The Queensland Trucking Association (QTA) is addressing the challenge of attracting young talent to the transport industry through the “Driving Townsville’s Future” program. Funded by the state government’s Jobs Queensland program, this initiative targets diverse demographics, including youth, Indigenous Australians, and the long-term unemployed, providing them with training and work experience.
Almost half of Australian truck drivers are over the age of 55, with the average age being 49. Only 6.2% of drivers are under 25, and just 6.5% are women. These statistics highlight the urgent need to attract younger, more diverse talent to the industry.
The “Driving Townsville’s Future” program will select 20 participants from various employment and demographic backgrounds. According to QTA Engagement Specialist Lisa Fraser, the program targets both people currently in the industry and those aspiring to enter it, equally dividing the spots between these groups. Participants will complete five core competency units along with work experience or on-the-job training.
“Generally, these government projects require you to target certain cohorts,” Fraser says. “They’re youth, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, long-term unemployed, and gender-based criteria.”
The training will be conducted in blocks of 10 participants over four weeks, blending employed candidates with those seeking employment in the industry. Fraser emphasizes the importance of providing base-level training and accredited units to enhance participants’ skills and readiness for the workforce.
Fraser highlights the importance of adapting to changes in how new entrants join the industry. Traditional pathways, such as growing up around transport businesses, are diminishing due to increased compliance and insurance requirements. Programs like “Driving Townsville’s Future” are crucial in providing new ways for young people and career changers to enter the industry safely and effectively.
“The industry has got to come up with ways to work within the confines of the system that will ensure young people are firstly kept safe but also are provided with that hands-on experience,” Fraser says. “It’s really important for the sustainability of regional transport businesses to be able to attract new entrants into their business.”
Fraser also stresses the importance of careful vetting to ensure participants are suited to the industry, which increases retention and the likelihood of successful program completion.
Programs like “Driving Townsville’s Future” are essential for the transport sector’s long-term viability. By addressing both current workforce gaps and future needs, these initiatives help create a sustainable pool of skilled professionals ready to meet industry demands.
The QTA’s proactive approach serves as a model for other regions and industries facing similar challenges. By investing in targeted training and fostering an inclusive workforce, the transport sector can ensure it remains robust and capable of meeting future demands.
