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As Brisbane gears up to host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the city is experiencing an unprecedented construction boom. This surge is driving billions in investment and transforming the landscape, making Brisbane a thriving hub for development. According to recent reports, the economic impact of the Olympics is projected to reach $275 billion by 2041, signalling a bright future for the city​.

Key Infrastructure Projects


Major projects are already underway, with the Olympics serving as a catalyst for Brisbane's transformation. The city is seeing substantial investment in transport infrastructure, including the development of the Cross River Rail and the Brisbane Metro. These projects are designed to enhance connectivity across the region, making the city more accessible for the influx of visitors, workers, and new residents expected over the next decade.


Additionally, plans for athlete villages, new sporting arenas, and other Olympic-related infrastructure are contributing to the construction boom. These developments are not just focused on the Olympics but are designed to leave a lasting legacy, positioning Brisbane as a global city long after the games conclude.

Population Growth and Migration to Brisbane


Brisbane's booming economy and rapidly developing infrastructure are attracting people from across Australia and the world. With the city’s population projected to soar, thousands are expected to move to Brisbane in search of new opportunities in construction, hospitality, and other sectors tied to the Olympics. The city’s population is forecasted to reach 3.6 million by 2041, making it one of Australia’s fastest-growing urban areas​.


This population surge is further fuelling demand for housing, which has led to a substantial increase in residential construction projects. New apartment complexes, housing estates, and commercial developments are rising to accommodate Brisbane’s growing population, creating ample opportunities for construction professionals and skilled workers alike.

Opportunities in Construction


For those in the construction industry, Brisbane’s boom offers a wealth of job opportunities. The demand for labour is increasing as the city continues to expand its infrastructure. Whether you're a tradesperson, project manager, or engineer, now is the time to consider making the move to Brisbane. With an extensive pipeline of projects lined up well into the next decade, the city promises long-term opportunities for those looking to build their careers in construction.

Looking Ahead


As Brisbane prepares for the 2032 Olympics, the city is poised to undergo one of the most significant transformations in its history. The combination of Olympic-driven infrastructure projects, population growth, and government investments is setting the stage for a promising future. The construction boom is not just about creating a world-class city for the games; it’s about building a sustainable, thriving metropolis for the future.


With new opportunities on the horizon, Brisbane is quickly becoming the place to be for professionals in construction, engineering, and urban development.

Melbourne's Regret: The Cost of Withdrawing from the Commonwealth Games


While Brisbane’s future looks promising with the upcoming Olympics, Melbourne's recent decision to withdraw from hosting the Commonwealth Games presents a unique opportunity for business development in the construction sector. In 2024, the Victorian government announced its withdrawal from the games, citing spiralling costs and concerns over the financial implications for taxpayers. The decision ultimately amounted to a staggering $596 million in costs related to planning and preparations already made for the event, which has raised questions about the state's capacity to support large-scale projects in the near future.


This shift not only positions Brisbane as the focal point for large-scale infrastructure projects but also raises questions about the potential for Brisbane to become a hub for innovation and growth in urban development. As Brisbane capitalises on the Olympic-driven construction boom, Melbourne may find itself at a crossroads. The absence of the Commonwealth Games means fewer immediate opportunities for construction in Victoria, which could hinder the region's economic growth.


However, this also creates a chance for Melbourne to reassess its strategies and strengthen its existing projects while looking to retain and attract businesses in other sectors. The competition between these two cities is heating up. As businesses and construction firms eye the opportunities in Brisbane, they may need to adapt their approaches to stand out in a market that is rapidly evolving.



The question remains: how can Melbourne leverage its existing strengths to not only retain its talent but also create new opportunities in the face of Brisbane's booming construction landscape? With the rising momentum in Brisbane, Melbourne could soon be left regretting its choice, facing a challenging road ahead while watching its rival city thrive.

Our Managing Director, Brendan Redwood, shares his thoughts on the industry's future:

“Victoria’s at a tipping point - if the government doesn’t start rolling out more projects, we’re going to lose some of our best construction and engineering talent to Queensland and Western Australia. It’s already happening, clients are shifting their teams, and candidates are chasing the work in other states where big projects are taking off. Industry leaders are worried, especially with huge housing and energy targets on the horizon. The government needs to act fast, or we’ll struggle to keep our top talent and hit those critical goals.”

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Fetch Recruitment Blog - Navigating Career Changes in Uncertain Times
April 22, 2025
In today’s economy, many professionals are feeling the weight of uncertainty, with the high cost of living being a key concern. It's no surprise that some may be more hesitant to take the leap and change jobs. But as challenging as the economic landscape might seem, there are still significant benefits to considering a career move, especially if you’re looking to align your career with exciting new opportunities. New Projects on the Horizon – A Bright Future Ahead The Construction, Civil Infrastructure, and Energy sectors are expected to see substantial growth across Australia, particularly as fresh new projects break ground this year. Whether you’re in Perth, Melbourne, Queensland, or South Australia, these markets are buzzing with activity, offering ample opportunities for skilled professionals. In Perth , several large-scale developments are underway: Burswood Park Entertainment Precinct – A £217.5 million redevelopment scheduled for completion in late 2025. Perth Airport Expansion – Ongoing works set to finish by 2026, improving capacity and international connections. Perth Concert Hall Redevelopment – Started in 2023, with completion expected in 2025, revitalising one of the city’s cultural landmarks. In Melbourne , major infrastructure projects continue to drive demand: Melbourne Metro Tunnel Project – Due for completion in 2025, set to revolutionise the city’s rail network. West Gate Tunnel Project – Expected to be operational by 2025, easing congestion and improving transport links. Renewable Energy Initiatives – The Victorian Government has committed to 95% renewable energy by 2035, boosting demand in the Energy & Renewables sector. In Queensland , infrastructure and public transport projects are booming: Queensland Rail’s New Generation Rollingstock – Ongoing, with continued investment in rail upgrades to be completed by 2026. Brisbane Metro Project – Set to greatly improve public transport efficiency, with key stages scheduled to be completed by late 2025 . 2032 Brisbane Olympics – A key driver for infrastructure development, with over $7 billion earmarked for transport, stadiums, and urban projects. In South Australia , innovation and renewables are at the forefront: Lot Fourteen Innovation Hub – Ongoing development, creating jobs in construction and technology sectors, set to be completed late 2027 to early 2028. Port Augusta Renewable Energy Park – Expected to be completed by mid-2025, supporting the state’s push toward 100% renewable energy by 2030. The Benefits of a Job Change During Uncertain Times While moving jobs during economic uncertainty might feel risky, there are real benefits to seizing the moment. The current economic climate has led to many companies adjusting their strategies, which often results in more dynamic, agile roles. If you're looking to expand your skill set, gain exposure to new industries, or simply find a position that offers more flexibility, now may be the ideal time to make your move. Additionally, many employers in the sectors we work across are offering competitive benefits and perks to attract top talent. With remote work options, flexible hours, and a focus on work-life balance, employers in these sectors are more willing than ever to offer attractive deals to skilled workers. The Growing Demand in Key Sectors The demand for skilled professionals is directly tied to these broader industry trends: Construction & Civil Infrastructure – Major projects across Australia are fuelling demand for Project Managers, Engineers, and skilled trades. This sector is seeing substantial growth, with significant investments like the $270.4 billion nationwide infrastructure boom , driving new development and creating numerous job opportunities. Corporate Services – As infrastructure expands, the need for white-collar professionals in finance, HR, and administration grows to support project delivery. There’s a steady increase in demand for professionals in these fields to keep pace with growth. Energy & Renewables – Australia is investing heavily in renewables, with the sector expected to grow 30% by 2030, increasing demand for specialists in solar, wind, and energy storage. The growth in this sector is being driven by the nation’s shift toward sustainability. Design & Engineering – As infrastructure expands, structural, civil, and electrical engineers are in high demand. The ongoing construction of major infrastructure projects across the country is creating a continuous need for these professionals. Manufacturing – A push for local production is driving opportunities for machine operators, production managers, and engineers. Increased demand for locally made products and materials is supporting this growth. Trades & Labour – There is an ongoing shortage of electricians, plumbers, and carpenters across Australia, driven by the high level of construction activity. This demand for skilled tradespeople continues to outpace supply, further intensifying the shortage. Mining & Resources – While some mining operations have faced challenges, Western Australia’s mining sector continues to perform strongly, contributing $797 billion to the economy in 2024. With a projected 5.10% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2025 to 2034 , the demand for skilled professionals like HD Fitters, Boilermakers, and Operators is expected to remain robust, ensuring sustained opportunities in the sector. Seizing the Opportunity Despite the uncertainties of the current economy, many industries, including Construction, Civil Infrastructure, Energy, and Mining, are offering tremendous opportunities for career growth. Now is an exciting time to make a move that aligns with both your personal and professional aspirations. Whether you're looking for stability, new challenges, or a role that better suits your lifestyle, the future is full of promise. As always, ensure that your next move is aligned with your long-term career goals. Don't hesitate to take advantage of the blue skies ahead. At Fetch, we’re always on the lookout for professionals in Construction, Civil Infrastructure, Corporate Services, Energy & Renewables, Design & Engineering, Manufacturing, Mining & Resources and Trades & Labour. Reach out to us today!
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