Tradie support now within easier reach thanks to new partnership

The Tasmanian Government is launching a new tradie and construction business support program alongside Master Builders Tasmania.

The RISE Program is set to support Tassie tradies in navigating the complexities of running a small business.

Minister for Housing and Planning, Kerry Vincent, said running a business can be a stressful experience.

“I know firsthand running a small business is immensely rewarding – but it does come with challenges,” Minister Vincent said.

“A typical mum and dad business will be navigating legislation, tendering, superannuation, GST, insurance and more, all while managing the home front, the stress can build up.

“Having someone to turn to has never been more important – which is why I am proud to announce this partnership between the Tasmanian Government and Master Builders Tasmania.

“The RISE program is a preventative tool and a valuable resource administered by Master Builders, giving Tasmanians working in the building and construction industry somewhere to turn to.

“This program will offer training support, promote access to mental health services, and improve the understanding of supports available to help our tradies navigate the complexities of the sector.

“To all the Tasmanians who build our hospitals, our homes and our schools: we’ve got your back.

“As a Government, we are continuing to help Tasmanians deal with the challenges that they face, with compassion and commonsense.”

Master Builders Tasmania (MBT) CEO Jenna Cairney thanked the Tasmanian Government for its partnership to introduce RISE to Tasmania. 

“The RISE program couldn’t come at a more critical time for our industry,” Ms Cairney said. 

“The number of Tasmanian building and construction businesses being forced into administration is at a more than 10-year high right now.

“They’re facing so many challenges, from higher costs of doing businesses, competition to keep workers here, rising cost of inflation, skills shortages and changing IR laws.

“Every one of these challenges limits our ability to deliver new homes, to employ Tasmanians, to drive economic and productivity gains, and to ultimately stay afloat.

“The RISE program is going to go a long way to helping our industry with its bespoke support for business owners, subcontractors and workers.

“The key areas include business management, finance and accounting, training, HR, mental health, apprentices, and supporting more women in building.

“It’s had great success in South Australia where it was founded, and that’s why MBT has been working hard to secure this support to introduce it here in Tasmania too."

For more information on RISE please click here.