QLD LNP to honour the ALP’s budget commitments: what this means for jobs

Residents of Queensland will head to the voting booth on Saturday 26th October to either deliver a fourth consecutive term for Labor, or a historic swing to the Liberal National Party.  

Usually, the outcome of a state election would lead to diverging impacts on economic policies and the subsequent employment landscape, but Opposition Leader David Crisafulli’s decision to honour Premier Steven Miles’ budget commitments means – in the short term at least – that we can anticipate investment and job growth in the same sectors, regardless of the election outcome. 

Below, Six Degrees Executive explores potential job opportunities arising from the key areas of investment heralded in the Queensland Government's budget, which has the support of both parties.   

Areas of investment 

Both parties are focusing on the four areas seen as most relevant to voters: youth crime, health, housing, and cost-of-living. Broadly, the state government’s latest budget and spending promises reflect these priorities. The ALP has announced: 

• $107 billion to major infrastructure projects, with a focus on hospitals, road and rail spending. $18.57 billion will be spent on infrastructure projects outside Greater Brisbane, directly supporting about 50,000 jobs.  

• A growth of 10.6% to the health budget in 2024-25, totalling $28.9 billion.  

• $3.1 billion investment in the Homes for Queenslanders program.  

Employment outlook 

The areas of focus in the 2024 budget – along with Brisbane’s strong economic and population growth – indicate a plethora of job opportunities across various fields, especially in Engineering, Procurement, Safety & Sustainability, Technical, Digital, and Technology.   

One of the main highlights of the election is both parties’ push for “Big Build” infrastructure projects to keep up with the demands of a fast-growing population. This means we can expect a boom in engineering jobs as the state dives into major urban and regional development and transport upgrades. Alongside this, procurement roles will become crucial as businesses look for skilled professionals to source the materials and services these large projects require. 

According to a 2021 report by KPMG, the government anticipates the 2032 Brisbane Olympics will generate $8.5 billion in international tourism and trade, with $4.6 billion expected in Queensland alone. The event is projected to create 129,000 jobs in tourism, hospitality and construction. Brisbane’s initial organisational budget was set at $4.45 billion but has now increased to $5.8 billion. 

These extensive infrastructure improvements will create additional demand for engineers and procurement professionals. We can also anticipate a surge in contracting roles as organisations move to scale up their workforces as the Olympics approaches.  

Safety and sustainability will also be front and centre. With the focus on meeting regulations and community expectations, professionals in safety management will be vital to ensure compliance and reduce risks during Big Build and Olympic construction. Sustainability experts will play an important role in embedding eco-friendly practices into project plans, reflecting the government’s Clean Economy Pathway to target of 75% below 2005 levels by 2035. Energy policy, however, may be one clear area where the major parties are diverging, with the QLD LNP supporting a 2050 net zero emissions targeted but no legislated targets in the meantime.  

A Forbes report predicts advanced manufacturing – robotics, biomedical, aerospace and food technology – will surge by 29% from 2021 to 2031 to become Brisbane’s leading industry and employ the most people of any sector. This anticipated growth means there will be a strong demand for technical, digital, and technology roles.  

In short, bilateral investment in infrastructure, the Olympics, and the growth of Queensland’s advanced manufacturing sector indicates a vibrant job market full of exciting opportunities. These areas of growth will also need to hire additional knowledge workers in roles including Operations, Accounting and Finance and Supply Chain.   

Reach out to the team at Six Degrees Executive 

At Six Degrees Executive, we have our finger on the pulse of the Queensland talent market. Our dedicated specialists are constantly engaging with professionals and employers, giving us unique insights into emerging trends and opportunities.

We’re here to help you navigate the changing landscape, explore new possibilities, and provide the support and advice you need. Reach out to us today.