Rockhampton’s record job numbers soar again
Published on 01 April 2025
Rockhampton’s record workforce has grown again, marking a third straight quarter of jobs growth and demonstrating confidence in Region’s economic future.
New data from Jobs and Skills Australia shows Rockhampton Region labour force has reached 48,114 at the end of 2024–an increase of 1,369 people from the September quarter and 2,968 over a 12-month period.
Mayor Tony Williams said the figures show the Region’s economy continues to head in the right direction.
“To see almost 3,000 new workers enter the jobs market over the space of a year is phenomenal, and shows businesses are confident in the future of Rockhampton even in the face of tough global influences,” Mayor Williams said.
“There is a real buzz of excitement as businesses look to expand, diversify and bring on new workers.
“We see a strong outlook for employment growth as major projects like the Rockhampton Ring Road, Mount Morgan Tailings Processing and Rehabilitation Project, Mort & Co Feedlot and Fertiliser Facility and Rural Fund Management’s macadamia orchards increase their workforces.
The latest figures indicate the region’s economy is meeting the employment targets outlined in the Rockhampton Region Economic Action Plan 2023-2028 – the guiding document for Council’s economic development arm, Advance Rockhampton.
“Advance Rockhampton has done an excellent job of highlighting the opportunities that come from living, working and investing in the Rockhampton Region,” Mayor Williams said.
“While it’s important to mark this achievement and the work of our business community and team, we’re not resting on our laurels.
“Advance Rockhampton has a target of growing our Gross Regional Product to $12.9 billion by 2041 so we need to keep our foot on the gas and continue seizing new opportunities.
Economic Development Manager, Wade Clark, said Advance Rockhampton is targeting industries where additional staff are needed as a priority.
“In the short term: health, education, construction, manufacturing and agriculture are key industries that are expanding locally,” Mr Clark said.
“To attract and retain staff, Advance Rockhampton is taking a multi-pronged approach including: hosting and supporting a number of jobs expos throughout the year, raising awareness of working in industries with local high school students, promoting the region as a destination of choice to live and work for skilled staff and the team is engaging with local industries to develop targeted campaigns.
“There is plenty of momentum in Rockhampton’s workforce and economy right now, the Advance Rockhampton team will continue to drive industry development that supports the growth of local jobs.”
For more information on Advance Rockhampton visit https://www.advancerockhampton.com.au/