May was a pivotal month for Central Queensland, marked by shifting labour market trends, a major energy project cancellation, and renewed focus on small business support and regional resilience. The conclusion of the federal election also shaped confidence in the region's economic outlook.
Labour Market Snapshot
According to the latest data, Central Queensland's labour market continued to reflect cautious strength:
- Employment: The number of employed persons reached 131,200. An increase of 7,400 people or 5.9% over the year.
- Participation Rate: Rose to 71.7%, up 3.6% from April 2024, indicating more people are either working or actively seeking work.
- Unemployment Rate: Increased to 5.4%, up 0.9% year-on-year, making it the third-highest unemployment rate among Queensland’s 19 regions.
- Job Advertisements: Online job ads declined by 9.1% over the year across both the Fitzroy and Mackay regions.
- Top Occupations in Demand: The most advertised roles in the region were General Clerks, Metal Fitters and Machinists, and Registered Nurses.
Sources: ABS, Labour Force, Australia, Detailed (released 22 May 2025); Jobs and Skills Australia, Internet Vacancy Index (March 2025)
Federal Election Outcome and Economic Implications
The 2025 Federal Election, held on May 3, resulted in the Australian Labor Party (ALP) being returned to government with a larger-than-expected majority. Post-election, business confidence appears to be stabilising.
According to NAB’s May economic update, there were moderate gains in business conditions and forward orders. The report also highlighted positive financial market movements, driven in part by optimism around a potential rollback of Liberation Day tariffs. At its May meeting, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA)'s monetary policy board decided to decrease the cash rate by 0.25%, to 3.85%, with NAB predicting further reductions through the remainder of 2025 and into early 2026. This could provide relief to households and businesses, supporting consumer demand and investment.
Key implications for Central Queensland include:
- Ongoing infrastructure investment.
- A renewed focus on regional workforce development.
- Continued uncertainty around energy transition policies.
Businesses are now looking for clarity on funding allocations and policy direction to help guide their medium-term planning.
Moonlight Range Wind Farm Project Cancelled
A major blow to the region's renewable energy sector came with the cancellation of the $1 billion Moonlight Range Wind Farm, initially planned for Central Queensland. Developers cited delays in approvals and cost pressures. The project was expected to create hundreds of construction jobs and boost local supply chains. Its cancellation underscores the importance of streamlined planning frameworks and stronger investor confidence in renewables.
Queensland Small Business Month
May marked Queensland Small Business Month 2025, with a suite of initiatives aimed at celebrating and supporting the backbone of the regional economy:
- The Queensland Small Business Commissioner’s Roundup highlighted grant programs, cyber security support and mental health initiatives.
- The State Government hosted dozens of events and webinars to build skills in digital marketing, tendering and leadership.
- The GCCI launched its 2025 Buy Local Campaign, promoting local procurement and consumer support for Central Queensland businesses.
These efforts helped raise the profile of small businesses and encouraged long-term community and industry engagement.
GCCI Business Expo
Held in early May as part of Small Business Month, the GCCI Business Expo brought together local entrepreneurs, government representatives and business service providers. With dozens of exhibitors, a visit from the Queensland Small Business Commissioner’s Office, and a program of workshops and panel discussions on resilience and growth, the event provided valuable networking opportunities and reignited conversations around innovation and regional collaboration.
Conclusion
May reflected a blend of optimism and challenge for Central Queensland. While employment continues to grow and small business support initiatives gained traction, the cancellation of a major renewables project and lingering questions around post-election policy show that uncertainty remains. With a resilient labour force and proactive business community, the region is well-positioned to navigate what comes next.
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