New Employment and Skills Network to Strengthen Local Workforce

Published on 20 August 2026

Burdekin Shire Council is inviting local organisations to be part of a new Burdekin Employment and Skills Development Network, aimed at strengthening workforce capability and improving employment pathways across the region.

The initiative forms part of Council’s implementation of the Burdekin and Charters Towers Regional Drought Resilience Plan, developed in 2022 through a partnership between the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the Queensland Government.

The plan identified workforce shortages, skills gaps and housing constraints as key challenges impacting the region’s resilience to drought and other disruptions.

Council has since secured funding to deliver a range of activities, including the development of a Regional Workforce Strategy and the establishment of the Network.

The Network will bring together employers, training providers, schools, industry groups, government agencies and community organisations to take a coordinated approach to workforce attraction, retention and skills development.

It will also focus on strengthening connections between education, training and employment, while supporting local youth into career pathways and addressing current and future workforce needs across key industries.

The initiative builds on the success of a similar network established in Charters Towers and will provide an ongoing platform for collaboration and regional workforce development.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the initiative would deliver long-term benefits for the Burdekin community.

“Council recognises that workforce shortages and skills development are critical challenges for our region,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

“This Network will bring the right people together to take a coordinated and practical approach to addressing those challenges.”

“We are particularly focused on creating stronger pathways for our young people, ensuring they have access to training and employment opportunities close to home.”

“By working collaboratively with industry, education providers and the community, we can build a more resilient and sustainable local workforce.”

Burdekin Shire Council will continue to coordinate and support the Network into the future.

Interested organisations are encouraged to contact Council’s Economic Development Coordinator, Eliza Lovell on 4783 9800, to register their interest in being part of the Network.

The Regional Drought Resilience Program is jointly funded through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the Queensland Government.