Improved NT Build, A Win for Everyone

PETER CHANDLER - MINISTER FOR LANDS, PLANNING AND THE ENVIRONMENT
 
WILLEM VAN HOLTHE - MINISTER FOR MINES AND ENERGY

The Country Liberals Government is overhauling the NT Build Scheme to expand eligibility for workers while reducing the financial impost on the construction industry.

“The Giles Government is committed to protecting the entitlements of workers whilst driving the development of Northern Australia by reducing construction costs,” Minister for Lands Planning and Environment Peter Chandler said.

NT Build is a portable long service scheme for construction workers in the Northern Territory which is funded through a levy on construction work.

Mr Chandler said there will be no change to the entitlements offered by NT Build however more employees will be able to access it.

“Currently for a particular employee to be eligible for benefits under the scheme have to work 260 days for the same employer. Under the new scheme that will be reduced to 220 days,” Mr Chandler said.

“This will mean more Territorians in the construction industry will be able to accumulate long service leave which is something many take for granted.”

A number of changes have also been made to the contribution requirements for employers to help encourage local construction.

“The value of the threshold trigger for contributions will be lifted from $200,000 to $1 million, making a big difference to small and medium employers,” Mr Chandler said.

“The current contribution levy rate of 0.3% is excessive and onerous on employers so it will be reduced to 0.1%, freeing up capital to invest in the Territory, creating more jobs.

“Under the Country Liberals, the Territory is open for business and leading the development of Northern Australia.”

Minister for Mines and Energy Willem Westra van Holthe announced the changes to industry leaders at the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (APPEA) Conference in Perth this morning, explaining the positive impact on companies pursuing energy projects in the Territory.

"There are high costs associated with the construction phase of mine sites and oil and gas facilities. These measures will reduce initial costs and have a positive impact on both workers and industry," Mr Westra van Holthe said.

"Any reduction in financial burden is greatly appreciated by our exploration miners who are looking to convert to production phase."

Source: ProjectLink.com.au

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