In 2024, the residential building industry faces many challenges—affordability, reforms, and shifting economic landscapes. Yet one issue remains constant: increasing skilled workers.

The solution is not a quick fix. Instead, it’s a commitment to nurturing future talent, ensuring the next generation is equipped for success. Through a focus on diversity and inclusivity, HIA’s programs and initiatives go beyond filling gaps. It provides early-stage pathways, practical training, and tailored support, laying the foundation for long-term, rewarding careers.

youthBuild: a taste of the industry for high school students

Tasmania's youthBuild program lays the foundations for a career in the industry. Integrated with secondary school education, youthBuild introduces Year 9 and 10 students to the building industry.

Unique in its approach, the youthBuild program offers basic skills training, real-world project opportunities, and industry placements. This distinctive blend of practical electives and VET training pathways sets it apart, providing students with a clear route to apprenticeships.

youthBuild in every Tasmanian high school

The program's success has been remarkable, expanding its reach across the state and supported by an $800,000 skills package that will enable it to be offered in every public secondary school in Tasmania – a significant achievement for HIA and the industry. As it grows, the program now boasts a 20 per cent female participation rate. This shows more young women want to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated trades.

How youthBuild gives students a head start

HIA member Rob Watchorn from Blythe & Watchorn Builders helps mentor the students in the program. 'It offers kids a taste of the building industry when considering their careers, rather than later,' he says. 'They can gain work experience through HIA members, go on to do a VET course in years 11 and 12 or an apprenticeship through HIA's apprenticeship group scheme.'

'We've created a real pathway for kids from the start all the way into a job, which is an amazing achievement. The more you think about it, the more you see how the benefits of this program flow out into the kids and ultimately their career and the community in the future,' reflects Rob.

Kingston High School Principal Megan Bennall explains the program's impact on her students. 'We know that students need more than classroom learning.' She has seen the participants flourish and grow under the program. ‘Our school-based wellbeing data shows that optimism is a key growth area. The students have defined goals with a clear sense of future planning. The value of that is immeasurable.'

How we set up our apprentices for success

The nationally recognised HIA Apprenticeship Program is at the core of HIA's training initiatives. The Group Training Organisation (GTO) offers apprentices and trainees hands-on learning through job rotations, mentorship from experienced industry professionals, and job security through access to host employers. Apprentices and trainees receive multi-skilled training that prepares them for successful careers in various trades within the building industry.

How they learn

Daniel Jones, a first-year apprentice hosted by Dimension Constructions, shared his experience as a HIA apprentice. 'There’s more to it than just learning a trade or one skill set,' explains Daniel. 'I learn something new every day and have gained the confidence to tackle any challenge.'

A keen learner, Daniel keeps a daily diary to keep track of his progress. 'I write in my diary every day. I'm a visual learner, so it's a valuable resource for new skills, materials and tools I've used for the first time. I also write down goals and reminders. It's good practice for the future when I run my own business.'

Alternative education: on a construction site

School wasn't what Daniel expected – he experienced bullying and a feeling like he didn't fit in. 'I had a passion for hands-on work and skills that didn't fit the typical academic model. I advanced quickly when I got onsite and learned how to operate equipment and work in multiple environments with builders, different trades and project managers. I finally felt a part of something.'

Daniel's enthusiasm for the industry is contagious, so much so that he has already completed his Certificate IV in Building and Construction. 'I'm loving it. You learn something new every day.' He also enjoys the interactions onsite. 'It's great having so many experienced tradesmen around; they are always willing to help me perfect my skills. They also tackle each situation differently, so I love learning that there’s not just one way to do a job.'

What we do to assist

When he needed a helping hand, HIA was there. 'They've helped me a lot, to be honest. Gary Rudnick's a legend [HIA Apprentice Manager NSW], and Tanya [Dohse, HIA Apprentice Field Officer] is too. They've given me so much guidance and are always there when I need to reach out. They taught me so much about safety, providing me with plenty of safety equipment and safety.'

Already planning for the future, Daniel knows what he wants. 'I want to finish my studies and then open my own business. But first, I know I need to continue to grow and learn.'

Daniel's tips 

• Go to bed each night at a reasonable time. Not just so you are ready to tackle the day but being well rested is essential when being safe onsite.
• Don't take things personally – feedback is there to help. Grow from it.'

Business Administration Traineeship: get into the business

While HIA is known for its trade programs, it also opens doors for those seeking non-trade career paths in the building industry. The HIA Business Administration Traineeship program allows students to earn while they learn, focusing on the industry's administrative and business management aspects.

Finding the right fit on the job

Samara Palmer is hosted by Viison Kitchens and has almost completed her three-year traineeship. 'I left school not knowing what I wanted to do. I spent a few years feeling lost, unsure what direction to take, and struggling,' she explains. 'All I knew was I'm a creative person passionate about colour. But putting that into a career was hard. I saw an ad for a kitchen designer, and I applied straight away.'

While unplanned, Samara says she wouldn't change a thing. 'I feel so grateful, and I'm so happy I took the leap. It's different every day. It's a fulfilling job, that's for sure.

Her role is diverse and has taken her through every aspect, from admin to manufacturing and into design. 'I've been lucky to have so many opportunities. I worked in the factory, using machinery and assembling cabinets. I've worked with our installers and six different designer project managers. All have different skill sets – some in commercial projects, some in renovations, and others that do new builds in collaboration with builders.'

Prepared for what the future holds

Samara's HIA field officer, Katie Owens, has supported her. 'She's been great from the moment I first applied. She provided invaluable tips for my interview and necessary safety equipment, and we get together every three months. She has been instrumental in my journey, so I really appreciate Katie.'

As she completes her traineeship, Samara is excited to grow and learn. 'I'm so happy at Viison. I want to continue to refine my skillset and establish my reputation. I've considered more study, maybe a residential drafting certificate and then working my way up to a diploma in building construction or design.

Samara's tips

• Listening is the most underrated skill. It's essential to observe, listen and learn – then ask questions after.
• Always take notes because this job humbles even the strongest memory.

How we support young people and the community

‘Our commitment to shaping the future of the industry is reflected in the wide range of initiatives available around the country. We offer numerous pathways and support programs to ensure that no matter what age, gender or background, everyone can build a successful and fulfilling career in the construction industry.’ says Brenton Gardener, HIA Chief Executive - Business Innovation and Development.

The Land and Housing Corporation (LAHC) Program

One such initiative is the Land and Housing Corporation (LAHC) Program - a partnership between HIA and the NSW Government. The program supports a diverse group, including those from social and community housing backgrounds, Aboriginal communities, women and people with disabilities. By offering wrap-around support services, financial incentives and mentoring, the program bridges societal gaps and creates a more inclusive workforce.

The youngest apprentice kicking goals

Participant Shayla Moerman is the youngest apprentice to have commenced the program and is now in her second year with her host Fresh Start Constructions. 'I started carpentry when I was 15 years old. As a tiny girl, I always went to work with my dad on the weekends. I watched him work so hard, inspiring me to follow in his footsteps.’

While others her age were not considering their career paths, Shayla was already certain. 'Not many people I knew wanted to do carpentry, especially girls. And there aren't many girls in the industry, so I wanted to push and prove girls can do it just as well as the boys.'

So, when HIA Field Officer John Nagle offered her the chance to join the program, she jumped. 'He is always there to help,’ she says.

Shayla is adamant it's the best decision she has made. 'I've had such a good experience and met so many great people. I love hands-on learning; it's so enjoyable and different every day. I love renovations; it's cool to see them transform.'

Being bold in her future planning, Shayla isn't looking to go anywhere anytime soon. 'I'd love to stay with Dad and build something together. It's so fun working with him. I feel like I've shown him I can do this, and I think I've made him pretty proud; Granddad as well – they are both in the industry.'

Shayla's tips

• It can be hard at first, but it gets easier as long as you give it your all.
• If you’re unsure – ask. It's better to get clarification than to proceed and fail or make a mistake.

Supporting a family during an apprenticeship

Lachlan Freer is another participant who balanced his apprenticeship with his home life thanks to the program's supportive environment. After finishing school at 18, Lachlan became the legal guardian of his 16-year-old brother, after they both shared the same challenging background.

In June 2021, Lachlan began his electrical apprenticeship with host company SULLEC Electrical Solutions, and despite these hardships, he has shown remarkable dedication and focus. To support himself and his brother, Lachlan juggled two jobs, continuing his role as a bartender during nights and weekends. This demanding schedule often left little room for a social life, as he worked seven days a week while managing the pressures of his apprenticeship and TAFE studies.

‘At the time, I just had to make it work. Looking back now, it sucked for a couple of years. I didn't have much of a life, but I put my head down and did what I had to do.'

His brother has recently turned 20 and moved in with his girlfriend. 'He's really good. We went through a lot together, but it all worked out in the end.'

Carving out a clear career and overcoming uncertainty

Like many others, Lachlan wasn't sure of his career path. 'I was one of those kids who wasn't sure whether I wanted to go to uni. And given the circumstances, taking on uni would have been even harder. Full-time work was always the option, but I wanted to get something out of it, like a qualification. When I started looking into it, electrical stood out the most. So that was the path I went down.'

HIA has been there since the beginning. 'HIA helped me get the job, so obviously, that's pretty massive. My Field Officer Laurence is great. I get along with him really well, and it helps to know you have his support.' In 2022, as a first-year, Lachlan was awarded one of the HIA Bert Evans Scholarships with a prize of $5000 a year for three years to support apprentices from disadvantaged backgrounds.

As he nears the end of his apprenticeship, Lachlan reflects on his next steps. 'Finishing my apprenticeship is getting real now, and hopefully, it'll open up a lot of doors for me. I want to buy a house and do a bit of travelling- nothing set in stone. Most of all, I can get a work-life balance and just take it all in.'

Lachlan's tips

• Come to the site on time, ready to work and with a good attitude.
• You'll meet so many new people along the way, so learn as much from them as you can.

Collaborating with businesses for the workforce of the future

HIA’s commitment to building the next generation of industry professionals extends beyond the apprentices and trainees. ‘By working closely with host employers, we ensure the success of these programs. Employers benefit from mentoring services, and job-ready training, creating a win-win situation for both businesses and participants,’ explains

Russell Holtham, HIA General Manager Operations – HIA Apprentices. This collaborative approach strengthens workforce stability and guarantees that employers have access to skilled workers prepared for the challenges of the modern building industry.

Learn how to budget with HIA

HIA not only provides hands-on practical skills and technical training but has developed a free online financial literacy course for HIA apprentices and trainees.

‘These six training modules are accessible anytime, making it easy to fit around busy schedules. The program equips future professionals with the knowledge they need to manage their finances and future businesses,’ says Stuart Collins, HIA Regional Executive Director, who launched the skills training in his region of Tasmania and then around the country.

The topics include:

• Managing personal cashflow now that you’re earning
• Tax essentials for apprentices
• Financial protection through insurance
• Building wealth through investments and superannuation
• Fundamental principles of business management for making a profit
• The pros and cons of transitioning from employee to self-employed.

By helping develop these critical business skills early, HIA ensures the future success of the next generation of builders. Enrol today to access the tools to succeed both onsite and in business.

First published on 11 February 2025.