Renovations Update and Mitchell Ends Lockdown
Oct 14, 2021
Building Work at Occupied Homes
This morning it is reported in the media that the Government is considering whether renovations could return in at the 70 percent double dose vaccination milestone – which would be as early as next week.
Whilst the Government has previously insisted that a return to internal renovation works would only be possible when Victoria reaches the milestone of 80 percent double-dosed vaccination rates, there are indications this might change.
HIA has continued to lobby over the past weeks and months for the return to in-home renovations. We have clearly demonstrated that steps can be taken by our members to operate safely with regards to both residents and workers.
HIA’s open letter published recently in the Herald Sun, encouraged the government to consider the good track record of homebuilders and renovators and understand the harsh impact of such a long period of closure, particularly for in-home renovators. We asked the Government to look more closely at the different circumstances of the home building and renovation sector.
There is also significant uncertainty about the Government’s roadmap for easing of COVID-19 restrictions insofar as it applies to the small-scale construction industry. HIA has been seeking clarification on these matters and also proposed a pathway for easing of restrictions.
HIA is urgently seeking clarification from the Government of any planned changes for easing of restrictions for in-home renovations and will advise as soon as there has been some confirmation.
Mitchell ends lockdown and renovations update
On Wednesday evening Mitchell Shire ended its lockdown and now returns to the same business conditions as most of Regional Victoria.
Building work will therefore be allowed to continue under COVIDSafe settings. These settings include the need to have a COVIDSafe Plan, comply with worker density limits, manage contact tracing and worker movement, wearing facemasks, cleaning shared work areas and maintain physical distancing on site. Along with the new requirements for COVID Marshals, worker bubbles and vaccinations to enter site and to move between metropolitan and regional Victoria.
HIA has updated our Making Space on Site resources to assist members to meet these obligations, including tools to help you prepare a COVIDSafe Plan and to induct and keep records of all workers who access sites. (see links below).
Frequently asked questions for returning to construction sites
HIA has prepared a series of frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help members understand the new requirements in place for construction workers and construction sites across Victoria.
- COVID-19 restrictions for all construction sites across Victoria
- COVID-19 restrictions for small scale residential building sites in Victoria: What you need to know
- COVID-19 Vaccination Requirements for Victoria
Additional information is also available on some of the specific arrangements in place for other industry sectors.