The Southern Inland Skills Audit, which identifies the gap in training needs and opportunities, has labelled the Upper Lachlan as a key focus area for skills. 

The skills shortage in the Upper Lachlan is 76 per cent, higher than its immediate neighbours: Yass Valley (61 p.c.), Hilltops (67 p.c.), Wingecarribee (52 p.c.) and the Goulburn Mulwaree (63 p.c.).

For the Southern Inland cluster, it comes a close second to the Snowy Monaro (81 p.c).

The report cited location, such as proximity to main cities, lack of experience among candidates and a lack of technical skills as reasons for the shortage.

Public administration and safety, health care and social assistance are the highest employing industries in the Southern Inland region.

Mining and administrative support services were identified as growth industries. 

The manufacturing, motor trades and engineering industry have the most significant skills shortages.

“Skills shortages are a significant issue confronting regional Australia, with workforce numbers not growing fast enough to keep up with the demand for skilled labour,” the report read.

“One respondent [from the Upper Lachlan] also stated that people have a lack of motivation to work in a physically demanding role.

“The availability of skilled workers in the right areas is critical to the economic future of our region.”