How to Reduce Construction Worker Turnover
In Perth’s current market, every worker who leaves costs you $5K-$15K to replace. Retention is cheaper than recruitment.
Why Workers Leave
Late payment (reason #1 — fix this first). Disorganised sites — standing around waiting for materials or other trades. Better offer — if your rates are below market, competitors will poach your workers. Poor communication — unclear scope, changing expectations, no feedback. No progression — workers want to grow, not stagnate.
Retention Strategies That Work
Pay weekly, pay market rates, pay on time. Invest in worker development — fund ticket upgrades, offer leading hand opportunities. Communicate project pipeline — “we have 18 months of work” gives security. Recognise good work publicly. Provide quality amenities — clean toilets, proper break areas, cold water.
The ROI of Retention
Keeping a $50/hr carpenter for 12 months vs replacing them every 3 months saves $15K-$30K in recruitment costs, lost productivity, and project delays. Retention pays for itself many times over.