Kick-start your career with council in 2027

Published on 12 August 2026

Applications are now open for Mackay Regional Council’s 2027 Apprentice and Trainee Intake, with eight positions available across a wide range of career pathways.

Whether you’re preparing to leave school or looking for a career change, this is your chance to earn while you learn, gain hands-on experience, build new skills and kick-start a rewarding career with council.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the program was an ideal entry-level pathway for school leavers, people re-entering the workforce or anyone looking for a career change.

“Council is one of the most diverse workplaces in our region, and that makes it a fantastic place to start your career,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Many people don’t realise just how many different career paths exist in local government, from maintaining parks, roads and community facilities to supporting events, libraries, customer service, planning, engineering and more,” he said.

“Our Apprentice and Trainee Program gives people a supported start, while helping council build the skilled workforce we need to continue delivering vital services for our community.

“A great example is former trainee Shae Ridgeway, who is now a finalist in the Queensland Training Awards after her events traineeship with council helped her discover her passion for marketing and communication.

A proud Worimi and Australian South Sea Islander woman living on Yuwi Country, Shae completed a Certificate III in Events through TAFE Queensland while undertaking a traineeship with council.

Shae has been named a finalist in both the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year and Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year categories.

“Stories like Shae’s show the real impact these opportunities can have, not only in building skills but in helping people find a career they are excited about,” he said.

In 2027, council is offering the following apprentice and trainee opportunities:

> Apprentice Heavy Vehicle Mechanic.  

> Apprentice Chef.

> Horticultural Trainee.

> Civil Construction Trainee.

> Live Production and Staging Trainee.

> Library Services Trainee.

> Warehouse Trainee.

> Business Analyst Trainee.

Council encourages applications from Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people, anyone re-entering the workforce, those from a non-English speaking background, individuals with a disability, impairment or long-term condition, school leavers or an adult worker wishing to change careers or gain new skills.

Applications for the 2027 Apprentice and Trainee Program are now open.

Visit mackay.qld.gov.au/trainee to apply today.

Applications close September 9, 2026. 

Eight different apprenticeships and traineeships are being offered at council.