Master Builders Australia has confirmed Robert Shaw as its new National President, following last week’s annual general meeting. Shaw steps into the role at a pivotal moment for the building and construction sector, succeeding Craig Edmunds, who concludes three years as National President and a decade of service on the National Board.

Shaw is one of the organisation’s most experienced leaders, bringing more than 37 years in residential and commercial construction and a long record of contribution across the Master Builders network. He has served as Chair of the National Residential Builders Council, a member of the National Board, a former President of Master Builders Western Australia, and continues to sit on its Board of Management.

He is also Director of Daly & Shaw Building Pty Ltd and holds leadership positions across several other businesses, including Western Ladders Pty Ltd, Western Timbers Pty Ltd, and Heritage Pioneer Developments. His background extends beyond construction, having previously served as President of Netball Australia, a reflection of his wider commitment to governance and community leadership.

Honouring Craig Edmunds’ Decade of Contribution

The Board paid tribute to outgoing President Craig Edmunds, who has helped steer Master Builders through a period marked by economic volatility, skills shortages, supply chain disruptions, and major regulatory reform.

“It has been an honour to serve as National President and to represent the thousands of builders, contractors, and apprentices who are the backbone of our industry,” Edmunds said.

“Together, we have strengthened Master Builders’ voice in national debates, secured essential policy reforms, and positioned the organisation as the trusted advocate for building and construction across Australia. I am proud of what we have achieved and confident the organisation will continue to thrive under new leadership.”

Under Edmunds’ leadership, Master Builders strengthened its national advocacy on housing supply, planning system reform, building quality improvements, workforce pathways, and industrial relations settings, areas that remain in sharp focus as the sector continues to face economic pressure and rising demand for housing.

A Clear Agenda for a Challenging and Opportunity-Rich Era

In accepting the presidency, Shaw acknowledged Edmunds’ contribution and outlined key priorities for the years ahead.

“Craig has successfully led Master Builders into a new era of advocacy, ensuring our organisation is recognised as the pre-eminent national voice for the building and construction industry,” Shaw said.

“We face a complex economic environment, weak productivity growth, and workforce shortages, while also being called upon to deliver an ambitious housing and infrastructure agenda. Master Builders will continue to lead with solutions, collaboration, and a commitment to supporting our members and the communities they serve.”

His appointment comes as the industry works to accelerate housing supply, improve training pathways, strengthen business resilience, and meet evolving regulatory obligations including the NCC, workplace laws, and state-based reform programs.

Shaw’s deep involvement in residential building, including seven years as Chair of the Housing Council,  positions him to help shape policy at a time when governments are relying heavily on builders to meet housing and infrastructure targets.

Board Renewal and Ongoing Stability

The Master Builders Board also acknowledged the service of outgoing members Stever Margetic (Northern Territory) and Peter Di Prinzio (Newcastle), who conclude five and nine years of service respectively.

Newly elected members include Joel Skelton (Newcastle) and Jim Eadie (Northern Territory). Graciete Ferreira (ACT) has been reappointed for a third three-year term, and David Gates (Tasmania) for a second term, providing continuity as the organisation enters the next phase of leadership.

The new Board configuration reflects both renewal and stability, ensuring strong representation from across the country’s diverse construction sectors.

With the next few years expected to be defined by high demand, tight labour markets, cost pressures, and strengthening compliance obligations, the organisation’s national leadership will be central to shaping how well the industry responds.

Author: TGB Editorial