Regional Workforce and Housing (Panel)

The Summit drew to a close with a final discussion panel and the opportunity for attendees to submit questions.

Discussion was had around how to support pensioners who may be willing and able to venture back into the workforce, such as tax reform to ensure they were not at a financial disadvantage from loss of pension for income earned. It was also suggested that while some older Australians may not have the physical capacity for some roles, that they had a wealth of knowledge and transferrable skills to provide support in other areas.

There was more discussion around the lack of available housing for those who may wish to move to the regions and how, in some instances, red tape was causing bottlenecks in accessing building supplies. Low salaries in hospitality and trades were also highlighted as a barrier to attracting workers, particularly given the cost-of-living increases in regional areas due to housing stock shortages.

The lack of investment in regional TAFEs and centralisation of tertiary education was raised as a factor in young people leaving our regions and contributing to subsequent skills gaps. However, there was much support for the RDA Leadership Programs, as well as discussion around how local leaders could be supported to avoid burnout.|