Queensland’s building and construction sector is ramping up pressure on the State Government ahead of the 2026–27 Budget, warning that productivity reform is critical to meeting the state’s growing pipeline of work.
In its Pre-Budget Submission delivered on 11 February, the Master Builders Queensland has called for urgent action to strengthen workforce supply, support housing delivery and create a more stable operating environment for construction businesses.
CEO Paul Bidwell said the stakes had never been higher.
“Our sector is facing what is arguably the most extraordinary pipeline of housing, community, and infrastructure projects our state has ever seen – not to mention those for the 2032 Games delivery program,” Mr Bidwell said.
“To meet this challenge, construction businesses need a stable operating environment. One that supports efficiency and sustainability. That means resilient supply chains for skilled labour and materials. It means flexibility to adopt more innovative and productive ways of working. And it means regulation that is targeted, clear, and doesn’t drag productivity down.”
The submission builds on work already undertaken by the Queensland Productivity Commission, with industry backing several of the Commission’s recommendations and the government’s initial response.
“The upcoming Budget presents a critical opportunity for government to take further meaningful action where it matters most,” Mr Bidwell said.
“To this end, our submission urges a firm focus on funding to support growing our workforce, strategic investment to deliver housing targets, and a whole-of-government focus on rebuilding productivity.”
Latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows new building approvals in Queensland rose 10.5 per cent over the year to December, reaching 41,039 dwellings. While still short of the state’s 50,000-home annual target, the figures outperformed both NSW and Victoria.
Regionally, unit approvals on the Gold Coast surged 58 per cent over the past three months, with Wide Bay, Downs & Western and Central Queensland also recording gains.
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