According to the latest figures release by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), construction activity remained sluggish in 4Q13.
4Q13 figures
- The total value of construction work done in Australia declined by 1% q/q (from 3Q13) and 0.2% y/y (from 4Q12) to AUS$53.1 billion in 4Q13.
- The value of building work undertaken stood at AUS$20.8 billion in 4Q13, representing a 1.6% q/q decrease from 3Q13 and a 0.3% y/y increase compared to 4Q12.
- The value of residential building work done was down by 1.7% q/q (from 3Q13) and 1% y/y (from 4Q12), totalling AUS$12.1 billion in 4Q13.
- The value of non-residential building work carried out stood at AUS$8.68 billion, a 1.5% q/q decline (from 3Q13) and a 2.2% y/y increase (from 4Q12).
- Engineering work, including mines, roads, bridges and other infrastructure, decreased by 0.5% q/q to A$32.32 billion in 4Q13, against 3Q13, but rose by 0.1% y/y compared to 4Q12.
The results for the quarter were weaker than anticipated and indicate that the country’s construction industry is experiencing a very slow recovery and is still struggling to grow, despite easing of cash rates.
Edited from various sources by Rosalie Starling