Construction Project Management

Industry Overview

The construction industry is a significant driver of economic activity in Australia and is projected to grow by 2.4% in the next 5 years. It employs close to 1.2 million people and has the largest number of small businesses in Australia. Construction workers are employed in both residential and commercial sectors, and are involved in site preparation, building installation and structure services. The majority of workers in the sector are employed as carpenters and joiners, followed by construction managers and plumbers (Source: IBISWorld)

The number of people working as Construction Managers (in their main job) grew strongly over 5 years: from 76,300 in 2014 to 86,600 in 2019.

Insights

Average weekly earnings:  $3,450 per week

Mode of work: Most work full-time (89%)

Hours per week: full-time workers spend around 44 hours/ week at work.

Age: the average age is 44 years.

Gender: 7% workers are female

(Source: Joboutlook.gov.au)

Qualification Needed

Workers usually need a Bachelor or Higher degree in Construction. Additional experience is also required to work at this occupation.

Course Overview

Construction project managers plan, organise, direct, control and coordinate construction of civil engineering and building projects, and the physical and human resources involved in the construction process. Studies in construction management will teach you how to plan and make project schedules, estimate project costs, identify different building elements and processes.

Course Requirements

For Vocational Education Training level, most institutions require completion of Australian Year 11 or 12 (or equivalent), as well as a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 with no band score less than 5.

For Bachelor level, most institutions require completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent, as well as a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 with no band score less than 6.

Costs

A 2-year Diploma costs between $12,000 and $19,000 per year, depending on the institution. However, this occupation requires additional studies at the Bachelor level for visa purposes.

Bachelor level costs between $20,000 and $40,000 per year, depending on the institution.

Career Outcomes and PR Prospects

Construction Project Manager