New laws for the building and construction industry and the new Office of the Fair Work Building Industry Inspectorate will commence on 1 June 2012.

Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations Bill Shorten said with the establishment of the new independent inspectorate, to be known as Fair Work Building and Construction, the Government had delivered its election commitment to abolish the Australian Building and Construction Commission.

“The building and construction industry remains a critical driver of our economy, with immediate and direct impact on jobs, growth and productivity.  We are committed to strengthening this sector and through this, supporting quality jobs and investment throughout Australia,” Mr Shorten said.

The commencement of Fair Work Building and Construction follows the introduction of new Guidelines for the Building and Construction Industry on 1 May 2012.

The Minister also announced the appointment of an Acting Director of Fair Work Building and Construction.

“I am also pleased to announce that Mr Leigh Johns has been appointed as the Director of the new inspectorate, for a period of 12 months,” Mr Shorten said.

“Mr Johns is the current Australian Building and Construction Commissioner and immediately prior to his appointment at the ABCC was Chief Counsel at the Fair Work Ombudsman.

“Mr Johns’ appointment will provide the continuity and leadership required to establish the new Inspectorate during its commencement stage. I look forward to working with Mr Johns on this important initiative.”

Mr Shorten’s Media Contact: Sam Casey 0421 697 660

DEEWR Media: [email protected]

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