As Australia grapples with critical workforce shortages across the healthcare sector, Wesley Mission Queensland (WMQ) is leading the charge with a suite of innovative training and employment pathway programs aimed at future-proofing the industry.
In 2023, 82% of healthcare occupations faced critical shortages, with the aged care sector expected to need an additional 400,000 workers by 2040, according to the Committee for Economic Development of Australia (CEDA). Recognising the urgency, WMQ has implemented targeted initiatives to attract, train and retain a skilled workforce.
Central to its strategy is the appointment of a Traineeship Pathways Partner, who oversees the delivery and coordination of structured training programs across the organisation. Since its introduction, 35 adult trainees have successfully transitioned into qualified care roles, with five more due to graduate in 2025 and 15 additional trainees set to commence this year.
WMQ’s impact has not gone unnoticed, earning the organisation a nomination for the 2025 Community Training Initiative of the Year – its second consecutive nod for this award.
“We are committed to providing meaningful career pathways in response to the critical shortage of healthcare professionals…Our traineeship programs not only benefit individuals by offering formal qualifications but also help ensure the sustainability of our care sector.”
Tracey Green, WMQ’s Director of People & Culture
WMQ is also delivering its largest-ever school -based traineeship program, engaging 30 students in partnership with the Department of Education to build early interest in aged care and healthcare careers.
With health and social assistance employment projected to grow by more than 300,000 jobs by 2026, WMQ’s training efforts are setting a benchmark for the sector.
