The state currently has $53 billion worth of construction activity in the pipeline, with that figure expected to rise to $77 billion by 2026–2027. Over the next eight years, the building pipeline is forecast to average $40.2 billion annually, requiring roughly 95,900 workers each year to meet demand.

A recent report from Construction Skills Queensland highlights that meeting these demands will be harder than ever. It estimates a shortfall of 18,200 workers annually, intensifying to around 50,000 by 2026–2027 (abc.net.au, April 2025).

Finding the right team for a new build is already a challenge, and experts say the pressure will only grow as large projects continue to ramp up. For homebuilders, this shortage could mean higher costs, longer timelines, and delays beyond your control.

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What the Future Might Look Like

If Queensland’s tradie shortage continues, experts warn that project costs are likely to rise and delays may become more common. Homebuyers may face longer wait times for tradespeople and need to be more proactive in securing the right team for their build.

At the same time, the shortage is driving innovation. Builders are increasingly adopting prefabrication, modular construction, and other efficiency-focused approaches to reduce reliance on onsite labour and keep projects on track. These methods can help maintain timelines and manage costs, particularly for smaller or specialised builds.

Government and industry bodies are also addressing the workforce gap. Programs aimed at attracting more young people into trades, supporting apprenticeships and expanding training initiatives are designed to grow the workforce in coming years. Homebuyers who stay informed about these trends and work closely with their builder can still plan and complete their builds smoothly despite current labour pressures.

Planning Ahead Is Key

Queensland’s tradie shortage is more than an industry issue. It could directly influence the cost and timing of new homes across the state. Homebuyers who stay informed, communicate early with their builder and plan carefully will be best positioned to navigate these challenges.

By understanding the current labour market and choosing experienced, reliable builders, Queenslanders can still achieve their dream home without being caught off guard by workforce pressures.

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What Is Driving the Shortage?

Several factors are contributing to the tradie shortage. Queensland’s population is set to surpass six million, preparations for the 2032 Olympic Games are in full swing and the transition to net zero is creating additional demand for specialised trades. At the same time, a long-term skills gap means not enough new workers are entering the industry to meet growing needs.

The state is seeing strong growth in sectors such as civil construction, residential housing and specialist trades including electrical, plumbing and carpentry. While this is positive for the economy, it has created a perfect storm for labour shortages. Builders report that competition for skilled tradespeople is already pushing up wages and increasing project costs.

Smaller builders feel the impact most acutely. Many struggle to find reliable teams, and some homeowners are experiencing longer wait times before their projects can begin. For anyone planning a build, this means more planning, patience and flexibility are required than in previous years.

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‍How This Affects Homebuyers

For homebuyers in South East Queensland, the shortage has practical consequences. Fewer skilled workers mean more competition for labour and potentially higher costs. Project timelines may be extended, and securing the right team could take longer than expected.

Experts recommend speaking with your builder early to understand how workforce pressures might affect your project. Flexibility with timelines and design choices can help mitigate potential delays. Some builders are also working with apprentices to supplement their teams, helping ensure builds stay on track.

Certain trades are particularly affected. Electrical, plumbing and carpentry shortages mean these phases of construction may experience the longest delays. Planning around these bottlenecks can reduce stress and unexpected costs during the build.

What the Future Might Look Like

If Queensland’s tradie shortage continues, experts warn that project costs are likely to rise and delays may become more common. Homebuyers may face longer wait times for tradespeople and need to be more proactive in securing the right team for their build.

At the same time, the shortage is driving innovation. Builders are increasingly adopting prefabrication, modular construction, and other efficiency-focused approaches to reduce reliance on onsite labour and keep projects on track. These methods can help maintain timelines and manage costs, particularly for smaller or specialised builds.

Government and industry bodies are also addressing the workforce gap. Programs aimed at attracting more young people into trades, supporting apprenticeships and expanding training initiatives are designed to grow the workforce in coming years. Homebuyers who stay informed about these trends and work closely with their builder can still plan and complete their builds smoothly despite current labour pressures.

Planning Ahead Is Key

Queensland’s tradie shortage is more than an industry issue. It could directly influence the cost and timing of new homes across the state. Homebuyers who stay informed, communicate early with their builder and plan carefully will be best positioned to navigate these challenges.

By understanding the current labour market and choosing experienced, reliable builders, Queenslanders can still achieve their dream home without being caught off guard by workforce pressures.