Voices on work: Young People in Ipswich Queensland

At a time when the region is growing and employers need young workers, young people in the area share their insights about finding, accessing and staying in local jobs.

The Ipswich local government area is one of the fastest growing areas of Queensland, spanning part of Greater Brisbane and surrounding rural areas. Significant investment and employment growth are projected across manufacturing, health and care, defence, construction, retail, and transport and logistics. The Wivenhoe Local Jobs Plan also identifies entry-level vacancies and areas of skills shortage. Yet youth unemployment remains a persistent challenge.

Drawing on interviews with 19 young people living in Ipswich and surrounding areas, this report explores why employment growth does not all translate into opportunities for young people. A job needs to be visible and understandable, within reach, genuinely open to someone at the beginning of a career and supported well enough to become sustainable employment.

Nine findings emerged from the interviews. Together, they show where employer practice and local workforce initiatives can strengthen the connection between young people and local jobs.