News

Regional rewards: commercial construction opportunities for Riverina subbies

March 31, 2023 | General

Paynter Dixon is urging regional subcontractors to seize the burgeoning opportunities in commercial construction as major inland centres target long-term growth.

The Riverina is among a number of key regions where the design and construction company is growing a subcontractor network to support future project delivery.

Paynter Dixon Site Manager and Wagga Wagga local, Daniel Davey, says the regional city and surrounding communities have transitioned from COVID-19 with confidence – and newfound popularity.

“Undoubtedly the pandemic fuelled a green change with more working professionals and families relocating to the area from Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra,” says Daniel.

“We have city-styled services, lifestyle and amenities, but with a lower cost of living and housing, and of course the country charm.”

Wagga Wagga is on track to reach a population of 100,000 by 2038, experiencing 3.1% in growth since 2018.

The greater Murray Riverina is also experiencing an infrastructure boom with more than $20 billion of government funding earmarked for transport and energy mega-projects, including the Inland Rail and Snowy 2.0.

Planning underpins these nation-building investments. NSW government and local councils in the Riverina are part-way through implementing the Regional Economic Development Strategy.

The main tactic is to leverage the region’s plumb location – midway between Sydney and Melbourne – through expansion of the transport, logistics and manufacturing sectors.

The benefits are already rippling through the regional economy, with notable growth for ‘engine’ industries. These include Government administration and defence ($1.1bn in annual value) healthcare and social assistance ($542m), education and training ($414m), and agriculture ($311m).

Construction is ramping up. Paynter Dixon has the capacity and expertise to deliver a wide range of projects across hospitality, education, health, aged care, commercial and remedial.

Daniel believes the business offers the ‘right kind’ of environment for subcontractors who are ready to step up.

“Whether you’re a sole trader or managing a business, commercial construction is an effective way of branching out and gaining experience across project types,” says Daniel.

“It’s professionally rewarding to be involved with a company that oversees the design and construction process from end to end. The financial incentives can include a pipeline of work that strengthens income security.

“Paynter Dixon has been in business for over a century and is passionate about partnering on every level. Our work sites have to be supportive environments because we commit to high quality and safety standards every day.

“It’s about helping each other to ensure processes are followed and we go forward as a team.”

For the past 15 years Daniel has worked across the Riverina – initially subcontracting as a carpenter, and then progressing to site and project management roles across residential housing, government, Australian Defence accommodation, insurance building services and remedial work.

He recently managed the site of a 144-bed residential aged care facility in Wagga Wagga, along with the refurbishment of the iconic Romano’s Hotel.

Reputation matters in the bush.

“In the past I have seen builders burn through the work and leave without consideration of others. Word of mouth gets around quickly.”

“Paynter Dixon doesn’t burn bridges. We work closely with clients and the community from day one.”

Today, the company has 85% repeat business, with many long-term clients spanning decades.

Partnering extends deeply into local communities through Paynter Dixon’s extended footprint, which includes philanthropic partner, PAYCE Foundation.  More than $26 million has been distributed to 35 charities throughout NSW to combat addiction, domestic violence, homelessness and youth disadvantage.

Based in Coffs Harbour, Adele House provides residential rehabilitation for men who have an addiction to alcohol and drugs.

“On a personal level, it’s rewarding to work for an organisation that gets the bigger picture and invests back into local communities.”

Join our subcontractor network by registering your details on our website, https://www.paynterdixon.com.au/subcontractors/