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Responding to Infrastructure Australia’s 2025 Infrastructure Market Capacity report, peak building and construction industry body Master Builders Australia emphasised the importance of not neglecting civil construction in Australia’s pursuit of solving the housing crisis.
Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn said, according to Infrastructure Australia, the civil construction sector is facing a shortfall of 300,000 workers by 2027, placing the delivery of essential infrastructure and the Housing Accord target of 1.2 million homes at risk.
“The broader built environment is the backbone of housing supply. Without the roads, rail, energy, water and community facilities that support our suburbs and regions, we will not deliver the homes Australians need,” Ms Wawn said.
“Targeted infrastructure keeps us moving, connects communities, drives productivity, improves health and education outcomes, and underpins a strong and resilient economy.
“Civil and engineering construction remains the strongest of the three pillars of the building and construction industry, but its capacity is being stretched by rising demand and deep, persistent workforce shortages.
“Australia’s infrastructure pipeline is being put at risk by chronic labour shortages that are pushing up project costs, delaying delivery and reducing productivity
“The gap between labour demand and supply in critical infrastructure trades, civil construction, concreting, formwork, plant operation, engineering and project management, is now one of the most severe in the economy.
“The challenges are particularly acute in regional and remote areas, where infrastructure investment is essential to support population growth, connectivity, and improved community services.
“Industry is doing its part through investment in training, apprenticeships and upskilling, but the sheer scale of demand cannot be met without coordinated national action.
“Master Builders is calling for urgent reforms to expand the workforce through faster skills recognition, streamlined migration pathways, and targeted incentives for apprentices and employers.
“If we want to deliver the homes, infrastructure and productivity gains Australians expect, we must ensure the civil construction workforce is equipped, expanded and properly supported,” Ms Wawn concluded.
Media contact: Dee Zegarac, National Director, External Affairs and Engagement
0400 493 071 | dee.zegarac@masterbuilders.com.au