Strengthening Governance in Construction
The Queensland Government has announced a new leadership team for the Building and Construction Industry (Portable Long Service Leave) Authority, known as QLeave, appointing Damien Long as Chair and Matthew Byrne as Deputy Chair. The appointments come as the state prepares for a period of record infrastructure investment ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
QLeave oversees the administration of portable long service leave entitlements for Queensland’s building and construction workforce, an essential safety net that ensures workers maintain their benefits even when changing employers within the industry.
Experienced Industry Leaders
Damien Long, who first joined the QLeave Board in 2016, brings more than 30 years of construction experience across civil works, structural engineering, and industrial subdivision projects. As Chief Executive Officer of the Civil Contractors Federation Queensland, he has long advocated for fair work practices and industry training.
Matthew Byrne, the newly appointed Deputy Chair, has over three decades of experience spanning property, construction, and major development. His leadership roles include serving on the Sunshine Coast 2032 Olympic Infrastructure Committee and the Queensland Property Council.
Both will serve three-year terms starting 10 November 2025, joining six other directors with deep ties to Queensland’s construction and trade associations:
- Penelope Cornah – Master Plumbers’ Association
- Sue-Ann Fresneda – Master Builders Queensland
- Kate Raymond – Master Electricians Australia
- Emma McCaughey – National Association of Women in Construction
- Jeremy Minahan – Complex Electrical Group
- Amanda Bulow – Awesome Women in Construction
Preparing for a Defining Decade
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie, said the appointments mark a fresh start for QLeave during what he described as “a defining chapter for Queensland.”
“We’re entering a period of significant delivery that will not only support the 2032 Games but leave a lasting legacy for communities right across the state,” he said. “The next seven years will be critical as we restore productivity, rebuild confidence, and deliver the infrastructure that will shape our state for generations.”
Bleijie added that the new board reflects the government’s commitment to both strong governance and gender diversity in leadership. “Having strong female representation sends a clear message that women have an important and valued role in shaping the future of construction in Queensland.”
Protecting Workers While Driving Reform
Established under the Building and Construction Industry (Portable Long Service Leave) Act 1991, QLeave plays a vital role in protecting the entitlements of more than 200,000 workers across the state. The board provides advice to government on how to improve the operation of the scheme and ensure it remains financially sustainable and fair.
The Crisafulli Government has positioned the new appointments as part of its broader agenda to reduce red tape, strengthen industry capability, and improve productivity across the construction pipeline.
With major state-led projects now accelerating toward the 2032 horizon, strong governance and experienced leadership at QLeave will be critical to balancing worker protections with industry reform.
Looking Ahead
As Queensland’s construction sector gears up for one of its busiest decades on record, the refreshed QLeave Board is expected to play a central role in ensuring the state’s workforce remains supported, mobile, and equipped to meet demand.
By bringing together leaders from across civil, commercial, residential, and trade organisations, the new board embodies a collaborative approach to sustaining growth while upholding fair and transparent work standards.
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