Business Chamber Queensland’s new Workforce Evolve program transforming state’s workforces
The state’s peak business body will deliver a new workforce program for Queensland businesses designed to transform business employment practices and support immediate and long-term workforce challenges.
Announced today, Business Chamber Queensland’s Workforce Evolve program, delivered in partnership with the Queensland Government, is designed to ensure greater attraction, retention and participation among workforces across the state, supporting businesses and their workforces now and in the future.
Business Chamber Queensland CEO Heidi Cooper said workforce challenges were a top priority for Queensland businesses.
“Businesses are telling us the ability to attract and retain staff is the most significant constraint on business growth,” Ms Cooper said.
“It is essential businesses are equipped to take-up future opportunities through a resilient, sustainable and diverse workforce.
“At Business Chamber Queensland we know business matters. We’re best placed to deliver the Workforce Evolve program in partnership with the Queensland Government, given our 155 year legacy of supporting Queensland businesses and deep understanding of the state’s business community.”
Throughout the program, employers will have access to tailored, fit-for-purpose support to empower them to achieve future-ready, sustainable and inclusive workforces.
“The program will support employers with the knowledge needed to adapt to the changing work environment and evolve the way they attract and retain staff, providing employers with the tools and information they need to bring fresh and innovative thinking to their workplaces,” Ms Cooper said.
“To do this, we'll support Queensland businesses to consider different approaches to alleviate immediate workforce pressures as well as driving long-term business resilience and sustainability.
“We’re bringing together businesses, their staff and Queensland communities, to deliver long-term sustainable solutions to workforce challenges, now and in the future.”
Minister for Employment and Small Business, Minister for Training and Skills Development and Minister for Youth Justice Di Farmer said the Queensland Government is delighted to work alongside Business Chamber Queensland and support its efforts in addressing workforce challenges for Queensland businesses.
“Business Chamber Queensland has a great track record in delivering for small businesses across the state.
“That’s why through our Workforce Connect Fund, we’re investing $1 million in the Workforce Evolve Program, which will connect employers with jobseekers that haven’t traditionally been a source of employees.
“Diversifying our workforce is key to addressing workforce challenges and will help those who face employment barriers to find work and this program helps do that by providing employers with the right information they need to bring fresh and innovative thinking to their workplaces.
“I look forwarding to seeing their program in action as we work together to boost workforce participation and create a strong and diverse workforce for Queensland.”
Norman Park Sports and Community Club Secretary Cody McGifford said like many businesses, the sports club was operating in a challenging workforce environment.
“Finding the right people to fill roles at the right time can be difficult,” Cody said.
“We’re really passionate about the local community and our regulars are important to us so it’s equally important we have the team in place to continue delivering the service we’re known for.
“Looking to new people to join our team, from diverse parts of the community can be a good way for us to fill some of those roles and grow our current and future team. We’d love to see all kinds of people consider us somewhere they’d like to work, it’s a really rewarding team to be a part of.
“Any support available to help us to do that, to be an employer of choice for a diverse workforce, is welcome. I encourage other businesses in the community to consider the Workforce Evolve program too, to create a wider diverse workforce.”
For details on the free Workforce Evolve program and to register, see: Workforce Evolve » Business Chamber Queensland (businesschamberqld.com.au)
This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government through its Workforce Connect Fund.