Results of Master Builders’ last sentiment survey saw an improvement in Victorian builders’ confidence in their industry’s future, sitting well above the neutral mark and the five-year average mark.

Our Industry Expectations Index recorded 54.4 points for the March quarter, a positive increase from the 50.7 points in the December quarter. This puts current levels well above the national figure (51.9), above the neutral mark of 50, and the five-year average (50.2).

Master Builders notes that Victorian commercial builders may have been slightly more optimistic outlook for Victorian builders due to domestic events, including the amendments made to the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC) federal legislation and its implications on work; and continuing EBA negotiations.

It is hoped that confidence will continue to improve ahead of the federal and state budgets that will be announced in May this year.