The Queensland Major Contractors Association (QMCA) is pleased to invite expressions of interest
for participation in our upcoming Technology Day, scheduled for 29 April 2025. This event will bring
together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to discuss the latest advancements an
trends in major contracting and construction.

2025 Conference Theme: “Transforming Construction: Embracing Innovation and Digitisation.”

The construction sector has fallen behind other industries when it comes to innovation. The
McKinsey Global Institute’s 2017 report, “Reinventing Construction: A Route to Higher Productivity,”
highlighted that the global construction sector has seen minimal productivity growth compared to
other industries over the last two decades. Additionally, the construction industry is among the least
digitised sectors globally, ranking second last in the United States and last in Europe on McKinsey’s
digitisation index. The report noted that one of the reasons behind the poor productivity growth is a
reliance on traditional work practices.

Productivity challenges are exacerbated by rising costs and the scarcity of local materials, leading
to increased project costs and delays. Recent years have seen cost pressures result in project
overruns, liquidity issues, and financial performance pressures for constructors, as well as
budgetary blowouts for clients, often culminating in delayed or unstarted projects.
Innovation and technology present opportunities to improve the status quo. By leveraging
innovations already deployed in other markets, the construction sector can achieve significant
productivity gains.

We invite exhibitors and presenters to join us at our Technology and Innovation Day. This is your
chance to showcase cutting-edge solutions, share insights, and connect with industry leaders and
clients who are eager to drive change. Key areas of focus for the event include:

• Collaboration and Integration Through Digital Transformation
• Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Productivity, Quality and Safety
• Innovative Materials and Products.
  Together, we can transform challenges into opportunities and pave the way for a more productive
  and innovative future in construction.

Call for Papers and Presentations

We invite submissions from industry professionals, researchers, and academics on the following
topics:

Collaboration and Integration Through Digital Transformation

Overview: To enhance industry efficiency, it’s crucial to foster collaboration and integration. By
working together and embracing technologies like BIM, AI, and real-time project collaboration tools,
we can streamline processes, reduce waste, manage costs more effectively and improve safety.
Coopetition and working business to business on the digital frontier to promote innovation within our
sector is key to driving Queensland forward.

Discussion Points:

• Technological challenges and solutions at our doorstep.
• How does integration play a part in our sectors future.
• Opportunities for contractors and technology service providers.
• Client side interface developments

Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Productivity, Quality and Safety

Overview: Technological advancements have the potential to transform the construction industry
by significantly enhancing productivity, improving quality, and ensuring better safety outcomes. The
adoption of modular construction methods, along with the implementation of automated machinery
and robotics, is expected to bring about substantial changes in construction practices in the near
future.

The integration of automated machinery, drones, and robotics in the construction industry
represents a significant leap forward in terms of efficiency, safety, and overall project management.
By automating repetitive and hazardous tasks, these innovations not only improve productivity but
also enhance worker safety and project quality.
Discussion Points:

• Enhancing efficiency through digital connectivity and machine integration.
• Using technology to monitor and improve safety and traffic management on construction sites
• Automated machinery, such as robotic bricklayers, automated concrete pouring systems, and self-driving construction vehicles can reduce labour costs, increase precision, and speed up project timelines.
• Initial investment costs, maintenance requirements, and the need for skilled operators to manage these machines.
• The role of drones to collect real-time data, providing valuable insights for project management and decision-making.
• Use of robotic systems used for welding and fabrication tasks, ensuring high precision and consistency.
• Look into the future of AI-powered robots and automated systems that can learn and adapt to different construction tasks.

Innovative Materials and Products

Overview: Innovative products and techniques can contribute to more efficient and sustainable
building practices, reduce carbon emissions ,and enhance quality, durability, and productivity.

Discussion Points:

• Exploring materials that offer superior strength and longevity, reducing maintenance costs and extending the lifespan of structures.
• Innovations such as self-healing concrete and phase-change materials that adapt to environmental conditions, improving building performance and resilience.
• The positive environmental impact of using recycled materials and sustainable resources, including successful case studies.
• Innovations around circularity of materials and specification changes.
• How new materials and precast products can streamline construction processes, reduce waste, and improve overall project efficiency, leading to cost savings.
• The role of partnerships between industry and academia in developing cutting-edge materials, ensuring they meet the highest standards.
• Case Studies: Real-world examples of projects that have successfully integrated advanced materials technology, showcasing significant benefits in quality, durability, and sustainability.

Submit an EOI

Complete the following form by 28 February 2025 and we will contact you with more information.