Round two of Jobs Queensland’s GYO program is funding five key projects.

Screen Queensland will collaborate with industry leaders and training organisations on a local skills development program for games developers on the Sunshine Coast.

The Australian Security Industry Association Limited will establish a micro-credential to skill up and accredit security officers in Cairns and Townsville.

Queensland Fruit and Vegetable Growers Ltd will establish new employment pathways for people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds working in Toowoomba’s agriculture industry.

The Queensland Trucking Association will deliver a pre-apprenticeship and upskilling training program for transport and logistics in Townsville.

The Greater Whitsunday Digital Skills Program will support the uplift of business digital literacy within the region.

These ‘Grow your own’ projects will build on workforce plans designed to equip regions with the workforce they need both now and in the future.

They will tackle a range of workforce challenges including attraction, development, retention, career transition, diversity and industry growth.

Applications for round three funding open on 12 July 2024 – find the details at www.jobsqueensland.qld.gov.au.

The program is funded by Jobs Queensland and powered by the Queensland Government’s Good people. Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022–2032.

Jobs Queensland Board Chair, Jim Varghese AM: said

“From North to Townsville and West to Toowoomba, these ‘Grow your own’ initiatives will deliver solutions tailored to each specific region and industry.

“We heard from industry and regional stakeholders and will now support them to deliver solutions to challenges they identified.

“I look forward to seeing how industries, regions and residents thrive as a result of these ‘Grow your own’ projects.”

ASIAL Chief Executive Officer, Bryan de Caires: said,

“The micro-credential for security officers is a welcome initiative that has been long needed. Following the workforce development plan, the industry was keen to begin implementation. This funding will help us address some of the increasing complexities the security industry faces particularly in regional areas.”

“Having a bespoke course, tailored to the needs of the security industry will build the capability and capacity of existing workers to meet future skills needs, particularly in the lead up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The course will be delivered in the regions first because that is where there is a pressing need right now, however who knows where this could end up. The industry is eager and excited to get started.”