ROCKHAMPTON

The Rockhampton region is located on the beautiful Capricorn Coast and is the economic and services hub for the entire central Queensland region. The region covers three local government areas - the historically significant City of Rockhampton, the Fitzroy Shire and the Livingstone Shire.

Facts and Figures

• $390 million in health and community services
• $387 million in manufacturing
• $378 million in property-related and business services
• $332 million in retail trade
• 62% employment in services-related industries
• 5% unemployment
• Median house price
   o Rockhampton $200,000
   o Fitzroy $241,000
   o Livingstone $316,000

Labour Market Overview

The Rockhampton region is a major employment centre in Queensland. The leading industries for employment are retail trade, construction, manufacturing, transport and storage, health and community services, education, property and business services, accommodation, cafes and restaurants and mining. Considerable employment opportunities also exist in the utilities sector - electricity, gas and water. The region produces more than 50% of the state's electricity.

Employment opportunities within the region - particularly for workers in skilled trades - are a direct result of the resources boom in central Queensland. The following types of skilled workers are currently in high demand:

• Accountants
• Motor Mechanics
• Building Inspectors
• Mining Engineers
• Drainers Plumbers
• Environmental
• Urban and Regional Health Officers Planners

Employment by Occupation

In 2006, the top three occupations by demand in the Rockhampton region were estimated to be:
• Intermediate clerical, sales and service workers (20% of total employment)
• Tradespersons and related workers (16% share of total employment)
• Professionals (14% share of total employment)

Employment by Industry

The Rockhampton region's economy is centered on its abundance of natural resources and is driven by the powerhouse industries of mining, construction, transport and storage, agriculture and tourism. The services industries also show a strong demand for staff, especially retail trade, education, manufacturing and health and community services. The services sector is fundamental to the support and wellbeing of a number of mining and agricultural-based communities.

Other industries contributing to the region's economy include utilities and retail trade. In 2006, the leading industries for employment in the Rockhampton region by share of total employment were:

• Retail trade 14%
• Construction 11%
• Manufacturing 9%
• Transport and Storage 9%

Employment Outlook: The Next Five Years

Rockhampton is ideally positioned to take full advantage of trends in lifestyle choices toward coastal areas, and the increased demand for energy and the continued development of neighbouring mining communities. This will provide the impetus for employment growth in:
• Retail Trade.
• Mining and Related Industries
• Property and Business Services
• Construction
• Electricity and Gas Services

For more information visit www.rockhampton-revealed.com.au