Manufacturing Skills Queensland

To strengthen and grow Queensland's manufacturing sector and create secure local jobs, the Queensland Government is investing in skilling Queenslanders.

The Queensland Government has committed $16.5 million to establish Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ) – an independent, not-for-profit industry body that will support employers, workers, apprentices and trainees in the manufacturing industry.

MSQ will identify key skills required in the manufacturing sector and work with industry, workers, unions and businesses to deliver training programs to Queenslanders to prepare them for work in the sector.

The Queensland Government has appointed Paul Cooper as Director and Chair along with 6 experienced employer, employee and government representatives as board directors.

Directors of the Board – Manufacturing Skills Queensland

• Ms April Cavanagh (Director and Chair) – Chair, Board of Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise
• Mr Michael Ross Bonanno – Owner and Managing Director, Callide Manufacturing Company
• Mr Jake Gundry – Chief Executive Officer, Australian Framing Solutions Pty Ltd
• Ms Fiona McDonnell – Group Manager Health, Safety and Environment, Hyne Timber
• Ms Natalie Rogers – Group Operations Manager, All Industries Group
• Ms Chantal Llora – Deputy Director-General (Engagement), Department of Trade, Employment and Training
• Mr Jason Kidd – Deputy Director-General, Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing, Regional and Rural Development.

This new body will engage with government to assist in current and future workforce planning and the development of an Annual Training Plan for the manufacturing sector.

MSQ will ensure Queenslanders have the right skills to work in the manufacturing sector, will assist businesses to enhance Queensland’s manufacturing capability and ensure that local manufacturers are engaged with government procurement processes.

Learn more about Manufacturing Skills Queensland.

Last updated 31 March 2025