Queensland is forecast to have a robust construction pipeline over the next eight years, growing from $53 billion worth of project work in 2024-25 to a peak of $77 billion in 2026-27.

But the resulting construction workforce demand presents challenges, with Construction Skills Queensland chief executive officer Geoff Clare describing that group’s latest report on the sector as a wake-up call.

“We need bold action to attract and train the next generation of Queensland’s construction workforce,” Mr Clare said.

The figures are included in the Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) report, Horizon 2032: Imagining Queensland’s Future Construction Workforce, released this week.

The report highlights the key drivers behind the construction surge, including record population growth, the transition to net-zero, and the infrastructure demands of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“The next decade presents an extraordinary opportunity to shape Queensland’s future, but it also brings a significant workforce challenge,” Mr Clare said.

“Construction workforce shortages are anticipated to persist across the eight years, intensifying to a 50,000 shortfall in 2026-27.

“Our industry must act now to ensure we have the skilled labour needed to meet demand.”

Key findings from the report include:

• Major growth drivers: Queensland’s population is set to surpass 6 million by 2032, driving demand for housing, transport, and essential infrastructure.
• Labour shortages: An average shortfall of 18,200 construction workers is forecast over the next eight years, with the worst shortfall of 50,000 predicted in 2026-27, threatening project timelines and costs.
• Diversity and training: Female participation in the construction industry remains at just 15 per cent, and targeted workforce development initiatives are essential to meeting future demand.
• Regional focus: Increased investment in regional workforce programs is needed to deliver renewable energy and infrastructure projects across the state.

Mr Clare said CSQ aimed to work with the Queensland Government to contribute industry intelligence on the changing workforce profile, and where the most urgent labour gaps were emerging.

“Our data and modelling provides an evidence base to design strategies to boost skilled labour where and when it is needed,” he said.

“We will need collaboration between industry stakeholders, training providers and government bodies working on apprenticeship expansion, retention strategies and strategic workforce planning.”

The full Horizon 2032 report is available HERE

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