Tradies in short supply: report

BRICKLAYERS and three other major trades remain in short supply across the country, a survey by the Housing Industry Association has found.

The HIA quarterly trades report found modest growth in skilled labour prices, and despite weak housing conditions a shortage of skilled labour remained.

HIA chief economist Harley Dale said the report showed a shortage of bricklayers, ceramic tilers, painters and plumbers.

"These results provide compelling evidence of a structural shortage of skilled labour within the residential construction industry," he said.

"Otherwise a large surplus of skilled labour would have emerged by now amidst very weak housing conditions, but that simply hasn't happened."