Perth Construction Worker Shortage: The Full Picture
This isn’t just anecdotal — the data confirms Perth’s construction labour shortage is the most severe in over a decade.
The Numbers
Trades availability index: -0.68 (negative = more demand than supply). Bricklayer shortage index: -1.02 (worst of any trade nationally). Time-to-fill construction roles: 45+ days (up from 30 pre-shortage). Construction wages: up 8-12% year-on-year. Infrastructure pipeline: $38 billion over four years.
Root Causes
Multiple mega-projects converging simultaneously (METRONET, Henderson defence, state housing, Anketell Road). Apprenticeship completions not replacing retiring tradies. Post-COVID migration still below pre-pandemic levels. Mining competing for the same workers at premium rates. Some tradies leaving the industry for less physical work.
What Employers Can Do
1. Use specialist recruitment agencies with active databases. 2. Pay market rates — below-market won’t attract anyone. 3. Invest in apprenticeships for future pipeline. 4. Sponsor overseas workers through 482 visa pathway. 5. Retain existing workers through better conditions. 6. Consider modular/prefab to reduce on-site labour needs.