IndustryLindsay SaundersFri 18 Sep 26
Brick Rationing Coming to WA as Supply Struggles to Keep Up
Western Australian builders face brick rations from next month as the state’s only major brick manufacturer struggles to meet demand.
Midland Brick has told builders they will be allocated a set volume of bricks each year as with the company’s production capacity is unable to keep pace with demand.
The rationing will apply to all Midland Brick clay sales, with delivery timeframes and volumes to be defined for individual customers from October 1.
BGC, which has operated Midland Brick since 2021, said demand for its clay products remained above production capacity, driven by population growth and construction activity across WA.
BGC chief executive Michael Allan said the allocation system would give customers greater certainty around supply while demand remained elevated.
The company said WA’s brick production capacity had fallen from 11 kilns to five over the past decade.
The Housing Industry Association has been working with Midland Brick and the state government on the supply constraints affecting clay brick products.
Home Builders Action Group chairman Jason Janssen said the uncertainty around supply was creating difficulties for builders planning projects and committing to new clients.
Master Builders Association of WA chief executive Matt Moran said the industry had been managing a range of supply and capacity pressures, including brick availability.
The state is also examining options to support additional brick production and alternative construction methods that reduce or eliminate the use of bricks.
WA Treasurer Rita Saffioti said the government wanted to avoid further increases in brick prices adding to construction costs.
The supply constraints come as WA continues to experience strong demand for new housing, placing pressure on the construction industry and its ability to deliver projects.
