The Master Builders Association (MBA) says State Government plans to fast-track community ready building projects would provide a ‘shot in the arm’ for construction companies and their 194,000 strong workforce.

MBA executive director, Brian Welch, said Victoria’s 194,000 construction industry workers and their families would be delighted to hear that the Government intends to begin fast-tracking building projects which are ready to go and meet community expectations.

“There is over one billion dollars worth of ‘construction ready’ building projects lying idle in the planning system at present,” said Welch.

“By fast tracking these community projects, the Government can improve job security for workers and help alleviate the sharp decline in private sector infrastructure investment.

“In a recent Building Trends survey, 72 per cent of Victorian construction companies reported having lost potential projects due to the global financial crisis. If projects delayed in the planning system can be fast-tracked, the negative effects of this downturn can be eased significantly.

“For every million dollars spent on building and construction, $2.9 million dollars is generated in other industry sectors of the Victorian economy,” said Welch.

Consequently, any move to unlock investment dollars from the private sector will be good for the construction industry and the broader economy.