412- Brick Shortage Update ft. Michael McGowan

Host Trent Fleskens interviews Michael McGowan about Western Australia’s brick shortage, its causes, industry impacts, and solutions. McGowan explains WA went from three brick manufacturers to effectively one after ACCC-approved consolidation and Austral mothballed its Cardup plant, leaving Midland/BGC operating only five kilns (down from 11) at capacity. With 85% of homes using bricks (70% double brick, 15% veneer) and commencements around 26,000, Midland introduced an allocation system based on 12‑month purchase history, typically delivering about 50–70% of prior volumes, hitting small builders hardest and delaying projects and progress payments. Proposed responses include pivoting to timber/steel or brick veneer via concurrent permitting and engineering sign-off, assessing labor/material capacity and financing impacts. Government funding aims to restart Cardup by March/April, with imports/interstate supply also explored; the disruption may last about 12 months and accelerate a longer-term shift toward more framed construction. Consumers are urged to be patient, communicate with builders, and consider alternative construction methods