August 20th, 2026HIA proudly supporting National Skills Week
HIA is proudly supporting National Skills Week this year by highlighting the construction industry’s many and diverse career opportunities.
“This year ‘Life Changing’ is the theme of National Skills Week which provides an important focal point to address the severe labour shortages in residential building by raising the profile of Vocational Education and Training,” stated HIA Managing Director Jocelyn Martin.
“It brings stakeholders together to promote apprenticeships, attract school leavers and career changers, and highlight diverse, well-paid trade and professional career pathways.
“To build the homes Australia needs we must elevate the status, value and profile of vocational education and training. Misconceptions about trade and skills-based careers must be challenged and the diverse education pathways showcased. National Skills Week is an opportunity to address industry needs by challenging perceptions, highlighting diversity and empowering individuals.
“This means dispelling outdated myths by showing its relevance, strong earning potential and essential role in the modern economy. It also means highlighting the broad range of career pathways available, from traditional trades to emerging fields such as green energy, modern methods of construction and prefabrication.
“She Builds the Future is a HIA initiative that encourages more women and girls to explore rewarding careers in the residential building industry. Through education, industry engagement, events and training opportunities, the program showcases the diverse career pathways available in construction and inspires the next generation of talent to consider a future in the sector.
“Skills-based learning can be a life-changing pathway that builds confidence, purpose and access to meaningful work. Whether in carpentry, bricklaying, plumbing, electrical work or roofing, an apprenticeship provides valuable skills and opens the door to strong career opportunities across the industry.
“Many of the construction industry’s largest and most successful businesses were founded by people who began their careers in a trade.
“Building today’s high-tech, energy-efficient homes relies on skilled teams of designers, drafters, architects, engineers, energy assessors, surveyors, scientists and manufacturers.
“National Skills Week provides a valuable platform for governments and industry bodies to promote apprenticeship incentives, including the $10,000 Key Apprenticeship Program in housing construction, as well as group training schemes that mentor new apprentices and reduce financial risk for small building businesses.
“Throughout National Skills Week and the ‘Life changing’ theme, HIA is encouraging school leavers of 2026 and career changers nationwide to explore the opportunities available in the housing industry,” concluded Ms Martin.
