THE mining boom is driving record growth in the construction sector, according to a recent survey.
The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) and Australian Constructors Association (ACA) Construction Outlook survey shows mining construction is expected to reach an annual growth rate of 12.3%.
Growth in mining and minerals processing civil projects, such as the construction and upgrading of freight and port facilities to ease export bottlenecks, is expected to drive record growth in construction.
The survey found that the construction industry faces continued cost pressures due to skills shortages and supply difficulties in the hiring and purchasing of equipment.
The Ai Group is calling for collaboration between clients and contractors if the construction industry is to maximise the benefits of the current surge in activity.
“We can no longer burden industry with the costs of tendering that are diverting valuable industry resources,” Ai Group chief executive Heather Ridout said.
“We need new, collaborative procurement models that improve coordination between public sector agencies, both state and federal,” she said.
“Ideally the industry needs three to five year visible project horizons to allow resource planning and better coordination.”
Key contact:
Australian Industry Group
info@aigroup.asn.au
www.aigroup.asn.au