Skilling Queenslanders for Work
Round 2 of the 2025-26 Skilling Queenslanders for Work program is now open. Whether it’s construction, health, hospitality or community services — we’re delivering the skills training and job opportunities Queensland deserves. We’ve listened to job seekers, employers and community groups, and we’re cutting Labor’s red tape. This program is now easier to access, more flexible and will give you the confidence and skills to get into the workforce and stay there. We are focused on job outcomes, not just qualifications by delivering training for in-demand industries like construction, health & community services and backing Queenslanders with an $80 million investment in job-ready skills Community-based not-for-profit organisations can apply for funding to deliver projects that support disadvantaged Queenslanders to gain the qualifications and skills they need to enter and stay in the workforce.
Apply now: https://desbt.qld.gov.au/training/community-orgs/sqw/apply
Applications close 5pm, Thursday 9 October 2025
Carmichael coal mine expansion
Our government is generating jobs, with fresh investment secured to expand the Carmichael coal mine in Central Queensland. Bravus will invest $50 million over the next two years into the expansion works, which includes the workers village, a new water dam, the construction of a rail network maintenance hub, additional mine site infrastructure and engineering works. The commitment will underpin a proposed half a billion-dollar expansion that would create 600 new jobs and increase production at the mine by around one third, subject to approvals. We are sending a strong signal that Queensland is open for business because we are serious about delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy. And we’re rebuilding Queensland’s reputation as a place to invest after Labor’s unpredictable anti-mining policies sent investment off a cliff. Because we support regional communities that rely on mining jobs, and we back the hard-working mining families who keep the lights on in Queensland.
Queensland Future Timber Plan
Our government is working with industry to deliver our landmark plan that will shape the future of the timber sector and secure the sustainable timber supply needed to build 1 million homes by 2044. The plan forms a key part of Primary Industries Prosper 2050 blueprint to boost Queensland’s primary production output to $30 billion by 2030. Our vision has been captured in the draft Queensland Future Timber Plan which was developed in consultation with key industry leaders. We now want to hear from everyone – from timber producers, small and family businesses, manufacturers to environmental groups and regional communities. The 25-year plan will be supported by a detailed 5-year action plan to guide the initial steps. Everyone is encouraged to take part in consultation now underway until September 3.
Cyber Wardens
The Crisafulli Government has partnered with Cyber Wardens (not-for-profit small business peak body) to help small and family businesses to level up their cyber security game through
- free Cyber Wardens training to help small and family business owners to mitigate financial risks associated with cyber threats
- training materials for key Queensland industries, including healthcare, construction, and tourism
- education on secure usage of digital identity schemes, including Digital lD and Digital Driver’s Licences
- weekly, industry-specific cyber security webinars and on-demand options
Small business owners, sole traders and staff will be trained to become ‘Cyber Wardens’. National figures show a cyber-attack is reported every six minutes, with four in five small businesses experiencing a cyber incident in the past year.
For more information, visit business.qld.gov.au
As always, if you have any State issues you would like to discuss with me, don’t hesitate to contact my office.
Ph: (07) 5600 0100
Email: mermaid.beach@parliament.qld.gov.au
Address: 1/2434 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach, 4218, QLD
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Cheers Ray Stevens MP
