Perth Architecture and Design Market Update 2026

The Perth market is buoyant and opportunity-rich, fueled by robust demand in healthcare expansions, major infrastructure investments, strong residential growth, and emerging data/digital sectors. Resource-linked industrial and commercial work provides added stability.

The market offers solid prospects with competitive salaries, project confidence in key areas, and Perth’s enviable lifestyle edge. 

Sector Buoyancy
• Healthcare is robust, supported by ongoing expansions of hospitals, clinics, and specialist facilities driven by population growth and ageing demographics.

• Infrastructure is very strong with sustained government funding for transport, utilities, energy transition, and urban development projects.

• Residential is very active: single homes showing strong demand, price growth, and scarcity; multi-residential growing through medium-density and infill developments amid affordability priorities.

• Education is steady with consistent school expansions and tertiary facility upgrades.

• Data/digital infrastructure continues to emerge, increasingly integrated into mixed-use and strategic precincts.

• Industrial is resilient with persistently low vacancies in mid-sized facilities tied to mining and logistics.

• Commercial/mixed-use is moderate and resilient; retail is stronger in neighbourhood and suburban formats than CBD. 

Challenges
• Tight talent pool, particularly at mid to senior delivery level.

• Cost pressure and construction capacity risks forcing redesign and programme shifts.

• Housing feasibility constraints around servicing and approvals, slowing some infill schemes.

• Patchy CBD commercial and retail activity, stronger in mixed-use and suburban locations.

Job seeker priorities
• Salary is the non-negotiable leader, with candidates prioritising immediate financial gain over “soft” perks.

• Proof of Buildability is now a top interview question. Candidates want to know a project is fully funded and likely to go to site.

• Structured mentorship, particularly for junior-to-mid-career staff who feel they missed out on-site experience during previous downturns.

• Authentic studio culture.