Employment forum to generate jobs ideas for North West Queensland

Employment Minister Grace Grace will today meet with business and community leaders from across North West Queensland to discuss ideas to generate employment opportunities for local residents.

Ms Grace said the employment forum in Mt Isa would be attended by more than 40 representatives from business, industry and local government.

“Youth unemployment in North West Queensland is amongst the highest in the nation – it’s a challenge that just can’t be ignored,” he said.

“The Palaszczuk Government is fighting for jobs in Mt Isa and the north west, this means working with business and industry to kickstart employment.

“Our Accelerated Works Program is supporting vital economic development and jobs at a time the region needs them most.

“As part of this program, we’ve brought forward $440 million in capital works for northern and remote Queensland, which will support more than 950 jobs.

“Projects included in the accelerated works program for the Mt Isa area include $1 million for refurbishment of Mount Isa Fire Station and $12.6 million for Queensland Rail culvert renewals at Mount Isa.

“These are vital projects that are supporting real jobs that are vital for the local community and the local economy.

“We’re also keen to work with local business and community leaders to understand how we can capitalise on growth in industries such as health care, accommodation and professional services.”

More than 70,000 jobs have been created across Queensland since the State Election and the Palaszczuk Government’s $10 billion infrastructure program in the current budget is supporting 27,500 jobs.

Media Contact: Martin Philip 0427 919 548