Peter Collins
Branch  Manager

There is plenty of speculation in the market about how the recent economic woes will effect the Housing Industry in Far North Qld. All of the commentary about the US sub prime mortgage markets, the massive falls in many stock values and the ongoing interest rate increases are enough to get the average contracting business worried. Those who attended the Economic Outlook presentation by HIA Chief Economist, Harley Dale would be feeling more comfortable about times ahead. The drivers for the current strong market in North Queensland are the population growth, a shortage of dwelling availability and a buoyant economy with low unemployment. While these influencing factors remain strong the housing approval figures will also remain steady. As Harley said while interest rates in particular may cause some softening of the market, there is certainly no crash on the horizon.

QLD WPH&S have reported back on the results of their “Falls from Heights” campaign.

Of the 24 sites visited in the Cairns and surrounding areas there were:
• 7 Infringement Notices (on the spot fines)
• 17 Prohibition Notices (Stop work until breach is fixed)
• 14 Improvement Notices (Take action by a date)

General feedback was that this was a disappointing result given that many contractors were aware of the blitz, were aware of some recent accidents, but did not have adequate control measures in place.  I recommend to all members to refer to our website for the HIA Safety Solutions Tool Kit.

Put a line through Friday 23rd May in your calendar because you will be at the HIA Cairns Golf Day.

Phone: (07) 4041 2604
Fax: (07) 4041 2607
Email: Cairns Branch
Address: 5 Anderson Street
Maunda Qld 4870