Queensland manufacturing emerging as a top performer: report

Queensland’s manufacturing sector has emerged as one of the nation’s leading performers, according to the inaugural State of the Sector 2024 report released by Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ).

The report (which uses the ABS census and workforce data) finds that the sector’s performance against a backdrop of decline in Australia’s traditional manufacturing bases reflects Queensland’s above-average economic, population and investment growth as well as supply-chain linkages to the energy sector.

Most manufacturing sub-industries in Queensland have experienced employment growth, particularly in the fields of machinery and equipment. The report reveals that Queensland’s manufacturing industry is deeply rooted in its regional communities with nearly half (45%) the workforce outside of Greater Brisbane.

In August 2023, 40,200 women worked in the Queensland manufacturing industry, accounting for 24.4% of the workforce. This is high for Queensland but below the national average of around 28%.

Secondary education and vocational education and training (VET) qualifications are the main qualifications of the Queensland manufacturing workforce, but significant differences exist between different age cohorts. The report confirms the need to improve the qualification profile of industry through training.

The report paves the way for Manufacturing Skills Queensland’s first statewide industry engagement program commencing late February to inform an inaugural Annual Training Plan for the industry.

The State of the Sector 2024 report was prepared by Manufacturing Skills Queensland and peak industry association Ai Group.

“Queensland’s manufacturing performance following the pandemic has been impressive — generally outperforming other states on many measures,” said Manufacturing Skills Queensland CEO Rebecca Andrews. “This pandemic created a momentum in Queensland manufacturing. It presents a unique chance for Queensland to further develop its manufacturing sector, create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

“Embracing the opportunity that is before us needs collaborative effort — employers, peaks, unions, training organisations and all levels of government — to future-proof the industry, build capability and secure manufacturing in Queensland.

“Attracting and engaging high-quality, skilled labour is currently one of the most significant challenges facing our manufacturers right now — job vacancies remain double their long run rate, and the industry is calling for more skilled workers.

“State of the Sector 2024 gives us a much-needed baseline of key metrics to inform industry-wide opportunities and challenges to improve. Manufacturing Skills Queensland has an important role to play bolstering Queensland’s manufacturing sector locally, connecting local supply chains, and providing sustainable workforce solutions.”

The full report can be found at msq.org.au/resources.

Image credit: Manufacturing Skills Queensland