NECA welcomes NCIF Blueprint for the Future as a roadmap to strengthen the construction industry

The National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA) supports and welcomes the endorsement of the Blueprint for the Future by the National Construction Industry Forum (NCIF).

As a member of the NCIF, NECA has worked tirelessly with government, business, and unions to ensure that the Blueprint reflects the priorities of electrical and communications contractors. NECA has ensured a strong focus remains on security of payments protections and the inclusion of fairness in procurement models and contracts. These outcomes are central to protecting contractors and subcontractors, strengthening cash flow, and improving confidence across the industry.

The Blueprint highlights four essential threads underpinning a thriving industry: culture, safety, productivity, and sustainability. It identifies 29 challenges across eight themes, including governance and compliance, regulation and procurement, workforce participation, financial viability, industry fragmentation, risk allocation, reporting and transparency. It also sets out 44 recommendations for reform that are practical, measurable, and capable of delivering real improvement.

NECA Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Judd, said the Blueprint demonstrates what can be achieved through genuine collaboration.

“NECA continues to work tirelessly to ensure our members’ priorities are heard and adopted. The recognition of security of payments and fair procurement principles is a major win for contractors and subcontractors. Reform in these areas will protect businesses, deliver greater certainty, and help drive a more productive and sustainable industry”, Mr Judd said.

The NCIF is now progressing a Forward Workplan and a Construction Industry Charter. These initiatives will codify shared goals and behavioural expectations across the sector, ensuring all participants can work together effectively and respectfully. NECA thanks the Government in achieving an industry supported roadmap for the construction sector. 

Mr Judd also emphasised that the next phase is critical.

“Now the real work begins. The Blueprint provides the roadmap, but it is only through implementation that positive results will be realised. NECA will continue to play a leading role in ensuring these commitments translate into tangible benefits for contractors and for the broader construction industry.”

NECA encourages all members of the construction industry to engage with the Blueprint, share it with colleagues and stakeholders, and consider how their organisation can contribute to its implementation.