Impact was the focus of Building 4.0 CRC activities in 2025. After five years of research and more than 80 projects, we now have a strong evidence base that can support innovation across Australia’s building industry.

A highlight of the year was the flagship Homes NSW MMC Program Showcase (Project #95), which demonstrated how a kit-of-parts approach can deliver high-quality housing quickly and cost-effectively. More than 1,000 people – from Ministers and senior government executives to suppliers, developers, architects, engineers and training providers – toured the two-bedroom Demonstrator Apartment in Mascot.

As with any building, the Demonstrator was the product of deep collaboration –government, researchers and industry – a partnership recognised through the Monash University Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Enterprising Research.

This spirit of collaboration flows through our broader research program. Throughout the year, projects have continued to explore all dimensions of the building ecosystem, including:

• new technologies improving efficiency and productivity (e.g. #71, #76, #85, #86, #90 and #100)

• new methods for embedding circular economy principles to advance sustainability (e.g. #106, #108 and #110)

• new qualifications and training approaches that develop future workforce capabilities (e.g. #102, #111 and #117)

• reforms to strengthen the operating environment of Australia’s building sector (e.g. #21, #49 and #80).

While generating new knowledge is essential, it is only the first step. Equally important is ensuring these insights shape industry practice. Throughout the year, our executive team, project leads and industry partners have actively shared results, taking up opportunities to highlight what’s possible when research and industry work hand-in-hand. A particular highlight for me was attending the Parliamentary Friends of Housing event at Parliament House in November, which brought together providers, suppliers and researchers to discuss housing supply challenges and emerging opportunities.

You can read more about all of our activities and achievements in the 2025 Annual Report.

As the year draws to a close, I would like to again thank all our industry partners and researchers for your continued commitment to building a culture of innovation within Australia’s building and construction industry.

I wish you all a happy, relaxing and restorative break, and I look forward to seeing you again in the new year. Our office closes COB Friday 19 December 2025 and reopens Monday 12 January 2026.