New Indigenous employment opportunities in Qld
First Nations councils will benefit from the Queensland government’s First Start program to deliver 300 new council jobs across the State.
The jobs boost under the First Start program will support 64 councils and one statutory authority, including 46 regional councils and 11 First Nations councils, meaning opportunities reach the heart of Queensland communities.
This year’s allocation will:
- Create 300 new traineeships across councils to build local capability and deliver essential services.
- Enable 100 second-year apprentices to continue their training, securing skilled workers for Queensland’s future.
- Provide nationally recognised qualifications and 12–24 months paid employment for jobseekers, easing cost-of-living pressures and creating pathways to permanent work.
- Strengthening council workforces means safer communities, reliable infrastructure, and essential services that Queenslanders depend on every day.
Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, Ros Bates, said the program was driving jobs growth and strengthening essential services across Queensland communities.
Mareeba is one town in far north Queensland that could benefit.
“First Start is about giving Queenslanders real jobs and real skills. It’s practical support that helps families by easing cost-of-living pressures and setting people up for long-term careers,” Minister Bates said.
“These traineeships and apprenticeships mean councils can keep water flowing, roads maintained, and community facilities safe, the basics every community relies on.
“With 82 per cent of positions in regional and remote Queensland, this program is helping communities grow and thrive by keeping essential services strong and creating opportunities close to home.”
For a full list of funded councils, visit: https://desbt.qld.gov.au/training/community-orgs/funded/sqw/funded-projects
