Thinking of Buying a Bricklaying Business in Australia? Here Are 3 Vital Questions to Ask

The Australian bricklaying services industry generated $3.5 billion in revenue in 2025 across more than 9,300 enterprises, employing around 23,600 people.

Profit margins average 11.7%, with total profits of approximately $413 million. Although the industry contracted by 0.7% annually between 2020 and 2025 due to rising interest rates and weaker housing construction, it is projected to return to growth of 1.4% per year through 2030, supported by population growth and the Federal Government’s Housing Australia Future Fund (HAFF).

Demand for skilled bricklayers remains strong in both residential and non-residential markets, particularly as renovation activity rises and institutional construction expands.

1. Is the Business Financially Sustainable and Diversified?

Why It Matters:

Bricklaying revenue fluctuates with housing market cycles, but businesses that diversify into commercial, institutional, and renovation projects can achieve more consistent income.

What to Check:

• Revenue sources – New housing accounts for about 64% of industry income, while commercial and institutional projects contribute 30%, and renovations 6%.

• Profitability – Margins average 11.7%, but small contractors face pressure from price competition and higher material costs.

• Cost structure – Wages make up the largest expense (around 37% of revenue), followed by materials like bricks, pavers, and mortar.

• Cash flow management – Seasonal slowdowns in building activity can disrupt cash flow; consistent non-residential work stabilises revenue.

• Subcontracting – Most businesses operate as subcontractors to builders such as Metricon and Henley Homes, so relationship quality directly affects workload.

2. Does the Business Have a Strong Market Position and Skilled Workforce?

Why It Matters:

The industry is highly fragmented, with no company holding more than 5% of market share. Competitive advantage comes from local reputation, skilled tradespeople, and compliance with state licensing.

What to Check:

• Reputation and reliability – Word-of-mouth referrals and consistent workmanship remain key to winning contracts.

• Workforce quality – Skilled bricklayers are in short supply; labour shortages and higher wages have increased competition for qualified tradespeople.

• Licensing and training – Bricklayers must hold Certificate III in Bricklaying and Blocklaying and meet state-based licensing standards.

• Location advantage – Victoria holds over 30% of industry enterprises, supported by strong housing construction and a cultural preference for brick homes.

• Specialisation – Some firms increase competitiveness by offering services such as paving, brick fencing, or restoration work for heritage buildings.

3. Is the Business Prepared for Future Construction and Technology Trends?

Why It Matters:

Automation, sustainability, and government housing initiatives are reshaping the industry. Bricklaying businesses that innovate and adapt will be best positioned for growth.

What to Check:

• Technology readiness – Robotic bricklaying systems such as Hadrian X can lay up to 1,000 bricks per hour, signalling future automation potential.

• Housing growth – The Housing Australia Future Fund (HAFF) aims to deliver 1.2 million new homes over five years, creating significant opportunities for bricklayers.

• Non-residential growth – Demand for schools, aged-care facilities, and hospitals continues to support commercial bricklaying contracts.

• Sustainability – Builders increasingly prefer energy-efficient materials and low-waste construction processes.

• Workforce development – Industry support programs such as the Australian Brick & Blocklaying Training Foundation (ABBTF) offer subsidies to help employers train apprentices.

Ready to Invest in a Thriving Bricklaying Business?

With strong demand from housing, renovation, and public construction projects, bricklaying remains one of Australia’s most essential trades.

Success depends on maintaining skilled labour, managing costs effectively, and positioning for technological and policy-driven changes shaping the future of construction.

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