Construction Management Salaries on the Rise in Queensland’s Coastal Cities
Queensland’s construction industry is evolving rapidly, and nowhere is this more evident than in its coastal cities. Traditionally, the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast lagged behind Brisbane in salaries for construction management roles. But in the past two years, that gap has closed—fast.
At Your Resourcing Group, we’ve been recruiting construction professionals in Queensland for over 15 years. This shift is one of the most significant industry trends we’ve witnessed. Salaries in coastal regions have surged by more than 20%, matching those in Brisbane.
But what’s driving this transformation? The answer lies in booming infrastructure projects, a growing tourism sector, and intense competition for skilled talent.
Let’s dive deeper into why construction professionals (especially in management) are now seeing some of the best opportunities beyond Brisbane.
1. The Boom on Coastal Construction Projects
Queensland’s coastal cities are no longer just lifestyle destinations, they’re becoming major economic and infrastructure hubs. Large-scale developments have created an urgent demand for skilled construction professionals, particularly in management roles.
Gold Coast
- The city’s construction sector is thriving with ongoing projects like the Light Rail Expansion, major commercial builds, and residential high-rises.
- Government incentives and private investments have turned the Gold Coast into a construction hotspot.
Sunshine Coast
- The Maroochydore City Centre Project alone is expected to create over 30,000 jobs and inject $5.9 billion into the economy by 2040.
- The rise in infrastructure, commercial developments, and large-scale residential projects has fueled demand for mana
2. The Olympics & Paralympics Games 2032
One of the biggest drivers of construction growth in coastal Queensland is the upcoming 2032 Brisbane Olympics and Paralympics. While Brisbane will host most events, the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast are seeing a surge in construction projects to accommodate tourism demand, including:
✅ New luxury hotels and resorts
✅ Upgrades to transport and infrastructure
✅ Expansion of sporting and entertainment venues
This massive investment is not only boosting the number of projects but also increasing the need for skilled construction professionals to manage them.
3. Labour Market Shifts & Competitive Salaries
A Stronger Demand for Skilled Managers
Construction management roles are at the heart of every successful project. Given the industry’s growth in coastal Queensland, companies are competing for best talent, leading to higher salaries and better job security.
Some of the most in-demand roles include:
Project Manager
Overseeing the entire construction process, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.
Site Manager
Responsible for day-to-day operations on-site, ensuring compliance with safety standards and construction schedules.
Contracts Administrator
Managing contracts, cost control and project documentation, is an essential role in maintaining financial oversight.
Estimator
Providing cost projections to ensure financial viability and competitive pricing in tendering.
4. How Salaries Have Changed in Coastal Queensland
Previously, Brisbane offered noticeably higher wages than the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast. However, over the last two years, the wage gap has closed as companies in these regions increase salaries to match metro levels.
Your Resourcing Group has seen wages rise by over 20% for construction management roles, influenced by:
- Industry trends and increased competition for talent.
- Cost of living adjustments in coastal areas.
- Government policies and union agreements shaping fair wage structures.
The Building and Construction General On-site Award provides a benchmark for wages, and as demand continues to grow, salaries for experienced professionals remain highly competitive across Queensland.
What This Means for Employers & Job Seekers
For Employers:
- Be prepared to offer competitive salaries to attract and retain skilled professionals.
- Ensure that recruitment strategies align with market trends to secure top talent.
For Job Seekers:
- The coastal cities are now as financially rewarding as Brisbane, with the added benefit of lifestyle perks.
- If you have experience in construction management, contract administration, or estimating, now is the perfect time to explore opportunities.
YOUR Next Step in Construction Management Starts Here
At Your Resourcing Group, we specialise in connecting top construction professionals with the best opportunities across Queensland. Whether you’re looking for the right hire or your next career move, our expertise ensures you find the perfect fit.
Get in touch with us today and let’s build your future together!