Tradie Intel by GrokoryAI
HIA News ·

Trades buck national enrolment downturn

Construction trade qualifications are growing in Australia despite a broader decline in VET enrolments nationally. Residential building trades are bucking the national training trend.

Are construction trade enrolments actually growing while other VET courses decline?

Builders, carpenters, plumbers and other tradies may see more apprentices entering the industry, easing labour shortages in residential construction.

Key takeaways

  • Construction trade qualifications are growing despite a national drop in overall VET enrolments.
  • The residential building sector is outperforming the broader training system in attracting students.
  • This trend could help ease persistent skilled labour shortages in the building industry.
buildingtrainingregulatory

Related

Build Australia ·

Researchers trial breath test for silicosis detection

Australian researchers are trialling a world-first breath test to detect silicosis and other occupational lung diseases in construction workers. This is the first dedicated silicosis breath test research program funded in Australia.

Why it matters: Affects builders, stonemasons, and tilers who work with silica dust. Could lead to faster, easier health screening on worksites, changing how routine checks are done.

buildingsafetyregulatorytraining
HIA News ·

New independent research supports HIA call for lot size reform

New independent research backs HIA's push for lot size planning reforms, suggesting simple policy changes could meaningfully boost housing supply in Australia.

Why it matters: Builders and developers could see more work opportunities if lot size reforms increase housing supply. Changes to planning rules directly affect project viability and land use for residential builders.

buildingregulatorybusiness
HIA News ·

Tasmanian builders take top titles at HIA Australian GreenSmart Awards

Tasmanian builders won four national titles at the 2026 HIA Australian GreenSmart Awards held in Melbourne. The awards recognise excellence in sustainable residential building practices.

Why it matters: Builders focused on sustainable construction can benchmark their work against national award standards. Winning projects may influence green building trends across the industry.

buildingTASregulatory