However, our industry’s right to continue to work comes with significant responsibilities. “We have fought tirelessly since the beginning of the pandemic to keep our industry safe and open. “However, we can also see the frustration that this decision brings, especially shutting down our industry one day after announcing a roadmap to Covid-normal. “We understand the position the Victorian government is in,” Casson said. Projected costs of the industry shut down amount to $455m a day, and $63m in lost wages. The building and construction industry is the fourth largest sector in Victoria, accounting for 46% of the state’s tax revenue and employing more than 320,000 Victorians. The Masters Builders Association of Victoria chief executive, Rebecca Casson, said the decision was a “bitter blow” for the sector and came as a particular disappointment to workers who were already fully vaccinated. Victoria’s construction industry has been forced to a standstill with a two-week shutdown estimated to cost more than $6bn, after violent protests outside Melbourne’s CFMEU offices.

Victoria 2 won t launch