This Week in Talent (6th July)

Hi, I’m Ben. I’m thankful for being given the chance to be July 2023’s guest TWIT editor.

I write my first ever TWIT while celebrating NAIDOC week. The theme this week is ‘For our Elders’ which is aimed at promoting the importance of Indigenous Elders. I was born and raised in a farming community in NSW which had a strong and close Indigenous community. Our local Elders were respected by all in the community and often played their role to whoever needed their help.

I’m a TABP at Thales Australia where I’m tasked with supporting operations in regional NSW and Victoria. Though I’m currently living in Melbourne, I have ties back to the country, so I kind of feel like I’m qualified to do this, however, it’s striking how regional Australia is struggling with the wider ‘war on talent’.

In the past, the image of regional Australia has been closely associated with traditional farming and agricultural roles. However, the reality is that regional centres have much more to offer. Take, for example, employment in the field of rocket motor technology. Yes, you read that right. Even in rural Australia, we are actively seeking individuals skilled in testing materials used in propulsion and being engaged in cutting-edge research and development. It’s a testament to the diverse range of opportunities that can be found outside the urban centres.

However, despite the promising growth and unique opportunities, regional Australia still faces a significant challenge: the skills shortage.

Liz Ritchie, CEO of the Regional Australia Institute, recently made a statement on ABC News Breakfast that underscores the urgency of this matter. With job growth occurring at a rate “…three times faster in rural and regional Australia than in metropolitan…” areas, it is crucial to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity.

Whether I’ve asked somebody who grew up in a rural community or somebody who took the chance on a ‘tree-change’, their response on why they love living regionally is always the same, lifestyle. Not all rural communities are ‘remote’. Many have adapted to changes in their local economies, promoted other industries, celebrated diversity, and thrived as a result. I’ll be soon returning to my regional NSW farming community to visit family, but unlike decades ago, it now has three coffee shops to choose from. That’s progress!

This year’s NAIDOC theme is ‘For Our Elders’. But what is an Elder?

This article outlines what is an Elder from the perspective of different Indigenous people. It demonstrates that though the views can differ slightly the role of Elders plays a big part in Indigenous communities and families.

Educate yourself on First Nations achievements and issues

I’m sure most of you have seen this, as it was on LinkedIn News Australia, but it’s a great post that highlights Indigenous voices at a pivotal time in Australia’s history.

Major change to Defence trades training

More people completing trade training will have a long-term effect on the number of qualified tradespeople in the future; a great step!

Mid-career professionals take the job-change leap before ‘Great Reshuffle’ window closes

ABS data recently released data that suggests that job mobility is around the same level than at the same time in 2022 (that data was measured at the end of February 2023). The article suggest that our current period of job mobility is coming to an end – TA are already be seeing this in many sectors.

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