As major resource, infrastructure and energy developments continue advancing across Central Queensland, growing attention is being placed on one of the industry’s most important challenges — securing enough skilled workers to deliver future projects.

Recent workforce data suggests demand for skilled labour remains strong throughout the Bowen Basin, with mining companies, contractors, engineering firms and infrastructure providers all competing for many of the same trades, technical specialists and project personnel.

Industry participants are increasingly examining whether labour supply can keep pace with the scale of activity being proposed across Queensland’s resource regions.

Major Projects Continue Expanding Workforce Requirements

The Bowen Basin project pipeline remains one of the strongest in Australia.

Projects currently progressing, under assessment or recently approved include:

• Saraji East Mining Lease Project
• Caval Ridge Expansion
• Hail Creek Expansion
• Bowen Basin gas developments
• Peak Downs Highway upgrades
• Renewable energy projects
• Critical minerals developments
• CopperString transmission infrastructure

While each project has its own workforce requirements, collectively they are contributing to growing demand across numerous occupations.

Many employers are seeking:

• Boilermakers
• Fitters
• Electricians
• Diesel mechanics
• Engineers
• Surveyors
• Project managers
• Environmental specialists
• Construction supervisors
• Heavy equipment operators

Workforce Growth Reaches Highest Levels in More Than a Decade

According to Queensland Government Statistician’s Office (QGSO) data, the Bowen Basin’s non-resident workforce reached approximately 24,745 workers in June 2025.

The figure represents the highest level recorded since the major resource expansion period of 2012 and highlights the continuing importance of Queensland’s resource sector.

The Isaac region alone accounted for approximately 16,605 non-resident workers, making it one of Australia’s most concentrated mining workforce regions.

The data suggests labour demand has continued increasing despite softer conditions in some parts of the resources sector.

Mining Is No Longer Competing Only With Mining

One factor increasingly influencing workforce availability is the growing diversity of projects occurring across Queensland.

Historically, mining companies primarily competed with other mining operations for labour.

Today, many of the same workers are also being sought by:

• Renewable energy projects
• Transmission infrastructure developments
• Major road projects
• Industrial construction projects
• Manufacturing facilities
• Defence infrastructure programs

This broader competition is increasing pressure across labour markets and making workforce planning more important than ever.

Why Industry Is Watching Closely

Workforce availability can directly influence:

• Project schedules
• Construction timelines
• Operational costs
• Maintenance programs
• Shutdown execution
• Expansion projects

Labour shortages can delay project delivery, increase recruitment costs and place additional pressure on existing workforces.

For many businesses operating throughout the Bowen Basin, workforce planning is becoming just as important as equipment availability and project approvals. The Bowen Basin Labour Market is becoming a key issue for project owners, contractors and regional businesses planning future work across Central Queensland.

Skills Most In Demand Across Central Queensland

Industry recruitment data and workforce reports continue highlighting strong demand for:

Trades

• Boilermakers
• Electricians
• Fitters
• Diesel fitters
• Welders

Technical Professionals

• Mechanical engineers
• Electrical engineers
• Project engineers
• Environmental professionals
• Surveyors

Operations Personnel

• Operators
• Supervisors
• Maintenance planners
• Shutdown coordinators
• HSE professionals

Many employers continue investing in apprenticeships, graduate programs and workforce development initiatives to strengthen long-term labour supply.

Opportunities for Industry

Growing workforce demand may create opportunities for:

• Labour hire providers
• Recruitment agencies
• Training organisations
• Accommodation providers
• Transport operators
• Workforce consultants
• Engineering firms
• Mining services companies

Businesses supporting workforce attraction and retention may become increasingly important as project activity expands.

What Happens Next?

Future labour demand will likely be influenced by:

• Commodity prices
• Investment decisions
• Project approvals
• Construction schedules
• Workforce migration trends
• Regional population growth

While labour market conditions will continue evolving, the scale of activity currently progressing across the Bowen Basin suggests workforce availability will remain a key industry discussion throughout 2026.

For employers, contractors and project owners, attracting and retaining skilled workers may become one of the most important factors shaping the next phase of regional growth.