Buildcorp has become the first builder to sign up to the CFMEU’s new industry agreement in NSW, which leapfrogs John Setka’s Victorian pay deal with an increase of more than 22 per cent over four years.

Chinese-backed Aqualand and Roberts Co quickly followed the tier-two Sydney builder in backing the agreement over the past week as the construction union pressures contractors to commit to formal dates for staff to vote on the deal.