The regular reports from the Premier noting more new cases of COVID-19 reiterate the need for everyone in Victoria to do their bit to stop the spread, particularly those in metropolitan Melbourne and Mitchell Shire. As an industry, it is vital that we work together and respond once more.

Rightly, the building and construction industry continues to be recognised as an essential service and a key pillar of our state’s economic recovery. It is everyone’s responsibility to take a leadership role in strictly following protocols both inside and outside of work hours.

This means participating in testing; self-quarantining at the first sign of symptoms and strictly observing all physical distancing and hygiene requirements. If our industry cannot continue to demonstrate the highest standard of vigilance during and outside of work hours, this puts our entire industry, and the community we serve, at risk.

If you are in metropolitan Melbourne or Mitchell Shire, it also means following this week’s instructions to only leave your house for four things: shopping for essential items, caregiving, work and for daily exercise.

The Premier has requested that where physical distancing may be difficult to adhere to (for example taxis, public transport and shops), Victorians should wear a mask. There will be situations in which this advice to use face masks will be applicable to workers in the building and construction industry. Industry leaders met earlier today to advance an escalation plan to respond to this latest development and to review the industry guidelines. We will have any updates on guidelines early next week.

In the meantime, version 4 of the industry guidelines remain in place and you should take steps to ensure your organisation, and those you work with, continue to adhere to them. As always, our team is on hand to help you in interpreting these guidelines for your business and can be contacted on (03) 9455 4555. The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) also has a dedicated phone number for those in our industry who may need assistance on 1800 675 398.

Our industry has shown its ability to respond as a collective to the threat of COVID-19. Our sector has also demonstrated its ability to keep our economy moving while also prioritising the safety of our colleagues, industry partners and wider community. In the face of this new wave of infections, our industry’s obligations are greater than they have ever been and I call on you to respond once more.  

Master Builders Victoria will continue to keep you informed as new information is made available.