The Enduring Legacy of Brian Seidler: A Champion of the Construction Industry

A Leader in Turbulent Times

Brian Seidler, a towering figure in the construction industry, dedicated 40 years of his life to the Master Builders Association (MBA), serving 25 of those years as its executive director. His career began during a period of significant upheaval in the industry, marked by chaotic building unions and unresolved complexities. Despite these challenges, Seidler brought a calm, forthright, and compassionate approach to his work. From the outset, he acknowledged the genuine concerns of building workers, fostering a sense of understanding and fairness that would define his leadership. MBA President Michael O’Donnell described Seidler as one of the finest leaders the industry has ever known. Under his stewardship, the MBA rebounded from one of the lowest points in its 150-year history, restoring its finances and ensuring continued support for its members.

Pioneering Industrial Relations and Advocacy

Seidler thrived in the complex environment of industrial relations, refusing to back down when representing employers’ interests while earning the respect of union officials. He was a key player in the era of Enterprise Agreements, which aimed to promote industrial peace and productivity. His contributions extended to the establishment of the construction industry superfund, CBUS Super, and his involvement in negotiations over compulsory employer superannuation contributions introduced by the Hawke-Keating government. Seidler was driven by a passion for a stronger, more equitable construction industry that rewarded builders and delivered high-quality outcomes for the public. In later years, he championed the appointment of a Building Commissioner to uphold industry standards, particularly after the discovery of serious defects in Sydney’s Opal Tower.

A Life of Service and Personal Passion

Brian Seidler was born in Sydney on February 25, 1958, to a family with a rich history of resilience and achievement. His father, Marcus Seidler, a Jewish clothing manufacturer, fled Austria in 1939 to escape the Nazi regime, while his mother, Edith, a German dentist, had been active in the resistance. Seidler grew up in Wahroonga, where he attended local schools and developed a strong foundation in building and construction. After completing his education, he joined Civil & Civic as a building cadet in 1981, beginning a career that would take him through various roles in industrial relations and project management. In 1984, he joined the MBA as a trainee industrial officer, laying the groundwork for his future leadership.

Throughout his career, Seidler was deeply committed to the welfare of the industry and its workers. He served on numerous committees and boards, including Mates in Construction, a charity focused on reducing suicide rates among construction workers, and the NSW Council for Women. His dedication extended to education and training, as a guest lecturer at the University of New South Wales and through his involvement with TAFE. Seidler also held directorships with key organizations such as the Construction Employees Redundancy Trust and CBUS Superannuation.

A Man of Kindness and Humor

Beyond his professional achievements, Seidler was remembered for his kindness, generosity, and infectious sense of humor. O’Donnell described him as someone who unreservedly gave of himself to support and mentor others. Seidler’s impish humor was legendary, as evidenced by an occasion when he disguised himself as a waiter during his daughter Mila’s dinner date. His love for life and family was evident in his devotion to his wife, Donna, whom he married in 2002, and their three children, Amelia, Mila, and Marcus. Seidler’s home life was deeply connected to his passion for mid-century modern architecture, a love he shared with his cousin, the renowned architect Harry Seidler.

A Legacy of Restoration and Industry Advocacy

Seidler’s restoration of his family home, designed by Harry Seidler, and his later work on the Julian Rose House showcased his deep appreciation for modernist design. He became a respected figure in the restoration community, leading tours and sharing his knowledge with enthusiasts. In 2008, he was recognized as a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Building, and in 2019, he was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his significant service to the industry. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, Seidler stepped up to ensure the construction industry remained operational, working tirelessly with the NSW government and unions to prevent shutdowns.

A Fitting Tribute to a Life Well-Lived

Brian Seidler passed away on March 1, 2023, after a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, compassion, and dedication to the construction industry. He is survived by his wife, Donna, and their three children, Amelia, Mila, and Marcus. Seidler’s impact on the industry is immeasurable, from his role in shaping industrial relations to his advocacy for higher standards and his unwavering commitment to the people who worked within it. As the construction industry continues to thrive—now the fourth-largest in the state, worth $89.5 billion and employing 413,000 people—Brian Seidler’s contributions remain a testament to his vision and leadership. His kindness, humor, and passion for excellence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will endure for generations to come.