Townsville City Council is investing in the next generation of local workers, launching its largest-ever Apprenticeships and Traineeships Program as skills shortages continue to affect industries across Queensland and Australia.
Applications are now open for 29 positions across Council, providing local job seekers an opportunity to gain practical experience, complete nationally-recognised qualifications and build rewarding careers while helping deliver the Townsville of tomorrow.
This year’s intake includes 12 apprenticeships and 17 traineeships across a diverse range of fields, including trades, business, animal care, information technology, and library and information services.
As one of the region’s largest employers, Council’s annual Apprenticeship and Traineeship Program plays an important role in developing the skilled workforce needed to maintain essential infrastructure, deliver frontline services and support a growing city.
Mayor Nick Dametto said local government had a responsibility to help address workforce challenges while creating career opportunities for locals.
“Like many industries across Australia, local government is facing increasing competition for skilled workers, particularly in trade and technical roles,” Mayor Dametto said.
“Council is committed to doing its part by creating pathways for local people to gain qualifications, develop practical skills and build long-term careers in industries that are critical to our community.
“The roads we drive on, the parks and playgrounds our families enjoy, the water and wastewater networks that service our homes and businesses, and the facilities our community relies on every day all depend on a skilled workforce.
“By investing in apprentices and trainees today, we’re playing our part to ensure Townsville has the tradespeople, technicians, business professionals and specialist workers needed to support our city’s future growth.
“These positions give people the opportunity to earn while they learn, gain hands-on experience alongside experienced professionals and make a real contribution to their community from day one.
“Whether you’ve just left high school and are about to begin your working life, or you’re looking to change careers, this program is an excellent way to get your foot in the door and set yourself up with lifelong skills.
“As someone who completed a trade straight out of high school, I can hand on heart say that obtaining a trade can take you anywhere.”
Fitting-and-turning apprentice Lincoln Barbagallo is six months into his first year working for Council, and said the experience had been great so far.
“I knew I wanted to get a trade when I graduated high school last year, and applying through Council seemed liked a great opportunity,” he said.
“The first week was daunting as starting a new job always is but it has been a really positive experience working with a lot of experienced people – we also get plenty of on-the-job support and get to be very hands on, which I love.
“For anyone thinking about applying, just do it as it is a great option for staring out your career.”
Successful applicants to this round of Council’s Apprenticeship and Traineeship Program will commence in early 2027, and will gain access to a career in local government that provides real skills, real experience, and a career that can take them anywhere in Australia.
Applications are open now and close on 30 August 2026.
