HIA youthBuild is an initiative of the Housing Industry Association (HIA), supported by the Tasmanian Government. The program gives young people the chance to explore the building industry, build real-world skills, and gain hands-on experience while completing school and preparing for a career in construction.
HIA youthBuild is focused on Year 9 and 10 students. The program encourages career exploration and provides clear pathways into the building and construction industry. The program is designed to lead into VET training and apprenticeships, giving students an early start with trade skills and real industry experience.
HIA youthBuild is delivered in partnership with the HIA and the Department for Education, Children and Young People (DECYP) through the Youth Jobs Strategy.
What is HIA youthBuild? A high school training program for future housing industry professionals
For schools
The HIA youthBuild program is built around Trade Foundations, a set of four-week modules that give students an introduction to different trades in the construction industry. Each unit is designed so any teacher can deliver it, with options to adjust based on staff knowledge or by involving local tradespeople.
Schools can also grow the program through community projects planned together with the youthBuild team and local partners. This provides students an opportunity to use their skills in real-world situations.
youthBuild is designed to be practical, inclusive, and forward-looking. It helps students stay engaged while also supporting the growth of Tasmania’s future workforce.
For parents and students
If you’re thinking about an apprenticeship or a career in the growing building industry, youthBuild is a great way to get started. The program gives students the chance to try different trades e.g. bricklaying, carpentry, concreting, and electrical - while working on real projects with their classmates.
Students gain hands-on experience, build practical skills, and learn what it’s like to be part of a team on site. Each project is designed with industry experts, so students not only explore future career options but also get a genuine feel for what it takes to work in construction.
Construction careers
A career in the Australian construction industry offers a unique blend of challenges and rewards in shaping the nation's infrastructure. You’ll get to see what you work on every day come to life and take pride in contributing to the development of homes and businesses, improve our communities and foster our nation’s economic growth.
Popular construction trades:
I never thought I would be good with my hands, but our youthBuild project showed me what I can achieve. I am seriously considering an apprenticeship now.youthBuild student participant
Partners
Housing Industry Association (HIA)
The Housing Industry Association is the voice of Australia ‘s home building industry. HIA is unique, as the only national industry association for all building professionals, representing the interests of the whole housing industry - from trade contractors, builders, and suppliers through to product manufacturers.
Tasmanian Government
DECYP's Vocational Learning programs partner with industry to provide students with practical, hands-on training and real-world workplace skills while they're still at school. Through initiatives like work-based learning, VET qualifications, and industry partnerships, students gain the experience and confidence they need to successfully transition into further education, apprenticeships, or employment.
Keystone Tasmania
Keystone Tasmania is an independent state-wide organisation funded by a levy on building and construction projects over the value of $20,000. A Board of Directors with broad industry and education experience administers the funds to workforce development projects and training subsidy across the industry.
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