When the right business conditions are present, there is a lot that small and medium enterprises can achieve in Queensland. Whether in investing in new apprentices or workers, adopting new technology or branching out to new customers, confidence plays a massive role in the stability of the state economy.
Confidence improves further
It is then pleasing to report the findings of the latest Sensis Business Index report for August 2015 published by the state government. According to the statistics, business confidence among SMEs was recorded at 25 points in August, seven points higher than in the previous quarter.
Treasurer Curtis Pitt noted that the index provided helpful insight into what businesses are looking for from the state government.
“The Palaszczuk Government has introduced an incentive for employers who hire new apprentices or trainees, who will get a 25 per cent payroll tax rebate on the payroll tax of another worker,” he said.
“We’ll continue to work with business and industry to promote growth, investment and job opportunities in Queensland.”
In a number of key elements in relation to employment and apprentices, Queensland small businesses are recording positive numbers. The size of workforce (+5), wages (+16), profitability (+17) and sales (24 points) all recorded positive expectations for the next three months.
Of course, business confidence is a scale that reflects the mood of the many and every entity will be moving through periods of either growth or contraction. This is why is it important for potential apprentices to look past these figures and find industries that are continuing to grow.
Employment up across board
The Sensis Business Index analyses a number of key Australian industries to highlight which sectors could be good for employment in the coming months and years.
Employment confidence was up across almost all industries including manufacturing (+16), wholesale trade (+9) and transport and storage (+1).
Gateway Upgrade North construction
A great example of an announced project that could attract apprentices is the Gateway Upgrade North construction between Nudgee and Bracken Ridge.
Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss explained the significant employment opportunities available before work begins in early 2016.
“The project will support more than 1,000 direct jobs during its lifespan, continuing the Coalition government’s commitment to deliver national prosperity and a stronger national transport network,” Mr Truss said.
This is just one of many infrastructure projects set for Queensland over the coming years. With opportunities increasing and business confidence improving, the future for apprentices in this part of Australia looks bright.
By Leanne Macnamara, Public Relations Coordinator
