The new Board of Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ) is slated to meet for the first time today.
The recently established manufacturing industry body seeks to provide support for Queensland manufacturers, enabling them access to the best-skilled workers who will continue the industry’s growth in the state.
MSQ is an independent company established as part of the Palaszczuk government’s commitment to driving Queensland’s manufacturing industry to new heights, said Di Farmer, minister for training and skills development.
The independent body was created through a $16.5 million government investment, which covers over three years of the operation aimed at driving the growth of the state’s manufacturing industry.
Farmer said the industry generates over $20 billion a year for the state’s economy and the government is determined to help drive the industry’s growth by delivering evidence-based advice and local insights on various manufacturing needs across Queensland.
MSQ will week to direct future skills strategies by tracking and analysing manufacturing supply chains and industry needs and trends.
“It combines engagement with industry and training providers and research to develop annual training plans and recognised skills pathways,” Farmer said.
“Manufacturing Skills Queensland is under the stewardship of Board Chairperson Michael Glover who brings more than 20 years’ experience to the table, and six experienced Board Directors, and is the culmination of a commitment under the Making it in Queensland: Building a Stronger Manufacturing Sector policy to build the state’s manufacturing industry.”
Glenn Butcher, minister for regional development and manufacturing, highlighted the importance of determining the training and skills manufacturers need, with special consideration for the Energy and Jobs plan.
“Manufacturing provides a huge boost to the economy and keeps nearly 200,000 Queenslanders employed every year, so it’s critical to have this body to help the industry continue to create good jobs and better services in this great state.”
The government’s investment in MSQ follows a series of significant investments in the manufacturing industry by the Palaszczuk government this year.
These include $40 million in Made in Queensland Grants and $10 million in Manufacturing Hubs Grants, which were both announced in the budget.
Additionally, more than $17 million in additional funding was announced to permanently fund Queensland’s six manufacturing hubs.
