Build your future in construction

Australia's construction industry is projected to grow to 1.41 million workers by 2033, driven by housing delivery, major infrastructure projects, and preparations for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Despite strong demand, many construction occupations are experiencing national shortages, presenting a great opportunity for people starting their careers or those looking for a change.

Alongside job security, demand for skilled workers can also result in very competitive salaries, helping to ease cost-of-living pressures.

Continue reading to learn more about construction trade careers and discover your next move.

Building and construction
From entry-level roles through to senior management,careers in building and construction span a wide range of opportunities. Depending on your interests, you could work as labourer, builder, construction manager, estimator, glazier, project manager, site supervisor, or waterproofer.

Electrotechnology
The digital age and transition to green energy are creating unprecedented demand for skilled workers. Career options include electrician, electrical fitter, electronic engineering draftsperson, instrumentation and control technician, and renewable energy technical officer.

Stonemasonry and bricklaying/blocklaying
Bricklayers and stonemasons work on construction projects of all sizes, from restorations and renovations to new residential builds and large commercial developments, including high-rise projects.

Carpentry
A hands-on career in carpentry can lead to exciting work as a carpenter, cabinet maker, furnishing worker, furniture finisher, joiner, shopfitter, or wood machinist. These roles span both residential and commercial construction projects.

Plumbing
Plumbers are essential wherever people live and work. Specialisations include a range of exciting areas such as roofing, gasfitting, drainage, and hydraulic services, offering workers with diversity.

Tiling, plastering and flooring
Careers in this field include carpet layer, plasterer, floor finisher, renderer, roof tiler, timber floor finisher, and wall and floor tiler. These roles support both commercial and residential construction projects.

Painting and decorating
If you enjoy working with colour and detail, a career in painting and decorating may be for you. Painters and decorators match paint colours and apply paint, wallpaper and other coatings to decorate interior and exterior surfaces.

Civil construction
This sector focuses on the design, construction and maintenance of essential infrastructure, including natural and built environments such as roads, railways, buildings, water reservoirs, sewer systems, bridges, and tunnels.