Government commits to safe construction

The Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Joe Hockey MP has announced the first group of companies to achieve full accreditation under the Australian government's new building and construction scheme.

The companies were today accredited under the Australian Government Building and Construction OHS Accreditation Scheme which began operating in March 2006.

"The scheme demonstrates the shared commitment of the Australian government and the building and construction industry to improving occupational health and safety," Hockey said.

"The Howard government will not do business with companies unless they provide workplaces for their employees that ensure the highest level of health and safety."

Since 1 October 2006, head contractors who wish to contract for major Australian government building and construction projects need to be accredited under the scheme.

Forty-five of the nation's largest construction contractors have applied for full accreditation and 12 companies have been presented with a certificate of accreditation issued by the Federal Safety Commissioner.

"The companies awarded today have all shown leadership in safety that will ultimately lead to improved OHS performance in the industry," Hockey said.

For more information about the scheme and accreditation, visit www.fsc.gov.au.