmania may be affected by TasWater's performance, including connection delays, infrastructure capacity, and cost impacts on new developments.
Stop the dividends: Councils broke Tasmania's water system
TasWater has paid $120 million in dividends to Tasmanian councils while charging homebuyers fees on undeveloped blocks. Critics argue this financial structure is breaking the state's water system.
Why it matters: Plumbers and builders in Tasmania face project delays and cost blowouts tied to TasWater's strained infrastructure. New housing developments may be harder to connect and more expensive to service.
Local government candidate shortfall highlights need for council amalgamations
Two Tasmanian councils received too few nominations to fill all councillor positions ahead of local government elections. The Housing Industry Association argues this shortfall strengthens the case for council amalgamations in Tasmania.
Why it matters: Builders and developers in Tasmania could be affected if council amalgamations reshape planning approval processes and local development oversight.