The building surveying and quantity surveying professions: a toolkit informing of the professions as possible career pathways

Within the Australian economy, the construction industry is the third largest industry contributing to around 9% of the nation’s GDP (Australian Government, 2022). The industry employs more than 1 million workers, generating more than $360 billion revenue annually (ISACNT, 2021). The construction industry is incredibly diverse and offers a range of career opportunities across various areas from technical trades such as Carpentry and Plumbing through to professions including Engineering and Construction Management. However, Building Surveying and Quantity Surveying, both vital to the industry, are often little known professions yet offer viable career pathways. Across the industry the two professions of Building Surveying and Quantity Surveying are facing a severe skills shortage (Infrastructure Australia, 2021), particularly as a large percentage of professionals are due to retire in the next decade yet low numbers are moving into these areas often due to a lack of career visibility. These professions may offer suitable work opportunities given their flexibility, salaries and that practitioners are in high demand given the severe industry shortage. Therefore, the intent of this Toolkit is to raise awareness of the professions of Building Surveying and Quantity Surveying: to provide information and assist with career decision making.