Population growth, net zero and Brisbane Olympics drive surge in Queensland construction: Report

A new report by Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) has identified record population growth, the transition to net-zero, and the infrastructure demands of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games among the key factors driving the surge in Queensland’s construction pipeline forecast over the next few years.

The landmark report, Horizon 2032: Imagining Queensland’s Future Construction Workforce, provides a comprehensive analysis of the unprecedented growth opportunities and challenges for the state’s construction industry as it enters a decade of significant transformation.

Queensland’s construction pipeline is forecast to grow from $53 billion in 2024-25 to a peak of $77 billion in 2026-27, underpinned by record infrastructure investment and the demands of a rapidly expanding population.

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

“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,” he says.

Key findings from the report:

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%, 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.

“CSQ is looking forward to working closely with the Queensland Government to contribute industry intelligence on the changing workforce profile, and where the most urgent labour gaps are emerging,” Clare said.

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

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

The full Horizon 2032 report is available for download at csq.org.au/knowledge-centre.