Coal exports may induce skills shortage
The rise in coal exports from central Queensland may lead to a skills shortage in the state, warned Kylie Porter, chairwoman of the Mackay Chamber of Commerce.
A recent deal with China, which is expected to create 7,000 jobs in central Queensland, is the latest source of benefit to the state’s economy, but could drain workers from other areas and industries with the lure of better salaries in the mining sector.
Porter said employers should be prepared to compete for talent. “It is not just about the great money. It’s obviously important to put the whole package together, which is also family friendly, rostering, good work environment, access to ongoing training and services,” she said.
The chamber fears Mackay could lose workers from the town.
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