What are the latest construction industry trends in Australia? This article covers green building and sustainability, the rise of construction technology (ConTech) and the use of software, drones, robotics, and more. What does the future of the construction industry in Australia look like? Read more to find out.
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The construction industry in Australia generates nearly $360 billion in revenue (or 9% of the country's GDP), but despite its role in the economy, still faces challenges such as regulatory and permit challenges, extreme weather events, safety concerns, and project delays. However, as the construction industry continually evolves, adopting new technologies, such as construction management tools, can help companies handle projects more efficiently and cost-effectively.
This article outlines the latest ConTech trends that small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) may want to consider investing in to improve project coordination, optimise operations and reduce costs, whilst positioning themselves favourably in the market.
What are common construction industry issues?
Construction problems are common as project managers must ensure building projects are on schedule, within budget and tick construction safety regulations, among other important tasks. Here are some of the biggest areas of concern within the construction industry:
1. Delays: While some contributing factors like weather-related incidences cannot be controlled, others may be prevented. Scheduling issues, complexity of projects and inadequate planning and estimation can lead to bottlenecks and delays as projects progress.
2. Budget overruns: Financial restraints or cost overruns can limit the availability of resources required to maintain the project schedule. Poor budgeting can also lead to delays and halted construction activities until funds are secured.
3. Inadequate communication: Effective communication and coordination among project stakeholders, such as contractors and suppliers, are vital, as miscommunication can lead to disruption and delays.
4. Regulatory approvals: Obtaining necessary permits and approval from local authorities can be a time-consuming process.
5. Labour shortages and skill gaps: The construction industry has needed more skills and qualified professionals for a while, and the labour shortage has been labelled as one of construction’s biggest pressures affecting the industry. The need to reassign or retrain workers can slow down the construction process.
What are the latest construction industry trends?
The evolution of the construction industry involves digital transformation through technologies like AI, software and robotics. Thanks to their innovative approaches, construction industry technologies can significantly assist companies in overcoming construction limitations or challenges that have traditionally plagued the sector. The following are construction industry trends to watch out for:
1. The use of robotics in construction
Construction robots and automation systems have become integral to on-site activities. There are many types of construction robots, from robot labourers, industrial robots, and drones to self-driving robots. Robots can perform dangerous tasks in hazardous environments, improving the overall safety of construction sites. For example, they can handle hazardous materials, inspect structures or work in confined spaces.
Industrial robots can be used for tasks such as prefabrication, welding, material handling and assembly of building components. Robotic arms can be programmed to perform various tasks like bricklaying and concrete pouring, enhancing precision and reducing labour-intensive work. Robots will not replace humans, but they can help minimise skill shortage problems and create demand for new types of skilled workers. Other potential benefits of using robots in construction include reduced errors, meeting deadlines and reducing costs.
2. Green building and sustainability
Green building, also known as sustainable construction, offers many environmental, economic and social benefits for both construction companies and clients. Green buildings are energy-efficient, which results in lower energy consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. For homeowners, green buildings have higher property values and resale prices due to their efficiency and the growing demand for sustainable real estate.
Due to increased environmental awareness, construction companies need to keep up with the market demand for sustainable buildings. Using sustainable materials can also reduce operational costs and minimise waste during the construction process, saving on disposal costs. Building information modelling (BIM) tools can aid with the design of ecological building structures, helping teams to visualise and optimise green design features.
3. Construction monitoring with drones
Drones, or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are often used in construction because of their versatility and ability to capture detailed data from above, monitoring areas that might be difficult to reach manually. Drones can be used in various ways, such as aiding site planning, surveying, and creating accurate 2D and 3D maps of construction sites. This provides data for site planning, land surveying and terrain analysis and can help with precise project design and layout.
4. The increase in ConTech
The use of construction technology, or ConTech, is on the rise and at the forefront of innovation in the construction industry. ConTech shapes how projects are planned, designed, executed and managed. The term encompasses a range of technologies, such as robotics, drones, aerial imaging, and BIM. Other examples of ConTech include:
- AR/VR integration: Augmented and virtual reality technologies are being integrated into construction workflows to help with visualisation and remote collaboration. For example, VR headsets can be used for walkthroughs of building sites
- Construction management software: These platforms can help simplify management processes, track expenses and budgets and make collaboration and sharing easier
- Digital twins for real-time monitoring: These are virtual replicas of a building. Whilst BIM diagrams show its many systems and subsystems, digital twins show the space and how people will use it. The 3D models can help optimise the performance of buildings, bridges and infrastructure systems
- Wearable technology: The wearable tech market is expected to grow to $5.73 billion USD by 2028 in Australia. Wearables in construction fall into one of three main uses: data collection, communication and worker safety. Safety and efficiency are two primary trends in construction, and smart wearables can help increase safety on sites. For example, smart helmets measure fatigue levels and alert workers or management when they are in need of a break. Smart boots are equipped with sensors to monitor motion, location, falls and fatigue
5. Circular economy and rented equipment
The circular economy approach promotes reducing waste and maximising the value of building materials by keeping them in use for as long as possible through recycling, refurbishing and reusing. Contractors can repurpose materials from deconstructed or demolished sites, such as concrete, steel and wood, and use them in new projects. Construction companies can also opt to rent or lease equipment rather than purchase it. This can reduce maintenance and storage costs and provide access to the latest specialised equipment for specific projects.
What is the future of the construction industry in Australia?
A commitment to sustainability, integration of advanced technologies and a paradigm shift towards efficiency, safety and environmental responsibility will shape the future of the construction industry in Australia. Construction companies must adapt to and keep up with ConTech trends like the ones outlined in this article to remain competitive, deliver successful projects and contribute positively to global development.
