Construction work on the rise

The construction sector is showing signs of improvement, with the latest figures revealing a positive September quarter, which is likely to result in increased mini loaders and bobcat hire. 

A turnaround in the engineering construction industry was the primary driver behind the result, which Master Builders Australia (MBA) has described as "unexpected".

Figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed the value of residential building work completed over the three-month period climbed 1 per cent, seasonally adjusted.

The MBA said this upward trend is likely to continue, while a 3.9 per cent rise in non-residential building projects was a "welcome reversal" from the doldrums experienced over the last year or more.

Chief executive officer of the organisation Wilhelm Harnisch said the news is a cause for optimism among builders, who are now more positive about the industry's performance over the next few months.

"The data for the September quarter 2013 is adding to the building industry’s optimism that 'green shoots' of a broad building industry recovery may be around the corner," he explained.

"MBA expects that continuing low rates and the return of business confidence should underpin a strengthening positive outlook for the building industry."

Overall, total construction value was up 2.7 per cent compared with the last quarter and 1.3 per cent higher year on year.