Highlights:
Queensland Government refreshes Jobs Queensland Board to enhance workforce development.
Financial economist Michael Drew appointed Chairman of the Jobs Queensland Board.
Deirdre von Guilleaume, a retired school principal, joins the board to provide valuable educational insights.
The Queensland Government has taken steps to enhance the state's skilled workforce through the revitalization of the Jobs Queensland Board. This strategic move highlights the government's commitment to developing workforce capabilities across various sectors in the state.
Background of Jobs Queensland Board
The Jobs Queensland Board was established in 2016 under the Jobs Queensland Act to provide expert advice on workforce planning and development. The board consists of seven members who represent a diverse range of sectors, including employers, employees, and professionals with direct experience in education, training, and employment.
The refreshed board aims to bring together a range of perspectives to guide the future direction of Queensland’s workforce. By leveraging industry insights and sector expertise, the government intends to respond to the evolving needs of both current and future labor markets.
New Leadership Appointments
In a move that reinforces the state's dedication to workforce development, Michael Drew has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Jobs Queensland Board. Drew, a financial economist with extensive experience in both private and public sectors, brings a wealth of expertise to the role. He is also the co-founder of Drew, Walk, and Co. and serves as an adjunct Professor at Griffith University, in addition to his position as the Chairman of Volunteering Australia.
In another key development, Deirdre von Guilleaume has joined the board. A retired school principal with over two decades of teaching experience, Guilleaume brings significant leadership and mentoring skills to the board. Her background in education and government provides a valuable perspective on the future skills needed within the state.
Other Continuing Board Members
The ongoing contribution of other board members is also central to the work of Jobs Queensland. Danielle Carey, Heidi Cooper, Bernie Hogan, Kate Venables, and Trent Young will continue their service, ensuring continuity and consistency in the board’s approach to workforce planning.
Minister's Statement on the Board's Role
The Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment, and Training, Ros Bates, expressed enthusiasm over the renewed leadership and fresh perspectives brought by the new board appointments. She emphasized that the leadership team, alongside the experienced continuing members, will play a pivotal role in shaping Queensland's skilled workforce.
According to Bates, the board's adaptability is crucial in addressing the evolving landscape of employment needs. The Queensland Government is confident that this approach will enable Jobs Queensland to provide relevant, future-focused advice that benefits workers across the state.
Key Responsibilities of Jobs Queensland
Jobs Queensland is tasked with offering guidance on the future skills required in various industries, workforce development, and providing insights into apprenticeships and traineeships. The board's advice will help align training and educational programs with the needs of the labor market, ensuring that Queensland’s workforce remains competitive and well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
With a clear mandate to focus on industry-led workforce planning, Jobs Queensland is positioned to make significant contributions toward the state’s long-term economic and employment goals.