The Friday Brief – Edition 1

12 October 2026 | Issue 1 

Welcome to Muscat Tanzer’s weekly update on developments affecting construction, infrastructure, public procurement and government. Each edition focuses on what has changed and what organisations may need to do next. 

Queensland: probity under the spotlight 

In its 2025–26 annual report, tabled on 25 September, the Crime and Corruption Commission identifies probity in major infrastructure and development procurement as a priority as Queensland prepares for Brisbane 2032. Regulation, licensing and the conduct of elected officials are also areas of focus. 

Why it matters: This is a statement of regulatory priorities, not a new legal requirement. It reinforces the value of addressing conflicts, market engagement, evaluation processes and decision records at the start of a project. A probity review undertaken after a concern emerges may have fewer options to resolve it. 

NSW: proposed pay protections for council labour hire 

The NSW Government has announced proposed legislation concerning workers supplied to councils by labour hire businesses. Under the proposal, a council entering or amending such a contract would need to be satisfied that workers receive at least the remuneration they would receive if employed directly by the council, including applicable overtime and penalty rates. A Bill is expected to be introduced in October; the requirements are not yet law. 

Why it matters: Councils preparing labour hire procurements or extensions should watch the Bill’s scope and commencement provisions. If enacted as announced, tender pricing, supplier declarations and ongoing verification may all need attention. 

Victoria: labour hire rules now reach further through supply chains 

Changes effective 1 October clarify that an arrangement principally involving the supply of labour may require a licence even where workers pass through an intermediary business. The Victorian Labour Hire Authority advises providers and hosts to examine the substance of their arrangements across the supply chain. 

A further extension covering certain construction activities on Victorian Government projects over $50 million is anticipated later in October, subject to final regulations. 

Why it matters: Principals and contractors should identify who supplies and pays workers, check applicable licences, and review subcontracting and verification arrangements. They should assess the proposed construction extension once its final terms are published. 

Commonwealth: proposed workforce standards for suppliers 

Consultation is open on a draft Secure Australian Jobs Framework and proposed changes to the Commonwealth Supplier Code of Conduct. The proposals address secure work, wages and conditions, workplace safety, equality, and local jobs and skills. Submissions close 21 October. 

Why it matters: The final framework could affect how Commonwealth suppliers demonstrate workforce practices in tenders and during contracts. Purchasers and suppliers, particularly smaller businesses, have an opportunity to comment on how the requirements should be evidenced and applied proportionately. These remain proposals, not current tender obligations. 

Commonwealth: shorter supplier payment terms ahead 

The Department of Finance has announced updated payment terms. From 1 January 2027, non-corporate Commonwealth entities must pay supplier invoices issued under contracts subject to the Commonwealth Procurement Rules within a maximum of 10 business days, regardless of invoice form. Current terms continue until then. 

Why it matters: Entities have time to update contracts and invoice approval processes. Suppliers should check how invoices must be submitted and when payment becomes due under their particular arrangements. 

Muscat Tanzer advises on construction, infrastructure, procurement and probity, and government matters across Australia. We work with local, state and Commonwealth governments and support public-sector clients and suppliers across all levels of government. This update is general information; the application of a development depends on the project and its governing documents.