Master Builders boss claims new work laws will ‘undermine’ construction industry

The boss of Australia’s pre-eminent building association says new proposed industrial relations will “undermine the way that building work is performed”.

Acting CEO of Master Builders Australia, Shaun Schmitke, says the ‘Same Job, Same Pay’ laws, which would mean workers in the same position get the same pay irrespective of experience, will “hurt productivity and drive up the cost of construction”.

“It will discourage people from starting their own business and being their own boss. It will make employers think twice about giving people pay rises,” he told Neil Mitchell.

Press PLAY below to hear why the proposed changes have the building industry up in arms

Business groups have launched a multi-million dollar ad campaign protesting against the planned overhaul of industrial relations rules, and they say it’ll run indefinitely if required.

Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers argues the laws will make sure companies don’t pay contractors less than their employees.