Rockhampton benefits from State Budget regional jobs focus

Rockhampton was a major winner in last week’s State Budget, with the announcement of 232 new permanent jobs at the expanded Capricornia Correctional Centre.

Minister for Corrective Services Mark Ryan MP said the prison expansion was well on track, injecting some $66.5M into the local economy to date.

“Even better, 232 new full-time permanent jobs were announced in the State Budget to operate the extended prison,” Minister Ryan said.

“In coming weeks and months, Queensland Corrective Services will be undertaking a recruitment drive to attract the best possible candidates to train to fill the roles required to operate the prison.

“There are many career paths in Queensland Corrections, from custodial correctional officers, trade instructors, dog squad officers, psychologists, social workers and administrative roles, all of which play a vital role in managing and rehabilitating prisoners.

“This is a great opportunity for people in Central Queensland to join a front line public safety agency and make a real difference to their community,” Minister Ryan said.

The Member for Rockhampton, Barry O’Rourke, said contracts on the expansion of the prison had gone to local businesses.

“Fully 87% of the workforce consists of Rockhampton locals, who have contributed 226,333 hours on the project to date.

“On completion in 2021, the prison will have 965 beds.

“The ongoing benefit to the region is substantial, not only through wages, but through the flow-on opportunities for local business to provide goods and services to the prison,” the Rockhampton MP said.

The Member for Keppel, Brittany Lauga, said the expansion was going well, with ground floor slabs on the secure and four residential blocks, and one of the industries workshops complete.

“The building platform of the second industries workshop, and the footings of the detention unit are nearing completion.

“Block works are well underway, with ground-level block work on some buildings now complete, and other underground and wall services continuing.

“The value of the works allocated to local industry so far totals $66m.

“There will also be flow-on opportunities for local businesses to help with keeping the centre running by providing necessary services,” the Keppel MP said.

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