9,600 days of lost productivity

10 December 2025

Master Builders Australia (MBA) is cautiously optimistic regarding the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data showing industrial disputes in the construction industry fell in the September 2025 quarter, with 9,600 working days lost, down from 13,400 in June.

“While working days lost per thousand construction employees fell during the September 2025 quarter, the rate remains well above what has been typical over recent years.

“Our industry accounted for around 17 per cent of all days lost across the economy” said MBA chief economist Shane Garrett.

MBA CEO Denita Wawn reiterated that we must strike the right balance between ensuring appropriate workplace conditions with the need to improve productivity and the livelihoods of our small and family businesses, which are 98 per cent of the industry.

“At the end of the day, this is 9,600 days of lost productivity during a housing crisis when we suffered a 61,000-home shortfall during the first year of the Housing Accord. This is pushing home ownership even further out of reach for more Australians.

“The ABS data also only reflects the lawful and reported industrial action and does not factor in unlawful and intimidatory behaviour. Whether they are employers, workers or unions, there is no place in our sector for criminality, corruption or intimidation.

“MBA have long advocated for measures that improve integrity and compliance across the industry and continues to call for decisive action, specifically the establishment of a dedicated cross-jurisdictional police taskforce within the AFP to coordinate and lead law enforcement efforts in the building and construction sector.

“It is hoped that the work of the National Construction Industry Forum, and the development of an industry Charter can drive cultural change, reduce disputes in the industry and improve productivity,” concluded Ms. Wawn.

Media contact: Dylan Hafey, Media Advisor

0497 330 064 | dylan.hafey@masterbuilders.com.au