A survey carried out by the Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) has revealed that the capacity for growth in the state of Queensland is being severely undermined by a lack of available manpower.

Almost 80 per cent of respondents stated that they believed their business would suffer due to a lack of workers over the next 12 months. The current skills crisis in Queensland is just one of many examples of Australia’s buoyant economy creating a major demand for skilled workers which are in short supply. It is widely regarded that Australian immigration is required if the void in the workforce is to be filled.

The survey collected information from over 190 businesses throughout Queensland’s business and manufacturing sectors, amounting to a combined total of over 10,000 workers and a sales volume of $3 billion.

Chris Rodwell, director of the Ai Group’s Queensland branch, stated that the state’s soon-to-be-unveiled budget must be significantly geared towards addressing the issues raised by the survey, whilst state Treasurer Andres Fraser emphasised the need for recruitment for skilled professionals from overseas.