Trade shortages continue despite housing market slowdown
The HIA warns Australia's residential construction sector still faces serious skilled trades shortages, even as the housing market cools. The shortage is expected to hamper recovery when demand picks back up.
Why are there still trade shortages even though the housing market has slowed down?
Affects builders, plumbers, electricians and carpenters directly. Ongoing shortages mean project delays, higher subcontractor costs and difficulty winning or completing jobs on time.
Key takeaways
- HIA says skilled trade shortages in residential construction remain severe despite slower housing demand.
- A market slowdown hasn't eased workforce pressures, leaving tradies stretched across fewer but still complex projects.
- When housing demand rebounds, shortages could worsen further if the pipeline of new workers isn't built now.
- Builders, plumbers, electricians and carpenters are among the trades most exposed to ongoing workforce gaps.
Related
Trade shortages continue despite housing market slowdown
The HIA warns Australia's residential construction sector still faces a critical skilled trades shortage, even as the housing market slows. The shortage threatens the industry's capacity to meet future demand.
Why it matters: Affects builders, plumbers, electricians and carpenters. Ongoing shortages may push up subcontract costs and delay project timelines for small operators.
HIA calls on Treasurer to task Productivity Commission with IR laws review
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Why it matters: Builders and subcontractors could face changes to workplace laws affecting wages, conditions and compliance costs on construction sites.
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Why it matters: Builders and construction business owners in Victoria should note FWO enforcement is active. Wage and workplace compliance obligations apply to all staff, especially young workers.