“There is no better feeling than handing over a house to our clients. We love seeing young families and families that have moved to the area meet their dream of building their forever home on the South Coast”
-Sarah Sturt from Hotondo Homes South Coast
The South Coast of NSW is experiencing a surge in growth that is reshaping both its communities and its job market. With new residential estates, commercial hubs and industrial sites opening up, demand for property, construction and trade services is running hot – and showing no signs of slowing down. Already the region’s second largest employer after Health Care, this sector has become one of the strongest pathways to secure, rewarding careers.
Growth Fuelling Careers
An increasing number of people are making the move from Sydney, Canberra and beyond to enjoy the South Coast lifestyle. That shift has sparked a wave of new housing developments, while the property sales and rental markets remain robust, driving business for builders, developers and real estate services.
The boom is also driving new design trends. Sarah Sturt from Hotondo Homes South Coast has noticed a growing appetite for duplex living:
“We are definitely seeing an interest in duplex design. Whether being the ideal situation for building and living in one side, renting the other side out, or families that are building with their parents to each have a side each. We saw this trend becoming more popular, as a result we decided to build a Duplex display home to showcase the different options available.”
And the opportunities aren’t limited to housing. A pipeline of major road and infrastructure projects planned over the next decade will further lift demand for skilled workers. For both newcomers and seasoned professionals, the message is clear: this is an industry offering real stability and long-term career potential.
Local Businesses Growing with the Region
This growth can be felt across the entire network of businesses that keep the sector moving. From electricians and carpenters to interior designers and property managers, employers are actively recruiting. Many are also investing in training and apprenticeships to bring the next generation of skilled workers through.
For Stephen Cooke, owner of Cooke’s Tyres, the strength of the sector is reflected in the loyalty of his customers:
“In many ways, we’ve grown alongside our customers.”
Other businesses are seeing the same story of opportunity. Cody from A&D Tree Services is working hard to keep up with demand for arborist crews across the Shoalhaven:
“We need crews of 3 across all areas to keep up with demand. We can provide training to those eager to learn but a chainsaw certificate and truck license are required at minimum.”
For builders, it’s not just about keeping up with demand – it’s about ensuring new homes are designed to reflect the South Coast lifestyle. Sarah Sturt explains:
“When designing a new home, we trust that it is going to fit into its location. Whether coastal retreats or country residences, the location plays a big part in the design.”
These insights highlight the breadth of opportunity – from specialist trades to support services – and the commitment of local employers to building their workforce.
More Than Just a Job
For those weighing up career options, the South Coast’s property, construction and trades sector has more to offer than a payslip. This is an industry where demand is consistent, but the real rewards lie in the impact of the work. Every home built, road laid, or park landscaped contributes to the way communities live and connect.
“There is no better feeling than handing over a house to our clients. We love seeing young families and families that have moved to the area meet their dream of building their forever home on the South Coast,” says Sarah Sturt.
Equally important is lifestyle. The region’s businesses range from family-run operations to modern, tech-enabled firms, many of which offer the chance to work closer to home, avoid long commutes, and spend more time enjoying the natural beauty of the South Coast.
And it’s not only about business growth – many companies see giving back as part of their role. As Sarah puts it:
“We always give back to our community – whether through Hotondo Helping Hands, community or sports events, being embedded into the community is essential.”
Building Communities, Building Futures
Whether you’re stepping into your first apprenticeship, moving across from another industry, or seeking leadership roles, opportunities in property, construction and trades are wide-ranging and dependable. The sector is building more than structures – it’s building futures, offering locals the chance to grow their careers while contributing to the growth of their own communities.
