The Moreton Bay region of Queensland is one of the state’s fastest growing areas, with 2015 representing a massive step forward in relation to job creation.
According to Moreton Bay Regional Council, the region’s population is expected to increase 23 per cent this decade. From a base of 376,949 residents five years ago, more than 460,000 people are predicted to call the area home in 2021.
Impressive employment growth
More than 43,000 jobs have been created in the Moreton Bay region in 2015, thanks to a combination of infrastructure projects and community initiatives. In fact, the unemployment rate in this area of Queensland is significantly lower (5.8 per cent) than the state trend rate (6.3 per cent) – highlighting the strong growth this year.
One major project to head the headlines was the redevelopment of the Westfield North Lakes.
Stage 1 was completed a few weeks ago, with the mall open to the public from November 26. However, this isn’t the end of the Westfield project, with North Lakes Stage 2 starting next year.
The Queensland government stated that the $140 million development will provide several thousand construction jobs and provide a number of wider employment opportunities for apprentices and trainees.
Queensland Treasurer Curtis Pitt explained the scope of the project in more detail.
“It’s my privilege to be announcing a project that will deliver even more jobs and economic growth to North Lakes and broader Moreton Bay region,” he said.
“By the end of next year this area will be transformed into an 113,000 square metre shopping Mecca with 280 retailers an eight-Screen Events Cinema, IKEA and more.”
Across both stages and the IKEA project, the infrastructure will have created close to 5,000 construction roles and served as a training ground for the next generation of workers.
Moreton Bay road upgrades
A great example of how far Moreton Bay infrastructure investment has progressed in 2015 is the multi-million dollar upgrade of Old North Road – one of the region’s busiest routes.
According to the regional council, this is part of the $93 million committed to road infrastructure over the 2015/16 financial year and another opportunity for construction workers in the area.
“This significant investment in our local road network follows on from the recently completed widening of Kremzow Road,” Division Nine councillor Mike Charlton said.
With Moreton Bay experiencing a boom in construction potential, jobseekers in the region should consider starting an apprenticeship designed to provide the skills and experience for a success future career.
By Leanne Macnamara, Public Relations Coordinator
