Workforce Attraction and Retention Forum
You’re invited to a Workforce Attraction and Retention Forum, hosted by the Department of Trade, Employment and Training.
Key benefits include:
- Practical tools and strategies to support workforce attraction and retention, including employment initiatives and available grants and funding
- Opportunities to hear from local business leaders, industry professionals, and government representatives
- Access to customised programs and resources designed to meet the unique needs of your business.
Date: Wednesday 18/11/2026
Time: 7:30am – 9:30am
Location: Kingaroy RSL, Markwell St, Kingaroy
Cost: FREE with light breakfast provided.
Guest Speakers
Annelies Maxwell – Global Engineering and Construction
Annelies Maxwell will share industry insights on workforce attraction and retention in engineering and construction, including current challenges, practical strategies, and approaches to building a sustainable skilled workforce.
Matthew Ricketts and Kate Goebel – Astills Electrical Services
Matthew Ricketts and Kate Goebel will share practical small business perspectives on recruiting, developing and retaining workers in the electrical services industry, including apprenticeship pathways and workforce challenges.
Kate Reardon – Queensland Farmers’ Federation
Kate Reardon, Industry Workforce Advisor at Queensland Farmers’ Federation, will discuss the Industry Workforce Advisor program alongside workforce attraction and retention challenges in agriculture, with a focus on regional employers, skills shortages and practical solutions.
Nick Hess – Small Business Financial Counselling
Nick Hess will provide information on their program along with a small business perspective on the financial and operational factors affecting workforce attraction and retention, and the importance of resilience, planning and business support.
Joe Proctor – Queensland Government Department of Small and Family Business
Joe Proctor will outline Queensland Government support available to help small and family businesses address workforce challenges, strengthen capability, and improve attraction and retention outcomes.
Karen Mostyn – Queensland Government Department of Trade, Employment and Training
Karen Mostyn will provide a Queensland Government perspective on workforce development priorities, including programmes and initiatives that support employers to attract, retain and develop their workforce.
For enquiries, please email ddsw@dtet.qld.gov.au
