Northern Territory labour market remains strong in the face of economic adversity

13 November 2008

The recent INPEX gas project announcement and the region’s strong mining and resources sector has kept the Northern Territory employment market strong under the threat of an economic recession, according to leading recruitment agency, Kelly Services Darwin.

According to Peter Remfrey, Branch Manager, Kelly Services Darwin, recent talk of a recession hasn’t dampened employment activity in the local marketplace.

“As employers look to stabilise during this uncertain economic phase, demand for positions within the labour market remains strong."

“This is particularly the case in the professional and technical fields where demand has in fact increased slightly."

“Overall we are still seeing new roles being created and consistent hiring activity in the region.”

Mr Remfrey said that the demand for experienced candidates will continue even with the threat of an economic slowdown. 

“There is no denying that the marketplace is viewing the recent financial downturn with caution and that employers will decrease spending, however I  believe this will only fuel the demand for experienced, quality candidates.”

According to Mr Remfrey, the demand for skilled workers is most prevalent in industries such as construction, mining, and oil and gas that require technical personnel including project managers, engineers and geologists.

He said candidates with a strong level of expertise in technical and essential services sectors such as civil design and drafting technicians, construction engineers and electrical engineers are highly sought after.

In the professional sector, accounting, architecture and office support are also in strong demand.

According to Mr Remfrey, the recent announcement of the $23 billion INPEX gas project has brought a sense of optimism to the region.

The project is anticipated to begin in 2010 and will require in excess of 2,000 workers during the five year construction phase and 300 during its operation.

“As we move into an era of financial uncertainty, the local economy is set to benefit greatly from this announcement and in turn Darwin will see an influx of interstate and overseas workers and their families to the region."

“The announcement will see the local economy stabilise in the short-term as local businesses investigate the impact of this major investment and how it will benefit the business community."

“Long-term we will see an increase in spending as the business community will be required to invest heavily in human resource capital prior to, and during, the construction phase of the project.”