In recent discussions surrounding Australia’s escalating housing crisis, real estate coach Tom Panos has pinpointed two key players he believes are exacerbating the problem: tradies and developers. As homebuyers find themselves increasingly shut out of the market due to soaring prices and a dwindling availability of properties, Panos’s insights shed light on underlying issues affecting the construction sector.
The Construction Cost Challenge
Tradies, or tradespeople, have come under scrutiny by Panos for their rising wage expectations. He mentions that some bricklayers believe they deserve up to $900 per day, significantly inflating labor costs for developers. This increase in remuneration demands translates to construction expenses that are now 30% higher in 2025 compared to pre-Covid levels, according to the Property Council of Australia.
Furthermore, Panos argues that a construction problem, not merely a housing shortage, defines the current crisis. The expenses necessary to build have surged by 40-50%, creating a barrier for developers.
Delays and Developer Hesitance
In addition to labor costs, the ongoing delays in project approvals have contributed to the sluggish pace of new housing developments. Panos notes that approval delays have grown to approximately 40%, further reducing the incentive for developers to enter the market. The complexities of starting new projects deter many, leaving housing demand unmet. As Panos suggests, “There is no developer that is going to pull their finger out and sign a contract,” thereby reinforcing the concern that the combination of high costs and delays is stifling the construction industry.
Legislative Changes and the Search for Tradies
Interestingly, recent legislative changes in New South Wales have sought to reduce red tape for new developments. Modifications to land requirements make it easier to build duplexes, thereby encouraging construction. However, according to Panos, the actual challenge lies in finding qualified tradespeople to undertake the work. The shift in many tradies opting to work independently at higher pay has made it difficult for developers to secure enough labor.
The Global Cost Comparison
Panos illustrates the severity of Australia’s construction costs by contrasting them with other countries such as the UK, USA, and Canada, where expenses range from $5,480 to $6,100 per square meter compared to $14,000 to $18,794 in Australia. This vast discrepancy highlights the financial strain on developers and further complicates the housing crisis.
Conclusion
Tom Panos’s assertions about the role of tradies and developers in Australia’s housing crisis paint a complex picture of an industry in distress. Builders face skyrocketing costs, bureaucratic delays, and significant challenges in securing labor. As the public response to Panos indicates, the sentiments within the trades community reflect a broader frustration with systemic issues within the housing sector.
Ultimately, addressing these challenges will require collaboration between government entities, developers, and tradespeople to create a sustainable solution. Whether through incentivizing development or re-evaluating wage expectations, open dialogue and actionable strategies must be prioritized to alleviate the existing housing woes. How can we foster this collaboration to ensure a more accessible housing market for future generations?返回搜狐，查看更多
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