National Skills Week chairman Brian Wexham notes that a severe shortage of skilled construction workers is slowing delivery and increasing the cost of home builds, major infrastructure projects and everything in-between.

New South Wales and Victoria are most affected as they are the most populous, and both State Governments continue to ramp up major road, rail and other projects.

“The shortage of skilled construction workers is hampering the delivery of many projects in this country. COVID-19 has disrupted building material supply chains over the last two years, increasing the lead times and costs of materials. On top of this, workers have been able to command higher wages and be more selective than ever about their chosen employer,” Brian says.

“Industry consultancy Arcadis has reported construction job vacancies have risen by a massive 80 per cent since late 2019. They forecast that by 2023 there will be over 100,000 unfilled roles in the sector. More serious still, Arcadis also forecast this will be almost 50% greater than the number of people who are expected to be qualified to fulfil the roles.”

Michael Morrissey, chief executive of Brick and Block Careers says brick and block laying is increasingly being seen as a ‘Trade of Choice’ with a greater understanding of the career potential it can lead to and the ongoing demand: “A qualified Bricklayer can get an early entry into running a subcontracting business, managing their own team, control over their profits and leading the way.

“Brick and Block Careers continues to support the awareness and career pathways Brick and Blocklaying has to offer. We aim to fulfil the career aspirations of young Australians and job seekers, by providing employment opportunities in Brick and Blocklaying.”

Now moving into its twelfth year, National Skills Week 2022 is being held this year, August 22 to 28, inviting Australians to explore the Universe of Skills on offer through Vocational Education and Training.

Brian adds that it’s critical that school leavers, job seekers, parents and career changers are informed of what the jobs of the future are, and what Australia’s most critical skills shortages and jobs needs are.

“This will ensure our young people, yet to start careers, can gain training and skills in education which is going to secure them a job at the end of that training,” he says.

“Further, it will assist in funnelling Australia’s labour market into the training opportunities which are most likely going to lead to their employment ie the most in-demand jobs of the future.”