What’s Happening?
Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ) has entered a new chapter under the Crisafulli Government, with a refreshed board and renewed direction.
This overhaul is designed to support Queensland’s manufacturing workforce and actively reverse the skills shortage attributed to a decade of Labor neglect. April Cavanagh will lead the new board as Chair, joined by five new directors and two government representatives.
Why It Matters
The board’s renewal marks a strong commitment to rebuilding Queensland’s manufacturing capability. With deep expertise across governance, commerce, health and safety, and manufacturing operations, the new leadership aims to deliver strategic training programs and industry engagement. Ros Bates, Minister for Finance, Trade, Training and Employment, said the new appointments are critical.
“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
Regional Queensland stands to benefit from new training opportunities. Workers will gain access to upskilling programs at the upcoming TAFE Centre of Excellence for Advanced Manufacturing in Moreton Bay and satellite precincts across the state. The revamped MSQ board is committed to supporting local manufacturers through partnerships and industry-specific training programs.
By the Numbers
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The manufacturing industry supports 180,000 jobs across Queensland.
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MSQ’s 2024–25 Annual Training Plan includes a $5.06 million investment in training and workforce development.
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The government has committed $201.1 million to deliver four new TAFE Centre of Excellence locations across Queensland.
Zoom In
Chair April Cavanagh began her career in manufacturing before holding executive roles in finance, agribusiness, and tech. She currently chairs Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise. She will be supported by:
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Michael Ross Bonanno, MD of Callide Manufacturing Company
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Jake Gundry, CEO of Australian Framing Solutions
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Fiona McDonnell, Group Manager at Hyne Timber
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Natalie Rogers, Group Operations Manager at All Industries Group
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Chantal Llora, Deputy Director-General, Department of Trade, Employment and Training
These directors will guide MSQ’s delivery of programs like the Advanced Manufacturing Gateway to Industry Schools Program and Industry Skills and Jobs Advisor initiatives.
Zoom Out
This announcement builds on the Crisafulli Government’s broader strategy to rebuild the state’s training ecosystem. It follows the launch of the Moreton Bay Centre of Excellence, designed to meet workforce needs in rapidly growing sectors like manufacturing, construction, and trades. The initiative aligns with the government’s plan to secure long-term workforce sustainability.
What to Look For Next?
Watch for updates on the rollout of the new TAFE Centre of Excellence sites and how the revamped MSQ board will scale programs statewide. Expect further announcements on regional training precincts and employer engagement strategies aimed at boosting career pathways in manufacturing.
