MEA Responds to the Queensland Productivity Commission on Behalf of Electrical Contractors

Master Electricians has lodged a detailed submission to the Queensland Productivity Commission’s (QPC) Interim Report, ensuring the problems facing electrical contractors are heard.

The QPC review has recognised many of the barriers our industry faces, and MEA has called for practical reforms to support small and medium electrical contractors.

Key challenges raised include:
• Excessive compliance pressures, duplicative processes, and costly access to mandated standards
• Contractual imbalances and ongoing security of payment risks (delayed payments, withheld retentions, unfair terms)
• Frequent legislative changes creating uncertainty and administrative burden
• Ongoing delays in network connections
• Skills shortage

Our recommendations focus on:
💡 Ensuring regulatory requirements are proportionate and streamlined
💡 Cutting red tape and reducing unnecessary compliance costs
💡 Addressing security of payment risks and contractual imbalances
💡 Resolving network connection delays
💡 Supporting training and supervisory resources to grow the workforce

These reforms are vital as Queensland prepares for increased housing demand, the energy transition, and the QLD Olympics. By reducing red tape and addressing payment and workforce challenges, we can build a more competitive, resilient, and productive construction industry, while maintaining the high standards of safety, quality, and consumer protection our industry is known for.

You can read our recent submission here.