Understanding Australian Construction Contractors

This book will provide emerging construction professionals with insights and information helpful for a successful career in the Australian construction industry. Written by two authors with decades of experience immersed in current issues, this book fills a critical gap. It provides a starting point for the next generation of Australian construction contractors.

Beginning with an overview of the industry, the chapters explore winning work, project operations, financial management, people skills and selling a successful business. The authors use case studies to enrich the content and include reviews and commentaries on some of the legendary management books. Readers of the book will find answers to essential industry questions:

• Why is construction one of the best industries in Australia?
• What is the most significant conflict?
• Which are the three most consistently profitable sectors?
• What are the basic ten questions to answer for standardising practices?
• Is work acquisition more art or science?
• Is it a good idea to fire a client? Why?
• How to identify and address the office - field conflict?
• What is the job cost format for unifying project stakeholder information?
• What are the best key performance indicators for a construction contracting firm?
• What alignments are needed in general hiring and personnel management processes?
• What is the process in identifying and implementing a best practice?
• How do you value the market price for a construction firm?

This book should be read by anyone entering the built environment sector in Australia. Universities, Colleges and TAFEs can use this book in various construction business and operations management courses. Supporting materials are available through a website.