Addressing Skills Shortages in Queensland’s Mining, Energy & Manufacturing Sectors
Across Queensland, the mining, energy and manufacturing sectors are experiencing significant and ongoing skills shortages; a challenge that directly impacts productivity, project delivery and long-term growth.
The Demand is rising fast. With 100+ major resources and energy projects expected to progress by 2029, the sector will need to employ an additional ~26,800 workers: roughly a 9.4% increase to current workforce levels, just to meet future demand.
In an article from September 2025 by the Australian Resources & Energy Employer Association (AREEA), it is stated that Queensland’s resources and energy workforce grew 7,300 in the past 12 months, citing the state as most attractive for resource investments behind WA.
The Manufacturing sector also feels the strain. Data from Queensland’s Annual Training Plan 2025-26 highlights that job vacancies and skills shortages are a leading barrier to growth in manufacturing, where around 1 in 60 jobs remain unfilled and employers must increasingly look at training, technology and talent attraction to sustain growth.
Targeted training initiatives are underway in Queensland
To help address these gaps, the Queensland Government invested $47.7 million in targeted training and workforce programs in 2025–2026 aimed at getting nearly 5,900 Queenslanders into in-demand jobs across key industries.
These shortages are not going away on their own. They require coordinated action across industry, training providers, governments and communities to:
✔ strengthen pathways from training into employment
✔ invest in upskilling and reskilling local talent
✔ explore flexible workforce models for regional areas
The later is where PPS Consulting comes in. we focus on building workforce solutions that help employers navigate these challenges and connect them with the talent they need, both locally and through strategic offshore partnerships.
Send us your requirements at: info@pps-consulting.au
Sources:
https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/103213?
https://mining.com.au/queensland-addresses-mining-skills-shortage-amid-sector-growth/
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