The latest Austroads update on Australia and New Zealand’s workforce suggests workforce gaps could heavily impact major road infrastructure projects over the next decade.
While the truck driver shortage is a current industry issue, forecasts by Oxford Economics Australia identify a growing demand for skilled workers in the road construction and maintenance sector, with significant shortages expected.
In particular, sectors in New South Wales, South Australia, the ACT and New Zealand are expected to suffer from the shortages in the next one to seven years.
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With road activities set to rise sharply in New Zealand due to new government priorities, increased funding and the reintroduction of the Roads of National Significance program, a 28 per cent in workforce demand by 2027 means roughly 700 extra workers beyond initial forecasts may be required.
In Australia, workforce deficits are expected in certain territories where road activity is at or near its peak, with various areas expected to face pressure.
Austroads says states and territories will need to take proactive steps to ensure they can maintain their workforce and meet the demands of scheduled infrastructure projects.
“The report’s findings emphasises the need for a coordinated response to ensure that workforce supply keeps pace with rising demand,” Austroads chief executive Geoff Allan says.
“Investing in education, improving retention and attracting skilled professionals will be key to meeting the rising demand. Collaboration across government and industry will be vital to ensure that the road sector is ready to meet the challenges ahead.”
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