1. Introduction

Job opportunities in the building industry are booming. August employment figures showed that 50,000 people had entered the industry nationally in the previous six months. Total employment in New South Wales reached an all time high (P.C. Ausstats, Labour Force Statistics).

At the same time traditional employment opportunities for young Australians in the building industry have dwindled. The take-up of apprenticeships continues to decline in the non-trades areas and Australian young people face competition from backpacker labour for scarce jobs.

The Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (Construction and General Division) (CFMEU) is committed to pursuing policies that foster an environment which encourages the creation of employment and training opportunities for young people. Our focus is strongly on Jobs with a Future; recognising that a well paid and highly skilled workforce will ensure that our industry remains strong and productive in the next century.

The CFMEU recognises that policies in relation to outsourcing, taxation, wages, training and migration all impact on youth employment in the construction industry. In this paper we examine each of these issues and highlight their impact on the ability of the industry to generate employment opportunities for young people. In the conclusion we attempt to point to the way forward, towards Jobs with a Future.

United we bargain - Divided we beg.

Contact the National Office, Construction Division at:
Level 12, 276 Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
Ph: 02 8524 5800
Fax: 02 8524 5801
Email: queries@fed.cfmeu.asn.au

Postal address: PO Box Q235, Queen Victoria Building Post Office, Sydney NSW 1230.