IPSWICH has emerged as one of Australia’s unemployment hotspots, with the region’s jobless rate climbing to 6.3 per cent, placing it among the five worst affected regions in the nation.
The latest Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) figures paint a troubling picture for one of Queensland’s fastest-growing communities, with unemployment well above the State average of 4.5 per cent and the national rate of 4.7 per cent.
The reported figures rank the broader Ipswich region fifth nationally, behind regions including Parramatta at 6.8 per cent, while neighbouring Logan–Beaudesert recorded 6.1 per cent.
The figures come as Australia’s unemployment rate reached 4.7 per cent in September, its highest level since October 2021, with employment falling by 39,300 positions and approximately 732,000 Australians out of work.
Regional Development Australia Ipswich and West Moreton estimates the city’s population increased by more than 41,000 people over five years, reaching 268,272 residents in June 2025.
Rapid development across Springfield, Ripley, Redbank Plains and surrounding suburbs has transformed the region, bringing new families, businesses and investment.
Redbank Plains resident Arthur Dank, 42, said months of unsuccessful job applications had left him frustrated.
“I’ve been applying for jobs every week, and half the time you don’t even get a response,” Mr Dank said.
“The bills don’t stop coming just because you’re out of work.”
Construction, manufacturing, logistics, transport, healthcare, education and community services remain major sources of employment across Ipswich, with industrial and commercial investment continuing throughout the region.
However, the latest unemployment figures highlight the challenges facing residents trying to access those opportunities.
Limited public transport, lengthy commutes, childcare costs and a mismatch between available positions and workers’ qualifications can create additional barriers, particularly in rapidly expanding outer suburbs.
And while thousands of residents are searching for employment, others are already working more than one job simply to keep up with the cost of living.
Ripley mother of two Sara Mitchell, 36, said working two jobs had become a financial necessity.
“I work five days a week in my main job and pick up extra shifts on weekends. By the time I pay rent, electricity, groceries and fuel, there’s not much left,” Ms Mitchell said.
“You shouldn’t have to work seven days a week just to keep your head above water.”
National youth unemployment reached 11.1 per cent in September, more than double the overall jobless rate, highlighting the importance of apprenticeships, traineeships, vocational education and entry-level employment opportunities.
The latest national figures also revealed a sharp decline in part-time employment, with 73,700 positions lost during September, partially offset by an increase of 34,400 full-time jobs.
Jobs and Skills Australia’s Internet Vacancy Index recorded approximately 211,500 online job advertisements nationally in September, indicating employers are continuing to recruit despite rising unemployment.
Springfield Lakes resident Sam Lukas, 39, said his daily commute to Brisbane was taking a toll on both his household finances and family life.
“I live in Ipswich, but I have to travel into Brisbane every day because that’s where the work is,” he said.
“Between getting there and coming home, I’m losing nearly three hours of my day.
Meanwhile, the city’s population boom shows no signs of slowing.
For Deebing Heights resident Henry Jules, the contrast between the city’s growth and the struggle to find employment is difficult to ignore.
“Everywhere you look, there’s another housing estate going up and more people moving in. But where are all the jobs?” he said.
