Gold Coast Workforce Grows with New Training Programs and Industry Focus

The Gold Coast’s workforce is set to expand substantially over the next few years, with projections estimating over 348,000 employed workers by 2025-26 and a further 22,000 jobs expected by 2027-28, representing a 6.2% increase in the local labour pool. These figures highlight significant workforce growth amid ongoing economic and population changes in the region. [Source 1]

This expansion is occurring at a time when the Gold Coast faces persistent challenges in attracting entry-level and skilled workers, particularly due to housing supply shortages and affordability concerns that disproportionately affect young people and those with limited skills. The workforce demand is especially acute in sectors critical to the local economy such as Health Care and Social Assistance, Construction, Retail Trade, Accommodation and Food Services, and Education and Training. [Source 2] [Source 4]

Targeted Training and Industry Alignment Support Job Growth

The Queensland Government’s 'Good Jobs, Great Training: Queensland Skills Strategy 2024-2028' plays a central role in equipping workers with the skills demanded by these priority industries. The program provides funding for one million subsidised training places nationwide and extends Free TAFE access to 70,000 places, with 30,000 of these earmarked specifically for Gold Coast residents. This targeted investment aims to reduce barriers to education and boost the supply of qualified workers across high-demand fields. [Source 3]

Locally, organisations such as the Gold Coast Regional Jobs Committee are proactively involved in ensuring training and workforce development initiatives align with evolving industry needs. This committee collaborates with employers and training providers to address skill shortages and workforce retention. Complementing this, the free 'Workforce Evolve' e-learning program offers employers tools to maintain a diverse and skilled workforce suited to the Gold Coast’s economic landscape. [Source 5] [Source 7]

Evidence of Growing Demand and Workforce Challenges

The demand for entry-level workers on the Gold Coast remains high, reflected in acute recruitment difficulties reported by local businesses. The housing market’s constrained supply and rising costs limit access to affordable places to live, posing a barrier to young people and those seeking to upskill within the community. This structural issue complicates workforce growth despite the availability of subsidised training and employment programs. [Source 4]

Looking ahead, ongoing government and regional coordination will be essential to address these challenges. Expanding affordable housing, continuing investment in aligned training programs, and supporting employer initiatives like Workforce Evolve are practical steps to ensure the Gold Coast’s labour market can sustain its growth trajectory. Residents and businesses are advised to engage with these training and employment initiatives to capitalise on the opportunities emerging in key sectors driving the region’s economy.