Construction Sector Seeks Policy Reforms
Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia (CCAA) has released its 2026 Victorian Election Policy Priorities to ensure a steady supply of heavy construction materials in the state. As the 2026 state election approaches, the CCAA presented this document to political parties on 29th April to highlight key reforms.
In Victoria, the heavy construction materials sector contributes approximately $3.17 billion to the state economy and supports more than 15,600 jobs. CCAA is advocating for a comprehensive plan to maintain a reliable supply chain, especially given current global disruptions. These materials are essential for delivering affordable housing, infrastructure, and renewable energy projects throughout the state.
Michael Kilgariff, CEO of CCAA, emphasised the need for a coordinated approach. “The Victorian construction sector relies heavily on a stable supply of heavy construction materials to deliver the housing, transport infrastructure, and renewable energy projects the State needs,” he stated. Kilgariff announced that the policy priorities focus on practical reforms to strengthen Victoria’s construction materials supply chain.
Securing future extractive resources is a primary goal of the policy priorities, which include implementing Strategic Extractive Resource Areas. Streamlining regulatory processes and supporting decarbonisation through procurement reform and performance-based specifications are also essential. CCAA calls for improving freight and heavy vehicle access to strengthen supply chain efficiency.
According to Kilgariff, “Without a reliable local materials supply chain, projects become more expensive and difficult to deliver on time.” Rising costs for new homes and infrastructure are significant concerns that must be addressed.
Victoria faces increasing demand for construction materials due to new housing, transport projects, and renewable energy infrastructure. A reliable local materials supply chain is crucial to prevent delays and cost overruns, particularly as global supply chains face pressure.
The CCAA document invites feedback from political parties and stakeholders, emphasising the critical role of construction materials in Victoria’s economic growth and competitiveness. These policies are designed to ensure that Victoria can achieve its housing, infrastructure, and renewable energy goals effectively. As a result, CCAA is urging for the development of a Victorian Heavy Construction Materials Plan. This plan builds on the Joint Ministerial Statement on Extractive Resources, aiming to secure the materials needed for economic growth. By focusing on securing extractive resources, streamlining approvals, and supporting decarbonisation, CCAA aims to ensure a sustainable future for Victoria.
