Building with Purpose: The Story of M+J Builders
October 2, 2025

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Where It All Began

Every business has a story, but the story of M+J Builders is as much about family, resilience, and grit as it is about structures and buildings.

 

For Michael and Jessica Buckley, the inspiration came close to home. “We had a few close family members doing great things back in Victoria within their own successful business and that helped us shape, ‘if they can do it so can we.’ Michael was always very driven to succeed as a builder as that’s what he loves.”

 

Michael shares “For me, building has never just been a job, it’s what I love. I wanted the chance to create something of our own, something we could be proud of, and something that would last.”

 

After completing his carpentry apprenticeship in 2008, Michael set his sights on becoming a licensed builder. It meant long nights of sacrifice. He would work a full day on site, then drive nearly three hours each way into Melbourne for night school, three times a week, for six months. While Michael pushed himself through the study and the endless hours on the road, Jessica was at home with their newborn, providing the support that made those long months possible. Those sacrifices laid the foundations for the future.


Fun Fact: M+J Builders was orginally called ''Bucks Constructions'' when located in Echuca, Victoria.


The Leap North

In their home state of Victoria, the struggle to get ahead continued. The couple took on their first two projects- building houses- but walked away with more lessons than profit.

 

Jessica recalls, “We built two houses back in Victoria. Although we lost money doing this we learnt many valuable lessons along the way. And I think that was what helped us make the decision to move to the NT.”

 

By then, times were so tight that they were borrowing coins from their children’s money boxes to cover the rent. Faced with mounting challenges, they made a bold decision: to start fresh in the Northern Territory.

 

They packed their kids and their few belongings into a car and drove 3,750 kilometers north to Darwin, stopping briefly in Wyndham on the way. “We had nothing,” Jessica says. “We moved to Darwin for work opportunities and the great lifestyle.”

 

That leap of faith became the turning point that marked the beginning of M+J Builders.





Early challenges and Turning Points

Starting a business in a new place was never going to be easy. Like many small companies, cash flow was the hardest obstacle. Jessica remembers the stress of calling clients when payments were only a day late, just so wages and bills could be covered. “I hated doing it, but we desperately needed the funds to pay our team and our bills.”

 

Michael and Jessica refused to let the challenges define them. They leaned on mentors, surrounded themselves with support, and committed to learning everything they could about running a business. Growth courses helped them set ambitious targets. Jessica recalls sitting in a session predicting the company’s turnover for the year ahead- numbers that once seemed unachievable. “We have surpassed all expectations,” she says.

 

Another defining moment came in March 2018, when Tropical Cyclone Marcus struck Darwin. The category 2 system brought wind gusts of up to 130km per hour, toppling thousands of trees and causing widespread damage to homes, vehicles, fences, sheds, and infrastructure. More than 430 powerlines were brought down, leaving around 26,500 people without power. While thankfully there were no severe injuries, the clean-up was extensive.

 

For M+J, the cyclone became an unexpected turning point. Stepping in to help with the recovery and rebuilding effort gave the company an opportunity to prove itself. At the time, M+J had just 17 staff, and by the end of that year, the team had grown to meet high demand.

 

From there, the business accelerated. Between 2014 and 2018 (the year of Cyclone Marcus), M+J grew 32.73 times. In the seven years since, from 2018 to 2025, the business has grown another 5.42 times. Overall, from its early beginnings in 2014 to today, M+J has grown a staggering 215.62 times.

 

What began as a small family business had now proven it could rise to meet even the toughest challenges. It was in moments like these that Michael and Jessica realised M+J Builders wasn’t just surviving, it was thriving.


 Building a Company, Building a Team

From those humble beginnings, M+J Builders has grown into a multi-award-winning company delivering projects across the Northern Territory- from schools and health centers to defence facilities, housing, and community spaces.

 

In the early days, it was just Michael, Jessica, and Michael’s dad, Billy, doing everything they could to get the business off the ground. From there, the team slowly grew, first to five, then to ten and has kept climbing ever since. Today, M+J Builders proudly stands at a team of more than 75 people, supported by a wide network of subcontractors, partners and clients.

 

Over the years, that growth has also been recognised through more than 16+ project awards, celebrating not only the quality of M+J’s projects but also the leadership and values behind them.

 

Michael was named Young Builder of the Year in 2018 and has been recognised as a finalist for Workplace Leader, while Jessica was honoured as Best Blak Female Business Leader. Together, they’ve also received awards for growth, leadership, mentoring, and allyship, reflecting M+J’s commitment to building more than structures and buildings- but also strong teams and industry culture.

 

For Michael and Jessica, true success isn’t measured only in completed projects- it’s measured in people.

 

“I am most proud of our team,” Jessica shares. “There are still a few who have been with us since we started. They are the heart and soul of what we do and have been with us through every bump, every change and all the wins that make it worth it.”

 

Michael agrees, but his focus is often on the next generation of builders. “When I see smaller subcontractors starting out, I remember being in their shoes. I know how tough it is at the beginning, so if I can share knowledge or give someone a chance, that’s what leadership is about. I don’t always have all the answers, but I’ll sit down with them, go through the plans, tell them the truth, and do what I can to help.”

 

Just as important has been their shared commitment to mentoring. Remembering what it was like to start small, they now guide younger subcontractors, offering patience, understanding, and opportunities. “It’s now our responsibility to mentor and develop those smaller younger businesses so they too can have the same opportunities,” Jessica adds.


Lessons and Legacy

With over a decade behind them, Michael and Jessica reflect on what’s made the difference. At the core of M+J Builders are the values that have guided every decision since day one: Team, Customer Service, Innovation, Honesty & Integrity, Respect, Quality, and Enjoyment.

 

These values aren’t just words on paper- they are lived out every day. Team is about standing by one another through challenges and celebrating wins together. Customer Service means listening, building trust, and delivering on promises. Innovation drives M+J to find smarter, more efficient ways to build. Honesty & Integrity are non-negotiable- owning mistakes and standing by their word. Respect shapes every relationship, whether with clients, staff, subcontractors, or community. Quality has been at the heart of every project, and finally, Enjoyment reminds the team to take pride in their work and find satisfaction in what they build together.

 

Jessica sums it up best: “Always be honest, reliable and if you make a mistake you need to own it. It’s like the saying ‘It takes a village’ and it’s so true. We have leaned on so many people and mentors throughout our different stages of growth. I think to always keep learning, listening and asking questions.”

 

These values- lived out through every project, every challenge, and every success- are the real legacy of M+J Builders.

 


Looking Forward

What motivates Michael and Jessica today is not just the growth of their business, but the impact of the structures and buildings they deliver. Each school, health centre, home, defence facility, and community space is a tangible contribution to the Territory.

 

Equally motivating is the community behind those projects- the team members, subcontractors, and clients who make them possible. Michael and Jessica know they don’t have all the answers, but they lead with patience, understanding, and a commitment to lifting others up, just as they once needed.

 

For them, these structures and buildings are more than walls and roofs. They represent resilience, family, and community. They represent the belief that with hard work and integrity, anything is possible.

 

The legacy Michael and Jessica hope to leave is simple yet powerful: a lasting contribution to the NT’s landscape through quality-built structures and buildings, and a culture that supports others along the way.

 

Michael says “Every time I drive past a school or health centre we’ve built, I feel proud. It’s not just a building, it’s something the community will use for decades, and we’ve had a part in that.”

 

From Michael’s late nights of driving into Melbourne while Jessica cared for their newborn, to packing the kids into the car and driving across the country with nothing but hope, to delivering multi-million-dollar projects across the Territory- the story of M+J Builders proves that with passion, perseverance, and people at the heart, you can build more than just structures and buildings. You can build a legacy.

 

Michael reflects: “For me, it’s always been about building something we can be proud of, not just projects, but opportunities for others. That’s what keeps me going every day.”

 

Jessica adds: “When I look back at where we started and where we are now, I’m proud of the sacrifices, the lessons, and especially our team. M+J will always be about more than us, it’s about the people who’ve been part of the journey.”


Recent projects

KFC restaurant exterior with a large sign featuring Colonel Sanders against a red and black background.

Building KFC Stuart Park

By Michael Hawkes • December 18, 2024
The recent completion of the KFC in Stuart Park highlights our ability to meet the demands of a high-profile franchise while maintaining a focus on quality and efficiency. The Project Situated at 43 Stuart Highway, next to Sweet Brew Café, the new KFC Stuart Park stands on a site that was once a vacant single allotment. We transformed the unused land into a fully operational restaurant designed to meet KFC’s strict global specifications. The project was completed on time, and the restaurant opened its doors in November 2024. Key Achievements Franchise Standards: Meeting KFC’s global requirements, we ensured every detail—from kitchen equipment to interior finishes—aligned with their brand identity. Efficient Design: The layout was optimised for high-volume service, durability, and operational efficiency. Local Impact: The project created 50 new jobs, contributing to the economic growth of the Darwin community. Why M+J Builders? We specialise in delivering complex commercial projects. Whether it’s a national brand or a bespoke development, we bring the same level of dedication to every build.
A modern pavilion with steps leading up, palm trees, and a sunset sky.

Revitalising Cullen Bay: Enhancing Darwin's Premier Waterfront Precinct

By Michael Hawkes • December 18, 2024
Cullen Bay has always been a favourite spot for locals and visitors, offering a laid-back, tropical waterside lifestyle just moments from Darwin’s CBD. Recently, the precinct has undergone a revitalisation aimed at strengthening the connection between the beachfront and marina, while enhancing the area’s appeal with new greening and cooling initiatives. Role in the Revitalisation As part of the Cullen Bay revitalisation project, M+J Builders played a key role in transforming the precinct into a more vibrant, accessible space: Shade Structures: We installed three new shade structures around the marina, providing much-needed relief from the harsh tropical sun and creating spaces for visitors to relax in comfort. Seating & Gathering Spaces: Our team worked on installing informal seating areas, paving, and concrete works, plus arbours over shops to create inviting spots for social interaction and relaxation. Artistic Lighting: To bring the precinct to life at night, we added lighting that creates stunning art effects, making the space a lively destination after dark. Accessibility Improvements: We made sure that Cullen Bay is accessible to everyone by building pathways for disabled access to the beach and gardens. Overcoming Challenges This project came with its share of challenges, including managing pedestrian traffic, navigating council property constraints, and coordinating works around busy roads and local businesses. With careful planning and execution, our team ensured the area remained accessible throughout the process, minimising disruptions to the public as the site always has high numbers of foot traffic. A Collaborative Effort The revitalisation was a joint effort led by the Northern Territory Government and Cullen Bay Marina Management Corporation, with funding and oversight focused on creating cooler, more attractive spaces that would draw both locals and tourists. The goal was to improve liveability and bring more visitors to this prime location in Darwin. Experience the New Cullen Bay Cullen Bay now features a refreshed streetscape with shade trees, lawns, and tropical plants, making it a much cooler and inviting place. The improvements not only enhance the look and feel of the area but also support local businesses by encouraging more foot traffic. We invite you to visit Cullen Bay and see the transformations for yourself. Whether you’re relaxing by the water, dining at one of the local cafes, or soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Cullen Bay offers something for everyone. At M+J Builders, we’re proud to have contributed to this exciting project and helped make Cullen Bay an even more special place. 
Dining room with wooden table and chairs, open to kitchen and living area.

Sustainable building practices in tropical climates

By Michael Hawkes • December 12, 2024
Sustainability has become a cornerstone of modern construction, serving as a vital component in building structures in harmony with our environment. As a Darwin based construction company, where our tropical climate presents unique challenges, sustainable building practices are a core part of how we deliver projects that stand the test of time. Designing for the tropics Building in Darwin’s tropical climate means more than just making durable structures. It’s about designing buildings that are adaptable to the intense heat, humidity, and heavy rainfall. Sustainable designs incorporate features that mitigate the environmental impact while keeping operational costs down for residents and businesses. Passive cooling solutions: One of the key elements of sustainable construction in the tropics is minimising energy consumption through natural cooling techniques. Large overhangs, ventilated roofs, and shaded windows help reduce the need for artificial cooling. In Darwin, well-designed ventilation allows buildings to harness the breezes while minimising the use of air conditioning, reducing energy costs. Sustainable materials Using locally sourced and environmentally friendly materials is crucial in tropical environments. It not only reduces transportation emissions but also ensures the building materials are suitable for local conditions. These materials can include: Treated timber from renewable sources, which is both durable and effective in the wet-dry tropical cycle. For example, we’ve used Gumatj timber on various projects, from a local NT owned mill. Recycled materials like steel or concrete can lower the carbon footprint of the construction process while maintaining structural integrity. Bamboo as a fast-growing and strong alternative to traditional hardwoods, we use bamboo for decorative finishings. Cool roofing materials, such as reflective tiles or metal roofing, which deflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption, helping to lower indoor temperatures in tropical areas. Energy efficiency in construction Energy efficiency is a pillar of sustainable building. Implementing solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, and smart building systems can significantly reduce the overall energy consumption of a structure. In Darwin, where sunlight is abundant, solar energy is a natural choice. Projects that embrace solar solutions help reduce the reliance on non-renewable energy, making buildings more resilient to both environmental and economic challenges. Water management Given the heavy rainfall in Darwin’s wet season, effective water management systems are crucial. Sustainable buildings feature rainwater harvesting systems and permeable paving to manage stormwater runoff, preventing floods while providing an alternative water source during the dry season. Building for longevity A sustainable building is one that lasts. Durability is key when facing Darwin’s harsh weather conditions, from tropical cyclones to extreme humidity. At M+J Builders, we focus on using high-quality materials and construction methods that ensure our projects withstand the challenges of a tropical climate while requiring minimal maintenance. Case study: Somerville Palmerston and Katherine M+J Builders constructed 7 houses for high dependency occupants in Palmerston and Katherine. Here’s some key features that made this project energy efficient and sustainable. Energy efficiency: These homes were rated 7.4 in energy efficiency. Features included: High venting ceiling with high level louvre windows to allow ventilation Venting roofs Shading wall classing of masonry over windows around the property Breeze corridor with louvres throughout hallways Breeze corridor with both homes opening onto deck Natural light into the centre of the building Solar/PV panels with 2 hour battery backup power for vulnerable tenants to use in an emergency Water efficiency: We upgraded showers, taps and appliances to maximise water efficiency throughout the homes which transferred water usage from approximately 25L a minute to 4.5L a minute for each fixture. Resource efficiency: Locally sourced Gumatj timber though an Indigenous supplier in the NT Maintained a waste register throughout the build which documented the split between recycled materials and waste materials Donated off-cuts of timber, steel and iron to HPA - Helping People Achieve, a disability service.