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{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change locationSkilled worker reform needed to build 1.2 million homes
Skilled worker reform needed to build 1.2 million homes
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“HIA has lodged its pre-budget submission outlining key initiatives that could be taken by the Federal Government to ease the problems in the building industry caused by severe lack of trades people in the country.
“HIA has called on the Government to implement a multi-pronged approach to bring many more skilled tradespeople and other key workers into the industry,” said Ms Martin.
“HIA recognises the challenges brought about by the lack of skills won’t be fixed overnight but there are some measures that the Government could take to help ease the labour shortage.
“For instance, too often doing a trade or going into construction is seen as a lesser career option and we are calling on the Federal Government to instigate a widespread education program to better promote the substantive career opportunities that exist in the building industry.
“HIA would like the Government to make a clear long-term commitment to indexed apprentice and employer subsidies to encourage more employers to take on apprentices and to support them through their apprenticeships.
“To incentivise apprentices to continue with their training, a ‘tool bonus’ or ‘tool rewards program could be introduced consisting of $1000 tool bonus starter kit and a $500 supplement per year. This would help build up their tool kits and reward for year on year milestones through their apprenticeship.
“As well as policies to help attract apprentices, meaningful reform to the immigration system needs to be implemented to replenish the dwindling supply of skilled workers. This should include developing a streamlined and simplified visa program for in-demand trades and support this with an education and awareness program to assist participants to navigate the process.
“Our industry is keen to innovate and improve sustainable practices but to date this has resulted in more and more regulation being placed on building businesses. In addition, economic uncertainty leads to greater business risk for builders.
“We are therefore seeking support and dedicated funding to enable businesses to upskill themselves and their workers on major reforms, support for regulatory change and business education.
“A strong construction workforce is the only way that Australia will ever solve the problem of housing affordability. If the Federal Government is to realise its bold goal of 1.2 million much needed homes in five years, HIA strongly recommends the Government adopt the recommendations contained in the submission,” concluded Ms Martin.
The Housing Industry Association (HIA’s) 2024-2025 Pre-Budget Submission can be downloaded here.
For more information please contact:
New rules add thousands to the cost of a new home as Tasmania falls years behind on housing
From today, every new home built in Tasmania must meet the full Livable Housing Design requirements. The Housing Industry Association says this adds thousands of dollars to the cost of building a home, at a time when Tasmanians can least afford it.
Rules for managing the risk of falls have changed - are you up to date?
Changes to Western Australia's requirements for managing the risks of falls will commence on 1 October 2026, introducing new expectations for builders, contractors and workers undertaking tasks where there is a risk of falling.
Livable Housing Design: final stage now in force
As of today, 1 October 2026, all new building work in Tasmania, unless exempt, must comply with all requirements of Part H8 Livable Housing Design of NCC Volume Two.
ACT housing approvals slump puts 2030 target under pressure
“The ACT’s housing supply pipeline is weakening, with building approvals in the three months to August halving compared with a year earlier,” said HIA Executive Director ACT and Southern NSW, Geordan Murray.