Work

The North West Mineral Province is supported by State and Federal Governments in efforts to create jobs, increase private sector investment and engage young Queenslanders in education, training or work to drive regional productivity.

Numerous key projects have been announced across North West Queensland, driving significant investment in energy, renewables, critical minerals and new and emerging industries. Among these is the $9 billion Copperstring 2032 project which broke ground in mid 2024.

Abundant mineral wealth and natural resources
Thriving pastoral industries
A vital transport corridor with easy access to major transport routes
Established local supply chains
Proximity to growing Asian markets
Home to the world’s largest natural aquifer, the Great Artesian Basin
Known for world-class fossil deposits
Rich cultural heritage and national parks
A resilient and diverse economy
Riversleigh World Heritage Fossil Site
Thriving outback experience and growing tourism industry

Working in North West Queensland

North West Queensland offers a range of rewarding career opportunities in dynamic industries, making it an attractive destination for those looking to combine work with a unique outback lifestyle.

Employment Conditions

Salaries

Competitive, often reflecting the remote nature of the region and the demand for skilled workers.

Work Environment

Many roles, especially in mining and agriculture, involve working in outdoor and remote settings.

Training and Development

Employers often invest in training programs and professional development to attract and retain skilled workers.

Support for Workers

Accommodation

Some employers, particularly in the mining and agriculture industries, provide housing or accommodation allowances.

Relocation Assistance

Financial and logistical support for workers relocating to the region.

Community Integration

Local organizations and employers facilitate community engagement and support networks to help new residents settle in.

Earning & Developing in The Regions

The average income in North West Queensland varies based on the type of employment, sector and conditions. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), the average weekly earnings for full-time adults in Australia as of November 2023 were $1,888 for ordinary time earnings and $1,958 for total earnings. For all employees, the average weekly total earnings were $1,432 (Australian Bureau of Statistics).

In North West Queensland specifically, economic data from the ABS highlights a range of incomes influenced by the region's dominant industries, which include mining, agriculture, and public services. For a more localised and detailed breakdown, including variations by sector and specific regional statistics, you can access the ABS Data by Region tool (Australian Bureau of Statistics).

$1,888 Ordinary time earnings

$1,958 Total earnings

$1,432 Average weekly total

North West Queensland Job Opportunities

North West Queensland is experiencing a labour and skills shortage in line with significant industry development. There are numerous job opportunities across all key industries and the sectors that support those industries and the growing communities. As such, employers are motivated to attract, incentivise and retain employees making an ideal platform for career development and advancement from regional opportunity.

Jobs are available in retail management, sales, customer service, and various trades and services (plumbing, electrical, construction).

Overview of Regional Industries

The region encompasses 11 Local Government Areas split between the Mid-West and the Western Gulf Region.

The Mid-West stretches across the highly productive beef cattle regions of the Flinders, Richmond, and McKinlay Local Government Areas.

The Mid-West is also a highly prospective area for critical minerals mining, a substantial outback tourism destination, and in recent years, has become a hub for renewable energy investment, predominantly wind and solar.

The Western region includes the base metal mining centres of Mount Isa and Cloncurry, and the vast Gulf of Carpentaria and Burke Shire, as well as the neighbouring First Nations communities of Doomadgee and Mornington Island.

The Western region is productive cattle country in addition to being one of the largest copper, lead and zinc producers in the world. It is currently undergoing a significant transition as one of its major employers, the Glencore Mount Isa Mines underground copper operation, is set to close in 2025.

However, the broader region remains highly prospective, with significant mining and development opportunities under consideration in the region.