Master Builders Association ACT

Master Builders ACT has called for reform of the Secure Local Jobs Code, with concerns the current system is creating extra red tape for local businesses without delivering better outcomes for Canberra workers or contractors.

Appearing before the ACT Legislative Assembly Inquiry, Master Builders ACT CEO Anna Neelagama highlighted that many small and medium-sized businesses are facing complex compliance requirements simply to compete for government work, while interstate companies can still win projects without using local workers or subcontractors.

MBA ACT is calling for targeted reform, including:
🔸 Fairer and simpler compliance requirements for small businesses
🔹 Greater oversight of subcontracting arrangements
🔸 Procurement frameworks that support local workers and businesses
🔹 Breaking larger projects into smaller packages to create more opportunities for local contractors

With the ACT Government committing to a long-term pipeline of infrastructure work, MBA ACT says procurement settings should help keep skills, jobs and investment in Canberra.