CQ Monthly Market Review August 2026

August saw continued momentum across Central Queensland, with major developments in defence, advanced manufacturing, renewable energy and regional infrastructure. Several projects progressed during the month, supporting local business activity, strengthening industry capability and contributing to demand for skilled workers. New initiatives in tourism and workforce development are also contributing to the region’s broader economic growth and diversification.

Labour Market Snapshot

The Central Queensland labour market remained relatively steady in July 2026, with 130,300 people employed across the region. This represents an increase of 900 employed persons, or 0.7%, over the year. The unemployment rate remained at 4.6%, above the Queensland average of 4.2%, while the participation rate was 69.6%, down 0.2% over the year. Central Queensland recorded the eighth-highest unemployment rate across Queensland's 19 regions of this size, highlighting the ongoing importance of connecting local jobseekers with workforce opportunities.

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Labour Force, Australia, released 20 August 2026, 11:30 am (AEST)

CQ Eyes Greater Defence Investment

Central Queensland leaders are preparing to take a business case to Canberra in support of greater defence investment in the region. The proposal includes a potential defence logistics hub, medical training centre and submarine-support facility in Gladstone, building on existing assets including the Shoalwater Bay Training Area, Rockhampton Airport and the Port of Gladstone. With the region hosting thousands of defence personnel for major training exercises, increased defence investment could help diversify the Central Queensland economy while supporting local industries including logistics, maintenance, transport and construction.

Alpha HPA Expansion Marks Progress for Gladstone Manufacturing

Construction of Alpha HPA's Stage Two facility in Gladstone continues to progress following the arrival of a major shipment of equipment through the Port of Gladstone. The delivery included 28 tanks and vessels, along with structural steel and other materials, which will support the next stage of the facility's 10-hectare expansion. The project reflects Gladstone's growing role in advanced manufacturing and highlights the continued demand for specialist construction, engineering and industrial capabilities across the region.

Aldoga Solar Project Advances Gladstone's Clean Energy Future

The completion of the Aldoga Substation marks an important step in connecting the 380MW Aldoga Solar Farm to Queensland's electricity network. Located near Gladstone, the project is one of Queensland's largest solar developments and required complex coordination across design, procurement, construction and commissioning. As the renewable energy sector continues to develop across Central Queensland, projects such as Aldoga demonstrate the growing demand for technical expertise, engineering and specialist construction skills needed to support the region's energy transition.

Powerlink Contract Drives Investment in CQ

A major contract has been awarded for works on the Calvale to Calliope River Reinforcement Project, supporting further investment in Central Queensland's energy infrastructure. The contractor will construct 20 kilometres of new transmission line near Gladstone, along with upgrades to the Calliope River Substation and installation of a new transformer. Around 150 workers are expected to be employed for this stage of the project, with approximately one-third projected to come from Central Queensland communities, providing direct benefits for the local workforce and supporting industries.

Regional Tourism Fund Supports CQ Visitor Economy

The Queensland Government has opened Round 2 of the Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund, providing eligible tourism operators, businesses, local governments and not-for-profit organisations with access to funding of up to $300,000 per project. The fund aims to develop new and improved tourism infrastructure and experiences across regional Queensland, increasing visitor numbers, encouraging longer stays and supporting economic activity. For Central Queensland, the initiative could help local organisations invest in projects that strengthen the region's tourism offering while supporting jobs during construction and ongoing operations.

Dorrie Day Connects First Nations Youth with Careers

More than 1,000 students and 90 exhibitors came together at Dorrie Day 2026 in Gladstone, connecting First Nations students, jobseekers and families with education, employment and industry pathways. Hosted at the CQU Gladstone campus, the career expo brought together businesses and organisations from across the region to provide information about job opportunities, training and future career options. Events such as Dorrie Day play an important role in strengthening connections between industry and the local community while helping young people explore the diverse pathways available across Central Queensland.

Conclusion

Central Queensland continues to demonstrate the diversity of its economy, with activity across defence, manufacturing, renewable energy, infrastructure, tourism and workforce development. As major projects progress and new investment opportunities emerge, the region's ability to develop and retain a skilled local workforce will remain central to ensuring these developments deliver lasting benefits for Central Queensland communities and businesses.

Job Skills Network are your regional recruitment partners. We help you build the right team in regional locations through a personalised Recruitment Partnership with our experienced specialists, or an advertising campaign on our online job board.

For more information about local job opportunities and recruitment support in Central Queensland, visit our regional job board, JobsinCentralQueensland.au.