Builders and tradies remain open for business

There are nearly 370,000 residential building businesses in Australia, including thousands of mum and dad businesses, it's no wonder the building industry has been classified as essential.

"Builders and tradies remain open for business and are complying with the social distancing and hygiene rules, in line with the latest advice from government," Denita Wawn, CEO of Master Builders Australia said.

"The Prime Minister has confirmed that building is an essential industry and is being kept open but there is some confusion in the community about how this is applied to the home and we want to clear that up."

"Safe Work Australia advice confirms that a workplace includes a private home or dwelling, which means building workers and tradies will do everything to follow social distancing and strict hygiene practices, so any risks are eliminated or minimised," Denita Wawn said.

"This means that the public can have confidence that they are doing the right thing in helping stop the spread of COVID-19, while still going ahead with their residential building projects," she said.

"For home and property owners it is important to know that you don't need to pull the plug on current work," Denita Wawn said.

"Whether you've been planning a new build, a renovation job or you've been planning to talk to your builder about getting the ball rolling for this kind of project, you can still have your builder on your premises for purposes of work and be confident that they are complying with the rules and that you are doing the right thing," she said.

"Whether it's indoors or outdoors there is absolutely no problem with your project going ahead. There is no need to put kitchen or bathroom renovations, plumbing or electrical work or landscaping on hold," she said.

"It is still also more than ok to go and inspect a Display Home providing that you make an appointment. Our members are telling us that appointments are being made and now is a great time to do this," Denita Wawn said.