Victorian Skills Commissioner Neil Coulson launched the regional skills demand profile in Portland, which detailed the experiences of south-west employers who are struggling to find skilled workers to fill positions.

Every industry across the region will have an increase in the number of workers it requires by 2021, with agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, tourism and transport industries the most in demand.

The profile is a comprehensive overview of the region’s employment needs. Mr Coulson said it honed in on the specific shortages in the south-west and would inform higher educators, schools and young people on where the jobs were. 

“By addressing areas of skills shortages for employers we can raise prosperity and productivity while providing a smoother transition to working life for our young people,” he said. “We can help all young people gain careers without having to leave behind family and friends. This report shows there are good jobs and great careers available in the region. This information can start the conversation and we can get it out to schools through career education with the support of industry to encourage more work experience and more opportunities for young people to understand what the great job opportunities are with local employers.” 

Warrnambool City Council chief executive officer Bruce Anons said all industries needed more skilled workers.

“Skilled population attraction is vital,” he said.