Queensland is offering a cash boost of up to $16,000 for construction businesses that hire new apprentices. It's part of a fresh boost to tackle the state's tradie shortage ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. The Queensland government's TradieStart program is set to support construction businesses with the cost of hiring 2,500 apprentices in their first two years. Construction Skills Queensland predicts worker shortages will peak at 35,000 in 2027-28, with the state facing a "super-cycle" of demand ahead of the Olympics. Queensland construction businesses will be able to register for the incentive from August 1, 2026.