Cairns construction continues to boom with major projects

Far North Queensland’s construction sector is showing no signs of slowing down with $3bn in work set to be delivered during 2024-25 — but workforce pressures have placed significant pressure on the industry.

Construction work has begun on the $50 million James Cook University Cairns Tropical Enterprise Centre, adjacent to the Cairns Hospital precinct at the intersection of Sheridan Street and Charles Street, Cairns North. Picture: Brendan Radke

Far North Queensland’s construction sector is showing no signs of slowing down with $3bn in work set to be delivered during 2024-25 — but workforce pressures have placed significant pressure on the industry.

Construction Skills Queensland is encouraging businesses and workers to take advantage of $2.8m in training funding that is available through its $52 million 2024-25 Training Plan to expand workforce capacity in the state.

Although residential approvals have slowed in 2023-24, the ongoing demand for skilled

workers in major infrastructure projects and the non-residential building sector continues to

drive the need for workforce development in the region.

CSQ CEO Geoff Clare said the North Queensland construction industry would remain

under significant pressure over the next 12 months as it undertakes large-scale projects such as

the Cairns Airport T1 International Terminal and Cairns Tropical Enterprise Centre.

“Far North Queensland residential activity has stabilised, with approvals down nearly 6 per cent from 2022-23. This represents a more sustainable pace, but it’s far from a downturn,” Mr

Clare said.

Construction work has begun on the $50 million James Cook University Cairns Tropical Enterprise Centre, adjacent to the Cairns Hospital precinct at the intersection of Sheridan Street and Charles Street, Cairns North. Picture: Brendan Radke

“At the same time, the infrastructure and non-residential building sector is thriving and

requires a continuous supply of skilled workers to keep these major projects on track.

“CSQ estimates that over $3bn worth of construction will be in progress across Far North

Queensland during 2024-25, underscoring the region’s ongoing demand for a skilled

workforce.”

Mr Clare emphasised the critical importance of ongoing training and upskilling for the

industry.

The Cairns Airport T1 international departures lounge will get a fresh revamp with a modern and natural design. Image: Studio Spillane

“We’re calling on trade and site workers, as well as subcontractors, to enhance their skills,

obtain new certifications, and seize the opportunities available in this thriving sector,” he

said.

CSQ has already observed a rise in training demand, with notable growth in the employment

of construction apprentices. Currently, 1601 apprentices are employed in the region, an

increase of nearly 6 per cent from the previous year.

CSQ-funded training is available to individuals and businesses — from small family-

owned trade operations to large-scale workforces engaged in major projects. The funding

typically covers most, if not all, of the costs associated with eligible training programs,

ensuring the construction industry can meet the challenges ahead.

Originally published as Cairns construction continues to boom with major projects