Barr plans to keep skilled workers in ACT using AI and business partnerships
Chief Minister Andrew Barr says the ACT must use AI and private partnerships to attract and keep skilled workers.
ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr has outlined plans to attract skilled young people to Canberra and persuade them to build careers and businesses there. Barr told business leaders that government can educate students, but private companies must provide experience and networks that convince them to stay.
The territory will use AI tools to boost public sector output and work, Barr said, without shrinking the workforce. Barr also flagged changes to the lease variation charge scheme to support housing density and urban renewal.
The strategy comes as migration levels fall, with Barr saying Canberra's edge lies in talented people, research, innovation and ideas.
Why it mattersSkills shortages and falling migration threaten labour supply nationwide. The ACT's approach shows how regions plan to compete for talent and hold on to it.
AustraliaFor people considering moving to or staying in Canberra, the government is prioritising business investment and technology adoption to create more career opportunities. For ACT workers, it means government services may deploy AI to boost efficiency.
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