Cairns Chamber of Commerce Update
Cairns Chamber of Commerce Update
FNQ DAMA Extension a Win for Regional Employers
The Far North Queensland Designated Area Migration Agreement (FNQ DAMA) has now been extended through to April 4, 2027. This critical program helps address regional skill shortages in industries such as healthcare, tourism, construction, agriculture to name but a few. This is comforting news for the many industries continually challenged when attempting to fill skilled roles withing their businesses. This announcement by the government also included the approval of the many requested variations requested by the Cairns Chamber of Commerce. These included additional occupations required by our industry sectors as well as greater flexibility around income thresholds.
This announcement reflects our strong collaboration with Government and offers businesses continued certainty in planning their workforce.
CQU Expansion a Game-Changer for Cairns
CQUniversity has officially announced a major expansion of its Cairns CBD campus, made possible by a combined $77.5 million in bipartisan funding from both the ALP and LNP. The development includes a new allied health and engineering wing, with construction set to begin later this year. Once complete, the campus will support up to 6,000 students and introduce flagship degrees such as medical imaging. This investment is set to boost local industries, create jobs, and ensure regional students enjoy the same opportunities as those in capital cities. It is a transformative step forward – not just for education and future skills, but for the vibrancy of our CBD. We are very excited to start to see some “shovels in the ground”!
Water Security Project Secures Bipartisan Backing
With phase one of Cairns’ water security project already underway, the announcement of bipartisan support to complete it has been welcomed by the community. It’s a huge relief for ratepayers and a strong signal that both major parties recognise the importance of long-term infrastructure for our region.
Addressing Housing Demand with Fast-Tracked Development
With immediate and long-term housing demand on the rise, Cairns Regional Council (CRC) is seeking Priority Development Area (PDA) status for the Mount Peter Southern Growth Corridor – an area projected to house 18,500 new dwellings for more than 42,000 people. CRC have advised that having a PDA in place would enable faster planning and infrastructure delivery. We are continuing to work with CRC, Cairns Regional Jobs Committee (RJC), and peak bodies such as CSQ to address one of the region’s biggest challenges: attracting and retaining skilled tradespeople to meet the demands of both civil and residential construction.
Shaping the Region’s Future Leaders
Our Emerging Leaders Program is now in full swing, with the first two industry immersion days held in the marine and aviation sectors. Mentors have been assigned to each participant, guiding them through a program designed to develop globally relevant, locally connected leaders. It’s a powerful step towards securing the economic, social, and environmental prosperity of Far North Queensland for years to come through growing our own leaders of tomorrow.
Fiji Airways Launch a Win for Tourism and Trade
Our April Aviation Lunch offered the perfect backdrop to celebrate Fiji Airways’ announcement of direct flights between Fiji and Cairns. This new route was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the State Government, TTNQ, and Cairns airport. With the fastest travel time from the U.S. to Cairns – cutting nearly three hours of travel time from LA through to Cairns. It’s estimated to bring 52,000 extra U.S. visitors annually, injecting more than $160 million into our economy. This opens exciting opportunities for tourism and investment in our region.
Stay Ahead with the Cairns Economic Monitor
The Cairns Economic Monitor is now your go-to monthly snapshot of the region’s key economic trends and performance indicators. This free resource provides valuable insights into the local economy, including updates on employment, inflation, interest rates, construction activity, tourism performance, real estate movements, and more. Whether you’re a business owner, investor, or simply interested in Cairns’ economic landscape, this dashboard helps you stay informed and make more informed decisions. The Cairns Chamber of Commerce proudly publishes this document monthly, with the most up-to-date content delivered by Conus Business Consulting Services, supported by our sponsors: LJ Hooker Cairns Edge Hill, WGC Lawyers, and PVW Partners Accountants.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Health Professionals
March saw the delivery of a very successful interactive Careers Day purely focused on our health sector. This event was delivered by our Cairns Regional Jobs Committee (RJC) a program supported and funded by Queensland Government.
The event received wonderful reviews from students, career changers, and exhibitors alike. Featuring over 300 diverse careers in health and social services, it also generated strong interest from attendees in science fields and future health-related opportunities.
Alyssa Smith, Project Officer at VET at Bentley Park College, shared:
“The opportunity to connect with professionals, explore career paths, and gain valuable insights was truly appreciated. The event was informative, engaging, and very well organised. Bentley Park College is grateful to have attended.”
CBD Clean-Up and Safety Still in Focus
The Cairns Chamber of Commerce continues to raise concerns in relation to “Crime and Grime” in the Cairns CBD. Many properties, particularly those owned by out-of-town investors, are looking a little worse for wear post-wet season. A clean-up, fresh paint, and graffiti removal are needed to create a safe, vibrant city experience for locals and tourists alike. A welcoming city centre leaves a lasting impression – and gives people a reason to return. We welcome our council, commercial property owners and businesses to exercise some civic pride and lets showcase our wonderful city.
Join us by becoming a member so we can continue to advocate for all businesses in Far North Queensland.
Stay Connected
Want to get involved, attend workshops or share a business challenge? We’d love to hear from you. 📧 info@cairnschamber.com.au | 🌐 www.cairnschamber.com.au | 📞 4031 1838
