Australia: Opportunity Knocks Down Under

As the construction industry shows signs of slowing in Hong Kong, over in Australia the industry is booming. With many large infrastructure and construction projects currently underway in Sydney and the acute shortages of skilled construction staff across the country, Oz could be an excellent career move for those already in Asia.

What’s On In Infrastructure

Several large infrastructure projects are underway or in the pipeline to support Sydney’s rapid population growth, including:

• WestConnex: a $16.8 billion project to widen and extend 33km (21 miles) of existing roads (underground as well as over ground) on the M4 and M5 motorways. Currently under construction with completion expected by 2023.
• Sydney Metro City & Southwest: an $11 billion project to provide two 15.5km railway tunnels crossing under Sydney Harbour and 7 new stations. Works have recently started, with completion expected in 2024.
• Paramatta Light Rail: a new 21km light rail line in Sydney, being delivered in two phases. Stage 1 is 12km and is in the final stages of the planning assessment process, with construction expected to start this year and complete in 2023. A Final Business Case is currently being prepared for Stage 2 (a 9km route) and is expected to be complete in 2018, which will confirm funding and construction timing details.

Regenerate and Renew

Outside of transport, redevelopment projects and the construction of a new airport are also contributing to the construction boom, including:

• Barangaroo: this $6 billion project will see the transformation of a disused container terminal into a 22-hectare waterfront precinct. Due to be complete in 2024, this mixed-used development will feature housing, hotels, public spaces, and commercial properties.
• Western Sydney Airport: construction of a new, $5.3 billion second airport for Sydney. Construction is expected to start this year, with completion set for 2026.
• Sydney Opera House Renewal: this iconic building is due for renewal, with a $202 million refurbishment process underway. Two new areas – the Creative Learning Centre and Function Centre – will be created in addition to the renewal works, with completion set for 2021.

Planning Ahead

Many employers are keen to get quality staff and will provide assistance with arranging a working visa for expatriates to help ease the transition. If your current project is coming to an end in the near future, why not consider relocating to work on one of these exciting projects in Australia to continue your career development? With the explosion of work and the shortage of skilled staff, Australia promises to be an industry hotspot for many years to come.

If you are interested in discussing any potential opportunities in Australia, please get in touch with Richard Poulter for an informal chat about your needs.

Richard Poulter
Recruitment Director, Hong Kong
I am responsible for the recruitment business in Hong Kong, Asia, and the Middle East. I was a civil engineer and project manager for 15 years before becoming a construction industry recruiter in 2004. I am based in the Hong Kong office and excel at placing professionals in engineering, project management, planning and HSEQ/risk.
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Email: richard@maximrecruitment.com