Bricklayers Top Nation’s Tradies Shortage List
Bricklayers are the most in demand tradies as the building boom continues to sap the supply of skilled workers and materials.
The HIA Trades Availability Index deteriorated further in the September 2021 quarter, particularly in the residential construction sector.
Bricklayers, followed by finishing trades such as painters, plasterers and plumbers, were the worst affected as a large volume of HomeBuilder-based projects neared completion.
HIA economist Angela Lillicrap said skilled trades continued to be in high demand due to a record volume of detached home building and renovations.
“All regions across Australia are reporting an acute shortage of skilled trades and all trades are in short supply,” Lillicrap said.
“Regional Queensland, regional South Australia and Perth recorded improvements in the availability of skilled trades compared to the previous quarter.
“These small improvements reflect quarterly volatility, not a material improvement in the supply of trades.
“It is an excellent time to pursue an apprenticeship in residential building trades as the boom in home building is expected to continue throughout 2022 and into 2023.”