The Queensland Major Contractors Association (QMCA) has welcomed the Queensland Government’s new TradieStart program and extension of the Small Business Apprenticeship Program, describing the initiatives as an important step towards strengthening the skilled workforce required to deliver the State’s unprecedented infrastructure pipeline.
QMCA Chief Executive Officer Andrew Chapman said attracting more people into construction and supporting employers to invest in apprentices was essential as Queensland prepares to deliver billions of dollars of transport, health, energy, water and Brisbane 2032 infrastructure projects over the coming decade.
“Queensland’s construction pipeline presents one of the greatest opportunities our industry has ever seen, but it also presents one of its greatest workforce challenges,” Mr Chapman said.
“Programs like TradieStart recognise that employers, particularly small and medium-sized businesses, need practical support to take on apprentices and invest in developing the next generation of skilled workers.”
Mr Chapman said the announcement aligned with the industry’s long-standing view that workforce development must be addressed through sustained investment rather than short-term measures.
“Every apprentice who enters our industry today represents capability that Queensland will rely upon for decades to come.”
“The benefits extend well beyond the current pipeline of work. These workers will help deliver the roads, hospitals, schools, rail projects, energy infrastructure and housing our growing population will depend upon long after the Games have concluded.”
Mr Chapman said workforce initiatives must continue to form part of a broader strategy to improve construction productivity across Queensland.
“Workforce capacity and productivity are inseparable. While attracting more apprentices is critical, we also need to ensure those workers enter an industry that is becoming more productive through procurement reform, better project planning, improved collaboration and the adoption of modern construction practices.”
“The industry’s ability to deliver will depend not only on the number of people entering construction, but on creating an environment where those people can work safely, efficiently and productively.”
Mr Chapman said the announcement complemented the Queensland Government’s broader agenda to improve project delivery through procurement reform and industry collaboration.
“We have consistently advocated for practical reforms that strengthen industry capability, improve productivity and provide confidence for businesses to invest in their workforce.”
“TradieStart is another positive example of government recognising that building Queensland’s future begins with building the workforce that will deliver it.”
