National Construction Industry Forum is 'a chance for change'

TOMORROW's reconvened National Construction Industry Forum (NCIF) meeting will see the Australian Constructors Association (ACA) meet with industry peers, government and unions to discuss the past, present and future of the industry.

Jon Davies, CEO of the ACA, which represents the nation’s major contractors, has called on the Australian Government to use the current turmoil as an opportunity to refocus the NCIF and address long-standing structural issues in the industry.

“For too long, the relationships between clients, unions, and industry have been characterised by tension and a lack of trust,” Mr Davies said. “When one side wins, others often lose, leading to inefficiency and missed opportunities.”

The NCIF meeting will be a key moment to reshape the dynamics of all industry participants, he said.

“Instead of fighting for short-term wins, we should focus on shared goals — like improving industry culture and increasing productivity — where everyone benefits,” Mr Davies said.

“The goals of each group — whether it’s workers seeking secure jobs, governments wanting value for taxpayer money, or industry striving for fair returns — aren’t fundamentally at odds.

“The ACA has been seeking a firm commitment from all stakeholders to commit to change and is hopeful that the NCIF meeting will achieve this.

“By working together, we can create a stronger, more sustainable future for the construction industry.

“We have the potential to transform the construction industry into a true success story," Mr Davies said.

“Rather than seeing this moment as a crisis, we should seize it as an opportunity to build an industry where everyone wins.”

 

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