There was a 3.3 per cent increase in the volume of engineering construction work done during the September 2024 quarter, according to new data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
This was predominately driven by a strong 5.5 per cent expansion in public sector projects.
However, private sector engineering construction work saw a more modest increase of 1.4 per cent during the quarter.
Quotes attributable to Shane Garrett, Chief Economist, Master Builders Australia:
鈥淓ngineering construction is now one of the economy鈥檚 strongest performers, and is keeping economic growth above the waterline.
鈥淭he contribution of public infrastructure work is crucial: activity here is +13.4 per cent higher than a year earlier.
鈥淏oosting our stock of infrastructure like this means that our economy will have more room to growth over the long term and reduces inflationary pressures re-emerging in the future,鈥 Mr Garrett said.
Quotes attributable to Denita Wawn, CEO Master Builders Australia:
鈥淲hen the building and construction industry is strong, so too is the economy. For every $1 million invested into the industry, $3 million is returned to the economy.
鈥淚nvestment in engineering construction like roads, rail and other critical infrastructure, plays a crucial role in addressing the housing crisis.
鈥淧rivate sector demand has been lacking in momentum for some time and the upcoming federal budget needs to address this,鈥 Ms Wawn concluded.