To help job seekers find their way, the Queensland Resources Council has launched a new section on its website directing them to member-company links and other career sites.

“As a result of our campaign to attract more people to the industry, and the current level of skills shortages, the QRC receives many enquiries from people wanting to get a start in the sector,” said QRC chief executive Michael Roche.

“While the mining industry has often been blamed for exacerbating skills shortages in other sectors, we have in fact rolled up our sleeves to increase the pool of skilled workers,” he said.

QRC has introduced a number of initiatives, including rolling out the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy in Queensland high schools; its Women in Resources Action Plan to encourage women to take up careers in the sector; a “Get a Life” careers awareness program; scholarships program; and its long-running in-school presentations.

“In addition to this, QRC has appointed an education and training director who is busy ensuring training and skills are matched to industry requirements, and providing additional pathways into the minerals and energy sector,” Roche said.

“And our member companies are also actively engaged in funding scholarships, university chairs and vocational training.”