Civil Contractors Federation SA Advocacy

CCF SA congratulates Tom Koutsantonis and Lucy Hood on key appointments

Kyle Whitbrook — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 07:14:48 GMT

The Civil Contractors Federation South Australia (CCF SA) congratulates The Hon Tom Koutsantonis MP on his appointment as Treasurer of South Australia, and The Hon Lucy Hood MP on her elevation to Cabinet as Minister for Infrastructure and Transport.

As Treasurer and Minister for Energy and Mining, Mr Koutsantonis brings a wealth of experience and a strong record of economic reform to a role critical for maintaining South Australia’s infrastructure investment pipeline and economic prosperity.

Ms Hood’s promotion reflects her growing leadership within the State Government and her commitment to South Australians as the Member for Adelaide. CCF SA looks forward to working with her in her new portfolio as she oversees the delivery of transformative projects, including the Torrens to Darlington (T2D) Project, and broader transport and infrastructure priorities.

“Civil contractors are at the forefront of delivering the roads, utilities, and facilities that keep South Australia moving and growing,” a CCF SA spokesperson said. “We value a constructive partnership with the State Government and welcome the opportunity to work with Treasurer Koutsantonis and Minister Hood to ensure infrastructure investment continues to drive jobs, skills development and economic growth across the state.”

CCF SA also acknowledges and thanks The Hon Stephen Mullighan MP and The Hon Dr Susan Close MP for their significant contributions to South Australia’s infrastructure and economic portfolios during their time in Cabinet, and wishes them well for the future.

For further Information contact:

ccfsa@ccfsa.com.au

CCF SA Set to Relocate to New Headquarters in August 2025

Kyle Whitbrook — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 05:56:40 GMT

The Civil Contractors Federation South Australia (CCF SA) is preparing to relocate its operations to a new headquarters in August 2025, marking an exciting new chapter for the organisation and its members.

After many years at our Thebarton site, the premises has been acquired by the South Australian Government to support construction of the $15.4 billion River Torrens to Darlington (T2D) Project - a once-in-a-generation investment in South Australia’s transport future, and one that CCF SA strongly supports.

Our final day of operation at the current location will be Wednesday 23 July 2025, with operations resuming from our new headquarters on Monday 4 August 2025.

While we’re not yet able to disclose the exact address, we can confirm that the new CCF SA facility will be located on Main North Road, Gepps Cross, in Adelaide’s inner north, providing excellent access for members, trainees and industry partners.

This modern, multi-purpose facility will bring together all aspects of CCF SA’s operations under one roof, including administration, class-based training, industry events and live site training. It represents a significant investment in the future of the civil construction sector in South Australia and a major step forward in how we connect, promote, educate and train across the industry.

We remain fully contactable during the relocation period and look forward to welcoming you to the new CCF SA headquarters in the months ahead.

High Court Upholds CFMEU Administration

Kyle Whitbrook — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 01:46:30 GMT

Civil Contractors Federation National CEO Nicholas Proud said today “the High Court's dismissal of the CFMEU's appeal to declare union administration as unconstitutional is a welcome relief for contractors, who can now focus on their core business without the looming threat of bullying and intimidation.

This decision reinforces the importance of upholding compliance and fairness within enterprise agreements, providing contractors with much-needed certainty and stability.”

“For many in the industry, this outcome is a chance to move forward with confidence, free from the distractions of protracted legal disputes. The CCF will continue to work closely with members to ensure they are supported in leveraging this clarity to secure strong and equitable agreements that underpin long-term growth."

“We also look forward to engaging with Minister Rishworth in the immediate aftermath of this decision, alongside other industry peaks, to discuss how the Government can help ensure this ruling translates to practical protections and a better industrial relations environment for all stakeholders."

For further information:	Rowan Carter, Director of Policy and Advocacy, Civil Contractors Federation
	(National), 0407 896 862

South Australian State Budget 2025–26

Kyle Whitbrook — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 00:12:46 GMT

The Civil Contractors Federation South Australia (CCF SA) welcomes the South Australian Government’s continued commitment to infrastructure investment, with a record $27.3 billion allocated over the forward estimates in the 2025–26 State Budget.

The record pipeline of infrastructure funding provides important opportunities for civil contractors and reinforces the Government’s ambition to grow the state through strategic infrastructure delivery.

The $15.4 billion River Torrens to Darlington (T2D) Project to build a non-stop South Road and the $3.2 billion Women’s and Children’s Hospital are once in a generation investments for our State which CCF SA fully supports.

However, CCF SA highlights that the success of these investments and the broader infrastructure pipeline will ultimately depend on the capacity of the industry to deliver through a skilled and sustainable workforce.

While the Budget includes important funding for new and existing projects, additional investment is needed to address the critical skills shortages in key economic growth sectors.

New Infrastructure Investments in the 2025–26 Budget:

$656.3 million for High Productivity Vehicle Network – Stage 1, upgrading freight routes between the South Eastern Freeway and Sturt Highway (funded 80:20 with the Commonwealth).
$250 million for the Curtis Road Level Crossing Removal, easing congestion in Adelaide’s northern suburbs (jointly funded).
$80 million for Main South Road Safety Upgrades between Myponga and Yankalilla, including overtaking lanes and bridge widening (jointly funded).
$15 million for the Port Augusta Wharf upgrade to improve public access and amenity (80:20 funded with the Commonwealth).

Major Existing Projects Funded in the Budget:

$601 million – Princes Highway Corridor upgrades
$495.9 million – Flinders Medical Centre upgrade and expansion
$400 million – Marion Road Upgrade (Anzac Highway to Cross Road)
$365.6 million – New Mount Barker Hospital
$350 million – South Eastern Freeway upgrade
$330 million – Eyre Peninsula Desalination Plant
$185.9 million – New Technical Colleges
$133.8 million – New Ambulance Headquarters

CCF SA commends the South Australian and Australian Governments for maintaining the 80:20 funding model on key infrastructure and freight routes. These partnerships represent best practice in the delivery of nationally significant projects and ensure that South Australia can meet its infrastructure objectives without compromising fiscal responsibility.

While the Budget continues to support skills development through significant investments in new technical colleges, Fee-Free TAFE and the Industry Accelerated Apprenticeship Pilot, CCF SA will continue to advocate for further investment in workforce capacity. A clear focus on training pathways, industry partnerships and job-ready initiatives will be essential to ensure the civil construction sector can meet growing delivery demands.

CCF SA also renews its call for a transparent, adequately funded road maintenance regime to safeguard the state’s existing infrastructure assets and ensure long-term value for money.

CCF SA appoints new CEO, Andrew Ockenden

Kyle Whitbrook — Wed, 14 May 2025 02:16:50 GMT

Following an extensive recruitment process, the Civil Contractors Federation South Australia (CCF SA) is pleased to confirm the appointment of Andrew Ockenden as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Andrew brings more than 20 years of experience in senior advisory and executive roles across the public and private sectors, specialising in corporate affairs, stakeholder engagement and government relations within the mining, transport and infrastructure industries.

He joins CCF SA from the South Australian Department for Infrastructure and Transport, where he served as Executive Director, Public Affairs. In this role, he was responsible for stakeholder engagement, media, government relations, corporate communication and marketing across some of the state’s most complex and high-profile infrastructure projects and policy reforms.

Throughout his career, Andrew has delivered award-winning public engagement campaigns, led strategies to support major commercial transactions, and contributed to national policy reforms in infrastructure and urban renewal.

“We received excellent candidate submissions during the recruitment process, and we are pleased to have selected Andrew to lead the Federation through this strong period of infrastructure driven growth for the State,” said CCF SA President Charles Hatcher.

“Andrew’s leadership background and his deep understanding of government and industry make him the ideal person to guide CCF SA through its next phase of development.”

“The Board looks forward to working with him to strengthen our organisation and deliver value for our members.”

As CEO, Andrew will work closely with the Board to strengthen CCF SA’s operations, elevate its services and support the delivery of its strategic priorities. He will also serve as Executive Director of Civil Apprenticeships and Careers Limited, overseeing workforce development programs to help secure the future pipeline of skilled civil contractors in South Australia.

Commenting on his appointment, Andrew said, “I’m incredibly proud to be joining CCF SA at such an important time for the civil construction industry and South Australia more broadly.”

“I thank the Board for entrusting me with this responsibility, and to our former CEO, Rebecca Pickering, whose legacy will benefit our members and industry for years to come.”

“With a multibillion-dollar infrastructure pipeline across housing, defence, energy, mining, utilities and transport progressing at pace, we have an extraordinary opportunity to build the skills, training and industry capability of the future.”

“I look forward to working with our members, the Board, government and industry stakeholders to advocate for the sector, build on our strengths, and ensure we’re well positioned to seize the opportunities ahead.”

Commencing next month, Andrew’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for the civil construction industry, as CCF SA prepares to enhance its services through a new state-of-the-art training facility and continues its work advocating for a skilled, sustainable and profitable sector.

For further Information contact:

ccfsa@ccfsa.com.au

Empowering Our Civil Apprentices: An Urgent Call for Recognition and Support

Joyce Wang — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 22:25:25 GMT

IN TODAY'S PAPER.....
Empowering Our Civil Apprentices: An Urgent Call for Recognition and Support

As South Australia propels itself into an era of unprecedented infrastructure development, with projects like the "1000 new homes," Osborne shipbuilding facilities, Torrens to Darlington Tunnels, Women’s and Children Hospital, and the hydrogen plant on the horizon, a crucial question demands our attention.

How can we achieve these projects and the monumental task of delivering $24 billion worth of infrastructure projects in this state when the Federal Government overlooks civil apprenticeships in its Priority Occupations List, despite them being listed on the Skills Priority List?

These vital roles lack the recognition and support needed to secure our industry's future workforce.

The civil sector is the unsung hero of the construction and resource industry, and although we may not enjoy the same level of recognition as our counterparts in the building sector, our skilled professionals play a critical role to ensure services are available to all South Australians to enhance the wellbeing of our communities. Yet, as our workforce ages faster than new entrants join, a looming retirement cliff threatens to leave essential roles unfilled.

On 1 January this year the Australian Apprenticeship Priority List was released. This list identifies occupations that will receive government support.

Once again, the Civil Trades were excluded.

Nineteen new occupations were added to the 100 plus list to receive the generous government support.

The Australian Government says “an eligible full-time apprentice may receive up to $10,000 over the duration of their apprenticeship to help with cost of living pressures, while an employer may receive support of up to $15,000 over the duration of the apprenticeship.”

The omission of Civil Trades provides an additional obstacle to our skills pipeline, despite several civil occupations being listed on the Skills Priority List.

The civil Industry lays the foundation for the services and assets most of us take for granted. Every time you travel by road, rail, plane, or boat or visit a hospital, hotel or drink water, turn on a light, or use gas, the civil sector has been the primary industry undertaking this work and these services and assets couldn’t exist without us.

As the Executive Director of a Group Training Organisation that employs 65 full-time civil apprentices in this state, I witness the daily challenges faced by both the apprentices and the businesses who support them.

As eligible full-time civil apprentices, a number of obstacles entering our industry would be alleviated, and we would be able to get on with business and deliver these projects for the betterment of all South Australians.

If picture framers, swimming instructors and gymnastics coaches (respectfully) can make the list – I’m unclear why civil apprenticeships can’t.

If the Hon Brendan O’Connor MP knows something about skilling our industry that I don’t, I’d be keen to know, because from my point-of-view, it’s madness.

I hope sense will prevail as the time is now to support our civil construction trade occupations.

Rebecca Pickering, CEO
Civil Contractors Federation SA & Executive Director Civil Apprenticeships and Careers Ltd

Reference for quote "2024 Australian Apprenticeship Priority List | Ministers' Media Centre (dewr.gov.au)”

Media Release - 90 Day Review Complete - Projects Listed

Joyce Wang — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 23:16:48 GMT

INFRASTRUCTURE REVIEW FINALLY COMPLETE BUT PLANNED & ANNOUNCED PROJECTS NEED TO START NOW

16 November 2023: Civil Contractors Federation SA (CCFSA) responds with some relief today to the long-awaited Federal Government’s 90-Day Infrastructure Review, given a majority of the critical South Australian projects retained federal funding.

CCF SA CEO, Rebecca Pickering said most of the outcomes of the Federal Government Infrastructure Investment Program (IIP) 90-Day Review (The Review) are positive for South Australia, however the industry remains nervous as civil contractors who undertake major state government work remain quiet and need planned projects to start now.

The Federal Government declared at the start of May this year that an independent Strategic Review of the Infrastructure Investment Program (IIP) would start within a period of 90 days. This review sought to provide guidance to the Government on the alignment of federally-funded infrastructure projects with government policy objectives, as well as their potential benefits to the Australian public.

“Although many projects and programs remain funded, some funding was lost, many contractors and communities were counting of the projects to start during this unprecedented quiet period,” she said.

The conclusion of The Review is a positive as the ongoing silence was deafening for the Civil sector. “For too long civil contractors have been caught in ‘pause,’ which has delayed investment and growth across the board,” Pickering said.

CCF SA holds hope that its desperate calls are answered and that the expected release of the forward works plan, including dates, for the 13 crucial infrastructure upgrade projects across Adelaide designed to support the River Torrens to Darlington Project – collectively valued at a total of $850 million – is released urgently given the outcomes of the Review.

“These dates and projects are exactly what our sector and community need as we head towards the end of the year.

“Our industry’s focus now turns to getting on with projects, with civil contractors ready to dig.”

“We will continue to strongly advocate for more funding to support road maintenance and other critical infrastructure works including utilities,” Pickering said.

The South Australian Government and Minister Koutsantonis are thanked for their advocacy for SA’s civil construction industry and for pushing to maintain SA’s infrastructure projects.

“We look forward to collaborating with the South Australian Government and the Department of Infrastructure and Transport to establish a detailed and comprehensive infrastructure plan that incorporates the new federal funding policy.

“Such a plan will lay a solid foundation for our state’s future endeavours and will ensure the civil sector can continue its growth and strength to deliver infrastructure for all South Australians,” Pickering said.

Federal Government’s 90 Day Infrastructure Review - New Infrastructure Policy Statement

Infrastructure Policy Statement.pdf

All Jurisdiction Summary(project List).pdf

How are South Australian Projects \ Programs Impacted ?

Ms Rebecca Pickering is available for comment:

Rebecca Pickering | CCF SA Chief Executive Officer

M 0417 767 688 | E rpickering@ccfsa.com.au

For further media information please call littlelion PR:

Gabrielle Leonello | Director

M 0425 554 454 | E gabrielle@littlelion.com.au

ABOUT THE CIVIL CONTRACTORS FEDERATION:

The Civil Contractors Federation South Australia has more than 500 company members who in turn employ up to 30,000 South Australians.

Members are involved in a variety of projects and activities including the development and maintenance of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, sewer, water and drainage pipelines, dams, wharves, commercial and housing land development. Members are also involved in the preparatory works for mining and other resource developments.

South Australia’s prosperity is dependent upon functional, efficient and cost-effective civil infrastructure. Healthy, well functioning and productive countries depend on infrastructure that civil contractors construct and maintain. Civil contractors play a prime role in working with both public and private sector clients in infrastructure delivery. The business of civil construction plays a pivotal role in the growth and prosperity of South Australia.

CCF SA will continue to advocate for the civil and allied industries, to ensure ongoing business and State’s sustainability:

Every South Australian Civil business is engaged in state infrastructure projects
Projects procured and delivered in a timely manner
Timelines and budgets that are realistic
Pipeline of works that gives the industry an opportunity to invest for the future.
Fair and equitable contracts that do not disadvantage SME’s

CIVIL INDUSTRY TO BOOM IF WE GET THIS RIGHT!

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 12:42:21 GMT

The Civil Contractors Federation SA (CCF SA) said that if the Coalition’s pre-budget announcements today and new procurement reforms by the Labor Government are implemented, the Civil industry is set to boom in South Australia.

CCF SA Chief Executive, Ms Rebecca Pickering said the Coalitions commitment of $2.8bn of federal funding towards new and existing road infrastructure projects, including $456M on new road projects, productivity and road safety packages is one of the wins from the federal budget for South Australia.

“Local and regional civil construction businesses, including: road constructors, earth movers, traffic management personnel, and many industry suppliers, will all benefit from the ongoing commitments to improve, maintain and build new road infrastructure projects across our State,” she said.

However, one of the dampeners to the many federal budget positives is escalating material costs, including fuel which increases direct construction costs and freight expenses. Pickering said that the ‘Making the public dollar work’ policy by the new South Australian Labor Government is timely given current concerns.

“Rising material costs have become extreme, and contract clauses governing cost escalation are back in focus, as the civil industry grapples with an unprecedented coalescence of challenges. World events, extreme weather occurrences, rising inflation, interrupted production and pervasive labour shortages are straining on our industry.

“We support a review of government contract conditions to ensure contractors on Government projects are not penalised for increases in costs completely outside of their control. For example, situations where contracts do not contain, or are not open to, cost escalation considerations; or factor in changing business circumstances. Contractors are still expected to meet original budgets, even those well outside tender validity timeframes. As the civil industry continues to ramp up to meet existing and new demands, these challenges are expected to persist well into the future,” Pickering said.

The new SA Labor Government’s committed procurement reforms include: requiring government departments to pay contractor invoices within 15 days, assisting local business to become tender ready, requiring 1% of government funding into a sub-contractor support fund and a commitment to broadly publicise government procurement opportunities three months in advance, are all positive and will assist industry through these complex times.

“We are keen to work with the Malinauskas Labor Government to support these much needed procurement reforms and our focus will also turn to the upcoming South Australian State Budget to ensure critical needs such as ongoing road maintenance commitments of $800million are acknowledged and remain a permanent fixture in all future state budgets,” she said.

Pickering went on to say that there was no doubt that the civil construction industry was a significant industry employer with more than 2000 direct and indirect jobs needed to undertake this work, in addition to current labour forecasts.

“The rapid growth in local and remote civil construction activities as a result of infrastructure work will continue to drive work force demands and a wealth of employment opportunities – meaning our apprenticeship program has never been so important," she said.

Other federal measures include the extension to the Boosting Apprenticeship Commencement (BAC) wage subsidy until the end of 2021-22, which provides employers with 12 month wage subsidy support.

“This extension will support the work force growth and will allow more businesses to take on new or additional apprentices. The new Civil Apprenticeship trades including road construction, pipe laying, tunnel construction, traffic management, earthworks and mobile plant operation, provide proven pathways into secure and lucrative trade professions in the civil industry.

“The demand from industry is high, and will remain so for many years to come. We are very pleased with this extension,” said Pickering.

Whilst CCF SA maintains its industry voice on priority commitments, Pickering went on to say that the funding of Civil Apprenticeships will also remain a critical priority as they do not attract the $20k trade support loan and subsidies which fall $4,000 short overall per apprentice, in comparison to other building and construction trades.

“Civil Apprentices and the civil industry should not be disadvantaged in comparison to their trade peers,” she said.

“The ability of the South Australian economy to maximise the economic benefit from the federal budget in the short to medium term remains dependent upon our state’s ability to work together, meet Federal Government project milestones, and implementing new procurement reforms – but the future is bright if we do,” Pickering said.

Independent Contractors - Key High Court Decisions

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 23:19:40 GMT

Today the High Court handed down two long-awaited decisions regarding the engagement of independent contractors as compared to employees, an issue that has long been filled with complexity and fraught with risk.

These decisions have provided some welcome clarity, particularly confirming the focus is to be on the terms of the contractual documents. However, significant complexity remains and the decision also unsettles previously settled practices.

Click here to read more.

STATE BUDGET INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITMENT WELCOMED NOW LET’S GET THESE PROJECTS MOVING!

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 07:16:34 GMT

The Civil Contractors Federation South Australia (CCF SA) has forecast a robust future for the sector as they welcome the State Government’s commitment to a record $17.9 billion in today’s budget for infrastructure projects that will deliver jobs and improvements to the lives of all South Australians.

Federation Chief Executive, Ms Rebecca Pickering said it was now time to get the jobs moving and maintain the momentum in the State with a slate of projects that have been on the table for a while, and are now funded with a four-year forecast of investment.

“We are ready, across a range of industries in our sector, and we have the expertise right here in SA to take these budget commitments, along with unlocked Federal support, to deliver tremendous value to our community,” she said.

She said the fact the government was making the largest commitment to infrastructure spending in the State’s history was evidence of how important building, maintaining and developing infrastructure was to the state’s economy and the fabric of life across South Australia.

Ms Pickering pointed to the large number of road upgrades and projects earmarked in this budget as evidence of the inadequate focus on roads in the past causing a backlog, that in some cases requires complete reconstruction due to years of poor maintenance.

“Our priority remains to push both Federal and State Governments to maintain this significant infrastructure with appropriate levels of annual funding.

“Although 2021-2022 road maintenance increases in some areas, we are still some way from the $1 billion per annum required to maintain our roads,” she said.

“We are eagerly awaiting the finer detail now that the Government has boosted confidence and shown they are listening to our recommendations as we advocate for current and future projects that help make South Australia one of the greatest places in the world to live,” Ms Pickering said.

CCF SA will support the pipeline of dozens of projects, as thousands of jobs are created, by helping collaborate across the many essential trades and businesses that will be required to deliver these projects.

“We are excited that the local civil industry, including road constructors, pipelayers, traffic management, civil suppliers, quarries, resource recovery centres, mobile plant, transport operators, to name just a few, and their workers can start gearing up now for the mountain of work coming their way.

Budget 2021/2022

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 01:59:04 GMT

Next week, 22 June 2021, we will see the release of the South Australian State budget. We are excited about the 2021/22 infrastructure commitments and how they will translate into project starts. Over the last several months, we gathered your feedback and developed your ‘Digging Deep for South Australia’ document; highlights include:

Civil Workforce and Apprentices

“The State Government has a once in a generation opportunity to create a sustainable South Australian civil construction workforce. This requires meaningful funding and creative reform of skill development, training approaches and worker engagement supporting the whole of population activation.

“CCF SA seeks State Government support for youth entry into the civil industry via a fully funded Civil ‘Flexible Industry Pathway’ in Schools (Civil Industry Cadetships via Stackable VET). To date, the civil industry has not had a funded pathway in schools, it does not attract Training Guarantee for SACE Students (TGSS) funding or new 2022 Flexible Industry Pathways funding which has been recently released. A billion dollar industry, providing secure, long-term and lucrative civil careers, and today, it stands with a new innovative cadetship in schools but with no funding.

“The civil industry is a critical workforce. It builds essential public structures and services – roads, bridges, pipelaying, traffic, tunnels, foundations – for our South Australian community. Unlike other trades, there is a unique opportunity for direct Department of Infrastructure hosting of civil apprentices via industry backed Group Training Organisations. This direct hosting not only eases financial and commercial pressures on small and large civil businesses working to deliver state infrastructure projects, it also supports improved apprenticeship outcomes.

“Increased civil industry focused training incentives for workers and civil businesses. With SA’s tunnel project set to commence, funding is also needed to complete a civil industry workforce capacity and capability report to identify training needs.

“Civil Apprenticeships should receive fair and equitable distribution of funding in comparison to other traditional trades, but employers of Civil Apprentices receive $4k less than other traditional trades.”

Infrastructure Project Planning, Accountabilities and Small/Medium Enterprise (SME) Opportunities

“CCF SA seeks a budget that supports the commencement of projects (both Federal and State funded) already committed/announced and that these projects are awarded to industry in a manner which benefits whole of industry across all Tiers – smallest to the largest.

“Achieve a sustainable future works programme, supported by industry led robust bipartisan planning, including new and maintenance projects. Including early identification and prioritisation of projects including regular State submissions to Infrastructure Australia.

“Independent monitoring and reporting on Government Facilities Manager Partners, including industry engagement, with a primary focus on greater small business participation and opportunity.

“Obtain consistent and adequate annual budget and forward estimate allowance to maintain roads, services, bridges, and other public infrastructure. South Australia investment to be above the Australian average infrastructure investment per capita.

“Fund Industry undertakings to support the determination of South Australian infrastructure priorities – including the facilitation of direct submissions to Infrastructure Australia.

“State Government develops a policy that is very deliberately designed to ensure government work is made available to local SME businesses. Further, Government agencies are compelled to comply with such a policy. A % of works allocated to SMEs.”

CLICK HERE for your copy of Digging Deep for South Australia, CCF SA's Civil Infrastructure Priorities.

Infrastructure Federal Funding is Good News for SA - But Let’s Get these Projects Delivered!

Tue, 11 May 2021 21:30:00 GMT

Civil Contractors Federation SA (CCF SA) commends the $3.2bn of Federal funding towards local infrastructure projects announced last night, with the focus now turning to our State Government who are responsible for the delivery of these projects into South Australia.

Federation Chief Executive, Ms Rebecca Pickering said there were a number of wins in the Federal budget along with some stark omissions especially in regards to South Australia’s 5 to 10 year project trajectory.

“Disappointingly there appears to be no upcoming allocation for the Major Project Business Case Fund for SA. This funding supports Business Case development which in turn determines future South Australian projects. Without this commitment we have serious concerns for South Australia’s project forecast and pipeline in the near future.

“On the flipside it was terrific to see a Federal commitment to strengthen pathway services for 5,000 women to start non-traditional trades. Given that our industry aims to broaden its inclusivity and diversity commitments, this funding will assist us in reaching these goals,” Pickering said.

Other wins included the extension of the Boosting Apprenticeship Commencements Program.

“Along with Civil Apprenticeships and Careers Ltd we are pleased with this extension - we just hope civil apprentices are included, unlike other funding programs that historically only service traditional trades.

“This segues into new civil businesses being developed through self-employment. The Self Employment Federal funding commitment is exciting, as one of our new strategies seeks to encourage and support new civil businesses entering the South Australian market. We will seek to maximise this opportunity for our local community and those wanting to start a new civil construction business in this state,” Pickering said.

Pickering noted that of the announced $3.2bn for major infrastructure projects, including the next part of the North-South Corridor, only $130.8m is allocated in the 2021/22 budget and that in regards to the Road Investment Component, there were significant increases, which is good news, but there is nearly $1B in road repair work currently outstanding.

“Investing in civil infrastructure projects generates jobs, boosts business confidence and underpins economic growth and our primary focus is seeing that these projects start and are completed in suitable time frames.

“Greater transparency is needed across all of our local infrastructure projects, from start to finish, to ensure the best outcomes for everybody. This includes planning studies, design, business case development, maintenance, procurement and project starts.”

Media release - Response to National Federal Budget.pdf

WORKZONE TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT UPDATE

Tue, 11 May 2021 04:49:35 GMT

Recently Civil Train SA met with the Project Manager, Traffic Services and Road and Marine Services from the Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT), to discuss the extension of our current Deed as an approved training organisation. Civil Train SA would like to clarify some confusion with the current training requirements as they may differ to what you may have previously experienced in South Australia. The key areas often queried is the renewal process of gaining re-accreditation; please see below for information sought.

All South Australian Work Zone Traffic Management (WZTM) cards are valid for three years from the date of successful completion of training. Cards produced in more recent years display a ‘Renewal Date’. A course must be conducted prior to the renewal date expiring; if your card has expired, you will need to requalify by completing a full WZTM training course – the full two-day WZMT course.

Unfortunately there is no leeway with course bookings, you cannot book a refresher course after your expiry date; it needs to be completed prior i.e. in South Australia, there is no leeway on vehicle licence expiry. If you drive at 1 minute past midnight the day after it expires, you will get fined if caught.

· If your renewal date has not passed, you will be required to attend a WZTM Refresher course to gain your next three-year accreditation.

· INTERSTATE QUALIFICATIONS – a bridging course is required for people moving from other regulatory jurisdictions to enable them to be accredited within South Australia and to ensure they are compliant with the different workzone traffic management rules and conditions applied across South Australia. To complete this bridging course the learner must show they have successfully completed the units listed below and that their WZTM card is current. It should be noted training providers may have specific entry requirements to the one-day refresher including current industry experience. If a learner is unable to meet the requirements they will need to complete a full WZTM training course.

o RIIWHS205E – Control Traffic With a Stop/Slow Bat, and
o RIIWHS302E – Implement Traffic Management Plan

Currently DIT is reviewing the Interstate Bridging Course delivery method and are researching the possibility of online processes instead of a face-to-face course requirement. The bridging course will be designed to cover the subtle differences in legislation and signing in South Australia.

Please be vigilant of your team’s traffic WZTM renewal dates and if you need any further assistance in clarifying your requirements or obtaining your renewal please contact our Civil Train SA team for more information

Courses@ccfsa.com or 08 8111 8001

HEYSEN TUNNELS TURN 21!

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 05:53:17 GMT

About the Heysen Tunnels

Named after artist and benefactor Sir Hans Heysen, the Heysen Tunnels were constructed as part of the $151 million Adelaide to Crafers Highway Project.

These tunnels carry the South Eastern Freeway (part of the National Highway network linking Adelaide to Melbourne and signed as National Highway M1) under Eagle On The Hill in the Mount Lofty Ranges in South Australia.

In 1998, the tunnels were excavated through a steep hill using a 50 tonne SW200 tunnelling machine, which was a first for South Australia. Approximately 100,000 cubic metres of rock was excavated from each 500 metre long tunnel.

Costing a total of $151 million, it was funded by the federal and state governments.

The tunnels were opened on Sunday, 5 March 2000, with each constructed to carry three lanes of traffic.

The maximum height of vehicles permitted in the tunnels is 5.3 metres, the same as the Crafers and Mt Osmond interchanges. Laser height detectors monitor traffic to provide warnings to drivers before they attempt to enter the tunnel.

As of 2018, more than 50,000 vehicles pass through the tunnels daily.

In June 2020, it was announced that as part of the Marshall Government’s $1 billion economic stimulus package, $15 million has been allocated to refit and upgrade safety for the Heysen Tunnel. At the time of the announcement, the completion date for the project would be in late 2021.

Read what commuters have to say about the tunnels on their 21st birthday celebration at https://www.facebook.com/DFITSA/

https://www.facebook.com/DFITSA/

COLLABORATION NOW THE KEY TO FAST-TRACKING FUTURE SA INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 00:52:47 GMT

One of South Australia’s most influential industry lobby groups has called for greater transparency and collaboration between industry, government and the peak infrastructure agency to ensure the State maximises future opportunities to have major construction projects listed for priority funding in State and Federal Budgets.

The appeal was made today by the Civil Contractors Federation (SA) and followed the release this morning by the Federal Infrastructure Australia (IA) group, of its latest priority list of projects and initiatives around the country recommended for future Budget funding considerations.

Federation Chief Executive, Ms Rebecca Pickering, said the CCF (SA) welcomed the recognition by Infrastructure Australia in its 2021 list of the largest number of new proposals for South Australia in the list’s five-year history.

The CCF (SA) made a direct submission to Infrastructure Australia and says it is p0leased a number of projects nominated by it have now been included in the latest Priority List.

“In parallel with that, however, the CCF (SA) is a strong advocate for transparent future collaboration with industry, State Government and the independent advisory body, Infrastructure SA, to ensure new South Australian infrastructure projects are continually identified, submitted and shared with every South Australian,” Ms Pickering said.

“This will reverse the trend of recent years where SA projects received insufficient attention by IA.

“In order for today’s six identified SA initiatives to be transformative for South Australia, government agencies must engage with industry immediately to plan the delivery of these projects and those already listed as part of the record $16.8 billion committed in principle by government to SA’s future infrastructure needs.

“Today’s announcement of State Government $100m in road upgrades to commence immediately, including sections of the Horrocks, Riddoch, Eyre and Augusta Highways, is positive.

“However, a reliable and steady project release to market is critical during these unparalleled times. SA’s civil industry is mobilising to support current and future needs of our great state and it needs reliable projects to be released to maintain momentum and support growth.”

Ms Pickering said it was pleasing that SA’s road maintenance backlog (estimated to be worth at least $700m+) has now been recognised as an IA High Priority Initiative.

“The Federation has been advocating for this for several years and future Budget allocations could see a large improvement in SA’s road safety, while creating jobs in our State and building our local economy,” Ms Pickering said.

“Earthmovers, road constructors, pipelayers, road maintenance, traffic control, mobile plant operators and other civil business are digging deep for South Australia to deliver these projects, and the industry’s uptake of new Civil Apprenticeships is evidence of this.

“We celebrate today’s good news but promises need to translate into tangible, well planned projects. The CCF (SA) is committed to work with all stakeholders to ensure new projects and opportunities are continually presented to funding bodies.”

REBECCA PICKERING TO LEAD SA’s CIVIL CONTRACTORS LOBBY

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 06:06:10 GMT

An experienced executive in the construction sector and industry lobbying, Ms Rebecca Pickering, has been appointed the new Chief Executive Officer of influential South Australian lobby group, the Civil Contractors Federation (SA).

Ms Pickering’s appointment follows an extensive national search, following the resignation, after nearly nine years, of its well respected CEO, Mr Phil Sutherland.

Ms Pickering comes to the position with considerable experience in both the construction sector and industry association work. This has included several years with the Master Builders Association in SA, and more recently the CCF (SA) as Director Apprenticeships, Group Training, and Industry Employment.

The President of the CCF (SA), Mr Paul Davison, said today that the CCF (SA) Board had every confidence that under Rebecca’s leadership, the Federation will continue to strongly represent the interests of the State’s civil contractors and deliver services of benefit to its membership.

“Pleasingly, we had a large field of high-quality applicants, but Ms Pickering was the stand-out candidate who was able to set out a very clear pathway forward,” Mr Davison said.

“We are confident that under her leadership, the CCF (SA) will maintain our position as the peak body representing civil contractors.

“Given Rebecca’s unique skills set and experience, we will see our very significant training operation, Civil Train, and our interest in Apprentices through our Group Training Organisation, continue to grow and develop.

“Over the years, the CCF (SA) has achieved many successes. Appointing a woman to be the CCF (SA) CEO sends a valuable message to our industry about the contribution women can make at all levels of SA’s civil construction industry.”

CONSTRUCTION SECTOR SHUTDOWN - EMPLOYEE ENTITLEMENTS

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 03:11:13 GMT

For clients in South Australia, today’s news of a full lockdown has come as a shock. For businesses, questions arise as to what this means for employees.

Note: the below information is general in nature and relates solely to the ‘default’ stand down provisions set out in the Fair Work Act 2009. Employees who are covered by a contract of employment or enterprise agreement that provides differently may have different entitlements.

An employer may stand down an employee in circumstances where they are not able to be usefully employed – relevantly – due to causes beyond the employer’s control. A government enforced total lockdown affecting a business comfortably meets the test of a cause beyond the employer’s control. However, before making the decision to stand a person down, consideration must be given to whether or not the person can be “usefully employed”. This is an area that requires some consideration.

There is limited case law on what is meant by ‘usefully employed’ although the general rule of thumb is that the benefit received from the work must be more than the cost of paying the person to do so. Similarly, an employer is not required to substantially reorganise their workplace to create useful work. In most cases, this assessment will be obvious. For example, the closure of building sites makes it unlikely that on site workers would be able to be usefully employed. However, where work from home is available, consideration needs to be given to whether and, if so, how much, valuable work a person can perform. An employee required to process payroll may be able to be usefully employed to do this but if no work is performed, the following week may not be able to be usefully employed. A case by case assessment is required for unilateral stand down.

Employees are taken to not be stood down when they are on a period of authorised leave or other absence. It is generally accepted that an employee should be able to access accrued annual leave, long service leave or rostered days off unless there is good reason for them not to. Note that subject to specific provisions in awards/enterprise agreements or contracts of employment, an employee cannot be ‘forced’ to take a period of leave – it must be by agreement. Specific advice should be sought before issuing any direction to take leave or any refusal to grant a period of annual leave. Access to sick leave is generally not available although this is complicated, and specific advice should be sought.

Where there is an agreement between employees and employers (eg. an agreed stand down, or period of leave), many of the complexities outlined above can be overcome or minimised. As a result, it is strongly recommended that clients aim to work cooperatively with staff to make suitable arrangements, especially for the next 6 day period. For the most part, employees will have similar concerns such as child minding etc. which they will need to accommodate. These arrangements should be recorded in writing, such as a brief email. Although there is the ability to reach agreement employers should bear in mind that this is not ‘carte blanche’ and employment laws still apply. Accordingly, advice should be sought in relation to any specific agreement.

Employees who are stood down are not entitled to be paid, but will continue to accrue leave entitlements as usual. Employers who engage daily hire employees may consider terminating daily hire engagements although specific advice should be sought before taking this step as it is a termination of employment.

It is hoped that this is the end of the process but no-one can predict the future and should lockdown continue to affect your business after that time, it is also strongly recommended that employers revisit these arrangements regularly – perhaps weekly, or sooner if circumstances change.

Note that for employers who are currently on Jobkeeper, an employer would also need to pay the Jobkeeper amount. It is also noted that the effect of this lockdown may also entitle employers to Jobkeeper amounts and it is recommended that businesses discuss this with their accountant.

Disclaimer: the information above is general in nature only and specific advice should be sought in relation to a business’ specific circumstances. It is noted that awards, enterprise agreements and contracts of employment can impact on the above matters.

Note: the Fair Work Lawyers office will remain open (remotely) throughout this time and be able to respond to client queries. The contact details for our solicitors are:

Tom Earls 0409 939 010 tom@fairworklawyers.com.au

David Putland 0419 839 125 david@fairworklawyers.com.au

Emma Avey 0413 474 428 emma@fairworklawyers.com.au

Ethan Callan 0431 557 350 ethan@fairworklawyers.com.au

Sara Pekmez 0479 177 685 sara@fairworklawyers.com.au

2020/21 STATE BUDGET UPDATE

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 07:15:58 GMT

Today Treasurer Rob Lucas delivered the 2020/21 State Budget, and CCF SA believes the Treasurer has struck an appropriate balance between a government being fiscally responsible and providing the necessary stimulus to resuscitate the economy during and following the fires and the pandemic, while also providing long term sustainable growth.

This budget makes some in roads into a large road maintenance backlog and upgrading road networks that are very much out of date. This also includes money for the states bridges, many of which are over a hundred years old and in urgent need of repair.

It's also pleasing to see the budget acknowledges the importance of our regions and coastal precincts including jetties and road maintenance.

Small business, VET and tradies also receive additional incentives which will see a positive difference to the industry.

To view the overview of the budget, click here

The South Australian Government has also announced that the hybrid option is the preferred way to deliver the T2D Project, which will see a combination of tunnels, lowered and ground-level motorways, as well as overpasses / underpasses at key intersections to successfully complete the free-flowing transport route.

To see more about the concept design, and to register for updates, click here

KEY SA ROAD RAIL PROJCTS DOMINATE CIVIL CONSUTRUCTION SECTORS EARTH AWARDS

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 22:32:55 GMT

Upgrades to one of Adelaide’s most renowned retail routes, a century-old waste dump site and one of the city’s most heavily trafficked rail intersections have dominated the winners’ list at the 2020 South Australian Earth Awards.

The honours represent excellence in civil construction across the State and were achieved this year despite the unprecedented challenges for the sector imposed by COVID restrictions on contractors’ movements and supply chain disruptions.

The Awards were announced at a ceremony in Adelaide last night (Friday 16 Oct).

Civil Contractors Federation (South Australia) Chief Executive, Mr Phil Sutherland, said the outperformance evident across the project winners is testimony to the skillsets retained within the sector and now on offer to drive Australia and South Australia’s post-COVID economic resurgence.

“At every political level, shovel-ready infrastructure works are being seen as a cornerstone for the pace and scope at which regional and state economies recover from the lingering impacts of COVID,” Mr Sutherland said.

“In SA, where the CCF (SA) has lobbied hard for higher State and Federal funding for priority projects, we have an opportunity to employ hundreds of additional people over the next 12-18 months.

“The Earth Awards mirror how good this sector is in SA – now it is time to capitalise on the richness of this immediately available resource within our broad civil construction community.”

This year’s winners, and a brief project description of each, are as follows:

EARTH AWARDS 2020 WINNERS

CATEGORY COMPANY PROJECT NAME

UP TO $2M DOWNER EDI Works Mangrove Street Rail Upgrade

$2M - $5M Coleman Rail Pty Ltd, Port River Rail Bridge Pile Remediation

Department for Planning,

Transport and Infrastructure,

Quakewrap Pty Ltd,

Concrete Remedi8 Pty Ltd

$5M - $10M McMahon Services Australia Hamilton Hill Stages 1, 2, 3A, 3C and 4

Remediation Earthworks

CATEGORY COMPANY PROJECT NAME (continued…)

$10M - $30M BMD Constructions King William Road Upgrade

$30M TO $75M Department for Environment SARFIIP – Katarapko Floodplain

and Water, SA Water, Fulton Inundation Measures

Hogan Construction

Over $75M PTPA (Public Transport Oaklands Crossing Grade Separation

Project Alliance) Department for Infrastructure

and Transport, McConnell

Dowell, Mott Macdonald,

Arup

Mangrove Street Rail Upgrade - Salisbury

The Mangrove St Rail Upgrade at Salisbury upgraded exhausted road-pavement, poor drainage and an at-risk section of railway track traversing through Mangrove St. The City of Salisbury, Downer and WGA went through a vigorous design process to come up with an innovative and sustainable solution that met all design objectives and budgetary requirements. The pavement design differed from traditional construction methods, building up the road level by utilising the existing pavement as a base and constructing on-top new kerb and gutter and asphalt layers enhanced with pavement reinforcing technologies. The rail design consisted of a re-alignment of the track to increase the safety of the bend through the level crossing.

King William Road Upgrade - Unley

The transformation of the iconic King William Road, saw BMD preserve the precinct’s unique village identity while delivering a flexible and functional streetscape. The popular retail and restaurant precinct has more than 240 stakeholders including 109 traders, and hosts up to 5,000 visitors, and close to 15,000 vehicles within the precinct each day. Strategies to minimise inconvenience were integral to both planning and delivery. BMD constructed the project in four stages, involving complex service relocations, intersection upgrade works, new segment paver traffic lanes with deep lift asphalt base courses, new roll kerbs and segmental paver shared use areas, landscaping, street furniture, electrical works and smart lighting.

Katarapko Floodplain Inundation Measures - Riverland

The South Australian Riverland Floodplains Integrated Infrastructure Program (SARFIIP) is a Commonwealth-funded program consisting of a number of priority construction projects involving infrastructure at the Pike and Katarapko floodplains between Loxton and Renmark in the Riverland. The projects were managed by the South Australian Department for Environment and Water (DEW) and delivered in partnership with SA Water, with Fulton Hogan as lead contractor. The works improved the area’s ecological health by maintaining a more natural pattern of flooding frequency, facilitating targeted management of surface water for environmental outcomes, reducing floodplain salinisation and managing salinity impacts on the River.

Port River Rail Bridge - Ethelton

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport engaged Coleman Rail to undertake the remediation of 144 square concrete piles supporting the Port River Rail Bridge originally constructed in 1910 and adjacent Bower Road at Ethelton. This was a challenging and complex project requiring works over water and a sensitive dolphin sanctuary and under the live Outer Harbor rail line with no disruption to train services. Works included inspection and verification of the required repairs, water blasting of the piles, engineering of a suitable remediation system that would provide the piles with an additional 50 years of design life, and development of a suitable system to access the worksite, which required working over and in a tidal waterway.

Oaklands Crossing Grade Separation – Oaklands Park

The Oaklands Crossing Grade Separation project grade separated the road and rail networks to improve operation and safety of the traffic and rail network and public transport and passenger access. The project was designed and constructed by the Public Transport Projects Alliance, PTPA, comprising McConnell Dowell, Arup, Mott MacDonald and Department for Infrastructure and Transport. Project delivery within a compressed 16 month timeframe incorporated an offline construction methodology minimising road and rail disruption and showcasing the successful integration of urban greening, people connectivity and sustainability within a typically hard engineered infrastructure project, for a safer and more inviting station precinct.

Hamilton Hill - Woodforde

The project transformed a 100-year-old waste dump into a new master planned community in Adelaide’s foothills. McMahon Services in partnership with environmental and geotechnical consultants, developed an achievable and realistic construction management plan and a detailed profile and map of all the waste across the site. These thorough and upfront investigations allowed McMahon Services to develop programs, staging and methodologies that mitigated or managed onsite risks, and allowed for a delivery schedule that effectively eliminated double-handling of materials. The Company crushed, sorted and segregated 500,000 tonnes in waste streams within the old dump site so that they could be repurposed and reused as geotechnically suitable materials to allow the bulk earthworks and reshaping of Hamilton Hill to make it suitable for residential construction.

BUDGET A WINNER FOR MOST – BUT LIGHT ON IN THE ROADS DEPARTMENT

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 20:30:00 GMT

The Civil Contractors Federation (South Australia) has welcomed the Federal Government’s Economic Recovery Budget and described it as a very impressive suite of stimulus measures bound to have a positive effect on the circumstances of many South Australians, businesses in South Australia and the State.

The Civil Contractors Federation (SA) also is pleased to see A$1billion allocated to local councils nationally for road upgrades.

Welcome also is the announcement of A$2 billion for new water infrastructure to support regional communities and jobs.

Federation Chief Executive, Mr Phil Sutherland, said however, that when it came to the cash contribution of $625 million towards SA’s road infrastructure, more could have been allocated from the national roads budget of $10 billion.

“While $625 million is a great deal of money, when compared with the estimated $800 million back log of road maintenance in SA, it will not make much of a dent in the SA’s road network,” Mr Sutherland said.

“Its been described as an economic recovery budget but at least half of the $625 million destined for SA road projects are not shovel ready - with construction likely to be two or three or more years away.

“While SA is to share in the $2 billion road safety funding program, it is of concern, given the slow pace of the SA Department of Infrastructure and Transport bringing projects to the market, that the money is available on a use-it or lose-it basis.

“The CCF (SA) hopes this provides the Department with the sense of urgency required.

“The South Australian Government must bring forward the shovel ready projects now.

“It is crucial we do not drag our feet on this,” Mr Sutherland said.

“The $1 billion allocated to local councils for road maintenance is another excellent way to stimulate the economy instantly, with most councils in South Australia having shovel ready projects on the back burner waiting for funding,” he said.

The South Australian road projects receiving funding priority in the Budget, are as follows:

South Australia

New Projects

Project	Federal Funding	Total Cost
Hahndorf Township Improvements and Access Upgrade	$200 million	$250 million
Main South Road Duplication Stage 2 - Aldinga to Sellicks Beach	$136 million	$170 million
South Eastern Freeway Safety Upgrade	$28 million	$35 million
Strzelecki Track Upgrade	$100 million	$125 million
Victor Harbor Road Upgrade	$12 million	$12 million
Princes Highway Corridor Funding Allocations
Princes Highway Corridor - Intersection Improvements	$40 million	$50 million
Princes Highway Corridor - Overtaking Lanes	$28.8 million	$36 million
Princes Highway Corridor - Pavement Works	$45.6 million	$57 million
Princes Highway Corridor - Pavement Works	$4 million	$5 million
Princes Highway Corridor - Safety and Signage Improvements	$10.4 million	$13 million
Princes Highway Corridor - Shoulder Sealing	$7.2 million	$9 million
Subtotal	$612 million	$762 million

LEADING SA INDUSTRY EXECUTIVE CALLS TIME IN KEY LOBBYING ROLE

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 23:30:11 GMT

The resignation has been announced of one of South Australia’s most influential industry lobbyists, Civil Contractors Federation South Australia (CCF SA) Chief Executive, Mr Phil Sutherland.

He will step down from the pivotal position in January next year, ending a nine year tenure with the organisation, regarded highly for its role under his helmsmanship on pressuring government at all levels to employ infrastructure outcomes as economic drivers.

Mr Sutherland says the decision is timely, allowing him to consider alternative career opportunities and for the CCF (SA) to refresh and refocus at a time civil construction will be a cornerstone behind the pace and success of SA’s post-COVID recovery.

Well-known and respected in government, industry and media circles, Mr Sutherland emerged as a fearless champion for civil contractors and the civil construction industry and a vocal advocate for South Australia.

He successfully transformed the Federation from a little-known industry association to significant prominence, placing the lobby group firmly in the spotlight as a key influencer of government, politicians and community stakeholder interests.

Under Mr Sutherland’s leadership, the CCF (SA)’s training operation, Civil Train, grew in reputation throughout both SA and the Northern Territory as a high quality not for profit trainer and has more recently extended its operations into Western Australia.

He also drove the approval of an Apprenticeship in Civil Construction, a long overdue qualification for the sector, establishing a career pathway into the industry for school leavers and others. The creation of a CCF SA sponsored Group Training Organisation to manage apprentices for the industry is also a highlight of Mr Sutherland’s tenure.

Comments attributable to Mr Sutherland.

“It has been an honour and privilege to be the face and spokesperson for such an important South Australian industry.

“The role demands you play with a straight bat with politicians, regardless of their colours. This requires some hard truths to be faced at times by government, as unpalatable as that can be for the government of the day.

“I will leave the position knowing that the Federation has played a major role in seeing historically high government investment in transport and other infrastructure destined for South Australia, and that the State, in particular smaller businesses are benefiting from local industry participation requirements of government.

“Civil contractors of all sizes are out there day in and day out building South Australia and ensuring a lifestyle we enjoy and mostly take for granted.

“These contractors deserve their place in the sun and full recognition for their substantial economic contribution to the prosperity and lifestyle of South Australia.”

Comments attributable to Mr Paul Davison, President of the CCF (SA):

“Mr Sutherland’s contribution to increasing the advocacy of the CCF (SA) has been second to none over the time he has overseen our Association. We have never before in our history had the visibility we have secured before Government and the media.

“Mr Sutherland has steered the organisation through a vast array of difficult and challenging times and the CCF (SA) is clearly in a better state for his contribution and leadership.”

HOW MANY MUST DIE BEFORE SA GOVT ACTS ON AUGUSTA DEATH CORRIDOR - CCF

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 07:00:00 GMT

As South Australia mourns yet another life lost on the fateful Augusta Highway, the State Government has been taken to task by a major industry lobby group asking how many more lives are to be lost before remedial action is taken.

The call has been made by the influential Civil Contractors Federation (SA) and follows the weekend death of a 21-year old woman in a head-on collision between her car and a semi-trailer at Bungama on the Augusta Highway.

“The CCF (SA) is saddened to hear of yet another fatality on this notoriously treacherous stretch of road. This fatality brings the total number of crashes in the past five years on the Augusta Highway to 542, with 39 fatalities (3 so far this year alone), 97 serious injuries, and 284 minor injuries,” the CCF (SA)’s Chief Executive, Mr Phil Sutherland, said today.

“This loss of life at the weekend may well have been prevented if the Augusta Highway was dual laned,” Mr Sutherland said.

“As a result, there is now another family who has needlessly lost a much-loved family member, friends who have lost a good friend, and a community in mourning.

“The CCF (SA) calls on both the SA and Federal Governments to act now, and fast track the duplication of the Augusta Highway.

“Given the very high casualty rate and the importance of the Highway between Port Wakefield and Port Augusta as a strategic freight and road transport corridor, its remediation should be an absolute priority – an appeal made for years to Governments by the Federation.

“How many more people have to die on this terrible stretch of road before our political leaders act?

“It beggars belief that this section of National Highway A1 remains in such a dilapidated state given its crucial link to the national road system

“South Australians deserve much better roads than the Augusta Highway,” Mr Sutherland said.

He questioned why South Australia should be viewed as the poor relation for funding when it came to the State’s roads?

“Look over the border and see the much higher quality of road infrastructure,” Mr Sutherland said.

“Pleasingly, at last the bridge at Port Augusta and the road through Port Wakefield are being upgraded. It would make an enormous amount of sense to duplicate the road between these two points at the same time. This would simply amount to an extension of the duplicated road from Gepps Cross to Port Wakefield.”

The CCF (SA) noted that National Highway A1, a network of highways that circumnavigates Australia joining all mainland state capitals, is recognised because of its total length of 14,500 km as among the longest national highways in the world.

“Yet despite this, the section of highway between Port Wakefield and Port Augusta is a meagre two lane road that has to exist as a major strategic transport and freight corridor connecting Adelaide to the north of South Australia and the rest of Australia.

“The road carries between 8,000 and 10,000 vehicle movements each day comprising a toxic mix of cars, caravans, and heavy transports, including military traffic, oversize combinations and mass vehicles in the B-Doubles, B-Triples and road train categories.

“The highway north of Port Wakefield is comprised of narrow bridges and a railway level crossing. The road surface condition features degraded road shoulders and verges, roughness and rutting of the road surface, and is generally a patchwork of bitumen showing regular repair and maintenance works.

“The time to act is now – before police have to knock at midnight on yet another unsuspecting family at home.”

MAJOR INDUSTRY LOBBY GROUP SHINES LIGHT ON MUCH NEEDED SA INFRASTRUCTURE - MAKES ITS OWN FUNDING CASE TO CANBERRA

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 04:30:00 GMT

One of South Australia’s most influential industry lobbies has taken the unprecedented step of going direct to a Federal funding authority to get proposed major state construction projects prioritised and much higher up the funding ladder.

The move may prove crucial to how quickly SA can reboot its COVID-starved economy and protect and create new jobs.

The Civil Contractors Federation (South Australia) (CCF (SA)) announced today it had decided to approach the key Infrastructure Australia (IA) body after a decade of failures by local bureaucrats to get even one SA project on the IA’s “highest priority” annual funding lists.

Infrastructure Australia is the nation’s independent infrastructure advisor that recommends funding requirements to the Federal Government for transport and other infrastructure projects around the nation.

Among the key drivers of the CCF (SA)’s project list are some of SA’s most heavily trafficked but dangerous roads and highways – one of which saw yet another fatal accident within the past week.

“We have been advised that Infrastructure South Australia is working on a submission, but from the Federation’s point of view, we just can’t take any more chances and yet again see South Australian projects not make any of Infrastructure Australia's lists,” Mr Sutherland said.

"While we will be thrilled to see the State Government make a submission to Infrastructure Australia, the failure to do so in the past has resulted in South Australia missing out on billions of dollars of Federal funding for much needed transport infrastructure," he said.

“To ensure South Australian projects are well and truly on the radar of Infrastructure Australia, the Federation in our submission has identified 10 projects, an extensive program of State-wide road maintenance and a supplementary list of worthy projects,” Mr Sutherland said.

"Identifying projects for funding isn't difficult. The State's road network is 50 years out of date and in in many places in poor condition. Nearly every road in the State has a hole or crack in it.

"South Australia was established in 1836 and we still don't have a decent, modern, safe, uncongested motorway across our capital city, Adelaide.

"SA’s major strategic regional freight corridors are two lane roads in less than optimal condition when these routes should have been duplicated years ago into a minimum four lanes.

"Given the proven job creating power and economic stimulus possible from public and private investment in transport and other infrastructure, it is now well recognised that infrastructure investment will be critical to Australia and SA’s post-COVID economic recovery.

"Credible sources say that the current pipeline of projects is insufficient. Reserve Bank of Australia Governor, Mr Philip Lowe, has implored the States to commit an additional $40 billion to infrastructure over the next two years, effectively doubling their existing spending.

"The CCF (SA) has been calling on the Federal and State Government to invest in transport and other infrastructure, and importantly, to accelerate this spending.

"Our recommendation to Infrastructure Australia is for the Federal Government to allocate sufficient money in concert with the SA Government to bring as many infrastructure projects as possible to fruition, sooner than later.”

The Federation undertook its own research on proposed priority projects and believes the following are long overdue. If funded and brought to construction, they would not only greatly assist in the economic recovery, Mr Sutherland says, but also give SA the infrastructure it requires to set the State up for the future. The top proposals are:

o Strzelecki Track Upgrade
o Augusta Highway Duplication
o Dukes Highway Duplication
o Swanport Bridge Duplication
o Sturt Highway Duplication / Truro Bypass
o Princess Highway Upgrade
o Adelaide Stormwater Upgrade
o SE Drainage Scheme Upgrade
o Aldinga rail extension
o South Australian 'Road Keeper' (Road Maintenance) Network
o Supplementary Projects

CONSTRUCTION LOBBY WELCOMES NEW SA TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURE MINISTER - URGES NEED FOR CLOSE TIES

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 09:53:05 GMT

The influential Civil Contractors Federation of SA (CCF SA) today welcomed the appointment of Mr. Corey Wingard as SA’s new Transport and Infrastructure Minister.

“We see this appointment as the opportunity for a refresh and review of the approach taken to transport and infrastructure projects in South Australia,” Civil Contractors Federation of SA Chief Executive Officer, Mr Phil Sutherland, said today.

“As the peak body representing the companies and other businesses involved in most public and private construction projects in South Australia, the new Minister can be assured of our support and availability to him to provide high level industry guidance best able to inform his decision making.

“As the State’s civil engineering expertise lies within the membership of the Civil Contractors Federation, civil contractors of all sizes are ready, willing and available to work with Minister Wingard in building South Australia and supporting the pandemic recovery through public investment in infrastructure.

“We look forward to an early meeting with Minister Wingard to discuss the priority projects for South Australia, and how best these can be brought to fruition.

“The CCF (SA) does call on the Minister to ensure industry has visibility on the pipeline of government projects so that companies can gear up to bring the Government’s vision for South Australia to a reality.

“We are confident that the new Minister will see that a high sense of urgency is required in bringing government projects to the market during this difficult time in order to create jobs and provide economic stimulus.

“Doubtless Minister Wingard understands the proven job creating capacity and economic stimulus possible from public and private investment in transport and other infrastructure.”

SA “DEATH CORRIDOR” NEEDS URGENT UPGRADE: MAJOR INDUSTRY LOBBY WELCOMES OPPOSITION SUPPORT

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 01:06:17 GMT

A crucial section of the Augusta Highway - one of South Australia’s most critical road freight routes linking the State to vital interstate and overseas markets - needs to be urgently upgraded at a cost of more than $1.5 billion.

The call has been made today by the influential Civil Contractors Federation of SA (CCF SA) in welcoming the public announcement by SA Labor Opposition Leader, Mr Peter Malinauskas, that the duplication of the Augusta Highway should be put forward by the SA Government as a project to be consideration for priority Federal funding by Infrastructure Australia.

For years, the CCF (SA) has been calling on both the Federal and SA Governments to make the upgrade of National Highway A1 – between Port Wakefield and Port Augusta – the highest of priorities. Since 2015 that section of road has seen close to 400 traffic accidents resulting in 70 serious casualties and 30 fatalities.

“The road between Port Wakefield and Port Augusta is an absolute disgrace for a national highway, and well below the standard you expect in a first world economy,” Civil Contractors Federation of SA Chief Executive Officer, Mr Phil Sutherland, said today.

“It beggars’ belief that this section of National Highway A1 - also called the Augusta Highway – remains in such a dilapidated state given its crucial link to the national road system,” he said.

“Inexplicably, upgrading and duplicating this sub-standard section of highway – which forms part of a nationally significant freight corridor, and is integral to the National Freight and Supply Chain - does not even appear on the Infrastructure Australia’s Priority funding list.

“A far better road will facilitate and encourage the growth of Whyalla and better support the Cultana Military Base at a time when National security warrants it.

“It is fantastic to see the current upgrade to the bridge at Pt Augusta and cleaning up the traffic congestion at Pt Wakefield. Now is the ideal opportunity to build a modern road between those heavily trafficked two points.

National Highway A1 is a network of highways that circumnavigate Australia, joining all mainland state capitals. At a total length of about 14,500 km, it is among the longest national highways in the world.

The section of highway between Port Wakefield and Port Augusta is a meagre two lane road – despite being a major transport and freight corridor connecting Adelaide to the north of South Australia and carrying a large and increasing volume of car and heavy transports, including military traffic, oversize combinations and mass vehicles in the B-Doubles, B-Triples and road train categories.

The highway north of Port Wakefield is comprised of narrow bridges and a railway level crossing. The road surface condition features degraded road shoulders and verges, roughness and rutting of the road surface, and is generally a patchwork of bitumen showing regular repair and maintenance works.

Mr Sutherland said when National Highway A1 was duplicated from Gepps Cross to Port Wakefield in the 1980s, that work stopped at Port Wakefield – meaning traffic progressing further north was restricted to single lanes either way.

“Duplicating this section of the Highway between Port Wakefield and Port Augusta would not only give the public a long overdue, safe and seamless highway, but during the construction phase, we would also see the generation of much needed jobs and increased productivity to stimulate the State’s economy during the pandemic.”

Mr Sutherland said due to its parlous state, that section of National Highway A1 is constraining SA’s productivity.

He noted that more than 75% of non-bulk domestic freight is carried on roads, dominating freight movements between capital cities, including Adelaide. Truck traffic is predicted by Infrastructure Australia to increase nationally by 50% by 2030.

“It’s no secret South Australia requires a stronger and more prosperous economy. Road infrastructure is one of the key pillars that supports that ambition,” Mr Sutherland said.

“Upgrading this section of highway will tick many boxes including public safety, relieving road transport congestion, connecting regional communities, promoting tourism, creating new jobs and business opportunities and increasing productivity,” he said.

“Freight corridors in the eastern states are far superior to those in South Australia. It’s time the Federal Government joined with the SA Government and sorted out the Port Wakefield to Port Augusta Highway mess.

“South Australia drags the chain when it comes to road infrastructure. We need to get on the front foot, be more visionary and deliver road infrastructure in a much timelier manner.” Mr Sutherland said.

NEW 20 YEAR INFRASTRUCTURE STRATEGY “A WORK IN PROGRESS FOR SOUTH AUSTRALIA” - CCF

Wed, 13 May 2020 01:27:00 GMT

The Civil Contractors Federation South Australia (CCF SA) says that Infrastructure SA’s (ISA) just released 20 Year Infrastructure Strategy provides a good summary of where SA finds itself in 2020 and where government attention is required going forward.

The CCF (SA) noted however, its surprise that a much anticipated comprehensive list of prioritised infrastructure projects extending over 20 years to bolster the State’s economy and facilitate jobs growth – was not included in the Strategy’s key outcomes.

To read the full release:

Release - ISA 20 Year State Infrastructure Strategy.pdf

INFRASTRUCTURE AUSTRALIA RECOMMENDATIONS – SA DOESN’T MAKE THE CUT….AGAIN

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 02:16:58 GMT

The failure of any of South Australia’s worst roads to make this week’s Infrastructure Australia list of highest priority projects, and with that early Federal Government funding, has been slammed by the Civil Contractors Federation – South Australia as completely unacceptable and totally lamentable.

Download the full media release below.

Release - Infrastructure Australia slammed 2020 (002).pdf

CCF SA WELCOMES ADDITIONAL FEDERAL FUNDING BOOST HOWEVER………

Michael Sugg — Tue, 03 Dec 2019 01:18:14 GMT

Click below to hear the latest audio of our advocacy work form our CEO, Phillip Sutherland, on ABC radio.

CONSTRUCTION LOBBY WELCOMES ALBANESE SUPPORT FOR INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING FOR COUNCILS

Michael Sugg — Tue, 26 Nov 2019 01:24:47 GMT

The influential Civil Contractors Federation – South Australia (CCF SA) has today welcomed the Federal Opposition’s recently announced proposed infrastructure plan that would give councils an injection of funding to help turn around the nation’s economy.

The plan would see small infrastructure grants made available to councils to improve their road networks, and in doing so, stimulate local economies and jobs growth.

INFRASTRUCTURE GRANTS FOR COUNCILS

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 02:25:41 GMT

Infrastructure Grants for Councils fieold pr edits (002).pdf

CCF SA WELCOMES ADDITIONAL FEDERAL FUNDING FOR INFRASTRUCTURE WORKS

Michael Sugg — Mon, 18 Nov 2019 01:29:00 GMT

The powerful Civil Contractors Federation South Australia (CCF (SA) has come out today and welcomed the announcement by the Prime Minister that there will be a $400 million boost to SA’s road funding including bringing major project work forward and safety upgrades to regional roads.

The CCF (SA) has long campaigned for additional and timely Federal and State Government investment in the State’s road network. The Federation feared that funding for the few major road projects under construction was soon to be exhausted, resulting in job losses and economic stagnation. The Federation has also expressed concern that the work that was available, was slow coming to the market from SA’s Department of Planning Transport and Infrastructure.

CCF SA SUBMISSION TO INFRASTRUCTURE SA

Sun, 01 Sep 2019 06:24:54 GMT

To read CCF SA's submission to Infrastructure SA 20yr Strategy, see the below link. We look forward to the Release of Infrastructure SA's 20yr Strategy in early 2020.

Civil-Contractors-Federation-SA.pdf

SA GOVERNMENT TURNS ITS BACK ON LOCAL CIVIL CONSTRUCTION SECTOR BY PERSISTING WITH CONTRACT BUNDLING – FAVOURING INTERSTATE-OVERSEAS MAJORS

Michael Sugg — Thu, 25 Jul 2019 02:30:48 GMT

SA Government turns its back on local Civil Construction sector by persisting with contract bundling – favouring interstate-overseas majors

South Australia faces the prospect of its multi-billion dollar a year civil construction sector being relegated to little more than “sub-contractor status” on two pending major projects.

At immediate risk is who wins control of building the $90 million duplication of the Port Wakefield Rd and the planned $160 million Joy Baluch Bridge at Port Augusta.

The industry’s anger reached flash point this week when told the Government, despite an election commitment to disaggregate work, would “bundle” contracts for both projects into one single major contract.

The sector says this will immediately favour a contract award to interstate contractors with national footprints, deeper pockets and international partners, at the expense of spreading the work across multiple local firms without such clout.

This would relegate SA firms to little more than sub-contractor status on these key works and rob the State’s civil workforce of further building its expertise and experience.

The industry’s voice, the Civil Contractors Federation (SA), (CCF (SA)), said today that despite several months of lobbying for a more equitable and SA business friendly contract award approach, SA Transport Minister, the Hon. Stephan Knoll, confirmed to the Federation this week “bundling” was here to stay.

“If ignoring industry pleas on the land tax issues hasn’t been enough, one of the State’s biggest industry employers, and potentially a major economic driver, has been dealt a sickening blow by this Government,,” CCF (SA) Chief Executive, Mr Phil Sutherland said today.

“The health of the infrastructure industry in SA is already under pressure yet it would appear its future matters less to this Government than adopting some allegedly risk-adverse approach of handing all responsibilities for these major build opportunities, to one provider.

“This Minister is captive to his bureaucrats, and prepared to lock out South Australian firms with track records of high quality, on-time and on-budget infrastructure construction outcomes,” Mr Sutherland said.

“With something like $11 billion worth of proposed SA civil projects alone on the books over the next decade, how will SA’s civil sector, under these regimes, control its destiny?

“In any which way you look at it, it is a blatant slap in the face to numerous SA businesses from their own Government, and is unacceptable at every level.

“We want to be a leading participant, not a by-stander, in our own construction backyard.”

Mr Sutherland said the CCF (SA) called on the Government to immediately rescind its out-of-touch contractual approach, disaggregate the two pending contracts and bring fresh opportunity to the sector to build a stronger and higher skillset in this industry in SA.

The CCF (SA)’s rallying cry comes barely a month after it called publicly on the Government to stimulate the sector by pressing the go button on ten “action now” projects.

COUNCILS BUILDING EMPIRES AND “ROBBING” LOCAL BUSINESSES OF $600 MILLION OF WORK A YEAR: CCF WARNS

Sun, 26 Jul 2015 23:23:51 GMT

An urgent call has been made to all of SA’s local governments by one of South Australia’s leading industry lobby groups demanding they immediately stop doing about $600 million a year of civil construction work that local businesses can do.