Category: Workplace

Brisbane is the capital and most populous city of Queensland, Australia.  It is also the third-most populous city in Australia after Sydney and Melbourne.  Brisbane is a major economic and cultural center, with a diverse economy that is driven by a number of key industries.

What are the Key industries in Brisbane?

The following are some of the key industries that drive Brisbane’s economic growth:

Tourism and Hospitality

No wonder why Queensland has become a loved destination for domestic and international tourists. From the Brisbane River to the Great Barrier Reef here, every visitor gravitates towards the state’s tropical climate, mother nature, calming environment, and the beautiful attractions which are worth admiring from every corner.

Health care and social assistance: This sector is the second-largest employer in Brisbane, accounting for over 176,000 jobs.  Surprisingly, over 350,000 people of Queensland were employed in healthcare divisions by 2019-20 as registered nurses, general practitioner, physiotherapist, pharmacists etc. Job opportunities in the health sector are in high demand and could make your way to a career that’s worth the effort invested right on time. 

Innovation and IT

As we have observed how much digital services were in demand during the pandemic which created jobs in information technology (IT), software development and cyber security whose demand was never so high and it’s the best time to get connected to the digital technologies and potential innovation.

Education and training: This sector employs over 100,000 people in Brisbane.  It includes public and private schools, as well as universities and other tertiary education institutions.

Construction: State’s second-largest employer with almost 250,000 people, the construction sector offered various job in the industry in 2019-20. Although due to the pandemic, the industry experienced a fall in productivity during 2020, planners, builders, engineers, and developers are likely to be in-demand in 2023-24. 

The construction sector is a major employer in Brisbane, and it is growing rapidly.  This growth is being driven by the increasing demand for housing, infrastructure, and commercial development.

The construction industry is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, driven by both public and private investment.  The Queensland government is investing in a number of infrastructure projects, such as the Cross River Rail and the Brisbane Metro.  The private sector is also investing in new construction projects, such as high-rise apartments and commercial buildings.

What are the major challenges that the construction industry in Queensland is facing?

However, the construction industry is facing a number of workforce challenges.  One challenge is the aging workforce.  In Queensland, the proportion of the population aged over 65 is expected to increase from 15.9% in 2021 to 21.6% in 2036.  This means that more and more people will be retiring from the workforce in the coming years.

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Another challenge is the skills gap.  Many of the jobs in the construction industry require workers with high levels of skills and qualifications.  However, there is a shortage of workers with these skills.  This is due to a number of factors, including the aging workforce, the increasing complexity of jobs, and the changing nature of work.

What is the Government of Queensland doing to address these issues?

To address these challenges, the Queensland government is investing in a number of initiatives, including:

Skills training: The government is providing funding for skills training programs in the construction industry.  These programs are designed to help workers develop the skills they need to succeed in the industry.

Immigration: The government is also attracting skilled migrants to Queensland.  This is helping to fill the skills gap and support the growth of the construction industry.

Workplace participation: The government is also working to increase workplace participation among women, older people, and people with disabilities.  This is helping to expand the workforce and meet the needs of the construction industry.

The private sector is also playing a role in addressing Brisbane’s construction workforce challenges.  Many construction companies are investing in training and development programs for their employees.  They are also offering flexible work arrangements and other benefits to attract and retain workers.

These are just a few examples of how businesses in Brisbane are addressing the workforce challenges.  By investing in training and development, offering flexible work arrangements, and other benefits, businesses can help to ensure that Brisbane has the skilled workforce it needs to continue to grow and prosper. Wise Solutions – can be the useful resource for you to begin with, as we aim to identify and connect industries and sectors who are hiring.  

Click here to check out our latest job postings.

Whether you’re a job seeker pursuing a career in construction or an employer looking for skilled labourers, having a clear understanding of the construction industry certifications needed for roles like forklift driver, elevating work platform operator, asbestos removalist, dogman, and crane operator is crucial. 

In this guide, we’ll explore these essential certifications and their requirements in Australia.

1. Forklift Licence

Forklift licences are mandatory for operators in Australia. To acquire a forklift licence, candidates must undergo a training program provided by an accredited training organisation and pass the required assessments. Upon completing the training and assessment, candidates will apply for a high-risk work (HRW) licence from WorkSafe Queensland or its equivalent in their state or territory. 

The training covers key safety measures, the forklift’s different components, and proper operating techniques. Forklift operators must skillfully manoeuvre vehicles, load and unload materials, and adhere to workplace safety guidelines.

Pricing and Duration:

The cost of the forklift training program typically ranges from 500 to 750 AUD. The duration of the forklift training program usually lasts between 2 days.

Opportunities and Average Salary:

After obtaining a forklift license, job seekers can find opportunities in various industries, including warehousing, logistics, and construction. The average salary for a certified forklift operator in Australia ranges from 65,000 to 80,000 AUD per annum.

2. Elevating Work Platform (EWP) Licence

An EWP licence proves the holder can safely operate elevating work platforms such as scissor lifts, boom lifts, and telehandlers. Be aware that each type of EWP has specific requirements for licencing. 

Applicants for an EWP licence must complete a training program with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and pass the mandatory assessments. After obtaining the required training and verification from the RTO, candidates can apply for an EWP Operator Ticket or a high-risk work licence for boom-type elevating work platforms.

Pricing and Duration:

The cost of the EWP training program varies depending on the EWP type and ranges from 500 to 650 AUD. The training duration typically lasts one day.

Opportunities and Average Salary:

After obtaining an EWP license, job seekers can find opportunities in industries such as construction, maintenance, and utilities. The average salary for an EWP operator in Australia ranges from 60,000 to 80,000 AUD per annum.

3. Asbestos Removal Licence

Asbestos is a hazardous material that can cause severe health problems when not handled properly. Due to its dangerous nature, anyone involved in asbestos removal must hold an appropriate licence for that specific task. In Australia, there are three types of asbestos licences: Class A, Class B, and Asbestos Assessor.

• Class A: Required to remove friable asbestos and asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
• Class B: Required for non-friable asbestos and ACMs removal work.
• Asbestos Assessor: Required to assess and control the hazards of airborne asbestos fibres.

To attain an asbestos removal licence, applicants must complete an approved training program by a competent training provider and demonstrate their ability to manage and remove asbestos effectively.

Pricing and Duration:

The cost of the approved asbestos removal training program varies based on the license type and typically ranges from 250 to 350 AUD. The training duration varies but generally lasts for one day. 

Opportunities and Average Salary:

Obtaining an asbestos removal license opens opportunities in asbestos abatement and removal industries.The average salary for licensed asbestos removalists in Australia ranges from 65,000 to 95,000 AUD per annum.

4. Dogman Licence

Dogman, or dogging, is a specialised role in the construction industry that involves directing crane operators and ensuring the secure attachment of loads to cranes or lifting equipment. 

To become a licensed dogman, candidates must attend a dogging training course from an accredited training provider and pass the required assessments. After completing the training, applicants can apply for a high-risk work licence for dogging (Dogman Licence) from WorkSafe Queensland or its equivalent in their state or territory.

Pricing and Duration:

The cost of the dogging training program usually ranges from 1,000 to 1,800 AUD. The training usually duration lasts for 5 days.

Opportunities and Average Salary:

Licensed dogmen can find employment in the construction, mining, and infrastructure sectors.

The average salary for a certified dogman in Australia ranges from 90,000 to 110,000 AUD per annum.

5. Crane Operator Licence

Operating a crane is a high-risk job that demands specialised skills and knowledge. Crane operators must hold a high-risk work licence, which can be obtained by attending a crane operator course offered by an accredited training provider and completing the assessments. 

There are various types of crane licences, including tower, mobile, vehicle loading, and non-slewing cranes. Applicants must ensure they obtain the relevant licence based on the type of crane they intend to operate.

Pricing and Duration:

The cost of the crane operator course depends on the crane type and ranges from 1,300 to 2,000 AUD. The training usually duration lasts for 4 or 5 days.

Opportunities and Average Salary:

Certified crane operators are in demand in construction, mining, and heavy industries.

The average salary for a crane operator in Australia ranges from 70,000 to 120,000 AUD per annum.

Conclusion

Maintaining relevant certifications in the construction industry is essential for both job seekers and employers looking to hire skilled labourers. Forklift, EWP, asbestos, dogman, and crane operator licences are among the key certifications required to perform specific tasks safely and competently. 

By equipping yourself with the right licences, you not only boost your career prospects but also contribute to a safer work environment. For businesses seeking to hire skilled labourers for construction projects, Wise Solutions is your trusted partner in providing customised labour business staffing solutions tailored to your needs. Get in touch with us today and let’s talk!

As a company offering customised staffing solutions with a focus on skilled labour, Wise Solutions recognises the importance of workplace productivity in achieving business success. In this article, we’ll explore practical and effective ways businesses can improve productivity, leading to better performance and overall growth. 

The strategies discussed will focus on factors such as employee engagement, communication, training and work environment, all of which contribute to a more productive and motivated workforce.

Of course, all businesses operate differently, so choosing the right productivity-boosting tactics to suit your company’s unique needs, culture and industry is critical. It’s also important to remember that change takes time, and efforts to improve your workplace may require a mix of short- and long-term strategies to achieve lasting results. 

With a solid plan in place and a commitment to continuous improvement, you can unlock your team’s full potential and reap the benefits that come with increased productivity. Here’s how you can plan for workplace productivity during your labour hire:

Engaging and Empowering Your Employees

Employees engaged in their work are more likely to take initiative, contribute ideas and invest personal effort into their tasks, leading to increased productivity. To foster an environment of engagement and empowerment, consider the following strategies:

• Set Clear Expectations and Goals: Ensure employees understand their roles and responsibilities, as well as the company’s overarching objectives. Provide regular feedback and recognition of achievements to encourage commitment and motivation.
• Encourage Autonomy: Delegate tasks appropriately and empower employees to make decisions in their areas of expertise. Giving team members the freedom to take responsibility for their work fosters a sense of ownership and pride in their accomplishments.
• Provide Opportunities for Professional Growth: Encourage employees to take on new challenges and develop their skills. Offer training and support to help them excel in their roles.

Establishing Effective Communication and Collaboration

Clear and open communication is essential for fostering a productive work environment. A well-informed team with strong collaboration skills can tackle challenges more efficiently and find innovative solutions to problems. To promote effective communication and collaboration, consider these approaches:

• Promote Transparency: Share company news, updates and goals with employees to ensure everyone is on the same page. Encourage feedback and ideas from team members to create an open dialogue and improve overall performance.
• Encourage Teamwork: Build a culture that values collaboration and encourages employees to work together to achieve common goals. This can be done through team-building activities, group projects and cross-departmental initiatives.
• Provide Communication Tools and Training: Equip your team with the necessary tools and training to facilitate effective communication, such as project management software or digital collaboration platforms.

Providing the Right Tools and Technology

The right tools and technology can greatly enhance productivity in the workplace, allowing employees to complete tasks more efficiently and effectively. Make sure your team has access to the resources they need by:

• Evaluate Current Tools and Technology: Assess whether your current systems and equipment meet the needs of your workforce. Invest in upgrades or replacements to support employee productivity if improvements are needed.
• Train Employees on New Technology: Offer training and support when introducing new equipment or software to ensure employees can utilise them proficiently.
• Monitor and Maintain Equipment: Regular maintenance and monitoring of tools and technology can prevent downtime and delays due to malfunctions or breakdowns.

Expanding Training, Development and Growth Opportunities

Providing opportunities for employee growth not only boosts morale and job satisfaction, but also enhances productivity. Invest in your workforce’s development by:

• Offer Regular Training Programs: Help employees expand their skill set through workshops, seminars, or online courses. This investment in their professional growth will translate into a more productive and skilled workforce.
• Provide Mentorship and Career Development Opportunities: Pairing employees with experienced mentors not only strengthens relationships within the organisation, but also serves as a valuable learning opportunity for mentees.
• Conduct Performance Reviews and Identify Growth Opportunities: Regular performance evaluations help to identify employees’ strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to tailor development plans accordingly

Conclusion

Improving productivity in the workplace should be a top priority for businesses seeking to thrive in today’s competitive climate. A work environment that fosters employee engagement and creativity, effective communication and a culture of continuous improvement is the key to unlocking your team’s potential. With Wise Solutions as your trusted partner, you can rely on our expertise in providing skilled and motivated labourers to help you achieve your business goals efficiently. By implementing the strategies discussed in this article, you can create a more productive and successful work environment for your team, ultimately driving growth and success for your business.

Ready to take your business to the next level with the right staffing solutions? Look no further than Wise Solutions! Our customised labour hire and permanent staff solutions can help you find the perfect match for your needs, whether you require skilled labourers, carpenters, painters, machine operators, or warehousing staffing. Don’t let staffing challenges hold you back – contact us today to unlock the full potential of your business!