Industry overview

The building and construction industry is an important part of the Australian economy, accounting for 5.5 per cent of GDP for 2000–01, and employing almost 8 per cent of the work force according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Total value added by building and construction in Australia over 2000-01 came to A$58 billion. Of that total:

• residential construction — 49 per cent
• engineering construction — 21 per cent
• non-residential construction — 30 per cent

Building and construction in Australia is focused on the domestic market. Almost all of the supply of building and construction goods and services is provided by the Australian industry and used in Australia. Less than 10 per cent of inputs are imported. Exports of final goods and services are less than 1 per cent of the size of the industry at A$52 million over 2000–01. The majority of the inputs to the industry come from locally sourced goods and services. (Source: Department of Industry Tourism Resources)

The major service inputs to building and construction include services such as property services, wholesale trade and engineering / technical services. Product inputs to residential / non-residential building and construction include structural metal, cement, lime, concrete slurry, wood products, glazing and sheeting products.

Australian capability

The (non-building) engineering construction industry is the area of the building and construction sector most open to international trade. Australian engineering construction services are highly regarded internationally. Out of Australia, engineering firms such as Leighton, John Holland, Lend Lease and Transfield regularly capture engineering and non-residential building contracts across the Asia Pacific region and in Europe and North America. The main products / services provided by the Australian industry is the provision of skilled services for the construction of heavy industrial, telecommunications and other infrastructure projects.

Government bodies

• Department of Industry Tourism Resources
• Australian Bureau of Statistics (construction industry team)

Networks and associations

• Housing Industry Association Ltd.
• National Structure and Engineering Forum (NIEF)

Service providers

• Master Builders Australia