Source: ABS 8731.0

Some $173 million worth of work was given the go-ahead in the month, down from nearly $200 million the month before.

“After substantial growth in renovations approvals over the past year, it’s natural to see some corrections in this market,” said Radley de Silva, CEO at Master Builders.

“Despite the dip in April, our year-to-date approvals are still slightly higher than this point of 2013.

“The drop also follows the trend of eight successive months of rises in this type of work.

“Overall, Victoria has really been leading the way when it comes to growth in the renovations market and it is unlikely one poor month of approvals will hold that impetus back.”

The latest data follows the release of a Master Builders report showing renewed confidence amongst members in the Victorian building and construction sector.