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“With an aging workforce and a current skills shortage in residential construction, if the Territory is to meet its targets for housing supply over the next decade there needs to be an immediate injection of resources into skills and training,” said Greg Weller, HIA Executive Director ACT & Southern NSW.
“If the ACT is to meet the target of 30,000 homes by 2030 then we will need the skilled trades to support this activity.
“Forecast large public infrastructure projects in the ACT such as light rail 2B and electrification of the ACT economy, along with potentially a new stadium and convention centre, will all compete for skilled trades with home building.
“There needs to be investment by government in the promotion of home building as a viable career and business pathway for young Canberrans. We need to change Canberra’s narrative around vocational training being in second place behind the tertiary sector.
“Less pressure needs to be placed on young people to attend university as a first choice following secondary school and greater acknowledgement of the real and rewarding careers that exist through vocational education and apprenticeships.
“The residential building industry presents diverse and lucrative work opportunities, especially for those who succeed in obtaining key skills, qualifications in the wide range of careers available.
“The ACT should also actively incentivise young people to relocate to the ACT to continue or commence formal training in the construction sector. We regularly see other jurisdictions compete and offer incentives to in-demand jobs, so we should do the same.
“We are also calling for more incentives for employers to take on apprentices, particularly mature aged students,” concluded Mr Weller.
“Australia’s population reached 27.4 million by the end of 2024, up by 445,900 people, or 1.7 per cent for the year,” stated HIA Senior Economist, Tom Devitt.
The Tasmanian election that no-one wanted to have is in full swing, and while the limited campaign period is unlikely to provide the usual platform to promote key policies and reforms, HIA is calling on both major parties to prioritise housing policies given the significant challenges across the state.
“Our dated and complex planning system is littered with speed bumps that could easily be removed”, said Brad Armitage, HIA NSW Executive Director.
“The Victorian government’s proposal to update home building contract laws to make them fit for use in the 21st century is welcomed by HIA,” stated HIA Executive Director, Keith Ryan.