SENATE UPHOLDS BUILDING REFORMS

Today Labor again did the bidding of its lawless masters at the CFMEU, by attempting to use the Senate to overturn the Building Code – a key part of the Turnbull Government’s reforms to fix the building industry.

 

The Building Code was introduced along with legislation to restore the Australian Building and Construction Commission. It is vital to fixing a major problem in our second largest industry.

 

The Code applies to projects funded by the Australian Government and will ensure small businesses can compete fairly for work without union intimidation or unfair practices by head contractors. It will help important infrastructure be delivered on-time and on-budget.

 

The Code also applies higher standards of conduct to employers in relation to workplace safety, security of payments and respecting workplace rights.

 

It is estimated that the high rate of industrial disputes in construction (around five times the average of all industries) and CFMEU stranglehold over the building industry, currently adds around 30 per cent to the costs of schools, hospitals and other vital infrastructure.

 

With their attempt to overturn the Building Code, Labor has once again demonstrated they put the interests of union bosses ahead of small businesses, taxpayers and our economy.

 

I thank the Nick Xenophon Team, One Nation, Senator Leyonhjelm, Senator Gichuhi, Senator Hinch and Senator Bernardi, for supporting the Government’s reforms and standing up to CFMEU intimidation.