Queensland's Construction Boom: Opportunities for Tradies

Queensland on the Hunt for 50,000 Tradies — With Salaries Reaching $300,000 a Year: "Sky's the Limit"

Queensland is entering a construction boom — and the numbers are staggering. With the infrastructure pipeline expected to skyrocket from $53 billion to $77 billion by 2026–2027, the state urgently needs a skilled workforce to keep up with demand. From building stadiums for the Olympics to tackling a deepening housing crisis, the Sunshine State is calling on tradies to help shape its future.

The latest report from Construction Skills Queensland paints a clear picture: a shortfall of 18,200 construction workers per year, growing to 50,000 by 2026–2027, threatens to stall progress. In response, Queensland is offering highly attractive opportunities for tradespeople — and in some cases, salaries reaching $300,000 or more.

What’s Driving the Demand?

The rapid population growth (expected to surpass 6 million), preparations for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, and Australia’s commitment to a net-zero future are fueling this unprecedented construction surge.

From 2025 onward, the average annual demand includes:

• 95,900 workers for building and infrastructure projects

• 26,700 workers for engineering-related roles

This means carpenters, electricians, concreters, painters, and plasterers are more valuable than ever. There's also a growing need for crane operators, structural steelworkers, earthmoving plant operators, and general construction labourers.

High Demand, High Reward

According to Kim Hetherington from Construction Skills Queensland, “The sky’s the limit if you want to go into construction management — salaries can easily surpass $300,000.”

Even for traditional trade roles, the pay is well above national averages. As of November 2024, full-time workers were earning an average of $1,975.80 per week, or over $102,000 annually. Skilled tradies are often pulling in significantly more.

A Golden Opportunity for International Students and Skilled Migrants

For international students and aspiring skilled migrants, this construction boom presents a golden opportunity. With strong job prospects, high wages, and long-term career pathways, Queensland is one of the best places in Australia to build a future in trades and construction.

This is where MyCourseFinder.com comes in. If you’re looking to study a trade, upskill in a high-demand field, or migrate to Australia for a better future, our expert agents are here to guide you every step of the way — from course selection to visa processing and migration planning.

Take the Next Step with MyCourseFinder.com

Queensland's future is being built right now — and you can be a part of it. Whether you're a student aiming to pursue a trade qualification or a skilled professional looking to migrate, MyCourseFinder.com can help you align your goals with Australia's booming construction sector. Apply now through MyCourseFinder.com to connect with the right courses, training institutions, and industry pathways. Our experienced education and migration agents are ready to support your journey toward a prosperous career in Australia.