Blog

Tim O'Brien, our Director and Business Talent Scout, brings you regular insights into regional jobs, skills and talent acquisition.

Here we also share relevant news and info affecting jobs and the local economy.   

  • Monthly Market Review August 2026

    Posted on Monday, September 7, 2026 by Jobs in Central QueenslandNo comments

    August saw continued momentum across Central Queensland, with major developments in defence, advanced manufacturing, renewable energy and regional infrastructure. Several projects progressed during the month, supporting local business activity, strengthening industry capability and contributing to demand for skilled workers. New initiatives in tourism and workforce development are also ...

  • Monthly Market Review July 2026

    Posted on Monday, August 24, 2026 by Jobs in Central QueenslandNo comments

    July brought a mix of steady employment, major infrastructure investment and emerging development opportunities across Central Queensland. The region continues to attract investment across resources, construction, housing and renewable energy, supporting activity for local businesses and workers. Meanwhile, preparations for Brisbane 2032 and ongoing development proposals are keeping regional ...

  • Monthly Market Review June 2026

    Posted on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 by Jobs in Central QueenslandNo comments

    June highlighted the continued evolution of Central Queensland’s economy, with major investment across energy, infrastructure, resources, and regional development creating future opportunities while businesses continue to navigate cost pressures and workforce challenges. Employment remained relatively stable, with emerging industries and government investment supporting demand for skilled workers ...

  • How to Explain Career Gaps Without Feeling Awkward

    Posted on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 by Jobs in Central QueenslandNo comments

    Career gaps are far more common than many job seekers realise. Time away from work can happen for many reasons, including parenting, caring responsibilities, study, travel, health challenges, redundancy, burnout, or simply taking time to reassess career goals. While many candidates worry that gaps in employment will immediately raise concerns with employers, the reality is that most recruiters ...

  • Monthly Market Review May 2026

    Posted on Monday, June 15, 2026 by Jobs in Central QueenslandNo comments

    May saw Central Queensland continue to navigate a complex and evolving economic environment, with labour market conditions remaining relatively strong, despite emerging signs of softening nationally. Ongoing cost pressures, rising interest rates and global uncertainty were key factors, particularly across fuel and energy markets. This continued to influence business confidence, workforce planning ...

  • The Cost of a Bad Hire in 2026 (and How to Avoid It)

    Posted on Thursday, May 14, 2026 by Jobs in Central QueenslandNo comments

    Hiring the wrong person has always been costly, but in 2026, the impact is greater than ever. With rising labour costs, increased competition for skilled workers, and growing pressure on productivity, a bad hire can affect far more than just your recruitment budget. From lost time and reduced morale to operational disruptions and reputational damage, the consequences can ripple across an entire ...

  • Monthly Market Review April 2026

    Posted on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 by Jobs in Central QueenslandNo comments

    April saw Central Queensland continue to navigate a mixed economic environment, with steady employment outcomes balanced against ongoing cost pressures, softer business confidence, and rising operating expenses across key industries. Despite these challenges, investment activity, regional collaboration, and workforce demand continued to support economic resilience across the region. Labour Market ...

  • Interview Nerves Are Normal: How to Show Confidence Even When You Feel Nervous

    Posted on Thursday, April 23, 2026 by Jobs in Central QueenslandNo comments

    It is completely normal to feel nervous before an interview. Even experienced professionals often experience butterflies, sweaty palms, or racing thoughts when facing a hiring manager. The good news is that feeling nervous does not have to hold you back. With the right strategies, you can manage your nerves and project confidence throughout the interview. Why Feeling Nervous is Normal Interviews ...

  • What Job Seekers See When They Google Your Business

    Posted on Thursday, April 16, 2026 by Jobs in Central QueenslandNo comments

    In today’s digital world, your online presence speaks volumes about your business long before candidates submit a resume. Job seekers do more than read your job ad. They research your company online to understand your workplace, your values, and whether they would be a good fit. How your business appears in search results can influence whether top talent even considers applying. Your First ...

  • Monthly Market Review March 2026

    Posted on Thursday, April 9, 2026 by Jobs in Central QueenslandNo comments

    March saw growing global and national economic pressures begin to flow through to Central Queensland, with rising fuel costs, interest rate increases, and declining business confidence shaping the operating environment. Despite this, continued investment across key industries including manufacturing, agriculture, and innovation highlights the region’s resilience and ability to adapt to changing ...