“The core issue is workforce,” Wawn states. “We employ 1.3 million people but need at least 1.5 to 1.6 million to meet demand. That’s a major shortfall, exacerbated by an aging workforce, low apprenticeship completion rates, and a lack of skilled migration.” Industry-wide issues, including contract arrangements, government procurement policies, industrial relations complexities, and compliance challenges, intensify the workforce gap. Additionally, companies that fail to adhere to industry regulations can undercut competitors by offering lower prices, creating an unfair playing field that further destabilizes the sector. Safety remains another significant concern, with ongoing efforts needed to ensure that all workers are protected on the job. Given the breadth and depth of these challenges, a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach is required to strengthen and future-proof Australia’s construction workforce. BRIDGING THE GAP “One of our biggest challenges is apprenticeship completion,” Wawn notes. “Only 50% of apprentices who start their training finish it. That’s why we’re advocating for mentoring support throughout apprenticeships, ensuring young workers receive guidance in technical skills and managing the worklife balance.” Apprenticeship retention remains a significant concern, as many young people enter the industry directly after leaving school, often at 17 or 18. They may struggle to juggle their training, work responsibilities, and personal commitments without adequate support systems, leading to high dropout rates. To combat this, Master Builders Australia is pushing for increased government funding for mentorship programs that provide apprentices with industry-specific training and personal and professional development guidance. Another central focus area is increasing female participation in construction. Women comprise just 14% of the construction workforce, with an even smaller 3% representation in trade roles. While construction presents a high-paying career path with significant opportunities for gender pay equity, the industry still faces challenges in attracting women, 16 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 03
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx