Industry Skills Australia (ISA) Regional Engagement Manager David Forbes recently visited Far North Queensland, one of ISA’s priority regions, to meet with industry, education, government and workforce stakeholders and gain firsthand insights into the opportunities and challenges shaping the region’s future. The visit highlighted Cairns’ growing maritime sector and significant infrastructure investments, reinforcing the region’s potential as an emerging maritime, defence and workforce development hub.
During the visit, David met with representatives from a broad range of organisations, including Scott Rhodes from Airfreight Handling Services, Michael Goodrich from the Regional School Industry Partnership Program, Ori Shepherd from Regional Development Australia FNQ, Kate Montgomery from Workforce Australia, Lyndsey Wray from the Cairns Local Jobs Program, Janelle Yarwood from the Cairns Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Gavin Taylor and Belinda Hutchinson from the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning.
Reflecting on the visit, David said it was encouraging to see industry, government, education and community stakeholders working together to strengthen workforce capability, create employment opportunities and support long-term economic growth.
“The level of collaboration across Far North Queensland is impressive. With major investment flowing into maritime infrastructure, training and industry development, the region is well positioned for future growth. What became clear during the visit is that the journey has only just begun.”
While workforce shortages and skills gaps remain key challenges across the region, discussions consistently pointed to significant growth opportunities, particularly in the maritime and defence sectors.
Cairns Marine Precinct Emerging as a National Maritime Hub
A key highlight of the visit was a tour of the Cairns Marine Precinct, led by Gavin Taylor and Belinda Hutchinson.
Located on Cairns’ industrial waterfront, the precinct is one of northern Australia’s leading maritime maintenance, repair and overhaul destinations. Home to Defence and Border Force operations, tourism and reef fleets, commercial fishing operators, shipping and logistics businesses, specialist boat builders and visiting superyachts, the precinct is a significant economic driver for Far North Queensland and a strategic gateway to the Pacific.
Significant government investment is helping transform the precinct into a world-class maritime and defence industry hub. Planned developments include:
- Key highlights of the Queensland Government’s investment include: $307 million for new wharves, strategic port land acquisition and infrastructure development
- Development of a Common User Facility (CUF) in partnership with the Australian Government
- A planned 5,000-tonne ship lift, climate-controlled blast and paint sheds, hardstand areas and a 100-metre wet berth
These investments are expected to increase vessel maintenance and repair capacity, strengthen sovereign maritime capability and create new employment opportunities across the region.
Airfreight Handling Services
The visit highlighted the important role of Airfreight Handling Services in strengthening supply chains, supporting regional businesses and facilitating economic development opportunities across Far North Queensland.
Engagement with stakeholders across industry, workforce development and trade reinforced the value of collaboration ensuring local communities can benefit from emerging economic opportunities.
Maritime Careers in the Spotlight
The region’s momentum will be showcased at the upcoming Cairns Maritime Jobs & Careers Expo on 29 August, where job seekers, students and career changers will have the opportunity to explore pathways into one of the region’s fastest-growing industries.
The event will feature exhibitors, presentations, information sessions, immersive experiences, precinct tours and jobs and skills showcases, providing valuable insights into maritime careers and training pathways.
With major investment flowing into maritime infrastructure, training and industry development, the region is well positioned for future growth. However, as discussions throughout the visit highlighted, building a skilled and sustainable workforce will require ongoing collaboration between industry, training providers and government.
If you would like to join one of our regional roadshows and be part of these important conversations and collaboration opportunities, view our upcoming schedule here.
