Warnings worker shortage could slow mineral exports

The labour shortage is getting to the point where it could could slow mineral exports. That message comes from National Skills Week chairman Brian Wexham. Australia’s mining industry was responsible for 10.4 percent of GDP between 2019 and 2020, making it the single largest contributor to the national economy, Mr Wexham said. Australia's minerals production remained robust in 2021, leading global production of iron ore and lithium, and ranking second in gold and cobalt, he said. “The mining sector has been highly productive over recent years despite the headwinds of COVID-19, variable commodity prices and the strained relationship with our number one trading partner, China,” Mr Wexham said. “However, booming infrastructure spending in the eastern states has meant stiffer competition for skilled people who traditionally might have been lured to the more resource rich states for work. Mechanics and civil engineers highlighted Two job categories under particular stress were motor mechanics and civil engineers, Mr Wexham said. “Motor mechanics are in short supply, due to smaller numbers from the training system, the closure until recently of international borders, and reduced geographic mobility,” Mr Wexham said. “This imbalance is forecast to grow, especially in the mining states of Qld, WA and the NT. Civil engineers are central to government investment programs and will continue to be in demand given the long lead times on projects. “A plateauing in higher education graduates has put more reliance on international migrants to perform this occupation.” (Source: Ernst & Young, No silver bullet for skills shortages, 2021)." Held annually, the vision of National Skills Week is to raise awareness on the diversity of careers which can be realised through vocational education and training, the skills for an economically viable future, and the range of new jobs and skills in demand for the future. This year’s week will be centred around the theme of ‘A Universe of Skills’, encouraging job seekers to consider alternative careers, pathways and opportunities in skills and vocational education, said Mr Wexham. “National Skills Week plays a pivotal role in strengthening and communicating the key messages of industry and government in an environment shaped by the fluid nature of skills requirements and ever-evolving technologies,” he said. “This initiative is designed to achieve real, transformative outcomes for Australian people – to inspire people to undertake active, participative education and training that VET provides resulting in skills that can realise immediate rewards in jobs, success and contribute to building our economy.”

Warnings worker shortage could slow mineral exports

Industry Queensland

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