Strategy Roll-Out on Track

It’s hard to believe it’s been over 18 months since I joined CHDC. When I came on board in late 2023, the team was about to engage consultants to develop the Workforce Development and Accommodation Strategy (WDAS). Since then, we’ve worked hard to turn that strategy into action, and I’m proud of the progress we’ve made.

It’s been a challenging but rewarding journey. The strategy’s ambition and tight deadlines pushed us to deliver quickly and stay focused on practical, high-impact outcomes.

Already, we’ve seen meaningful results: from launching the Smart Move campaign to attract skilled workers, to progressing modular display home solutions and working closely with Council to support residential development.

Collaboration has been key. We’ve engaged major stakeholders — particularly those managing large property portfolios — to raise awareness of local housing and workforce constraints. The WDAS property reviews encouraged many to consider how they could better support regional growth. We’ve also worked closely with Central Highlands Queensland Health, Government Employee Housing, and Council to advocate for more key worker housing in towns like Blackwater.

It’s been rewarding to see the private sector begin leveraging Council-led solutions like the Economic Stimulus Policy incentives, which reduce development application fees and infrastructure charges for long-term residential accommodation. These initiatives are helping unlock housing opportunities — but, as with all development, turning interest into bricks and mortar takes time. The traction is there, but delivery will be a longer-term journey.

I’m also looking forward to next weekend’s Childcare Chats in Blackwater and Emerald, which are the next step in the WDAS’ Enhancing Early Childhood Education and Care project. Hope to see you there!