Today's Intergenerational Report reaffirms budget pressures will only become more intense, and the Federal Government must shift attention from the pressures to the opportunities at hand.
Australian Constructors Association CEO Jon Davies said the greatest opportunities lie in the construction industry.
“The construction industry intersects with almost all the government’s priority areas and plays a pivotal role in delivering essential infrastructure for an ageing population and achieving the nation's net-zero target,” said Mr Davies.
“The financial implications are eyewatering. The construction industry holds the potential to save the Australian economy an $56 billion annually.
“It can do this by bridging the current productivity gap between construction and other major industries.
“The potential productivity savings are enormous – alone, they would fund the NDIS or the aged pension.
“Improving the productivity of the construction industry carries national significance.
“Just by bringing construction productivity up to the national average, we could revitalise national productivity growth, reaching levels not witnessed since the 1990s.
“We urge the government to collaborate with states, industry representatives and unions to develop a 10-year National Construction Strategy.
This strategy would lay the groundwork for a more sustainable and productive construction industry, benefitting all Australians.
About us:
The Australian Constructors Association is the only representative body for contractors delivering vertical and horizontal construction projects, as well as undertaking infrastructure asset management. Our members construct and service the majority of major infrastructure projects built in Australia every year. Our goal is to create a more sustainable construction industry.
Contact details:
Megan Anderson, Head of Media and Communications
ph: 0475 978 478 / e: megan.anderson@constructors.com.au
