WA needs more tradies to build the homes we need
WA faces a skilled trades shortage as housing construction competes with infrastructure, energy, and emerging industries for workers. The battle for tradies will determine how many homes can be built.
Will WA's tradie shortage slow down home building in my area?
Affects builders, plumbers, electricians and carpenters in WA. Increased demand may lift wages and workload but labour shortages could delay projects and squeeze subcontractor availability.
Key takeaways
- WA's housing sector is competing with infrastructure, energy and new industries for a limited pool of skilled tradies.
- The shortage of tradies is expected to directly limit how many homes WA can build.
- Sectors like energy and infrastructure often pay more, making it harder for housing builders to attract workers.
- Solving the labour shortage will likely require investment in training and potentially attracting interstate or oversea…
Related
Trades shortages persist as work on the ground remains solid
Skilled trade shortages remain widespread across Australia. The HIA says demand for workers is being supported by the recovery in home building activity over the past year.
Why it matters: Builders, carpenters and other residential trades should expect continued tight labour supply. That can mean higher wage pressure, harder hiring and longer lead times on jobs.
Azure Luxury Homes Crowned 2026 HIA COLORBOND® steel Perth Home of the Year
Azure Luxury Homes has won the 2026 HIA COLORBOND® steel Perth Home of the Year award. The article gives no further detail on the winning home, the judges or other finalists.
Why it matters: Mainly of interest to WA builders and roofers who enter or follow HIA awards. It has little direct impact on day-to-day work, pricing or compliance.
WA passes new payment protection laws for subcontractors
Western Australia's Parliament has passed new payment protection laws for subcontractors. The changes, made through an amendment to the Building and Construction Industry (Security of Payment) legislation, aim to give subcontractors stronger protection against insolvency.
Why it matters: Subcontractors in WA, including plumbers, electricians, carpenters and other trades, get stronger protection if a head contractor becomes insolvent. This could reduce the risk of unpaid work and cash flow problems.