Master Builders CEO Ankit Sharma: The building sector’s turning point

As we move deeper into 2025, we are seeing small signs that could indicate the tide might be starting to slowly turn for the building and construction sector.

The journey out of the downturn has been long, but we are beginning to see glimmers of recovery – in the numbers, in the policy environment, and in the conversations, we’re having with our members.

The latest GDP figures confirm what many in the sector have been cautiously feeling. While the growth is modest, it marks a shift in sentiment. Economic confidence and construction activity go hand in hand. When people feel confident, they build or renovate. As well, recent reductions in the Official Cash Rate have eased access to finance, making lending more attractive.

While enquiries are up across the membership, the conversion into signed contracts remains sluggish. That said, house prices have largely stabilised, and construction costs are becoming more predictable. With mortgage rates under continued downward pressure, we believe we’ll see stronger recovery through the rest of the year.