Attendees at HumanAbility’s Queensland Roadshow were eager to discuss one shared goal: building a stronger workforce in the care and support sectors.
The forum in Brisbane began with a Welcome to Country from Uncle Billy Cummings on behalf of the Turrbal People of Brisbane.
With colleagues representing almost every corner of the care and support industry, discussions quickly turned to the recruitment challenges in Queensland particularly in rural and remote areas. Conversations also focused on the barriers to accessing professional development for workers with limited time.
Another emerging theme was the occasional disconnect between current training and the skills required on the job.
‘There are a lot of people coming out from training that don’t have the soft skills required in the sport and recreation industry or the practical skills to ensure everyone’s safety,’ said Nikki Thornhill from Royal Lifesaving Society Queensland.
Robyn Keenan from ACE Community Colleges spoke about the power of collaboration, ‘It’s the sharing of ideas at these forums that really helps. We can take these ideas back to our own regions and use them to make improvements.'
Thanks to everyone who attended the Brisbane Forum and CEO Roundtable – it was fantastic to see so many passionate individuals committed to improving the care and support sectors and strengthening them for the future.