Young workers a key focus for Ipswich region’s future
13 June 2022
Keeping the best and brightest of Ipswich’s young workforce in the region will be a focus for the city’s new representative to the Regional Development Australia Ipswich and West Moreton Committee (RDAIWM).
Economic and Industry Development Committee Chairperson Councillor Nicole Jonic was recently appointed to the committee by RDAIWM Chair Councillor Janice Holstein, joining other representatives from Scenic Rim, Lockyer Valley and Somerset regional councils.
“Ipswich is the powerhouse of the Ipswich and West Moreton region, and opportunities abound to boost our regional growth through policy decisions, local innovation and investment,” Cr Jonic said.
“Ipswich has a young population – more than 40 per cent of residents are aged between 15 to 44 – and we also have the highest population growth rate in Queensland.
“It is so important for us to provide the training and employment opportunities to keep these valuable workers in our city, rather than lose them to metropolitan areas or making them join the long daily commute into Brisbane.
“Ipswich also boasts abundant family and community assets. We want people to live, work and play in Ipswich and know that this region provides for all of their needs.”
Cr Jonic said she was proud to represent Ipswich in the regional committee.
“It has been some years since Ipswich had a representative on the Regional Development Australia Ipswich and West Moreton Committee,” Cr Jonic said.
“It is vital that our city has a voice, given that it is not only the population centre of the region but also has the highest growth rate.
“Ipswich is also the epicentre of a diverse economy led by aerospace, manufacturing, education, health, transport and construction.
“Ipswich is in a prime position with our world-class vocational education sector and established businesses across diverse industries, for the forecasted industry and job opportunities.”
Councillor Jonic said Ipswich and West Moreton region comprised four Local Government Areas, but accounted for more than half the land area of South-East Queensland.
“It is an exciting time to be part of this committee,” Cr Jonic said.
“I look forward to working with the committee to grow a strong and dynamic regional economy that harnesses competitive advantage, seizes on economic opportunities and attracts international investment and trade.”