Construction Industry Policy

The Northern Territory construction industry is approaching a total value of one billion dollars. The Department of Planning and Infrastructure is able to advise Government on issues affecting the Territory construction industry and also advises industry about developments for positive growth.

The Department of Planning and Infrastructure has a clear interest in protecting the quality of supply for the Government capital works expenditure, which is 25% of the total industry. The bulk of capital works expenditure is controlled by the private sector where the environment is heavily influenced by Territory legislation and Government procurement policy.

The structure of the industry is continuously undergoing change in its culture, orientation, industrial relations and business methods. The Department of Planning and Infrastructure identifies local, national and international developments, which impact on construction. It advises Government and industry on current issues raised by the Australian Procurement and Construction Council (APCC), Master Builders Australia (MBA), the Australian road research board (AUSTROADS), AUSTRADE and other similar organisations.

The Department works in partnership with the local industry on issues such as the development and retention of young people through apprentice training programs, guaranteed by tender specification, and the sharing of trainee placements by industry members in both technical and graduate trainee programs.

Procedures are in place to encourage more Aboriginal participation in construction activities. The Department works with Local governments, community councils and other related organisations to encourage increased Aboriginal participation.