MBE EP 33 Alex Voutratzis explains how good advocacy strengthens the construction sector

<p>In this episode, Ryan catches up with Alex Voutratzis, Policy and Advocacy Manager at Master Builders, to hear how they influence government on issues that affect the building and construction sector, things that affect members on a day to day basis, to ensure the sector is well-performing for members.</p><p>Advocacy is predominantly behind the scenes, and its purpose is to listen to and resolve higher-level government issues that impact Master Builder members. Master Builders talks with members across both the commercial and residential sectors about day to day issues in the building and construction sector, or the bigger struggles they see, then advance and promote their position and interests directly to Government. They also keep members up to date on regulatory changes, industry issues and trends - helping to develop policies for the benefit of members.</p><p>For Master Builders, the focus is on ensuring a well-performing sector for members. The core areas of work are around reducing unnecessary red tape and compliance, improving the level of business and trades skills, and ensuring the delivery of quality homes and commercial projects. </p><p><br></p><p>Some of the key themes Alex discusses are:</p><ul> <li>The merger of New Zealand's polytechs to making the learning of trades more equitable and accessible</li> <li>Advocacy Platform - 3 key areas</li> </ul><ol> <li>reforming the construction regulatory processes, such as the building consent process</li> <li>securing the workforce skills and capacity needed </li> <li>stimulating demand in the residential sector over the next 18 months - advocating for the government to offer a 50k grant to people who are looking at building a new home or just about to purchase a newly built home</li> </ol><ul> <li>Construction's footprint in climate change - what can the sector do to better</li> <li>Constructive Forum 2020 "Resilience" - why members should register for the 4 interactive virtual sessions this year</li> <li>Vertical Construction Leaders Group - le