Brace Yourselves, Brisbane: 2026 is Going to Be Huge
If you thought Queensland’s design and construction scene was heating up in 2025, just wait until 2026.
After a recent trip north, Lee Stevens and Nick Koop came back from Brisbane buzzing with feedback from clients — and the message was loud and clear:
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2026 is going to be absolutely nuts.
We’re talking a surge of projects across architecture, engineering, design, and construction — and a serious challenge finding enough skilled people to deliver them all.
The Buzz on the Ground
Everywhere you look in Brisbane, there’s movement. Studios are busy, consultancies are hiring, and projects are being teed up that will redefine the city’s skyline.
And the 2032 Olympics? That countdown clock is ticking louder than ever.
Recent reports revealed that Brisbane needs to build 66 hotel rooms a day to be ready for the Games. Sixty-six! Every. Single. Day.
Add to that the news that shortlisting has begun for the stadium, and it’s safe to say things are getting very real.
That means more work, more pressure on resources, and more demand for high-performing teams across Queensland.
2026: The Year of the Skills Squeeze
Clients are already calling it — there’s going to be more work than people.
Across every sector, from architecture to infrastructure, the challenge will be finding and keeping key personnel who can actually deliver the pipeline of projects on the horizon.
Here’s where the pinch is expected to hit hardest:
- Project Architects and Associates
- Senior Structural and Civil Engineers
- BIM Managers and Coordinators
- Project Managers (client-side, contractor, and development)
- Interior Designers (especially in hospitality and multi-residential)
For candidates, this means opportunity. More choice, better salaries, and the chance to work on once-in-a-generation projects.
For employers, it means one thing:
start your hiring strategy now.
Our Advice: Don’t Wait for 2026 to Knock on the Door
At Vivid Recruitment, we’ve seen market surges before — and the studios that thrive are the ones that plan ahead.
The businesses investing in their people now will be the ones ready when the floodgates open.
If you’re looking to hire in Architecture, Engineering, Urban Design, or Project Management, now’s the time to connect.
We’re already working with standout candidates who are exploring opportunities for 2026 and beyond — people you’ll want on your team before everyone else starts competing for them.
Looking Ahead
Brisbane’s skyline is about to transform.
The next 18 months will define the decade ahead for Queensland’s built environment — and the momentum is real.
So whether you’re planning to hire, grow your team, or position yourself for the next big career move, let’s talk.
Because at this rate, by 2026, Queensland will be the place to be — and we’re here to help you make the most of it.
Contact the Team
Get in touch with our guys to help you out.
Contact:
Nicholas Koop, Principal Recruitment Consultant, Engineering - π² 0426 180 254 π§ nick@vividrecruitment.com.au
Lee Stevens, Principal Recruitment Consultant, Architecture, Design, Planning - π² 0406 470 020 π§ lee@vividrecruitment.com.au
You can also connect with Lee on LinkedIn and Nick on LinkedIn or follow the Vivid Recruitment LinkedIn page for more industry insights, news, jobs and general chit chat and tips!
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