Wimmera Southern Mallee regional skills demand profile 2023

The purpose of the profiles is to provide a robust evidence base of skills and workforce demands to guide education and skills responses in the region. It draws on a wide range of data and information supplemented by insights and experience of key local stakeholders, brought together as a Regional Skills Taskforce and industry roundtables. This profile focuses on the three-year outlook for the Wimmera Southern Mallee region, and the education and training opportunities that can assist in developing the required workforce. Whilst the profile acknowledges that many factors contribute to economic development, this work is centred on the skills and training responses (to engage, train and retain the workforce) rather than other levers that are also essential to secure labour and ensure the region's prosperity.

The Wimmera Southern Mallee covers a large area in the west of Victoria and has more than 48,400 residents. It encompasses the local government areas of Horsham Rural City and the Shires of Hindmarsh, Northern Grampians, West Wimmera, and Yarriambiack. The region is home to Wotjobaluk People, being the Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia and the Jupagalk alongside the Dja Dja Wurung People, as well as other Traditional Owner groups who are not formally recognised, who have lived, worked, and cared for their Country and resources for many thousands of years. Comprising a range of natural assets and critical industries, the region contributes considerably to Victoria's economy and has the potential to extend its influence and impact through growth in a number of areas. A strong agricultural presence creates opportunities for growth, as technological advancements push businesses to become more efficient. The increasing uptake of technology will create demand for higher skilled workers who can work alongside advanced technology.

The region's natural-based tourism experiences are set to attract visitors to the region as tourism increases post the pandemic, creating flow-on demand for the retail trade, accommodation, and food service sectors. Natural endowments also present opportunity for the mining industry, with the region's mineral sands deposits in high global demand and the development of wind farms highlighting the region's clean energy production potential. These industries hold the potential for long-term, large-scale growth, but will require a large-scale workforce, likely with an augmented skill mix. This diversification of industry has changed the nature of skills and training required in the region. The three-year employment projections show significant demand for workers in the region - with 1,700-2,400 additional new workers required in the three years between 2022 and 2025. At least 1,210 workers will also be needed to replace retirements.

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