What are the current challenges for small-scale residential builders sourcing skilled labour in regional Victoria?

Small-scale residential builders in regional Victoria face significant hurdles in sourcing skilled labour due to a combination of factors. There is a persistent shortage of qualified tradespeople, including carpenters, plumbers, and electricians, exacerbated by an ageing workforce and insufficient new apprenticeships. The allure of higher wages and more consistent work in metropolitan areas also draws talent away from regional centres. Furthermore, the transient nature of some projects and the limited availability of local training pathways compound the difficulty for smaller builders to attract and retain the necessary skilled workforce, impacting project timelines and costs.