The survey of 200 firms by Australia Industry Group (AIG) and the Housing Industry Association showed that the commercial and engineering sectors enjoyed healthy growth, with employment making the biggest increase since January 2008.
AIG Associate Director of Public Policy Peter Burn said “The construction industry has started 2010 on a positive note with a solid rise in new business driving growth in activity and a lift in employment.”
“The improved conditions in January coincided with the reporting of increased tendering opportunities, new contract wins and a further uptake of work stemming from the Federal Government’s infrastructure stimulus programs,” he said.
The survey’s measure of employment rose 6.5 points to 59.1 as firms took on more workers to meet increased orders. Wages growth also picked up to a reading of 63.5, and firms reported increases in both input and selling prices.
These results come after a recent KPMG survey released in December 2009 which showed that the building industry was optimistic about its future prospects in the global financial crisis.
To read the full study undertaken by AIG and the Housing Industry Association, click here.