The Construction Source Australia

Welcome to the latest issue of Construction Source Australia, the magazine that highlights the best of the best in building and building products across the country. This time out, our spotlight has found Desire Homes, an industry-acclaimed specialist builder of full turnkey and custom plan contract homes throughout South East Queensland. They are a company that delivers their clients high-quality move-inready homes, often within tight time frames, and they make the building experience seamless and enjoyable from design to completion. Over the past decade, Desire Homes has grown from a small husband-and-wife operation has become a trusted local business delivering 20 to 30 homes a year, each reflecting the same high standard of workmanship and attention to detail. We spoke to Fiona Skews, one half of the founding couple, about the company’s process, their passion for the region, and the values that have motivated their success. Another acclaimed building company featured in these pages is GC Civil – a company that has been enhancing Australia’s urban landscape for over 50 years. These days, they are operate across New South Wales, ACT, Victoria, and Queensland, and they enjoy a national reputation as leaders in the design, supply, construction and certification of essential urban infrastructure. We spoke to Melissa Simpson, who represents the third generation of her family involved in the business – we talked about the legacy the company has built, their current areas of focus, and their development of new modular and prefabricated solutions. Also featured within is Shield Building Group, a company known as one of Melbourne’s most trusted and innovative home-building companies. They were also founded by a husband-and-wife team, Adis and Ella Kadiric, and we spoke to Ella about some of their highlight projects, including several dual-occupancy projects, which are becoming more common as families look for practical yet beautiful solutions that keep loved ones close without sacrificing independence. We have other stories too, on more innovative and bar-raising developers, builders, and subcontractors from across Australia. For more, just keep reading. All the best, The Editorial Team We will keep adding business units that enhance our offering and separate us from our competition. “ ” Editor From The Dear Reader,

DECEMBER 2025

The Construction Source Australia With a readership exceeding 136,000 senior executives, The Construction Source Australia takes immense pride in providing an enticing platform to amplify your message to the most pivotal audience – your valued customers. Whether your aim is to promote an exciting new condo development, attract crucial financial investments for upcoming projects, or establish a commanding brand presence, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. To explore opportunities for featuring your company or showcasing your latest project in The Construction Source Australia, please reach out to our Group Publisher. Jermaine Poulsen e:info@theconstructionsource.com.au The Construction Source Australia Suite 11.01, Level 11, 175 Castlereagh Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia info@theconstructionsource.com.au ABN: 42 976 059 923 Executive Publisher Jermaine Poulsen COO Alexandra Box Editor in Chief Zach Janes Director of Operations Jacqueline Van Belois Business Development Managers Cheryl Ezinicki Douglas Thomson Production Manager Brennan Midghall Digital Strategist Pranim Thapa

DECEMBER 2025 Industry INNOVATIONS Product of the Month The Kights Scanner DESIRE HOMES Where Capability Meets Accessibility GC CIVIL Crafting Quality Through Generations SHIELD BUILDING GROUP Shield Building Group values transparency HANSSEN Standing the test of time IN THIS ISSUE DECEMBER 2025 SHIELD BUILDING GROUP GC CIVIL

DECEMBER 2025 Aluminum expected to accelerate worldwide adoption of electric and self-driving vehicles Material takes on an ever-widening role in tomorrow’s vehicles For more than a decade, concerns about fuel efficiency have been encouraging OEMS to replace steel with aluminum on vehicle bodies, doors, trunks, hoods, bumpers, crash boxes, brakes, cables and wheels. With the advent of electric and autonomous vehicles, OEMs worldwide are discovering new uses for aluminum. The need for battery casings and heat exchangers in electric vehicles, combined with autonomous vehicles’ demands for high visibility and structural integrity, is expected to exponentially increase the use of sheet aluminum in tomorrow’s cars, trucks and buses. Supporting the transition to battery-powered vehicles Four major design challenges confront OEMs in their transition to electric vehicles. Extending vehicle range Improving battery and passenger safety Increasing passenger comfort Optimizing cooling systems for lithium-ion batteries The substitution of sheet aluminum for steel helps resolve OEM concerns. Industry INNOVATIONS

The Construction Source Australia The lighter the vehicle, the longer its range. According to Ducker Worldwide, aluminum is expected to contribute more than half of the anticipated vehicle mass reduction demanded by electric vehicles (EVs) to extend range. Ducker reports that in North America alone, aluminum content in EVs will increase to nearly 565 pounds (256 kilgrams) per vehicle by 2028. The larger the vehicle, the heavier the battery and casing required to optimize the EV’s range. It is the larger EVs, i.e., sedans, SUVs, taxis, trucks and buses, that will realize the greatest benefits from a steel-to-aluminum conversion. In the U.S., a vehicle’s gross weight determines which class of commercial driver’s license (CDL) will be required. Without lightweighting, some EVs could demand a higher-class license or additional endorsements due to the added weight of the battery. In older European cities like Brussels or London, some bridges and tunnels only allow vehicles up to 3.5 tons in weight, a target that is very difficult to meet for larger EVs without lightweighting. For heavier material transport EVs such as trucks, weight reduction enables an increased payload, providing a significant monetary benefit. Generally, the larger the vehicle, the higher the payback. Particularly relevant for larger human transport EVs such as buses and taxis, the weight reduction made possible through aluminum provides the added benefit of reduced CO2 emissions and improved air quality, of value not only to vehicle operators, but to the communities they serve. The thermal and anti-corrosion properties of aluminum make it ideal for battery frames. Sea-water resistant, highly formable, highly surfaced aluminum alloys provide the strength necessary to pass side-impact crashworthiness testing, protecting passengers and the battery should impact occur. Casing floor plates made out of aluminum are not only strong, but also capable of resisting corrosion related to weather exposure. These characteristics enable aluminum battery casings to resist weather-related deterioration and impact from road debris, minimizing the risk of related fires and further securing passenger safety. Optimizing battery and human safety Extending range Dispersing heat The batteries used in EVs produce energy while charging and decharging, requiring the use of heat exchangers to dissipate heat. But the types of heat exchangers used in vehicle air conditioning systems are inadequate to meet this new challenge. Aluminum clad brazing (which connects multiple layers of aluminum together to disperse heat) requires heating in a controlled atmosphere (e.g., a vacuum) to achieve optimum joining. Aluminum heat exchangers designed specifically to meet the challenges presented by electric vehicles can use as many as five types of aluminum sandwiched together, with the layers providing gradient properties to optimize cooling. These specialized processes and materials address OEM concerns, ensuring adequate dissipation of the heat generated by battery-powered vehicles. An experienced aluminum processing partner can help OEMs specify the right process and alloys to meet specific vehicle temperature thresholds, ideally working side by side with OEM engineers early in the design process to maximize the performance of electric vehicles. IT IS THE LARGER EVS, I.E, SEDANS, SUVS, TAXIS, TRUCKS AND BUSES, THAT WILL REALIZE THE GREATEST BENEFITS FROM A STEEL -TO-ALUMINUM CONVERSION .

DECEMBER 2025 The luxury sedan market will likely be the first to transition to self-driving electric vehicles. Passenger comfort and safety, and an expansive view of the surrounding environment, are expected to be top priorities for this market. The hefty B pillars used in conventional vehicles to meet structural requirements for crashworthiness are undesirable in a self-driving scenario. To enable large windows and an unobstructed view without sacrificing passenger safety, lightweight aluminum will be the strong material of choice. Supporting the eventual transition to autonomous vehicles In addition to the design challenges presented by EVs, society’s demand for sustainable solutions will likely continue to be a driver in the transition to aluminum-lightweighted vehicles. A Forschungsgesellschaft Kraftfahrwesen mbH Aachen (fka) study, using a Volkswagen Golf as its reference vehicle, determined that an electric aluminum-based vehicle could meet the same safety standards as its steelbased equivalent, while emitting 1.5 tons less greenhouse gases over its lifecycle, taking into consideration production, a total driving distance of more than 93,000 miles (150,000 kilometers) and eventual recycling. Ongoing environmental concerns Conclusion Aluminum alloys are ideally suited to the design challenges presented by electric and autonomous vehicles. By aligning with aluminum partners deeply experienced in developing processes and alloys to meet demanding performance requirements, transportation vehicle OEMs are accelerating the pace of EV and self-driving vehicle adoption throughout North America. .

The Construction Source Australia

DECEMBER 2025 Business World Australia

The Construction Source Australia Business Worl d Australia

Where Capability Meets Accessibility

DECEMBER 2025

Desire Homes has grown steadily since its founding in 2015, building a reputation across Southeast Queensland as a custom plan builder known for quality, consistency, and exceptional customer care. What began as a small husbandand-wife operation has become a trusted local business delivering 20 to 30 homes a year, each reflecting the same high standard of workmanship and attention to detail that first defined the brand. Founder Joel Skews is a carpenter by trade with over 25 years in the industry, and he and his wife Fiona originally formed the company with a goal of building and selling spec homes. Over time, as demand grew and clients increasingly sought tailored layouts rather than full custom builds, Desire Homes shifted its focus toward custom plan building—offering flexibility in floor plans while maintaining the strong specification standards that customers have come to appreciate. Remaining local has always been intentional. Desire Homes is proudly Queensland-based and operates exclusively throughout Southeast Queensland. According to Fiona, the business has never been interested in stretching itself thin or chasing interstate projects. Instead, their aim has always been to build well-crafted homes within the region they know best, staying close to clients and close to their team. The size and value range of their builds reflects the market they serve: largely second and third home buyers seeking functional, spacious, and well-specified designs. Most homes fall in the 280 to 300 square metre range, with an average project value of around $580,000, though the company has also delivered premium builds reaching up to $1 million. One such project at Paradise Point, completed a few years ago, was particularly intricate, involving extensive labour and materials—all the elements THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

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that demand a builder with strong processes and experienced trades. As the business evolved, so did its operations. Today, Desire Homes has a team of 10 full-time staff who work closely together in a family-oriented, supportive environment. Fiona describes the culture as one built on collaboration and mutual respect, where every person understands the role they play in delivering a smooth, memorable client experience. While Fiona manages the client journey from quotation through to contract stage, Joel oversees construction and provides clients with weekly updates—a gesture many have said makes the entire process feel personal, transparent, and reassuring. “We’re definitely about team,” Fiona notes, explaining that any compliment they receive is shared across the whole company. The goal is not individual recognition but a consistently strong experience from the moment a client walks into their display home to the moment they turn the key in their new front door. Much of the company’s growth and ongoing connection with clients begins in its display homes. Located within display villages, these homes serve as a central touchpoint for curious visitors who often become long-term clients. Desire Homes also uses social media, its website, and listings on realestate.com.au to inform and attract potential buyers, but the display home remains one of the most powerful gateways, offering a firsthand look at the exact level of finish clients can expect. This consistency has been a standout feature for many repeat visitors, especially those familiar with the brand’s previous displays. Fiona says the latest display home reflects everything THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

they have refined over the years, maintaining the signature look and feel that defines Desire Homes without venturing into drastic changes that could compromise their identity. The new display home also ties closely to their prestige property offerings—complete houseand-land packages that mirror the specifications found in the display. These homes give clients the confidence of knowing precisely what they’re purchasing, a reflection of Desire Homes’ belief in transparency, reliability, and delivering exactly what was promised. Fiona mentions that several repeat clients commented on how consistently the team has stayed true to their specifications and design principles over the years, reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering highquality homes without compromise. Their strong relationships extend well beyond their internal team. Fiona emphasizes that Desire Homes is exceptionally loyal to its subcontractors and suppliers, many of whom are local. They have worked with the same trades for many years, ensuring that each home benefits from highly skilled workmanship delivered by people who understand the company’s expectations. This loyalty is mutual; trades and suppliers appreciate the respect and trust they receive, which reinforces the cooperative environment that Desire Homes relies on to produce consistent results. Using local trades is also a point of pride, as the team values the reliability, quality, and community support that comes with keeping the work within the region. Although award recognition has never been the company’s main focus, Desire Homes did receive DECEMBER 2025

a notable accolade early in its journey. In 2018, the company won ‘Best Display Home’ in the Brisbane area at the Master Builders Queensland Awards—an impressive achievement in its first foray into award submissions. While proud of the accomplishment, the team made a deliberate decision to return their attention to clients rather than competitions, choosing to let quality and customer satisfaction define their success. Fiona explains that maintaining their hardearned reputation means more to the business than pursuing additional titles, and the team would rather pour their energy into consistently delivering excellence on every project. That commitment carries into the future as well. Desire Homes is not aiming for rapid expansion, nor is the team planning to overhaul its model. Their goal over the next several years is simply to hold steady at 20 to 30 homes annually, keeping quality and service at the forefront. The acreage sector has become particularly strong for them recently, aligning perfectly with the market segment they serve and the type of plans clients look to them for. Fiona believes that by staying focused on what they do best—custom plan building with exceptional inclusions, strong communication, and unwavering consistency— the company will continue to attract the right clients without compromising its identity. Ultimately, clients choose Desire Homes because they know exactly what they’re going to get: a well-built home backed by a trustworthy team, premium standard inclusions that are as close to full turnkey as the industry offers, and a genuine commitment to personalized service. Fiona says their difference comes down to quality THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

and consistency, reinforced by long-standing relationships with loyal trades who help uphold the company’s standards year after year. Between Fiona guiding clients from the initial inquiry through to contract signing, and Joel providing regular personal updates through construction, the process feels seamless, clear, and grounded in integrity. In an industry where experiences can vary widely, Desire Homes stands out by staying true to its roots, its region, and its values. With a strong team, a loyal network of suppliers and trades, and an unwavering focus on delivering dependable, high-quality homes, the company continues to build not just houses, but trust—and a lasting name across Southeast Queensland. DECEMBER 2025

THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA For more on Desire Homes, and to contact Fiona and her team, visit their website at www.desirehomes.com.au

Crafting Quality Through Generations

DECEMBER 2025

GC Civil has been enhancing Australia’s urban landscape for over 50 years. Throughout those years, the company has grown consistently on the back of their quality work and timely delivery, while always remaining 100% Australian owned. Today, they operate across New South Wales, ACT, Victoria, and Queensland, and they enjoy a national reputation as leaders in the design, supply, construction and certification of essential civil infrastructure. The GC Civil story began in 1969, when the company was established in New South Wales under the name Garden Craft. What began as a domestic landscaping operation steadily evolved as the family behind it recognised new opportunities and adapted their services to meet the changing needs of clients. By the 1990s the business had diversified into structural landscaping and civil works, and in the late 1990s it delivered its first noise barrier project. That milestone prompted a full rebrand to GC Civil and set the company on the path that defines it today. The official incorporation followed in 2003, but the company’s foundations remain firmly rooted in its 1969 beginnings. These days, GC Civil focuses on the core areas that have shaped its reputation over decades: noise barriers, retaining walls, bridges, boardwalks, structural concrete works, and other specialised civil infrastructure. Noise barriers remain the company’s primary focus, with typical projects ranging from $1 million to $5 million depending on the scope and complexity. Design-and-construct projects are where GC Civil adds the most value, blending decades of technical knowledge with practical innovation. THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

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The business is led by an experienced management team with decades of industry involvement, supported by family leadership spanning multiple generations. Operating with a lean structure, GC Civil maintains a close-knit working environment that supports accountability, continuity, and longterm commitment. This approach extends beyond the internal team to suppliers, subcontractors, and specialist partners, many of whom have worked with the company for more than a decade. These established relationships support consistency across projects and allow GC Civil to maintain high standards of delivery. GC Civil’s client base contains a strong mix of repeat Tier 1 contractors, government departments, and building companies alongside developers who seek them out for more bespoke work. Many longterm clients come directly to the company thanks to decades of successful delivery, while others find them online or through direct outreach. For GC Civil, word-of-mouth reputation has always been more valuable than awards or industry recognition, and the company places strong emphasis on referrals and repeat work. In fact, the company has never nominated itself for any award, even though it is prequalified with numerous government bodies across Australia at both state and local levels. This reflects the company’s technical capability and delivery track record. Looking ahead, GC Civil intends to stay focused on the strengths that have guided it for so many decades while continuing to innovate where possible. Noise barriers will remain the core business, but the company is actively exploring THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

modular and prefabricated solutions to make onsite installation quicker, safer, and more efficient. They are also developing new panel types with more sustainable characteristics, reflecting a broader industry shift and opening possibilities for greener alternatives in future projects. The company is stepping into opportunities linked to renewable energy infrastructure, particularly around noise barriers and firewalls associated with the new infrastructure. In terms of geographic reach, the company is looking to expand its presence across the East Coast market, ensuring strong visibility and accessibility across New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland. In many ways, this expansion is a continuation of the adaptability that has defined GC Civil since its earliest days. The business has always evolved in response to opportunity and demand, and the coming years are shaping up to be another phase of measured growth supported by experience, relationships, and a continued commitment to quality. What continues to distinguish GC Civil is a longstanding focus on workmanship and preparation, evident in the detail-driven approach from the moment a project arrives on their desk. GC Civil invests heavily in desktop work, including reverse engineering, value engineering, and careful planning to ensure every solution is costeffective, durable, and tailored to the client’s needs before construction even begins. This upfront effort reduces time onsite, supports bestpractice methodologies, and ultimately results in a product designed to stand the test of time. For the clients who choose GC Civil, that level of commitment remains one of the company’s DECEMBER 2025

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strongest qualities, and it is the reason so many continue to return decade after decade. What began as a local landscaping company in 1969 has grown into an experienced, dependable civil contractor with a clear identity and a multigenerational foundation of trust. GC Civil’s longevity is no accident; it is the result of careful planning, deep expertise, long-term relationships, and a family-driven approach that continues to guide the business as it expands its footprint across Australia’s East Coast. More than 50 years later, the company still stands on the principles it was built on: quality, attention to detail, and a relentless dedication to delivering work that lasts. DECEMBER 2025

THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA For more on GC Civil – and to get in touch with their expert team – visit their website at www.gccivil.com.au

Shield Building Group values transparency

DECEMBER 2025

Shield Building Group is a family-owned business and one of Melbourne’s leading custom home builders. Since forming in 2006, they have built a solid reputation in the region for delivering high quality homes that stand out for their superior craftsmanship and their attention to detail. They have also become known for their customer service and the value they place on transparency – they give clients regular updates, clear timelines, and they work hard to ensure the price they quote is the price clients ultimately pay. “The thing that sets us apart is we don’t do variations,” says Tamim Saad, Sales Consultant. “We try to do much of our contract work to fixed pricing. Other builders have a lot of variations and allowances. Our customer journey has resulted in a lot of repeat clients. The consistency and the pace of the build brings them back.” Shield Building Group is also committed to providing personalized service, and to building homes that reflect the unique wants and needs of their clients, says Tamim. They understand that every client is unique, which is why they prioritize a collaborative approach, involving the client in every step of the process. From selecting premium materials and bespoke finishes to incorporating the latest in sustainable and smart home technologies, Shield Building Group ensures that their clients’ homes are not just built, but crafted to match their lifestyle, he says. Shield Building Group completes between 15 and 20 Melbourne homes per year, with values between $500,000 and $2.5 million, says Tamim. They recently completed a three-townhouse THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

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project in the South-East over the course of seven months. Their expertise in local regulations, climate considerations, and architectural styles allows Shield Building Group to create homes that are not only visually stunning but also functionally suited to Melbourne’s unique environment. This local knowledge and a passion for quality make Shield Building Group a trusted choice for prospective clients. “We prioritize the client and client collaboration above all else,” says Tamim. “Every client is unique. We involve them in every step of the process. From selecting premium materials and bespoke finishes to incorporating the latest in sustainable and smart home technologies, Shield Building Group ensures that their homes are not just built, but crafted to match the clients’ lifestyles. The staff of seven is dedicated to the success of Shield Building Group and treats each other like family. “It’s easy to communicate with each other because it’s a smaller team, which helps us to stay on top of our projects,” says Tamim. The family atmosphere shows in the long-term relationships they have with their trades and subcontractors. “We’ve never had a case where we haven’t paid our trades on time, and at the same time we hold them accountable as well,” says Tamim. “Their work is a reflection of us. We’ve chosen them so it’s essential. Once they’re in our inner circle they tend to stay there for a while. We have projects where the subs have worked for us for since 2006 and those relationships are still going strong. We know the quality of work they can provide to us.” THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

One example of a company in their inner circle would be LJB Drainage Group, who they have been working closely with for over two years now. According to Luke Brownfield, LJB’s director, the two companies share a lot of the same values and their work styles are very compatible. “They love our quality and we love their organization,” Luke says, “We hope to continue this good working relationship through 2025.” In collaboration with partners like LJB, Shield Building Group has delivered some unique projects, including the Whitefox home at 11 Horace Street, Malvern. This $1.67 million, twostory project started in August 2022 and was completed in June 2023. Shield Building Group is also an expert in creating National Disability Insurance Scheme projects. They recognize how critical it is to design inclusive, practical, and accessible living environments that support NDIS’ members’ independence and improve their quality of life, says Tamim. “Our skilled team collaborates closely with clients, their families, and support providers to customize every element of the home to meet their unique needs,” he says. To promote ease of mobility and safety, they give top priority to accessibility features including wheelchair ramps, widened doorways, grab bars, and accessible bathroom fittings. While house building has been a staple of this company for the past 15 years, Shield Building Group has plans to diversify in the future. “We’re looking to expand into the house and land segment of the market where a lot of the land is in infill areas,” says Tamim. “It’s going to be very competitive because a lot of volume builders are there with entry-level pricing.” To improve awareness as they move into this new market, the company is focussing on branding so they aren’t relying on word of mouth alone. DECEMBER 2025

THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA For more about Shield Building Group, their capabilities, their house and land packages, and their past projects – and to get in touch with their expert team – visit their website at https://shieldbuilding.com.au/

Standing the test of time

DECEMBER 2025 WESTERN AUSTRALIA’S MOST TRUSTED SUPPLIER Plasterboard, Building systems, Wall and Ceiling materials and Quality tools and accessories. WA Direct stocks a vast range of materials which includes BGC’s GTEK™ plasterboard products, Knauf Earthwool Insulation, Studco Metal Building Systems, BGC Fibre Cement, AMF Ceiling Panels and Hume doors. WA Direct Plasterboard is a family owned and operated business specialising in the provision of plasterboard and building materials throughout Western Australia. WA DIRECT IS A MAJOR DISTRIBUTOR FOR THE LOCALLY MANUFACTURED GTEK™ RANGE OF PREMIUM QUALITY PLASTERBOARDS. For more information contact WA Direct at 250 Welshpool Rd, Welshpool WA 6106 (08) 9458 2965 admin@directplasterboard.com.au

THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA GTEK™ Wall is an interior wall lining system for residential and commercial applications. GTEK™ Curve is a thin flexible plasterboard that can be used to create curves on interior walls and ceilings. GTEK™ Ceiling is a 10mm plasterboard sheet designed specifically for ceiling use. GTEK™ Cornice adds exciting finishing touches to interior wall and ceiling joints. GTEK™ Fire is used in fire-rated systems, consisting of single or multiple board layers. GTEK™ Fire & Wet Area is used in wet areas governed by fire resistance limitations (FRLs). GTEK™ Wet Area is a water-resistant plasterboard for walls in wet areas. GTEK™ Sound is high-density plasterboard specifically designed to reduce unwanted noise. GTEK™ Impact is ideal for high-traffic areas where walls are subjected to regular stress. GTEK™ Total Plus offers market-leading fire, water, sound and impact resistance. All GTEK™ plasterboards are manufactured with an advanced fire-resistant core, which can significantly slow down the spread of flames and reduce the amount of smoke produced during a fire. WA Direct proudly supplied the full range of GTEK™ plasterboards and accessories to these more recent Hanssen projects: AT238, Civic Heart and the Aurora. gtekplasterboard.com.au (08) 9374 2900 For more information contact GTEK™ Plasterboard at 290 Bushmead Road, Hazelmere, WA 6055 GTEK™ Plasterboard range:

Established over 70 years ago, WA Direct is proud to have grown to become one of Western Australia’s most trusted suppliers of plasterboard, building systems, wall and ceiling materials and quality tools and accessories. From their humble beginnings in 1950, they have evolved to employ over 40 staff with branches in Welshpool and Kalgoorlie. Their dedicated team ensures that every customer receives the very best service and advice. And with a fleet of 15 trucks at their disposal, they are also able to deliver goods anywhere, anytime. For over three decades, WA Direct has been a major distributor for the locally-manufactured GTEK™ range of premium quality plasterboards. GTEK™ plasterboards are recognised for their strength and versatility that can be tailored to meet the specific needs for both commercial and residential projects. Over the years, WA Direct and GTEK™ Plasterboard have cultivated a steadfast partnership rooted in professionalism, reliability, industry expertise, and staff proactiveness. This collaborative spirit, coupled with exceptional communication, mutual respect, and unwavering support, has paved the way for outstanding customer outcomes. Overall, WA Direct is a valued partner of BGC Plasterboard, and both companies benefit from their strong relationship. As the largest plasterboard manufacturer in WA, BGC Plasterboard ensures a consistent and reliable supply of plasterboard products, meeting WA Direct's demanding needs and minimizing stockouts. This means that WA Direct can always count on having the plasterboard they need in stock, even during peak demand periods. BGC Plasterboard stock holding capacity provides distributors with a competitive edge, allowing them to always offer their customers high-quality, reliable, and sustainable building solutions. DECEMBER 2025

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Hanssen is Western Australia’s largest apartment builder specialising in high-rise buildings. Since forming in Perth over 30 years ago, they have completed more than 6,000 apartments, they have grown into a 56,000-squaremetre head office and yard facility, and they have come to employ approximately 600 highly-trained, multi-skilled team members. Under the continued leadership and vision of Gerry Hanssen, company founder and executive director, the company is still growing to this day – and as they grow, they are committed to improving. Their goal is to stay ahead of their developers through the development and implementation of unique working and training models, to continue training the next generation of tradies, workers, and builders, and to continue building the most economical and efficient highrise residential apartment developments in the state. “For more than three decades, Hanssen has worked diligently to become specialists in the management and construction of large-scale building developments,” says Darren Linton, Managing Director. “This is achieved with effective co-ordination and co-operation, working together for the best outcome of the project.” “Over the years, our company has been instrumental in shaping the WA landscape through our unique, highquality developments, which has helped cement our reputation as Perth’s building company of choice.” That industry reputation, Darren explains, has been hard-earned, and the team at Hanssen doesn’t take it for granted. When Gerry Hanssen set up the company 30 years ago, he spoke to a construction lawyer who advised him that only five per cent of registered builders last 20 years in the industry. In the years since, the industry has only gotten more challenging, which makes Hanssen’s longevity “a great achievement.” THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

“We’ve stood the test of time,” Darren says. “We’re still here today and we still have so much more room to improve.” When Hanssen started, the company comprised three people working out of a small office in South Perth. As the years progressed, they expanded first into Burswood, and later to Belmont, where they started doing their fabrication and manufacturing. In 2013, they finally moved to their current 56,000-squaremetre facility in Hazelmere, where they still operate from today. They now primarily build in the Perth inner city area, but they have completed projects from Mandurah, to Hazelmere, to the northwest in Karratha. Over the years, as Hanssen has grown in size, they have also grown in terms of their service offering and capabilities. Today, they are “a true builder,” Darren says, “in the sense that we own a large amount of material, plant, machinery, scaffolding, and even tower cranes.” Today, Hanssen is equipped with their own precast and BubbleDeck factory (more on that later), window factory, steel fabrication, and in-house mechanics to service and maintain all their plant and equipment. They also have their own design team, which includes architects, engineers, and drafters – and that team works closely with Hanssen’s site teams and the teams in their factories. Speaking of site teams, Hanssen also employs a roster of service teams – with plumbing, electrical, communications, mechanical, and HVAC capabilities, all under one roof. Again, those teams work closely with the company’s design team, which enables early design collaboration, which often results in more optimized solutions and cost-savings for their solutions. “Although it is more responsibility, having all these areas in house enables us to have more control,” Darren explains. “Rather than working individually or against each other, we co-operate and resolve issues quickly which in turn allows us to build more efficiently.” DECEMBER 2025

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Earlier this year, Hanssen completed work on ‘AT238,’ which is a 32-storey highrise complex with 121 luxury apartment units, located in the heart of East Perth’s historical hub. According to Darren, it was “one of the most challenging projects in our time,” as it commenced during the height of COVID and the start of the associated labour and material issues. “This forced us to change and adapt, looking for alternative products and other means of finding skilled workers,” Darren recalls. “We still managed to finish in less than two years and deliver a project which was a finalist in the ‘High-Rise’ category at the UDIA awards. Considering reported issues with other residential housing projects taking up to three-tofour years to build, this was a great achievement from the management team and all involved.” Building opportunities DECEMBER 2025

YEARS Following up on the success of that project, Hanssen currently has three more projects under construction, including ‘Civic Heart’ in South Perth, ‘Aurora’ in Applecross, and ‘The Point’ in Rivervale. Civic Heart is going to be the company’s largest project to date and the tallest building in Perth outside the CBD. It comprises two towers with the taller tower rising to 38 storeys, and both towers consisting of 324 combined units. The company expects to complete construction by mid-next-year, and then launch Aurora and The Point shortly after. “So next year will be a big year in completed new apartments, which is clearly a high priority with the Government as the supply of new dwellings is trending downwards,” Darren says. AT238 was developed by Finbar, one of Western Australia’s largest and most trusted apartment developers. Finbar is also the developer behind all three of Hanssen’s ongoing and upcoming projects. The project team on all those jobs also includes S.S. Chang Architects, one of Perth’s leading apartment designers. Hanssen has enjoyed longstanding relationships with both those companies: “We are a unique team that has worked together for over 25 years,” Darren says. “We coordinate, we co-operate, and we’re all driven by a common goal – which is providing better lifestyles and homes for our buyers.” “Working relationships are very important to Hanssen at all levels of our business,” he adds. THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

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“We also have longstanding relationships with trusted suppliers who have performed well for us over the years, and we understand it goes both ways. Post-COVID, during the times of materials shortages, we managed to not be impacted too greatly because we were working with suppliers who we have built trust with.” “We stand by three principles for great business: price, quality, and service,” he says. “When working with various companies, we always keep these three principles in mind.” Darren believes that enduring commitment is a big part of why a partner like Finbar continues the working relationship. He also says that other points of difference include: their meticulously-designed working guide; their history of award recognition; the way they empower and motivate their staff; and their use of the innovative BubbleDeck system in all their projects. Firstly, there’s the company’s working guide, known as the ‘Hanssen Standard Details’ (HSD). Using that guide, the company is able to educate workers with step-by-step instructions containing pictures and words, ensuring that every worker has the knowledge needed to do a job safely and efficiently, no matter their experience level. “Think of it as a complete set of IKEA instructions on how to build a building,” Darren says. “It’s a unique but simple manual that teaches safe and efficient procedures from everything from excavation, to hanging doors, to carpet install and landscaping – all the way to DECEMBER 2025

THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

installing and dismantling our tower cranes.” “The HSD is issued to each worker – either as a soft copy on their phone or a hard copy on-site,” he continues. “This ensures tried-and-tested practices and materials are followed, and opinions and arguments are removed. The HSD is also continuously updated as new materials come to market or better methods are agreed upon.” As previously mentioned, that method of quality control has helped Hanssen earn a consistent stream of industry awards and accolades. Most recently, for example, they were a finalist at the 2023 Urban Development Industry of Australia (UDIA) Awards in the ‘High Density’ category for their work on AT238. That’s just one of many awards, commendations, and finalist nods that the company has received from the UDIA over the years. Hanssen has not only been recognized for the quality of their work, however. In 2021, they were also commended by ‘Ngalla Maya Aboriginal Employment Access,’ which is an Aboriginal corporation that seeks to provide education, employment and training services to the Aboriginal people of Western Australia. They recognized Hanssen for their support and employment of Aboriginal men and women. In 2019, Hanssen was also named ‘Host Employer of the Year’ at the Apprentice Employment Network Awards.” “In our time, we have trained over 1,500 apprentices in 30 DECEMBER 2025

years,” Darren explains. “That’s an average of 50 a year.” Training apprentices at that volume, Darren adds, is a key part of how Hanssen has combated the industry’s ongoing labour shortage: “Hanssen gives everyone an opportunity and our system allows good people to come through. The question I receive the most recently was ‘how are you dealing with the labour shortage?’ Nearing our peak of 700 workers we have had to look outside the square and adapt to market conditions.” “A program which we are still running is giving selected exprisoners an opportunity to work and change their lives,” he adds. “Some of them are now leading hands in their area. We started this in 2018 with a small group. During COVID it really took off but our culture had to be right, our sites had to be drug and alcohol free and the support network had to be in place.” “We also approached a TAFE where Gerry did a presentation and offered engineering students who couldn’t get work an opportunity to work in our factory and design department. Funnily enough, these students couldn’t find work as they lacked experience – something too common in all workplaces.” Currently, Hanssen has close to 100 apprentices across all their sites and yard. Across the board they have a range of ages, from 16 to 85. Their last count of different nationalities was 60, and they also have above average female workers on their sites because they encourage more to join.” Darren admits there is a cost to all the training they do. He says they often hear others in the industry say that cost is prohibitive, that “you can’t afford to train.” Hanssen, however, takes the opposite view – “we say you can’t afford not to train.” THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

Yet one more factor that sets Hanssen apart from their competitors is their aforementioned use of the BubbleDeck system in all their projects. BubbleDeck is a precast biaxial concrete floor system, which makes floor slabs lighter and stronger by incorporating large, hollow recycled plastic balls in a lattice of steel. Using BubbleDeck can make a building overall 30 per cent lighter – and lighter structures mean limitedto-no beams, larger columns spans, smaller footings or rafts, and the possibility of offsite manufacturing. BubbleDeck’s 100-per-centrecycled plastic air-filled balls also reduce the amount of nonstructural concrete required. For example, on Civic Heart alone it is saving up to 16,000 cubic metres of concrete. That means 2250 fewer concrete trucks heading to site and as a summary saving 4300 tonnes of CO2 emissions. Always improving DECEMBER 2025

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Hanssen was the first company to introduce and use the BubbleDeck system in Australia and New Zealand. Moving forward, the company’s goal is to continue pursuing those kinds of innovations and to continue playing a leading role in their industry. “Against the odds of the market, we’re going to keep doing what we are doing,” Darren concludes. “Stay in our lane and always look at improving. The COVID years seem like a long dark tunnel but we always believed if we get to the other end, we will be a lot better for it. We are always loyal to Finbar and respect our history but we are not closed to new opportunities, if our goals align.” “We are aware of the number of building companies falling over Australia wide and the industry as a whole needed change,” he adds. “Hanssen is lucky to have a system that Gerry has created from 55 years’ experience in the industry.” “One of our previous goals was to build the tallest apartment building in WA. Now that has happened, it would be an honour to build the tallest building in WA in the future. So new doors are opening and we are excited to see what the future holds.” DECEMBER 2025

THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA For more on Hanssen, their story, their unique approach and capabilities, their past projects, their award recognition, and a lot more – including how to get in touch with Darren and his team – visit https://www.hanssen.com.au/

Luxury specialists

Brett Ward Homes is a multi-award winning custom homebuilder specialising in design and construction of luxury homes on the Gold Coast. Over the 23-year history, they have completed well over 200 homes and have won a long list of HIA Awards, and they have been featured in the TV series ‘Australia’s Best Houses.’

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Brett Ward Homes have developed a reputation as one of the finest home builders in the region, known for “consistently delivering customer satisfaction from the start of a project until the finish,” according to founder and managing director Brett Ward. Brett has been operating as a licensed builder since 1994, and has been leading Brett Ward Homes since 2000. Over the years, he has never wavered from his commitment to professional service and quality building standards. Those are values that were instilled in him from a young age, ever since he started working for his father’s building company in the 1980s. Today, Brett Ward Homes remains a family-powered company. Brett’s younger brother serves as a supervisor; his wife Kirsty runs the office; and their son is one of the company’s in-house carpenters. “We are the quintessential multi-generation Australian family building company,” Kirsty says. Initially, the company focused on building family homes. As they grew, their reputation for delivering high quality homes and repeat clients saw a progression to bigger, more complex projects. Brett Ward Homes now builds high end luxury homes with values between $1.5 million and $3 million, while, also building traditional family homes west of the Gold Coast, in Beaudesert. “The reason we build in Beaudesert is it’s difficult to get vacant land on the Gold Coast,” Kirsty explains. “The average family is realistically priced out of the market here. They need a million dollars-plus to buy an average home, whereas they can get a beautiful brand new home in Beaudesert for under $650,000.” “A lot of people are making the choice to live away from the Gold Coast,” she explains. “And Beaudesert is a good option because it’s only an hour away. THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

We want to work with the people making that choice.” According to Kirsty, those clients choose Brett Ward Homes for the same reasons that clients choose them to build their dream homes. The main reason, she believes, is the personal service they offer: “The client deals directly with Brett and me,” she says. “And if Brett’s not available, they are dealing with his brother. Clients are not dealing with multiple supervisors or different administration staff. They are dealing with people whose name is on the sign. I think that gives them a lot of confidence.” “When your name is on the sign you’re a lot more invested,” she adds. “You care more, it is personal if something goes wrong. I our clients feel that and see that. They feel our passion for what we do. They see us working to deliver their dream home.” Clients also appreciate the company’s honesty and transparency, Kirsty says: “We believe in being honest with our clients. If there is an issue, we own it and we fix it.” “Communication is key,” she continues. “Good communication is key to building good relationships. If you can communicate well with your client, if they know what’s happening and when it’s happening, it’s going to be a much smoother process.” As a result of their personal service, honesty, and active communication, Brett Ward Homes has been able to build some really positive relationships with clients. Kirsty estimates that approximately 90 per cent of their work comes from repeat customers or referrals. “Referrals are our most effective form of marketing,” she says. “We’ve tried various DECEMBER 2025

marketing strategies at various times throughout our history, and have found our customer service, attention to detail and producing beautiful homes for happy clients is our best marketing strategy.” That repeat work is also a testament to the quality that Brett Ward Homes delivers. Kirsty credits that quality to Brett – and also to Brett’s father, whom he grew up working for. “Brett grew up working for his father.Hedidhisapprenticeship, worked as a leading hand and head carpenter in his father’s business before establishing his own company. Brett’s father was always very particular about the way things were done. He was pedantic about quality. Brett has inherited those traits.” “Brett’s brother grew up in the same environment, and now we’ve trained our son the same way,” she adds. “We’ve taught him that the small things matter. If you can’t get the small things right, how are you going to ever get the big things right? We are very particular about making sure we get the small things right.” The company has also instilled the same values in their subcontractors, the majority of whom they have been working with for many years. Some of those relationships, Kirsty says, even predate the creation of Brett Ward Homes – she says Brett has been working with some trade partners since his time working for his father’s company. “We have great relationships with our subcontractors and trades. When we went out on our own, we took on a lot of Brett’s father’s trades, suppliers and sales reps. We’ve been working with some of our partners since before starting our own business.” Naturally, however, a lot of their original partners have retired over the years, and Brett Ward Homes has also had to build new relationships with subcontractors and trades. Kirsty says they have been successful at building those relationships because they are a company that “people love coming to work for.” “They know exactly where we stand. They know we have really high expectations of their work, and I think they really enjoy producing beautiful high quality homes. They know they don’t have to come back for defects and maintenance calls because we get it right the first time.” “We’ve been very fortunate throughout these past few years with suppliers and trades,” she adds. “Our loyalty to trades and suppliers has paid dividends and we have been able to get materials and tradesmen all thanks to the relationships we have cultivated over the last two decades.” THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

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