- Crisafulli Government is delivering a fresh start for young Queenslanders as 36 new apprentices and graduates begin careers with Queensland Rail.
- More than 5,000 applications highlight strong demand for secure, skilled work across the State.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering more jobs for Queenslanders and a better lifestyle through a stronger economy.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering a fresh start for young Queenslanders, welcoming 36 new apprentices and graduates as part of the Government's focus on creating jobs, rebuilding skills and strengthening the State's future workforce and economy.
More than 5,000 applications were received for the highly sought-after roles, with positions based across South East Queensland and regional Queensland, including Townsville, Maryborough, Cairns and Rockhampton.
The intake includes 25 apprentices and 11 graduates, training in critical, in-demand trades such as electrical, mechanical fitting, upholstery and carpentry, alongside graduate engineering roles that will help deliver Queensland's growing transport network.
The former Labor Government left a skills shortage across Queensland due to a decade of neglect and under-investment.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the new recruits would help build Queensland's workforce while delivering the infrastructure communities rely on.
"An apprenticeship or graduate role with Queensland Rail is more than a job - it's a career with genuine progression, skills for life and long-term security - and all part of the Crisafulli Government delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy," Minister Mickelberg said.
"After a decade of decline under Labor, resulting in a severe skills shortage, we are rebuilding Queensland's training system so every Queenslander can get the right experience for a good job.
"Projects like Cross River Rail, The Wave, Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail, and the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games will transform public transport across Queensland.
"These new starters will play a crucial role in delivering the transport network that keeps Queensland moving now and into the future."
Queensland Rail CEO Kat Stapleton said the apprentice and graduate programs were about investing in Queenslanders to build their careers and their futures.
"Queensland Rail employs more than 8,000 people across the state, and we are committed to attracting, training and retaining the skilled workers Queensland needs.
"By investing in training and real career pathways, we are strengthening our workforce and supporting communities."
Graduate Signaling Engineer Gabriella Vidgen said Queensland Rail offered strong opportunities to learn and grow.
"With new technology coming online and major projects underway, there are so many opportunities to build skills and progress my career," Ms Vidgen said.
Apprentice Substation Electrician Dane Campbell-Carroll said he was excited to learn from experienced colleagues.
"Queensland Rail is big on learning, safety and creating a positive workplace, which is exactly what I was looking for," Mr Campbell-Caroll said.
Queenslanders interested in a career in rail are encouraged to visit the Queensland Rail careers website and sign up for job alerts.
