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{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change locationPractical approach needed to avoid shutdown of housing sites
Practical approach needed to avoid shutdown of housing sites
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“We have written to Minister Gentleman urging him to immediately halt the new laws, on the basis that they are impossible to comply with, inconsistent with national safety rules, and are not the rules the government’s own policy set out in April this year,” said HIA Executive Director, Greg Weller.
“The new regulations require that any cutting, drilling or grinding products that contain silica must use ‘wet-cutting’ to manage the risk of harmful dust, for all products in all situations. This includes working in indoor areas with electrical tools.
“The industry whole-heartedly supports the intention of preventing harm from this dangerous dust, however, the physical tools to comply with this strategy and use water simply don’t exist.
“The use of water in close proximity to electrical equipment will introduce unacceptable safety risks to workers.
“While the government might say this is best practice and driven by safety concerns, it is inconsistent with the approach to managing this risk in the rest of Australia, and the world.
“WorkSafe ACT made the very sensible decision in June to give industry a three-month exemption from the rules while further discussions take place. However, there has been no indication as to what (if any) changes the Minister will make before next Monday. It is not reasonable to leave the industry in the dark with only days to go before the exemption ends.
“HIA has requested the Minister change the regulations to align with the government’s policy to permit controlled dry cutting for specific products where water will create a risk.
“These tools can be made safe using other approved methods and should be allowed in the ACT as they are across the rest of Australia.”
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Tropical Cyclone Fina
The Bureau of Meteorology has officially forecast Tropical Cyclone Fina to reach Category 3 intensity. There is a Cyclone warning currently in place for Top End coastal communities, including Darwin. Strong gale winds and rain are expected, as well as storm surge or tides.
NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS) 2026
Join thousands of industry leaders at the NAHB International Builders’ Show®, the world’s largest annual light construction event. Explore cutting-edge products, breakthrough technologies, and global trends shaping the future of residential construction.
New home sales remain at three-year highs
“The volume of new homes sold in Australia fell by 9.0 per cent in the month of October 2025 but remains at a three-year high,” stated HIA Chief Economist, Tim Reardon.
Inquiry into Environment Protection Reform Bill 2025 and related bills
Opening statement by Simon Croft, Chief Executive Industry & Policy