Build Better Series

Build Better Webinar – What you need to know about Award Rates

Stay ahead of annual wage changes and what they mean for your business.

Each year, the Fair Work Commission reviews and determines increases to the National Minimum Wage and minimum award wages, with changes taking effect from the first full pay period on or after 1 July. Understanding these updates, and how they flow through to your operations, is critical for maintaining compliance and managing costs.

Join the Master Builders ACT Workplace Relations team for an informative webinar where we’ll break down the latest wage increases and explore their practical implications for employers in the building and construction sector.
In this session, we’ll cover:
• Award rate increases and what’s changing this year
• How wage adjustments may impact enterprise agreements and site allowances
• Key considerations for compliance with the Better Off Overall Test (BOOT)

This is an essential update for employers and those key individuals responsible for workforce management in the industry. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain clarity, ask questions, and ensure your business is prepared for the changes ahead.

Join us on Thursday 18 June for crucial insights exploring the future of our industry as we navigate the current world economic and political climate.

• Gain clarity on the economic outlook
• Explore the shifting political landscape with expert Louise Crossman
• Uncover vital risks, tips, and trends with insights from Master Builders Insurance Brokers and the Master Builders Fidelity Fund

The event will be hosted by our sector chairs, who will share their unique view on the outlook for each sector.

This event will ensure you leave well-informed and prepared for the financial year ahead.

Includes light refreshments.

Start 2026 the right way by letting the Master Builders ACT Advisory Team ensure your business is compliant.

As a business in the construction industry, it is crucial to understand your workplace and WHS obligations under relevant laws and regulations.

These are often changing, so it’s important to review your compliance regularly.

At the first Build Better Webinar for 2026, the Master Builders Advisory Team will introduce their new Annual Compliance Check, available to all members.

The second phase of Australia’s anti-money laundering legislation (AML) is coming into effect for non-financial businesses and professions, and members should be aware of what this may mean for their business.

The AML introduces new regulatory obligations for certain listed services with the goal of better regulating high-risk sectors and bringing Australia in line with international standards.

Some of the reforms include:
• Enrolling with AUSTRAC
• An obligation to assess your business’s risk of falling victim to money laundering and financing terrorism, as well as developing policies to combat this and manage compliance with AML
• Appointing a compliance officer and other obligations

Members are invited to join us for this insightful webinar and hear first-hand from a member of the AML Team whether these reforms impact you, and what you need to do to be compliant.

The Chain of Responsibility (CoR) under the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) has a significant impact on the Australian construction industry because it shifts legal accountability beyond drivers to every party in the transport supply chain.

This webinar will cover its effects on construction businesses, builders, and contractors, including the broader legal duties and due diligence responsibilities.

The Heavy Vehicle National Law Amendment Bill 2025 was passed in QLD parliament in December 2025

The bottom line for the construction industry, CoR means:
• Greater shared accountability across the supply chain.
• Need for systematic compliance frameworks (policies, audits, digital tools).
• Higher legal and financial risk for executives and businesses that fail to act.

• workplace rights
• minimum policy requirements
• employment requirements
• award-specific requirements

• Becoming a sponsor
• What you can expect in terms of process and costs
• Sponsorship obligations overview
• Cost recovery or fee splitting with visa applicants
• Key occupations and points to note
• Basics of employer-sponsored visas

Speakers

• Pre-contract negotiations, identification of the Scope of Work and relevant documents
• Contract management: understand the key clauses of the contract and what is expected of each party
• Important steps, key dates and documents you should focus on when the works have been completed