Job seekers in Brisbane’s south-east are gaining the skills, confidence and experience needed to pursue careers in construction, thanks to a Skilling Queenslanders for Work project delivered by Career Employment Australia.
Over 18 weeks, participants transformed the Community Hall at Parkside Community and Services Club while completing a Certificate I in Construction. The project provided hands-on training across a wide range of construction activities, including reading and interpreting plans, estimating materials, using tools and equipment, and undertaking practical tasks such as painting, framing, installing fixtures and maintaining a safe worksite.
Participants also benefited from working alongside licensed tradespeople, including plumbers and electricians, gaining valuable exposure to real industry environments.
But it’s about more than building skills. It’s building confidence.
“The biggest impact that Skilling Queenslanders for Work has had is confidence,” said Jason Gardner, General Manager at Career Employment Australia. “By the end of the project, participants have built not only practical skills, but belief in their ability to succeed.”
Participant Conor Allen Arnold said the program has changed his outlook for the future.
“I’ve noticed a change in my confidence and definitely a change in my skills. I’m definitely going to go into construction after this course,” he said.
Fellow participant Tyler Willet has also gained a broad range of practical skills and is preparing to move into an apprenticeship.
“I’ve got to know a little about a lot — bricklaying, painting, framing, cladding, and using tools and equipment,” she said.
Beyond training, Skilling Queenslanders for Work participants receive tailored support including case management, employability and life skills development, language, literacy and numeracy assistance, and job search support.
Skilling Queenslander for Work creates pathways into employment for jobseekers and provides local businesses with job-ready candidates eager to get to work and keep building their skills.
Learn more about Skilling Queenslanders for Work.
Last updated 25 August 2026
