Research finds skills shortage is reaching crisis point
The skills shortage on the Sunshine Coast is as likely to strangle the region’s future sustainability as a lack of infrastructure, according to new research conducted by the University of the Sunshine Coast.
This research by USC business lecturer Wayne Graham, sponsored by CADET Training and Employment, will be presented at next week’s State of the Region Conference at the University on Tuesday 30 October.
Mr Graham said an important finding of his research was that the skills shortage extended beyond technical abilities to more interpersonal skills like customer service.
“Lack of interpersonal skills appears to be a major issue facing employees,” he said. “It is adversely affecting workplace harmony, productivity, interaction with clients and business competitiveness.
“Many employers are now hiring staff based on their attitude and potential, and providing the technical training en route.”
Mr Graham said this was adding to the strain on businesses, with some industries on the Sunshine Coast at crisis point in terms of technical skills shortages.
“With known shortages in construction trades, aged care and hospitality, employers are being forced to reinvent their recruitment and retention strategies to eliminate the burden of a mobile workforce that is constantly seeking higher degrees of stimulation,” he said.
“Money is the major issue for tradespeople. With the housing affordability situation and the lucrative mining industry attracting a large percentage of the workforce with its high wages, some industries on the Sunshine Coast are haemorrhaging."
The State of the Region conference is expected to attract 200 people, including top decision-makers, researchers and strategists from the public and private sectors.
It will be co-hosted by USC and the Committee for Economic Development of Australia with support by companies Munro Thompson, Cadet, Investa and Parsons Brinckerhoff.
For more details, contact David Gration on 0408 708 293. Registrations can be made online using the State of the Region Conference registration form (PDF 320KB).