ITcon Vol. 30, pg. 1553-1572, http://www.itcon.org/2025/63

Exploring the determinants of Construction 4.0 implementation in Australian Construction Industry: A SWOT Analysis

DOI:10.36680/j.itcon.2025.063
submitted:May 2025
revised:September 2025
published:September 2025
editor(s):Purushothaman M B, GhaffarianHoseini A, Ghaffarianhoseini A, Rahimian F
authors:Senuri Siriwardhana
Monash University
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3478-7580
Senuri.rubasinsiriwardhana@monash.edu

Robert Moehler, Dr. (corresponding Author)
Melbourne University
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0003-2478
robert.moehler@unimelb.edu.au

Yihai Fang, Dr.
Monash University
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9451-4947
yihai.Fang@monash.edu
summary:Despite its global relevance, the Australian construction industry has been slow to adopt the digital technologies underpinning Construction 4.0. In response to growing productivity concerns, national initiatives have been launched to accelerate digital transformation. This paper supports these efforts by developing a SWOTframework to examine the determinants influencing Construction 4.0 implementation. Adopting a qualitative approach, the study draws on 23 semi-structured interviews with architects, engineers, project managers, and quantity surveyors, each selected for their professional experience and direct involvement in digital construction practices. Data were thematically analyzed using a two-cycle coding process in NVivo to map findings to a SWOT framework, ensuring rigour and transparency. The findings reveal that strengths such as enhanced productivity, collaboration, and design coordination are counterbalanced by weaknesses including fragmented governance, cost barriers, and workforce skill shortages. Opportunities include workforce diversification, standardization, and global shifts toward sustainability, while threats encompass cybersecurity, ethical concerns, and loss of experienced personnel. This comprehensive analysis highlights the internal and external dynamics shaping Construction 4.0 adoption. The results offer practical insights for policymakers and industry leaders to support strategic planning, workforce development, and a more coordinated digital ecosystem in the Australian construction sector.
keywords:SWOT analysis, construction 4.0, Australia
full text: (PDF file, 0.698 MB)
citation:Siriwardhana S, Moehler R, Fang Y (2025). Exploring the determinants of Construction 4.0 implementation in Australian Construction Industry: A SWOT Analysis, ITcon Vol. 30, Special issue Smart and Sustainable Built Environment (SASBE 2024), pg. 1553-1572, https://doi.org/10.36680/j.itcon.2025.063
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