The restoration industry plays a vital role in protecting, preserving, and rebuilding the built environment. From responding to fire and water damage, to mitigating mould and environmental hazards, restoration professionals are central to the safety, resilience, and functionality of our buildings and infrastructure. Their expertise ensures that communities recover quickly and sustainably following disasters.
Now in its second year, the RIA State of the Industry Survey builds on the foundation laid in our inaugural report. This survey is designed to deliver an evolving, data-driven understanding of the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the restoration sector in Australasia. Some questions in the following survey will track year-on-year benchmarks and will be revisited at the National Conference, while others reflect current economic, environmental, political, or societal conditions as they affect our industry.
The survey takes only 15 minutes to complete, but it helps contribute to a collective snapshot of our industry.
Understanding the Industry Landscape
This survey provides an annual snapshot of the restoration sector—capturing data on business size, workforce demographics, service areas, and revenue streams. This allows us to identify growth patterns, regional variations, and areas of opportunity or concern.
Tracking Emerging Technologies and Practices
Restoration is a rapidly evolving field. Survey responses help us gauge the uptake of innovations such as AI-powered damage assessment tools, digital job management systems, and sustainable materials—informing both training needs and investment priorities.
Identifying Challenges and Pain Points
Restoration professionals face increasing complexity—from compliance and insurance pressures to workforce shortages and supply chain issues. The survey gives restorers a voice to highlight what’s holding their business back and where support is most needed.
Highlighting Environmental and Resilience Factors
With climate-related events on the rise, the restoration industry is on the frontline of disaster response and future-proofing. This survey gathers insights on how professionals are responding to extreme weather, adapting practices, and embedding sustainability.
Strengthening Workforce Development
The need for qualified and skilled personnel continues to grow. By collecting data on training needs, certification uptake, and diversity and inclusion efforts, we aim to inform better pathways for workforce growth and professionalisation.
Understanding Market Trends and Economic Impact
From pricing models and insurer relationships to demand drivers and competitive pressures, this survey helps us chart the market dynamics shaping the restoration industry. It also helps quantify the sector’s contribution to the broader economy—critical for our advocacy and recognition.
Summary
This survey is more than a data collection tool—it is a roadmap. Restorers insights will help the RIA Australasia strengthen our advocacy, improve standards, and lead initiatives that reflect the needs and aspirations of the industry. By participating, participants are helping build a stronger, more sustainable, and better-prepared restoration sector.