Image credit – Tourism and Events Queensland
Attracting and retaining key workers is essential for regional growth, and Bundaberg is no exception. The AHURI Final Report No. 425 underscores that while incentives like relocation grants can draw skilled professionals, broader strategies that enhance liveability and community engagement are crucial for long-term retention. Bundaberg’s efforts in this regard highlight both successes and opportunities for improvement.
One of the most compelling aspects of Bundaberg is its lifestyle—a significant draw for many professionals considering a move. The city’s coastal location, warm climate, and rich agricultural surroundings offer an enviable quality of life that can entice healthcare workers, teachers, and other skilled professionals. However, ensuring that these workers remain in the community requires more than just scenic views and pleasant weather.
Key non-cash incentives, as mentioned in the AHURI report, include comprehensive support systems such as Welcome to Bundaberg Community Connector program, quality childcare, access to educational institutions, and opportunities for career development. Bundaberg is well-positioned to build on these areas by continuing to invest in facilities that support families and working professionals. Initiatives to expand local schools and provide training opportunities can help retain not only skilled workers but also their families, who are integral to the fabric of the community.
Employment is only one piece of the puzzle. Workers are more likely to stay in an area that fosters a sense of belonging and offers a rich social fabric. Community events, local sports teams, and arts and cultural programs all contribute to making Bundaberg a place where people want to put down roots. By enhancing these aspects of community life, Bundaberg can better support a stable, satisfied workforce.
Another area to consider is housing affordability and availability. Rapid population growth can put pressure on local housing markets, leading to price increases that make it difficult for workers to settle long-term. Bundaberg has been proactive in promoting affordable housing projects, but as the AHURI report suggests, continuous efforts are needed to ensure housing remains accessible to all, especially key workers whose presence is vital for the community’s health and development.
Bundaberg’s approach could also benefit from targeted professional development opportunities that allow workers to upskill and advance their careers locally. Creating partnerships with educational institutions and professional bodies to offer workshops, courses, and training can make Bundaberg not just a great place to start a career but a place to grow and flourish in it.
Collaborative efforts between government, businesses, and community organisations are essential for creating an environment where key workers feel valued and supported. Bundaberg can draw inspiration from other regional centres that have successfully implemented comprehensive retention programs. This might include mentorship initiatives, networking opportunities for professionals, and incentives that enhance the work-life balance.
Ultimately, Bundaberg’s strength lies in its potential to combine lifestyle benefits with robust community support. By focusing on liveability, community engagement, and career development, Bundaberg can continue to attract and retain key workers who contribute significantly to its growth and prosperity. The challenge is not only to bring them in but to make them feel so at home that they choose to stay for the long term.
This article, written by Welcome to Bundaberg Founder Gayle Reynolds, is inspired by the AHURI Final Report No. 425 titled *“Place-based drivers and effective management of population growth and change in regional Australia.”* Authored by Caitlin Buckle, Greta Werner, Nancy Marshall, Glen Searle, Nick Osbaldiston, Somwrita Sarkar, Durba Kundu, and Nicole Gurran from the University of Sydney and James Cook University, this report was published in August 2024. It explores key push and pull factors affecting population changes in non-metropolitan Australia and offers valuable insights into managing growth effectively in regional areas.
Reference:
Buckle, C., Werner, G., Marshall, N., Searle, G., Osbaldiston, N., Sarkar, S., Kundu, D., & Gurran, N. (2024). *Place-based drivers and effective management of population growth and change in regional Australia*. AHURI Final Report No. 425. Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute Limited.