Representatives of numerous industries across the Bundaberg Region are pooling their collective talents in an endeavour to prepare the local jobs market for any required future skills.
An industry reference group established to drive the Bundaberg Regional Skills Investment Strategy (RSIS) met for its inaugural meeting at Council last week with representatives from the agricultural, construction, health, youth and employment sectors represented.
Reference group chair Ben Artup, Council’s Executive Director of Strategic Projects & Economic Development, said the RSIS is a two year program funded by the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training.
“The aim is to partner with local industry in identifying current and emerging industry opportunities that promote job creation and address any potential for skills shortages within any existing industry.
“The group will also liaise with the State Government regarding any required vocational training response to meet perceived industry needs.”
Mayor Jack Dempsey said he was excited at the potential outcomes that could emerge through the collaborative efforts of the group.
“Given the high unemployment we experience across the Bundaberg Region it is important we have a trained workforce ready to engage with industry as it evolves.
“”The group is comprised of very experienced and successful people in the fields of agriculture, construction and health and they will have a visionary approach to identifying the growth of industry across our region,” said Mayor Dempsey.
“It is vitally important that we have a trained workforce ready to accept the challenges created by new industry opportunities and the plans in place to bridge any skills gap.
“The reference group will integrate perfectly with Council’s initiatives to promote business opportunities, encourage development and create sustainable employment paths,” said Mayor Dempsey.
