Builders commend the government listening to industry and taking action on productivity

24 August 2025

Master Builders Australia commends the Federal Government for moving quickly to address Australia’s housing crisis and boost industry productivity following the Economic Reform Roundtable.

The five reform areas announced today by Minister O’Neil and Minister Watt will help to decrease delays and regulatory burdens for builders, boost the number of new home approvals and deliver the new homes that Australians desperately need.

While the full suite of reforms are welcomed, the industry is especially pleased to see that the government has listened to calls from Master Builders and will enact a pause and streamline of the National Construction Code.

No non-essential changes to the NCC for the duration of the National Housing Accord will give the industry the confidence and clarity it needs to deliver as many new houses as possible.

Ensuring safe, productive workplaces remains a priority, and Master Builders supports the government’s decision to exclude essential safety changes from the pause

Quotes attributable to Denita Wawn, CEO Master Builders Australia

“Master Builders Australia applauds the government for taking quick, decisive action to address excessive red tape and support the industry to build more homes for Aussies.

“Master Builders has been very vocal about the need for a pause to the National Construction Code throughout the National Housing Accord period, and we are glad to see the government has been listening.

“The constant churn of regulatory change has added pressure to an already complex and costly system, so a focus on fixing the system first is a welcome relief.

“Our members tell us every day about the frustrations that come with these pressures, how build times take too long, and costs get too high.

“A pause to the NCC will give the industry the time it needs to adjust and to get on with building without being crippled by unnecessary red tape. The announcement today will mean that builders around the country can operate in safe, productive worksites, maintaining high standards across the board.

“Listening to industry and supporting our calls in these areas is a big step in the right direction, and Master Builders looks forward to continuing our work with the government to take further action on boosting productivity.”

Media: Ben Conolly, Senior Advisor Digital Communications & Engagement
0423 151 666 | ben.conolly@masterbuilders.com.au