Water industry seeks 40,000 long-term employees

The Australian water industry is keen to recruit 40,000 trained water professionals within a decade, to ensure Australian households continue receiving clean, fresh water, the CEO of the Australian Water Association, Tom Mollenkopf, said today.

Mollenkopf, who is also Chair of the Water Skills Taskforce, told the launch of National Water Week in Canberra that 80,000 people currently work in the industry, but a large percentage of them are over 50 years of age.

“Retirement and normal attrition will see 40,000 vacancies by 2018.

“The good news, especially for young Australian men and women, is that the water industry will provide diverse opportunities in the professions and trades in both the private and public sectors."

Mollenkopf also launched the H2Oz careers in water campaign to encourage people to both seek and embark on careers in the water sector.

“In the national water industry, people can work in urban, regional or rural locations. We need people in engineering science, all manner of trades, customer service, planning, accounting, IT and human resources,” Mollenkopf said.

“Participants can directly contribute to improving environmental and public health outcomes in an industry that is fun to work in,” he said.

“We are fortunate to have some of the best and brightest right here in our backyard, ensuring the delivery of clean, safe, secure water, at the turn of a tap, to the majority of Australians. Our countrymen and women are recognised internationally, bringing home major awards that recognise their sought-after skills, knowledge and expertise,” Mollenkopf said.

“To maintain and enhance this reputation, the industry must ensure provision of the education, skills and experience for the next generation of water professionals, so the sector attracts the best and brightest.”

Mollenkopf said the campaign would rely significantly on its website, through which interested people can convert interest into action by receiving:

• general information on the water industry and the H2Oz campaign;
• job listings;
• information on specific job types, including advice on skills needed and what courses to take to pursue a particular career; and
• videos, case studies, interviews and photos showcasing the industry and the many opportunities it offers.