What’s Happening?
Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ) is undergoing a major transformation, led by a new board of directors appointed by the Crisafulli Government. This shift signals a focused effort to rebuild the state’s manufacturing workforce and tackle the skills shortage inherited from Labor’s leadership.
Central to the overhaul is the government’s plan to train more workers through a new TAFE Centre of Excellence for Advanced Manufacturing in Moreton Bay—an area experiencing rapid industry growth.
Why It Matters
Queensland’s manufacturing sector requires a stronger, job-ready workforce to meet growing demand, particularly in high-growth regions like Moreton Bay. With a restructured MSQ and targeted training initiatives, the state is positioned to equip its workforce with practical skills for long-term success.
Minister for Finance, Trade, Training and Employment Ros Bates said the new board brings the experience needed to implement the government’s vision.
“We are fixing Labor’s widespread failures and a key component of that is putting the right people in the right positions, so I am very happy that April Cavanagh will be leading an experienced team,” Minister Bates said.
Local Impact
Moreton Bay will become a major training hub for trades and manufacturing, thanks to the new Centre of Excellence. This facility, along with satellite sites across regional Queensland, will deliver real opportunities for locals to gain qualifications and enter the workforce.
Chair April Cavanagh brings extensive regional leadership as current Chair of the Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise, and a background in manufacturing, agribusiness and finance.
By the Numbers
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The manufacturing sector currently employs 180,000 Queenslanders.
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The government has committed $201.1 million to deliver four TAFE Centres of Excellence across the state.
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The MSQ Annual Training Plan is injecting $5.06 million into workforce development and industry engagement for 2024–25.
Zoom In
The new MSQ board includes:
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April Cavanagh – Chair, Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise
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Michael Ross Bonanno – MD, Callide Manufacturing Company
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Jake Gundry – CEO, Australian Framing Solutions
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Fiona McDonnell – Group Manager, Hyne Timber
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Natalie Rogers – Group Operations Manager, All Industries Group
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Chantal Llora – Deputy Director-General, Department of Trade, Employment and Training
Their collective experience in manufacturing, health and safety, and operational leadership ensures strong direction for MSQ’s future.
Zoom Out
This announcement is one part of the government’s broader plan to restore Queensland’s training sector and ensure industries like advanced manufacturing are future-ready. The Moreton Bay Centre of Excellence is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of skilled workers.
What to Look For Next?
Keep an eye out for the full rollout of the Moreton Bay Centre of Excellence and the additional three sites funded under the $201.1 million plan. Updates on how the MSQ board will engage with regional employers and schools to expand workforce pathways are also expected in the coming months.
