A shortage in skills and labour is placing significant pressure on public sector entities and private organisations across the state, nationally, and internationally. They can significantly impact the Queensland Government’s ability to achieve its social, economic, and environmental objectives (for example health outcomes, infrastructure, or education).

In August 2022, the Queensland Government launched the Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022–2032 to accelerate job creation and development, addressing employment barriers for Queenslanders. It has also implemented its Queensland Workforce Strategy Action Plan 2022–2025 aimed at delivering on 33 actions across 5 key focus areas.

As part of the Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022–2032, the Queensland Government allocated $70 million for new and expanded initiatives to support employers, industries, communities, job seekers, and workers.