Western Australia's construction industry has faced significant disruption over the past five years, with rising costs, supply chain challenges, and economic uncertainty contributing to the loss of hundreds of registered builders and many more contractors across the state.

As the housing market continues to grow and demand for new homes intensifies, rebuilding the builder base is critical — and that starts with supporting new entrants through the builder registration process.

“The pathway to becoming a registered builder in WA is rigorous, and rightly so,” said HIA Executive Director WA, Michael McGowan.

“It ensures quality, safety, and accountability across the industry. But for many aspiring builders, the process can be complex, costly and difficult to navigate — particularly for those transitioning from trades or small business ownership.

“HIA are pleased to support the WA Government's Builder Support Program and the renewed focus on helping new builders not only through the registration process, but also in equipping them with the business, regulatory and project management skills needed to succeed long-term.

“Builder registration is more than a licence — it's a gateway to opportunity, and without the right support we risk losing talented tradespeople who are ready to step up but don't have the tools or guidance to make the leap,” said Mr McGowan.

Support will include mentoring programs, targeted training in business and compliance, and support to gather the right information to complete the registration process the first time.

“These initiatives will help ensure new builders are not only approved but are set up for sustainable success in a challenging market.

“With WA's housing supply under pressure and the need for medium and high-density development growing, the state cannot afford to lose momentum. Encouraging and enabling new builders to enter the market is essential to meeting housing targets and maintaining industry capacity.

“Fee-Free TAFE and apprenticeship programs are helping attract new talent into the trades, now we need to complete the pipeline by supporting those ready to become builders — because without builders, we don't build homes.

“The construction industry is ready to work with government and regulators to develop practical, scalable solutions that support new builders and strengthen the sector. With the right investment and collaboration, WA can rebuild its builder base and ensure a resilient, skilled workforce for the future,” said Mr McGowan.