WA needs more tradies to build the homes we need
WA faces a skilled trades shortage as housing construction competes with infrastructure, energy, and emerging industries for workers. The battle for tradies will determine how many homes can be built.
Will WA's tradie shortage slow down home building in my area?
Affects builders, plumbers, electricians and carpenters in WA. Increased demand may lift wages and workload but labour shortages could delay projects and squeeze subcontractor availability.
Key takeaways
- WA's housing sector is competing with infrastructure, energy and new industries for a limited pool of skilled tradies.
- The shortage of tradies is expected to directly limit how many homes WA can build.
- Sectors like energy and infrastructure often pay more, making it harder for housing builders to attract workers.
- Solving the labour shortage will likely require investment in training and potentially attracting interstate or oversea…
Related
Queensland needs the workforce to match its investment ambitions
Queensland's major project pipeline is outpacing its skilled construction workforce. Workforce planning is flagged as critical to delivering the housing the state needs.
Why it matters: Builders, electricians, plumbers and other tradies in QLD may see rising demand for work but also skills shortages affecting project timelines and subcontractor availability.
MyLeave Supporting WA's Construction Workforce
MyLeave supports WA's construction workforce by providing portable long service leave for workers in the building industry. The scheme helps retain skilled tradespeople across housing and economic projects.
Why it matters: Affects builders, carpenters, plumbers, electricians and other tradies in WA. Portable leave entitlements follow workers between employers, impacting how businesses manage leave obligations.
HIA warns tradie shortage is holding back housing delivery
HIA report warns that a skilled trades shortage is blocking housing delivery across Australia. Without more tradespeople, housing targets cannot be met.
Why it matters: Affects builders, plumbers, electricians and carpenters directly. Ongoing labour shortages mean more work but also project delays and pressure on existing crews.