Click here to read the Victorian Government's just-released COVID-19 Pandemic Plan for the Victorian Health Sector.


Dear Members,

The effects of the virus present challenges for building and construction businesses and Master Builders will provide general information and guidance to our members on a regular basis.

Because circumstances change rapidly, you can help our efforts by sharing information about what you observe happening in your local area and by sharing your questions at [email protected].

Supply of building products

We have already been alerted to likely shortages of building products and delivery delays from China. More specifically, there are reports of shortages of some types of imported glass and paint products. We have no definite information about the likely duration of such delays or when they will occur, but there is concern that, depending on the product, they could last for some months.

A lack of information is undermining confidence and making it difficult for businesses to make decisions. Master Builders has requested that the Federal Government use its resources to obtain as much verifiable information as possible and make it available to industry.

Factories in China ceased production over Chinese New Year and the restart of production, as well as product supply chains, have been disrupted and delayed by the Chinese Government’s measures to try to contain the spread of the virus.

There are unverified reports that some factories and supply chains are re-opening, but the continuance of some travel bans within the country are slowing the return of factory workforces and production to full capacity.

Contracts

One of the key concerns raised with us over the past few days are the terms of contract with regard to project delays in these circumstances. We believe that all parties to a contract should take a sensible approach and not be legally opportunistic. We have raised this issue with the Federal Government and have recommended they take the lead with government contracts and ask that the private sector follow suit.

If you have information about a party or contract taking unfair advantage of the effect of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) please advise us by email at [email protected]

Workplace issues

COVID-19 is likely to present challenges for businesses for workplace safety and industrial relations. Master Builders will provide further information guidance in the next virus alert.

Master Builders Victoria

The Victorian Government has just issued special information about its plan for a COVID-19 pandemic. Click here to access the COVID-19 Pandemic Plan for the Victorian Health Sector, which has been developed to manage more cases and the growing risk of an outbreak in Victoria. 

You may also consult the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services website.

The Master Builders Victoria network is liaising with the Victorian and Federal Governments to help keep all parties apprised of developments that affect, and develop within, the industry.

We will continue to provide updates to our members as more information about the progression of coronavirus becomes available.

Master Builders Australia has recommended to the Federal Government that they urgently establish a ‘one-stop’ information website where all the relevant information can be accessed.

The following national organisations can provide assistance:

Fair Work Ombudsman
SafeWork Australia
Department of Health