Worker shortage threatens infrastructure projects
Queensland has been warned of a 50,000-worker shortfall next financial year, as infrastructure construction ramps up ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.
The Queensland Audit Office’s major projects report, tabled in state parliament on Wednesday, painted a stark picture of the delivery challenges ahead.
It notes a Construction Skills Queensland estimate of an average 18,200-worker shortfall over the next eight years, peaking at 50,000 in 2026–27.
Cross River Rail is the single biggest piece of infrastructure under construction in Queensland.
That shortfall would have dire consequences for the Queensland government’s infrastructure pipeline, such as hospitals, Olympic venues, and transport infrastructure.
“With fixed deadlines for Brisbane 2032, projects will continue to compete for limited resources to meet delivery requirements, such as skilled labourers, contractors, and suppliers,” the report notes.
“This competition may contribute to further cost increases, driven by supply and demand pressures in the market.”
The audit office noted that because many shortages affected key trade occupations, there was a higher risk of delay and cost escalations.
“Labour shortages pose a particular risk to projects that are in the planning stage or are yet to commence,” the report says.
“Transport projects, in particular, are expected to require project managers and engineers – occupational groups that … are also experiencing supply shortfalls.”
