General News
9 July, 2025
Extension for Mount Isa's Regional Jobs Committee
The funding decision is a vote of confidence in the region’s capacity to lead local solutions for local jobs.
Mount Isa has received a vote of confidence from the Queensland government, with a two-year extension of the Regional Jobs Committee (RJC) program confirmed as part of the state budget.
Ros Bates, Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to strengthening regional economies through place-based, community-driven workforce initiatives.
Mount Isa’s RJC, hosted by Mount Isa City Council, plays a vital role in bringing together community, industry, and government to tackle local workforce challenges and unlock new opportunities for economic participation.
“This funding decision is a vote of confidence in our region’s capacity to lead local solutions for local jobs,” said Mount Isa RJC project manager Natasha Storey.
The Mount Isa RJC is steered by a cross-sector committee representing eight key industries and sectors.
Under their guidance, and with the energy of local working groups, the RJC has delivered a growing portfolio of initiatives aligned to the region’s jobs plan.
These working groups are the engines behind the design and delivery of local solutions across First Nations employment, health and social assistance, construction, manufacturing, and more.
“The RJC has become a trusted regional platform where local ideas translate into local impact,” said Chris Ruyg, chair of the Mount Isa RJC.
“With this renewed support, we can build on our momentum and continue driving outcomes that reflect the strengths and aspirations of our community.”
Mount Isa mayor Peta MacRae welcomed the announcement.
“Mount Isa City Council is proud to host the RJC and see firsthand the impact it’s having on our local workforce,” she said.
“This renewed investment enables us to continue building local capability, supporting industry growth and backing the aspirations of our people.
“The work of the RJC shows what’s possible when we collaborate across sectors to create lasting change.
“We look forward to applying for the re-tender when the process opens to continue this impactful work.”
Over the past 14 months, the Mount Isa RJC has co-designed and progressed a range of initiatives – from regional jobs expos and industry forums to First Nations transition programs and data-informed strategies.
These projects are not only responsive to workforce needs, but have strengthened collaboration, improved access to opportunities, and built greater visibility of local solutions.
The voices, ideas and energy of Mount Isa LGA have helped shape a model that works – and one that is now being recognised as a priority for continued investment.
Their work is deeply grounded in community and is driven by locals, for locals. This investment supports the sustainability of what they’ve built and gives momentum to what’s ahead.
As it enters the transition period, during which the state government will determine ongoing arrangements, the RJC committee says it will refine its priorities.