Builder says Building stimulus program

CONTRACTS for the $100 million public housing stimulus program are being awarded to a limited number of tradesmen, who them sub contract them out to those who are not registered for the program, while some who are registered miss out, one builder has said.

The Gunner Government’s $100 million public housing stimulus has seen tradies awarded work they’re unqualified for in the program’s early stages. Picture: Keri Megelus

• GOVT refutes claim unqualified tradies given contracts

CONTRACTS for the $100 million public housing stimulus program are being awarded to a limited number of tradesmen, who them sub contract them out to those who are not registered for the program, while some who are registered miss out, one builder has said.

A Department of Housing spokeswoman confirmed during the initial stages of the program, businesses were given contracts outside its capabilities but said “controls around this have been tightened”.

She said the controls were put in place in early 2019.

A local builder, first heard reports while attending one of the department consultations with tradies about the program last year.

“The work obviously should go to the tradesmen who do that work,” he said.

“The ones who do want the work and are in that field are missing out.”

The builder, who has yet to receive a contract, said the stimulus did not create equal opportunities as promised.

“It’s not fair when everyone doesn’t get a chance,” he said.

“It’s supposed to be stimulating the whole NT. It’s not working to everyone’s advantage and it’s not stimulating the economy either.”

TODAY’S TOP STORIES

INPEX workers sign new EBA in major win: union

AUSSIE’S who’ll be worst hit by Labor’s ‘retiree tax’

UNQUALIFIED tradies awarded work in stimulus program

SAMSUNG pulls new $4000 phone

The stimulus was designed to give businesses opportunities to access works quickly without the lengthy process of becoming a panel contractor.

It is understood businesses, when signing up to the stimulus, are ticking multiple trades outside their business capabilities to have a higher chance of receiving work.

He said, when awarded contracts outside their trade, businesses are outsourcing the work to companies not signed up to the stimulus.

To date the program has awarded 386 contract.

The spokeswoman said the program was “constantly monitored and reviewed to maximise outcomes”.

The program’s registration form does not ask businesses to provide an Australian Business Number, Australian Company Number or any trading licenses.

The spokeswoman said businesses were required to provide proof of accreditation when being considered for a tender.