Several of the state’s major builders and the CFMEU have reached an in-principle understanding on what are acceptable terms for new Enterprise Agreements over the next four years. The in-principle understanding will provide certainty for both employers and employees in the building and construction industry.

Several flexibilities have been provided for, including a smaller projects provision that will promote investment and employment. It introduces positive new provisions that support worker flexibility around accessing part time work, and a safer and more inclusive environment, particularly for women.  The wage increase element is a more measured outcome than previous years, with an annual average increase of 1.68% this year and approximately 3% each year after that.

A core role of Master Builders Victoria is to provide industrial relations support to our members, which includes assisting them in negotiating Enterprise Agreements. The vast majority of the major builders that have reached this in-principle understanding with the CFMEU are members of Master Builders Victoria, and we assisted and advised them during the discussions.

Master Builders Victoria is available to provide advice and assistance to all its members about enterprise bargaining, including where members choose to use this in-principle understanding as the reference point for their Agreements.  However, it should be noted that the in-principle Agreements that have been reached between the CFMEU and the major builders may not suit some Master Builders Victoria members.  In those cases, Master Builders Victoria will assist members to establish what they need for their business, and support them in discussions with their employees and their representatives.

Quotes attributable to Master Builders Victoria CEO, Rebecca Casson:

“Master Builders Victoria is pleased with many aspects of the in-principle understanding with the CFMEU for new Enterprise Agreements.  The building and construction industry has faced extraordinary challenges this year, and reaching an in-principle understanding is a significant step in instilling a level of certainty over the next four years.”

“An unprecedented collaborative approach has been required to keep the building and construction industry safe and open during the COVID-19 pandemic, and these in-principle Agreements reflect this, with measured outcomes for both employers and employees.”

“We are optimistic that these in-principle Agreements will send a strong signal that Victoria is the place for building and construction, and help promote investment and employment at a time when it is most needed.”