Workforce shortages and a lack of affordable accommodation. Two of the most critical issues facing business at the moment. It's a broken record, heard over and over again at all levels of government, and finally there does appear to be some activity at local and state levels.
On the housing front, council is being proactive in discussing and facilitating appropriate accommodation locally. Nothing set in concrete yet, however it does show council is committed to assisting in this space.
On a state level, the Housing Supply Expert Panel has been expanded to address housing supply issues and provide advice and direction to local councils. And this week, the Premier herself is chairing a roundtable discussion which is seen as the first step towards holding a Housing Summit in October to consider housing and cost of living, especially in regional areas.
With regard to workforce shortages, the Whitsunday Coast Chamber is taking a leading role with Gus Walsgott spearheading the local push to establish a Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) for the greater Central Queensland region.
For those unfamiliar, a DAMA is an agreement between the Australian Government (through Home affairs) with a regional authority making it easier to employ overseas workers in the region. Whilst it utilises a couple of existing temporary visas it does provide several substantial advantages specifically a broader range of worker can be specified across a wider range of age groups. And all visa issues under a DAMA offer the opportunity for permanent residency. Watch this space as the project evolves.
The next Chamber event is on Thursday 13th October and will be a morning networking event incorporating the AGM. If you are keen to get involved and help assist and promote small business in the region, contact the chamber for nomination forms and keep an eye out for more details.
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