The Shire of Carnarvon is creating long-term employment pathways and strengthening workforce capability through its participation in the Remote Jobs and Economic Development (RJED) Program, a national initiative designed to support sustainable job creation in remote communities.
Through RJED, the Shire has secured $3 million in funding over three years, equating to approximately $1 million per year, enabling the creation of 13 full-time equivalent positions across a range of operational and service areas.
This investment is delivering direct benefits to both the organisation and the wider community, with funding reinvested locally to support economic resilience and workforce stability.
The program is focused on building meaningful, secure employment opportunities while addressing workforce development and retention challenges commonly experienced in regional and remote local governments.
RJED roles are structured to provide participants with ongoing support, clear expectations and access to professional development, ensuring employees can build skills, confidence and long-term career pathways within local government.
In partnership with Real Futures Pty Ltd and local schools, the Shire is actively connecting school leavers and community members with employment opportunities that align with their interests and capabilities.
This collaborative approach ensures participants are supported both in the workplace and through tailored development pathways, helping them transition successfully into the workforce.
A key strength of the RJED program is its emphasis on training and upskilling.
All RJED employees have access to professional development and the opportunity to undertake formal qualifications, supporting both individual career progression and organisational capability.
This approach aligns closely with human resource best practice, embedding workforce planning, skills development and succession planning into everyday operations.
By investing in local people and creating genuine employment options within the community, the Shire aims to reduce barriers to employment, encourage young people to remain in the region, and build a skilled, locally based workforce for the future.
The RJED program demonstrates how targeted investment, strong partnerships and a people-focused HR approach can deliver lasting benefits — strengthening local economies, improving workforce outcomes and supporting the long-term sustainability of regional local governments.
