3D printing one way to tackle slow build times

WA is aiming to contribute 25,000 homes, but current capacity is short, with the existing workforce and supply chain only able to deliver 18,000-20,000 homes a year, according to Housing Association executive director Michael McGowan.

“To hit that number, we need to change how we build,” McGowan said.

“That means looking at 3D printing, modular housing, tiny homes – anything that can help us deliver homes faster.”

Modular homes prefabricated in factories and assembled onsite are gaining traction for their speed and efficiency, but there are hurdles in acquiring land for factory space and securing finance.

Banks have been slow to adapt, but that’s changing. The Commonwealth Bank recently expanded its lending criteria to better support prefabricated home builds, removing a key barrier for buyers.

McGowan said the next challenge was scaling printing technology.

“It’s expensive bringing in printing machines from overseas,” he said.

“To really move the needle on housing numbers, we need more widespread adoption.”

Still, with robots now laying foundations, walls and even backyard pools, the future of construction in WA is arriving fast.

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