CRAIG JENNION HIA Executive Director – Hunter Healthy industry, with increased housing supply. erratic segment of the market. Pleasingly healthy economy HIA will continue to advocate that multi-unit approvals were up 93 per cent Here we are again – another year, another sustainable improvements in housing on the Central Coast and 89 per cent in round of new and recurring issues that HIA affordability can only be achieved through Lake Macquarie. will respond to on behalf of our members reducing the cost of supplying land to the and the broader industry. market, based on reducing the tax burden Number of HIA Apprentices You can be assured that HIA will continue and improving arrangements around grows to work hard to make sure that our industry planning and infrastructure delivery. As we continues to build great quality homes for all all know a healthy building industry is a sure Reflecting the level of housing activity of those that reside in our region, and across sign of a healthy economy. locally, the number of apprentices placed NSW this year. Indications suggest the industry locally with HIA members in the Hunter grew Importantly, in the lead up to the state remains on a positive trajectory and 2019 strongly in 2018. As we enter the New Year election, HIA will meet with government should start fairly positively with Hunter new I ask all members, do you need an extra set ministers, senior members of the opposition dwelling approvals for the year to November of hands? and other political parties to strongly press 2018 increasing by 21 per cent compared to Apprenticeships are an extremely cost our case for more support for the residential the year earlier. effective, efficient and practical way to get building industry and, in particular, more This result was supported by a 38 per the job done and we have a number of eager support for first home buyers to ensure that cent increase in the multi-unit segment of young people available for immediate start. housing is as affordable as possible along the market, which can often be a more Most importantly HIA Apprentices provides a total apprentice management service which allows you to concentrate on running your business. For more information call the HIA Apprentices team on 1300 650 620. HIA Seminars on NCC 2019 changes In March and April 2019, the HIA will be presenting detailed information seminars in all capital cities and a number of regional venues outlining the key changes to the 2019 edition of the National Construction Code that will affect residential buildings. The seminar will consist of a morning session focussing on the key changes affecting houses and the afternoon session will provide an overview of the changes affecting low-mid-rise Class 2 buildings (apartments, multi-residential buildings). The Hunter Seminar will be held in Newcastle on 4 April. This will be a must attend event for those building, designing, approving or supply products to houses and P6 BUILDING NEWS ISSUE 1/2019 EVITUCEXEROTCERID