Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) has announced a record $83.5 million investment in training and workforce development to help Queensland seize the opportunities created by its unprecedented construction pipeline.

The 2026/2027 Training Plan increases CSQ’s investment by $23.5 million from last year, reinforcing its commitment to building a skilled, resilient and sustainable construction workforce across Queensland.

The 2026 CSQ Horizon 2032 Report found that Queensland’s robust construction pipeline is expected to drive strong demand for workers as it increases from around $60 billion to a peak of around $75 billion in 2027–28, highlighting the importance of continuing to attract, train and retain skilled workers.

Developed in partnership with industry and supported by the Queensland Government, the Training Plan strengthens workforce capability, expands participation, boosts productivity and helps businesses invest in their people.

CSQ Chair Sue-Ann Fresneda said the record investment reflected the scale of opportunity ahead and the importance of investing now in the people who will deliver it.

“Queensland’s construction pipeline presents a generational opportunity for the state. By investing now in attraction, training and retention, we can build the skilled workforce needed to support growth across housing, infrastructure, energy projects and preparations for Brisbane 2032,” Ms Fresneda said.

“This is a major commitment to the people, businesses and skills that will help Queensland build for the future.

“Our Training Plan is focused on practical support for businesses, workers, apprentices and future entrants so Queensland has the workforce capability it needs for the years ahead.”

CSQ has partnered with the Queensland Government to invest $8.5 million in 2026-27 in employer incentives, launching the new TradieStart program and expanding the Small Business Apprenticeship Program to help 4,500 construction businesses employ and train apprentices.

Another key investment in the future workforce will be $4 million for a new Supporting Women in Construction grants program designed to support industry-led projects to strengthen opportunities for women in Queensland’s construction industry.

“If we want a strong construction workforce tomorrow, we need to invest in apprentices today. We also need to attract more people into the industry and support them to build long-term, rewarding careers,” Ms Fresneda said.

“Women represent one of the greatest opportunities for workforce growth in construction, which is why we’re making a long-term commitment to support participation, inclusion and career development across the industry.”

The Training Plan also introduces more flexible and accessible training options for busy construction workers and employers. Expanded skills assessment and training options, alongside new industry-led micro-credentials and skill sets, will help workers build capability, gain recognised qualifications and respond to emerging industry needs.

Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates said Queensland’s future would be built by skilled workers, strong businesses and practical partnerships between government and industry.

“The Crisafulli Government has an incredibly ambitious vision for Queensland, and behind every home, hospital, stadium and road which needs to be built is the skilled workforce we’re delivering,” Minister Bates said.

“We are turning the tide on the skills shortages we inherited and are committed to creating pathways to work for every Queenslander who wants to play their part in building the future of our state.”

“We need strong partnerships with organisations like CSQ to continue rebuilding our pipeline of skilled workers by backing apprentices and the businesses who put them on.”

“Queensland’s construction sector is evolving, and this plan ensures our workforce evolves with it,” Ms Fresneda said.

“By investing in skills, people and partnerships today, we’re creating the workforce capacity needed to support Queensland’s future growth.”