A new Master of Construction Management from Charles Darwin University (CDU) is set to bolster the Northern Territory’s building industry.
Up to 70 students will be able to take the next step in advancing their careers and learning to lead complex projects from Semester 1, 2027.
CDU Discipline Chair in Engineering Professor Stefanija Klaric said there was strong demand for construction managers across the country, but the NT was uniquely disadvantaged by this workforce gap.
Professor Klaric said the Territory’s construction industry currently leaned heavily on construction managers brought in from southern states who may not be prepared for the NT’s unique working environment.
“A key issue we’re hearing from industry advisors is that it’s not just things like the weather or environment that shapes a project’s timeline in the Territory,” she said.
“It’s other things such as sourcing construction materials because of long freight distances, limited local manufacturing, and the remoteness of some builds.
“These are all things that need to be factored into a project’s timeline in the north, and developing leaders in construction management right here in the Territory means we can build a workforce better equipped for the NT’s needs.”
Professor Klaric said the new course would be open to domestic and international students, with capacity to deliver coursework online.
The Territory’s construction industry has welcomed the new course, with potential for student site visits, guest lecturers, and placements on the table.
DCOH Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Shane Dignan welcomed the news and said tertiary-level study opportunities were critical for growing the construction workforce.
“Local access to industry qualifications and opportunities will undoubtedly strengthen our economy,” Mr Dignan said.
“We want our professionals to excel in the construction industry, and tailored courses like this help us retain talented tradies and professionals, attract more skilled people to the Territory, and build the capability needed to deliver our future projects.
"We're delighted to see this rolled out through Charles Darwin University.”
AllCast NT Founding Director and 25-year member of Master Builders NT Ray Bail said a strong, local construction leadership base was vital to the Northern Territory’s future.
“The Master of Construction Management focuses on developing practical, real-world skills,” Mr Bail said.
“It’s about career progression, building industry capability, and giving people the confidence to deliver projects for Territorians, by Territorians.”
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