THE Canberra Business Chamber has announced the results of its survey asking local businesses about employment opportunities that might exist in the future.

The survey was open from September 21 to September 24. It was issued to members of the Canberra Business Chamber and also supported and circulated by the Chamber’s Kindred Organisations.

“Considering the relatively short period of time the survey was open, we were very pleased with the response rate,” Canberra Business Chamber CEO, Robyn Hendry said.

“Over 170 business owners from a variety of business types took the time to complete the survey. These business owners helped us develop a picture of the employment landscape and where there will be demand next year.”

Nearly 42 per cent of respondents were aware of areas of short to medium term skill shortages in the ACT. These include:

• automotive qualifications,
• child care,
• building services consultants,
• engineers and drafters,
• construction project and management,
• hospitality staff, particularly chefs,
• ICT,
• banking,
• retail workers,
• tradesmen,
• disability and aged care,
• business continuity managers,
• electricians and
• economists.

In terms of unskilled or semi-skilled shortages, 29 per cent believe there will be employment opportunities from February 2016. Respondents felt there would be permanent and permanent part time positions available as well as casual positions. Areas where respondents believe vacancies could arise included:

• cleaning,
• hospitality,
• support workers, and
• warehouse packing and production.

In order to fill vacancies and help upskill workers living in the ACT, businesses indicated they would be prepared to provide on the job training. Nearly 58 per cent of respondents said they would be willing to take on a work experience placement in their business over the next 12 months.

“It was gratifying so many businesses see themselves having a role in the provision of training,” Robyn said.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Yvette Berry, feels the information collected through the survey is valuable.

“It will help inform our response on employment pathways for refugees and the feedback was particularly positive regarding businesses’ willingness to provide work experience placements,” Yvette said.