Master Builders received the Andrews Government’s announcement of action on the removal of every level crossing between Caulfield and Dandenong as positive news, and a continued step in the right direction for meeting the looming transportation infrastructure needs for Victoria.

“This represents an important part of the steady queue of shovel-ready projects our state must have to protect its reputation as a great place to live and do business,” Master Builders Association of Victoria CEO Radley de Silva said.

“With construction slated to commence by the middle of 2016, the $1.6 billion removal of nine crossings in one fell swoop helps to create 2000 jobs and accelerate the pace of much-needed transportation infrastructure projects demanded by Victorians,” he said.

“As the fastest-growing state in Australia, the need for transportation infrastructure to accommodate that growth is of the utmost importance for the economy and quality of life in Victoria,” Mr de Silva said.

“Coupled with construction activity, there is also a growing need for commercial work to support the growing population and the industry that provides for it,” he said.

“Master Builders is keen to understand the cost associated with labour applied to this project,” he said. “The cost of construction is the fulcrum on which Victoria’s future rests to deliver critical infrastructure to its residents over the long term.”

“Ensuring a sustainable construction industry means crisp productivity and delivery schedules, which is in every Victorian’s best interest for a bright future and strong economy,” Mr de Silva said. “We must keep the momentum going.”

“The scope of this project also activates the government’s recent 10 per cent apprentices policy,” Mr de Silva noted. “While Master Builders welcomes the focus on apprentices and considers the goal a worthy one, the Andrews government chose to implement a policy that creates an entirely new hourly measurement requirement. Our concern is that this will add costs and red tape to the building process.”