ACIF update – September 2025

The Australian Construction Industry Forum (ACIF) gathered in Brisbane in early September for a lively and productive meeting, marked by collaboration, fresh insights, and a warm farewell to long-serving Executive Director James Cameron. Angelina Pillai reports on a day of robust discussion on the challenges and opportunities shaping our industry.

The recent Australian Construction Industry Forum (ACIF) meeting in Brisbane was terrific – and a fitting farewell for James Cameron, who has served as Executive Director for nearly a decade. Shannon Battisson’s leadership set the tone for a productive day.

I was delighted to share the ACA’s national Pulse Check findings, which sparked plenty of interest, resonating with many other professions. Fee pressures, a tightening pipeline of work, staffing challenges, procurement issues, and rising business costs are common themes across the sector – a reminder of how important it is to tackle these issues together across the industry.

Some other highlights:

  •  Informative presentation by Natasha Platts (A/g Assistant Secretary, Department of Employment and Workplace Relations) on the National Construction Industry Forum and how ACIF can be part of this initiative
  • Update on the NCC pause and its implications
  • A constructive chat with Rebecca Young MP on Queensland housing, planning, and productivity – plus an invitation for further engagement with the ACA QLD/NT committee
  • Strong support for an ACIF Code of Conduct, thanks to Cathryn Greville’s (NAWIC) culture presentation.
  • Looking ahead to ACIF’s 25th anniversary celebration in November!

A big thank you to ACIF, all member associations, and Aurecon for hosting us. These meetings are a great reminder of the strength of our industry when we come together for common goals…