Employment in Ipswich is set to rise by 157,000 jobs off the back of the State Government’s Big Build program announced last week.
This figure will see a rise of 5.9 percent in Ipswich between 2025 and 2026, as part of one of the biggest skills and training reforms in almost a decade.
The Big Build program will also look to fund one million training places for Queenslanders to train, upskill, reskill, and pursue careers in the state’s priority industries.
One of the students and apprentices who will see results from the program is Mattia Uusimaki, who is an Ipswich-raised and trained Engineering – Fabrication Trade apprentice.
“I am currently in my fourth year, having returned from maternity leave to complete a Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade and I am following in the footsteps of my father and grandfather, who were fitters and turners, and another grandfather, who was a blacksmith,” she said.
“I’m a big advocate for women, especially (women) starting an apprenticeship.
“I’m excited about the prospects of job flexibility, and obtaining my certificate will advance my career while setting an example for other mothers striving to balance work and family life.”
Minister for Training and Skills Development and Member for Bundamba Lance McCallum said the program was set to deliver great dividends for locals.
“We want Ipswich locals at the front of the line for good local jobs – this investment will ensure we make the most of this golden decade of opportunity,” Mr McCallum said.
“This strategy is not just real cost-of-living relief now, but a chance at a better life, with better pay and a better job.”
The strategy extends the Queensland Government’s free TAFE program, funding up to 70,000 free TAFE places – including 30,000 new places – to lower costs for Queenslanders to get into better-paid jobs or start a career in high-demand industries.
Across five focus areas and five years, the strategy sets out to maximise productivity and participation, unlocking billions in annual skills investment – including a $370 million funding uplift to help kickstart the new strategy.
