Queensland Faces a Major Construction Worker Shortage
Queensland is currently experiencing a significant shortage of construction workers as the state gears up for the 2032 Olympic Games. The demand for skilled labor is growing rapidly, and with the upcoming construction projects, the situation is expected to worsen.
According to Infrastructure Australia data, Queensland is currently short by more than 41,000 construction workers. This number is projected to increase to 54,700 by March 2026 when the state begins its construction efforts for the Olympics. The shortage includes various roles such as:
- 10,000 laborers
- 1,700 concreters
- 1,800 structural steel erectors
- 2,600 civil engineers
- 5,100 plant operators
- 4,000 project managers
These workers are essential to complete the state’s infrastructure pipeline, which exceeds $100 billion. The projects include key venues in Brisbane for the Olympics, such as the 63,000-seat Brisbane Stadium in Victoria Park. This stadium will serve as the centerpiece of the $7 billion plan for the Olympics and will host events for the Brisbane Lions and Cricket Australia after the games.
Other planned developments include a new national aquatic center, an athlete’s village, an upgraded arena at the Brisbane Showgrounds, and a new show court arena at the Queensland Tennis Centre.
The findings from Infrastructure Australia align with a report by Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ), which also predicts a shortfall of 50,000 construction workers in 2026-2027. CSQ has urged for increased support for apprentices to reduce drop-out rates and warned that the labor shortages could lead to costly delays.
Deputy Premier and Infrastructure Minister Jarrod Bleijie emphasized the need for migrant workers to help meet the demand. “With a laser-like focus on productivity reforms and the biggest infrastructure capital budget in our history, the LNP is pulling all infrastructure levers available,” he stated.
Andrew Chapman, chief executive of the Queensland Major Contractors Association, highlighted the necessity for a substantial increase in the workforce. He suggested that improving productivity through technological advancements, better industrial relations, and managing environmental factors could help manage the peak demand more effectively.
Queensland is facing a broader shortage of skilled workers across several sectors, including construction, hospitality, and health. It is anticipated that the state will need an additional 156,000 skilled workers by 2027-2028.
Housing could be a significant incentive for workers considering moving to Queensland. The median house price in Brisbane is $1 million, which is significantly lower than Sydney’s $1.5 million. However, it recently surpassed Melbourne’s median price of $950,000.
In March, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli faced criticism for breaking a major election promise by announcing the construction of the Brisbane Stadium. During his campaign, he had pledged not to build any new stadiums for the Olympics.
