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12 March 2026

Brisbane Architecture and Design Market Update 2026

Here is what our industry experts have been seeing in Brisbane

The sector is buoyant thanks to increasing investment in the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, with Brisbane City Council’s “Design-Led City” also encouraging a strong design sector. There is a shortage of qualified people and demand is high for skilled professionals, while job seekers are themselves prioritising hybrid working and salaries due to the cost-of-living crisis. 

Sector buoyancy 

  • Brisbane’s architecture and design sector is undergoing an exciting period of growth and transformation, driven by major infrastructure projects, a rising population and the upcoming 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.  
  • The city is placing a strong emphasis on design-led solutions, with architects focused on creating developments that integrate affordable housing, green spaces and wellness-focused environments.  
  • Brisbane City Council’s “Design-Led City” strategy reinforces the importance of thoughtful, high-quality design that reflects the city’s unique character and climate.  
  • With significant economic expansion and strategic infrastructure investment, the sector has enormous opportunities ahead.  
  • At the same time, addressing skilled labour shortages will be essential to ensure Brisbane’s ambitious urban development projects are delivered successfully and on time. 

In demand roles and skills 

  • In-demand roles include Project Architects with multi-residential and infrastructure experience, Interior Designers (of all levels) with workplace / commercial experience and Landscape Architects (of all levels).  
  • Both Revit users and designers with advanced BIM skills are highly sought after.  
  • Sustainable and resilient design is strong, and urban planning too.  
  • Studios are looking for Graduates and technicians with more developed NCC skills and with increased demand for people with experience pushing DAs through council approval. 

Challenges 

  • Recruitment pressures are a challenge, driven by a shortage of skilled architects and design professionals.  
  • There is high demand for talent, rising project workloads, and multiple large-scale developments are making it increasingly competitive to attract and retain staff.  
  • At the same time, studios must navigate regulatory complexities and deliver sustainable, innovative designs within tight budgets.  
  • Strengthening recruitment strategies, investing in workforce development, and offering attractive career pathways are critical to sustaining growth in the city’s architecture and design industry. 

Job seeker priorities 

  • Work-life balance is a strong consideration, including flexible start times, and WFH for one or two days per week. 
  • Job seekers are looking for clear pathways for progression and mentorship.  
  • After the recent cost of living increases and inflation, all job seekers (especially including graduates) are seeking an increase in salary.

 

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