The WA mining and civil construction sectors are always evolving, shaped by economic conditions, technology, safety standards and workforce availability. As we look ahead to 2026, businesses are already asking what labour hire will look like in the years to come. Planning early is the best way to stay competitive, attract the right people and keep projects moving.
At HSS, we work closely with clients and workers across Perth and regional WA, which gives us a clear view of how the industry is shifting. Here are the labour hire trends we expect to see shaping mining and civil projects in 2026.
Rising demand for skilled operators and trades
Mining and civil projects continue to expand, and with them the demand for highly skilled workers. Operators with multiple tickets, tradespeople with specialist experience and workers who can step into leadership roles will be in particularly high demand. Employers who focus on retention and offer opportunities to upskill will find it easier to secure talent as competition grows.
Greater focus on retention and workforce stability
In recent years, turnover has been one of the biggest challenges for WA projects. That pressure will not disappear. By 2026, we expect retention strategies to be a major priority for employers. Businesses that invest in worker wellbeing, consistent rosters and leadership development will have a clear advantage. Long-term labour hire partnerships will play an important role in providing workforce stability.
Technology driving recruitment and site operations
Digital platforms, automation and new equipment will continue to shape mining and civil workforces. Recruitment technology will speed up hiring, making it easier to connect employers with qualified candidates quickly. On site, advancements in equipment will require workers who are tech-savvy and adaptable. Labour hire providers who keep pace with these changes will be essential in supplying workers with the right skills.
Safety as a competitive edge
Safety has always been central to mining and civil, but by 2026 we expect it to become a defining factor in workforce attraction. Workers are more likely to stay with employers who take safety seriously and back it up with strong culture and systems. Labour hire partners that embed safety into every step of recruitment will be in demand.
Flexibility in workforce planning
With project pipelines constantly changing, flexibility will be key. Employers will need to scale their workforces up or down quickly without sacrificing quality or safety. Labour hire providers who can adapt to shifting demands and maintain strong pools of qualified workers will be critical in keeping WA projects on track.
What this means for WA mining and civil projects
For employers, these trends highlight the importance of building strong relationships with labour hire partners who understand the local market. Securing skilled workers, reducing turnover, maintaining safety and planning ahead will separate the businesses that thrive from those that fall behind.
For workers, it means opportunity. The demand for skilled, reliable and adaptable people will remain strong. Those who are willing to upskill and embrace new technologies will find themselves in high demand.
The HSS perspective
At HSS, we see 2026 not as a challenge but as an opportunity. Our role is to help employers in Perth and regional WA prepare for the future by connecting them with the right people today. By focusing on retention, safety, skill development and long-term partnerships, we help our clients build workforces that are ready for what comes next.
If you want to stay ahead of the labour hire trends shaping mining and civil projects in WA, talk to the team at HSS. Together we can plan for the future and make sure your workforce strategy is ready for 2026 and beyond.
