The issue of skill shortages in regional Queensland is a major factor inhibiting the regions' economic growth and prosperity. This issue is widespread, across all regions and professions. Part of attracting skilled workers is effectively changing the perception of regional Queensland.

There is no 'one-size-fits-all' solution to the attraction and retention of professionals and skilled workers in regional Queensland. Regions have differing issues and needs, and varying levels of resources. Therefore options need to be tailored to effectively respond to individual circumstances. However, there are several support programs offered by the Australian Government and the Queensland Government designed to assist in attracting skilled workers to Australia and regional Queensland. 

Regions are at varying stages of developing skills attraction and retention strategies. Many regions are using innovative and tailor-made strategies to attract and retain skilled workers. Importantly, research has revealed that employers, industry representative bodies, professional associations and local government representatives are enthusiastic about working together and with other stakeholders toward solutions for their regions issues in attracting and retaining skilled workers. This indicates a need to develop industry responses to ensure growth of industry in regional areas.

Regional and industry strategies

• Develop industry responses
• Make your region more attractive to employees
• Change the perceptions of your region
• Mentor professionals

Business strategies

• Offer a variety of employment options
• Improve your recruitment and retention practices

This information is designed to assist regional communities, development organisations, government and businesses better understand the skills issues in their region, and offer a range of options for addressing these issues. While many of the issues are common, each region needs to identify and tailor options that provide their community with the most appropriate solutions.   

The materials and information on this site has been developed from the Institute for Sustainable Regional Development's paper Attraction and Retention of Professional Services in Rural, Remote and Regional Queensland and the SCORD publication Attracting and Retaining Skilled People: A Practitioners Guide.

Find out more information about:

• Links and further reading
• Queensland Government resources
• Australian Government resources

Email smartregions@dtrdi.qld.gov.au with feedback or comments.