The city's construction industry has seen a slight boost over the course of the last financial year despite fewer houses being approved for construction.
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Data released from the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicates the total value of building approved in the Griffith local government area during the 2019-20 financial year was $79.80 million, an increase from the $76.54 million approved during the 2018-19 financial year.
However, the increase comes as fewer houses were approved in the region, with a drop from 129 dwellings in the 2018-19 financial year to 91 over the last financial year to May 2020.
The increase to the city's construction industry stems from a significant jump in non-residential building - which saw a $13.56 million increase in 2019-20 to a total of $42.98 million.
MIA Master Builders Association president Anthony Forlico said while there was a decrease in new dwellings being built, there is still a significant demand for builders in the region.
"Griffith has always had a really strong residential demand for housing, it's the commercial projects that fluctuate due to economic conditions and government spending policies," Mr Forlico said.
"From my knowledge, the local residential builders are all busy and they've all got plenty of work.
"Local clients have indicated there is a 6 to 12 month wait because the builders are booked up ... that's a good sign."
However, Mr Forlico flagged an increase of out-of-region builders coming to the Griffith and netting substantial contracts, with such builders often engaging out-of-town sub-contractors which adds to local economy in the short term.
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He said local private developers and business owners play a big part in backing local builders and more commercial contracts being awarded to local builders will help ensure the city's construction industry continues to employ local tradespeople and apprentices and help the community go from strength to strength.
"I'm always a great believer of supporting local," Mr Forlico said.
"Local businesses have valuable local knowledge and provide support long after the contracts are completed.
"Local builders and subcontractors have a reputation for good quality and should be valued for their contribution to the industry."
