Work for Queensland Expo for Brisbane jobseekers

Brisbane jobseekers are being encouraged to stake their claim in the booming resources sector at today’s Work for Queensland Mining and Jobs Expo in Boondall.

Attending today’s Expo, Employment Skills and Mining Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the demand for skilled workers is at an all-time high.

“There are thousands of vacancies on the books in the resources sector and we want to give Brisbane jobseekers every chance to fill those jobs and share in the boom times,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“We’re looking at 38,000 jobs in mining and construction over the next few years and we want to give as many Queenslanders as possible the chance to carve out a career in the resources sector.

“With our Jobs Expos and our free Resources 101 courses, we’re giving Queensland jobseekers the best possible chance to take up the many opportunities on offer.

“We expect over 6500 people to attend today’s Expo. It’s a chance for jobseekers to find out more about the resources sector – the types of jobs in high demand and how they can match their skills or learn new ones to get a foot in the door.”

The Work for Queensland Mining and Jobs Expo is being held at Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Melaleuca Drive, Boondall, between 12 noon and 6pm.

Mr Hinchliffe is also encouraging locals to have their say on the Bligh Government’s Mines to Minds policy.

“At the heart of it, is our new Education Trust - $1.8 billion over ten years from future LNG royalties. It’s our investment in the skills and training of a budding, new generation of Queenslanders.

“We want people to have their say on how those funds could be used. For instance, they could fund TAFE and university scholarships, provide tools for apprentices, tuition fees, education and training initiatives beyond the basics and beyond school years, living expenses and travel expenses for students in regional Queensland – the opportunities are endless.

“Importantly, the trust will create opportunities for young people that their parents didn’t have.

“Visit the Get Involved website to have your say before the deadline of February 17 - http://www.getinvolved.qld.gov.au/gi/consultation/205/view.html.”

Media Inquiries: Minister’s office - (07) 3227 8819 / 0428 199 933