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6.4% employment growth, diverse industries, competitive regional salaries

Rockhampton’s employment grew by approximately 6.4% over the past year, exceeding Queensland’s regional average of 4.9%. With more than 62,000 people employed across the region (around 58% full-time and 34% part-time), Rockhampton offers genuine career diversity and long-term opportunity.

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Beyond the pastoral and mining legacy

While Rockhampton’s foundations were built on agriculture, beef production, and resource industries, today’s economy tells a broader story. The region has evolved into a service and knowledge centre where healthcare professionals, educators, engineers, and technology specialists work alongside advanced manufacturing and agribusiness. This is not simply diversification, but a measured evolution into one of Central Queensland’s most resilient regional economies.

The professional opportunity

Rockhampton offers something distinctive within Australia’s employment landscape: the scope of career progression found in larger cities without the congestion, competition, or lifestyle trade-offs. Skilled professionals are recognised contributors within a collaborative business community, where innovation, flexibility, and work–life balance are embedded in everyday practice rather than promised ideals.

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Competitive edge

Career progression often accelerates in Rockhampton. In Sydney or Melbourne, professionals may spend years working towards senior roles while managing long commutes and high living costs. In Rockhampton, employers compete for talent through genuine advancement opportunities, flexible work arrangements, and remuneration that reflects a significantly lower cost of living. Many professionals reach leadership positions sooner while enjoying a balanced regional lifestyle.

The Rockhampton network effect

Professional relationships extend well beyond formal settings. Industry connections develop through community organisations, local events, and shared regional projects, creating a tightly connected business environment where opportunities are frequently relationship-driven. Median annual full-time earnings typically range from $65,000 to $90,000 depending on industry, reinforcing Rockhampton’s position as a region offering both stability and opportunity.

Professional networking
& career development

Capricorn Enterprise supports local business through advocacy, networking events, and industry collaboration. Regional Development Australia Central and Western Queensland connects professionals across government and industry, while national professional bodies such as Engineers Australia, CPA Australia, and the Australian Institute of Management provide specialist networking and development opportunities.

Major industries &
career opportunities

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Healthcare & social assistance

Healthcare & social assistance

Rockhampton’s healthcare sector continues to expand, driven by population growth and regional service demand. Registered nurses earn approximately $72,000–$98,000, allied health professionals $85,000–$120,000, healthcare managers $135,000–$180,000, and medical specialists $150,000–$250,000+. Growth projections indicate around 14% expansion over the next three years.
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Professional, scientific & technical services

Professional, scientific & technical services

Engineering, environmental services, consulting, and digital roles continue to grow across Central Queensland. Engineers earn $90,000–$170,000, IT specialists $95,000–$160,000, business analysts $105,000–$155,000, project managers $120,000–$170,000, and consultants $100,000–$150,000. The sector shows an estimated 11% growth outlook.
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Construction & infrastructure

Construction & infrastructure

Ongoing residential development, transport upgrades, and regional infrastructure investment continue to support the construction sector. Construction managers earn $145,000–$195,000, project managers $120,000–$175,000, site supervisors $80,000–$120,000, trades professionals $80,000–$130,000, and civil engineers $85,000–$120,000. Growth projections sit at approximately 16%.
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Education & training

Education & training

CQUniversity Australia and regional schools make education a key employer in Rockhampton. University academics earn $90,000–$150,000, school teachers $75,000–$110,000, TAFE instructors $80,000–$120,000, training coordinators $85,000–$110,000, and education administrators $75,000–$115,000. Growth is forecast at around 7%.
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Manufacturing & logistics

Manufacturing & logistics

Food processing, agribusiness, and logistics linked to Central Queensland’s transport networks support steady demand. Operations and production managers earn $125,000–$175,000, logistics coordinators $75,000–$100,000, quality assurance professionals $80,000–$110,000, and warehouse supervisors $70,000–$95,000. The sector shows approximately 6% growth.
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Technology & innovation

Technology & innovation

Technology adoption across healthcare, engineering services, and regional business continues to accelerate. Software developers earn $85,000–$145,000, cybersecurity specialists $120,000–$165,000, data analysts $110,000–$155,000, digital product managers $115,000–$160,000, and DevOps engineers $125,000–$160,000. This sector shows one of the strongest growth outlooks at approximately 22%.
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Tourism & hospitality

Tourism & hospitality

Tourism linked to the Capricorn Coast and regional events supports hospitality employment. Hotel managers earn $85,000–$125,000, restaurant managers $75,000–$100,000, chefs $65,000–$95,000, event coordinators $70,000–$95,000, and tourism operators $60,000–$85,000. Growth is forecast at approximately 9%.

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