Master Electricians Australia (MEA) has joined the growing chorus of voices demanding the removal of the current union veto power over subcontractor selection on construction sites.
This move aligns with the Master Builders Association NSW’s recent advice to builders, urging them to refrain from signing the new CFMEU NSW enterprise agreement.
MEA CEO Kate Raymond expressed strong support for the MBANSW’s initiative, advocating for similar actions across the country.
“Subcontractors play a crucial role on job sites — without them, major construction projects simply wouldn’t happen,” Raymond stated.
She further emphasised the unfairness of the current system, noting that competent subcontractors winning projects through fair tendering processes risk being vetoed by the CFMEU if they lack a union Enterprise Bargaining Agreement (EBA).
Raymond argued for the autonomy of head contractors in selecting subcontractors based on merit and project fit, rather than being limited to a CFMEU-approved list.
“When a head contractor has been put in charge of a construction project, they should be free to select the subcontractors they believe will best do the job,” she asserted.
The MEA is encouraging similar actions across Australia to create a level playing field for all subcontractors.
Raymond stated: “We’d also support similar action across the rest of the country which will provide a level-playing ground for all subcontractors.”
In addition to the subcontractor veto issue, Raymond addressed the ongoing strikes by union workers employed by NSW transmission and distribution providers.
She called for an end to these prolonged industrial actions, citing their detrimental effects on small businesses, households, and housing projects.
“The ongoing industrial actions are having damaging impacts on small businesses and homeowners who need power connected to their premises and resulting in delays to work programs for small electrical businesses,” Raymond explained.
While acknowledging the legitimate role of unions in negotiating pay and working conditions, Raymond emphasised the need for a resolution to the current impasse.
“It’s time for all this industrial action to come to a head and end for the sake of all those affected,” she concluded.
