Regional building approvals figures released
Published: 19 January 2012
The November 2011 Building Approvals regional figures released yesterday by the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveal news of positive growth across the majority of Queensland’s regional centres, according to Master Builders, Queensland’s peak body for housing and construction.
Master Builders Director of Housing Policy, Paul Bidwell said that, with the exception of the Burnett & Wide Bay region, all areas recorded positive growth for new housing.
“These results are in line with the increase to total dwelling unit approvals for Queensland, which rose by 6.6% (seasonally adjusted) and the increase by 10.8% of private sector house approvals,” Mr Bidwell said.
“We’ve been anticipating an improvement for some time, and as favourable conditions have emerged assisted by the building boost, it seems that the tide might be finally starting to turn for building activity across Queensland.
“One region that particularly stands out is Mackay, where new home approvals rose by 59% from 95 in October 2011 to 151 in November 2011 – a great result and one that can be largely attributed to the booming mining sector in that region.
“While the improvement is positive news, we must remember that these figures are just for one month and the level of building activity across the state generally remains well below last year’s levels, which is why we have welcomed the extension to the state government’s Building Boost Grant.
“We’re anticipating conditions in the early part of 2012 will remain fairly tough, but providing the European economy holds steady and as more work comes into the market as a result of the extended stimulus, we are confident the worst is behind us and the recovery will really take hold during 2012.
“Another rate cut from the Reserve Bank of Australia when it meets in February will also go a long way to improving consumer confidence and further strengthening the building and construction industry’s recovery.”
New house approvals – by region
- Brisbane & surrounds – increased by 24% from 519 to 644
- Gold Coast – increased by 7% from 105 to 112
- Sunshine Coast – increased by 18% from 90 to 106
- Darling Downs & South West Queensland – increased by 9% from 103 to 112
- Burnett & Wide Bay – decreased by 34% from 128 to 84
- Central Queensland – increased by 24% from 133 to 165
- Mackay & Whitsunday – increased by 59% from 95 to 151
- North Queensland – increased by 25% from 97 to 121
- Far North Queensland – increased by 30% from 56 to 73
Media enquiries:
Julie Russell, Manager – Corporate Affairs via email or phone (07) 3225 6436 or 0414 083 191
