As one of the leading labour hire agencies in Sydney we have our finger on the pulse when it comes to the Sydney construction industry. In this post we’ll give a sector by sector analysis and give you a snapshot of what’s happening in the world of Sydney construction.
Residential Construction: High Demand Meets High Costs
Sydney’s housing market continues to face affordability challenges, with property prices rising nearly twice as fast as wages. In the June quarter alone, national home values climbed 1.4%, driven by falling interest rates and limited housing supply. Despite government initiatives like the National Housing Accord aiming to build 1.2 million homes by 2029, the industry is grappling with significant hurdles. The average time to complete a house has increased to 12.7 months, up from 8.5 months in 2014, while construction material costs have surged by 53% over the same period.
Labour shortages are exacerbating these issues, with skilled tradespeople commanding salaries exceeding $200,000 annually. This shortage is pushing up construction costs and leading to project delays.
TAFE Programs
To address these challenges, the NSW government is investing in TAFE programs and apprenticeships to attract more workers into the construction industry. Reach out to HLH Group today if you are struggling to get tradies or labourers on your project email info@hlhgroup.com.au, call us on 02-89852019 or contact us online.
Commercial & Mixed-Use Development: Revitalising Urban Spaces
Commercial and mixed-use development is active but slower compared to infrastructure and residential. Sydney’s commercial property market is undergoing a structural transformation, with shifting demand patterns and infrastructure investments reshaping how and where businesses operate. Suburbs like Brookvale are experiencing revitalisation efforts, with developers proposing projects that align with long-term plans for mixed-use zones and increased residential density.
Additionally, the NSW Government is designating areas like Manly and Cronulla as Special Entertainment Precincts to boost the night-time economy, encouraging the development of venues and businesses that contribute to vibrant urban life. Retail development is conservative due to broader economic uncertainties.
Infrastructure & Public Works: Mega Projects Drive Growth
Infrastructure remains a cornerstone of Sydney’s construction activity, with several major projects underway:
- Sydney Metro West: A 24km underground rail line connecting the CBD to Westmead, aimed at doubling rail capacity between the City Centre and Greater Western Sydney.
- Western Harbour Tunnel: A 6.5km road tunnel under Sydney Harbour, expected to alleviate traffic congestion and improve connectivity.
- M6 and M12 Motorways: Projects enhancing road infrastructure, with the M12 providing direct access to the upcoming Western Sydney Airport.
These projects are contributing to a robust infrastructure sector, although the market is operating near full capacity, leading to increased competition for resources and skilled labour.
Industry-Wide Challenges: Labour Shortages and Productivity
The construction industry is facing significant challenges, including labour shortages and declining productivity. Workers are averaging only 2.8 productive days per week, down from six days pre-pandemic, contributing to increased construction costs and project delays.
To combat these issues, there is a push to attract more individuals into trade professions, with the NSW government investing in training programs and apprenticeships.
Infrastructure Leads the Pack
| Sector | Activity | Key Driver | Limiting Factor |
| Infrastructure | Highest | Public mega-projects + Gov’t investment | Skilled labour capacity |
| Residential | High | Housing demand & government targets | Labour shortages, long build times |
| Commercial | Moderate | Urban renewal, mixed-use hubs | Cautious investor sentiment, hybrid work |
Infrastructure is clearly the busiest sector, both in terms of current construction volume and its ability to draw labour and resources across the industry. Residential is also busy, but constrained. Commercial is active but not booming.
Labour Hire for Residential, Commercial or Infrastructure Projects
If you need labour hire for your residential, commercial or infrastructure projects HLH Group can help you call us today on 02-89852019, email info@hlhgroup.com.au or contact us online now.
