Master Builders calls for skilled migration system to prioritise tradies
Master Builders Australia wants construction workers given higher priority in the skilled migration system. New analysis highlights tradies' economic contribution as the industry faces ongoing labour shortages.
Will skilled migration changes make it easier to hire tradies from overseas?
Builders, carpenters, plumbers and electricians face ongoing skills shortages. Easier migration pathways could bring more workers onto job sites and ease project delays.
Key takeaways
- Master Builders Australia wants construction workers prioritised in the skilled migration system.
- New analysis highlights the significant economic contribution tradies make to Australia.
- The push comes amid ongoing labour shortages across the construction industry.
- Easier migration pathways could help builders fill skills gaps and reduce project delays.
Related
Industrial Relations and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026
HIA has made a submission on the Industrial Relations and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026. The bill would implement legislative recommendations from a 2026 review of industrial relations and workers' compensation. The article excerpt gives no further detail.
Why it matters: Changes to industrial relations and workers' compensation rules could affect builders and other trades that employ staff or subcontract. Details are unclear, so employers should watch the bill's progress.
Trusts Tax will hit small business and home buyers
The article says the Federal Government is about to hit more than 90,000 construction businesses with higher taxes and costs through a trusts tax. It argues the change will hurt small businesses and home buyers. The supplied text cuts off early.
Why it matters: Builders and other construction trades may face higher tax and costs, which could squeeze margins or push up prices for home buyers. Details are limited, so check how the tax applies to your structure.
New Fixed Term Contract Information Statement
A new version of the Fixed Term Contract Information Statement has been published. It follows recent changes to the exceptions that allow additional fixed term contracts.
Why it matters: Trade businesses that employ apprentices, labourers or project-based staff on fixed term contracts may need to give workers the updated statement. Using an outdated version could cause compliance problems.