Addressing WA’s Housing Shortfall Crisis – Worst year for new home builds in decade: The Steel Framing Solution

The latest release from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) highlights the stark reality in Australia’s housing sector. New build numbers have hit a 10-year low*, amplifying concerns over the country’s ongoing housing crisis.

This issue is especially prominent in WA, where the demand for affordable housing has been surpassing supply, largely driven by population growth, economic activity, and rising living costs.

The latest numbers show around 2,000 new dwelling approvals in WA as of October 2024*. While reflecting some improvement, it is still far from what is needed to address the shortfall in housing supply.

Australia’s housing crisis is primarily fuelled by high construction costs, restrictive planning regulations, labour shortages, and higher interest rates, all of which have slowed the pace of new builds across the country. Western Australia is no exception, where housing approvals continue to fall below the targets necessary to meet future housing needs: Especially with rapid population growth, prompting industry experts to call for urgent measures to tackle these issues.

If only there was a way to build faster, more affordable, and with greater efficiency to meet the growing housing demand… Oh, wait.

Steel Framing: Solution for WA Housing Crisis

Steel framing is a smart, forward-thinking solution that addresses construction delays, reduces cost, and streamlines the building process to keep projects on schedule and budgets under control. Additionally, it ensures lasting quality, making it a game-changer in tackling WA’s housing crisis with efficiency, affordability, and sustainability. Here’s how  Centurion Framing System can be an impactful part of WA’s response:

2.Durability and Reduced Maintenance

Our Truecore steel solution is inherently resistant to WA’s unique climate challenges, including termites, fire, and moisture. It’s long-lasting nature not only reduces the costs of repairs but offers an affordable and stable housing options over the long term.

3. Cost Efficiency Amid High Material Prices

Advancements in steel production and prefabrication technology are making steel frames increasingly cost-competitive, even before factoring in reduced maintenance and significant on-site time savings. When compared to WA’s rising material costs for traditional construction methods, steel pricing is not only competitive but, in many cases affordable.

4. Sustainability for the Future

Steel is one of the most recyclable materials available, making it an environmentally friendly option that aligns with WA’s broader goals of sustainability . Using steel framing not only lowers the environmental footprint of each home but also aligns with initiatives for greener, more resilient housing across Australia.

The housing crisis in Western Australia has been growing for some time now, and will require industry leaders to explore innovative solutions that allows WA to supply the demand.

At Centurion Framing Systems, we have been living the solution for 8 years, delivering exceptional service to our clients and contributing to building future proofed homes to Western Australian builders.

For builders, developers, and investors – steel framing represents more than a building material—it’s a strategy for long term solutions in an uncertain housing landscape. So, it is time to get on board and be a part of the future.

*Statistics Sources:

Australian Bureau of Statistics

​Western Australian Government

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