Master Builders Victoria supports the Victorian State Government’s plan to conduct targeted COVID-19 testing among industries that have been permitted to continue work under pandemic restrictions, including that of the building and construction sector.

“This is part of the responsible management stance taken by both state and federal governments that has helped keep our industry working and Victorians safe,” Rebecca Casson, CEO of Master Builders Victoria, said.

Master Builders Victoria fully supports the deployment of Incolink’s mobile testing facilities that will be put into action on Wednesday this week and augment the effectiveness of the State’s testing program.

“This is further evidence of the innovative and collaborative efforts taking place across the building and construction industry in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The more we can all do to ensure the health of our members, the faster our economy can recover from the damaging effects of the coronavirus pandemic to the Victorian economy,” Ms Casson said.

The building and construction industry stands ideally placed to guide our state through to an economic recovery from this crisis. The sector provides 45% of Victoria’s tax revenue and is the state’s largest full-time employer. ABS data shows that every $1 invested in housing construction produces $3 worth of economic activity.

“The building and construction sector is a major driver of the Victorian economy and nothing is more important than the safety of our workers, colleagues and families,” Ms Casson said. “This targeted testing is part of our commitment to that.”

“We are proud that our members have been so quick to adopt the guidelines we co-developed with the united group of industry associations and unions. This increase in testing is another step in the fight against COVID-19 and is important progress towards a re-opening of our economy,” she said.

“On behalf of our members, we will continue to provide advice to the Victorian State Government on stimulus measures that can give the Victorian economy the best chance of success as the task of economic recovery begins,” Ms Casson said.