The Commission, of its own motion, initiated proceedings to vary the Building Trades (Construction) Award 1987 and the Building Trades Award 1968. The variations aim to simplify and modernise the scope clauses of the Awards while largely maintaining their existing coverage.

The Building Trades (Construction) Award 1987 now defines scope by reference to the ‘on-site building and construction industry,’ and the Building Trades Award 1968 extends coverage to all industries employing workers in the occupations covered by the award, unless they are covered by another award. Other variations include adding a classification for tradespersons with an apprenticeship in concreting, clarifying the application to labour hire businesses and group training services, and ensuring the awards do not apply to employees covered by another State award or the national industrial relations system.

Several unions, employers, and industry groups were notified of the proposed variations, and no individual, organisation, or employer advised the Commission of any opposition to the proposed variations. Accordingly, The Commission in Court Session ordered the awards be amended as proposed.

The decision can be read here.