Mining projects boom but Australia short 24,000 workers by 2027
Queensland's 85 critical minerals projects need 24,000 skilled workers nationwide, but a shortage hampers expansion.
Drilling and exploration are ramping up across Queensland's North West Minerals Province, one of the world's most mineral-rich regions worth an estimated $680 billion. Companies including AIC Mines are reopening closed sites like Mt Cuthbert, creating jobs for skilled workers in mining engineering, geology, and electrical trades.
Mining companies struggle to hire workers locally across the region. The Australian Resources and Energy Employer Association warns the industry will need 24,000 new workers across the country by 2027 to support new projects.
The shortage stems from competing demand: Olympics construction in south-east Queensland and infrastructure builds are pulling workers away from regional mining. Fewer young people are entering trades and mining careers.
Even when employers prefer local hires to grow regional economies, they cannot fill the roles.
- 85
- Critical minerals projects
- $680 billion
- Resource value estimate
- 24,000
- Workers needed by 2027
- 2022
- Mt Cuthbert idle since
Why it mattersIf mining cannot staff its expansion, project timelines slip and Australia misses the economic gain from critical minerals output.
AustraliaQueensland's outback stands to gain jobs and investment, but only if the region can train and attract skilled workers in time to meet demand.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
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