Where to next for the Sunshine Coast's booming labour market? Economists may have predicted an easing in jobs growth due to the slowing housing market, the strong Australian dollar and business uncertainty with a Federal election just around the corner, yet there is no slowdown in jobs growth.

There is evidence to suggest Australia is in the grip of a worsening skills shortage. Job vacancies continue to grow against a background of less job-seekers.

The recently released SEEK August 2007 Employment Index which measures the ratio of new job ads to job applications, increased sharply in August by 4.3%. According to SEEK, the Index has recorded an annual growth rate of 13.5%, which is its highest since January 2006.

The Sunshine Coast mirrors the national trend with one of the Coast's leading recruiters confirming skill shortages across many industries. Director of the EastCoast Human Resource Group, Christopher Whisson, said "the demand for skilled trades, specialist managers and some professionals are outstripping supply. We are struggling to find professionals such as healthcare workers, solicitors, public accountants, town planners, civil engineers, surveyors, insurance brokers, architects and educators. There are simply not enough of them to go around."

Commenting on the future employment outlook for new graduates, Chris Whisson said "If you are planning to go to university next year, you should seriously consider a career in professional services. With skills shortages already apparent in sectors such as health, IT, construction, law, and accounting, graduates can anticipate strong demand for their skills in years to come."

Professor Peter Sheehan of the Centre for Strategic Economic Studies said in the SEEK August 2007 Employment Index: “At least in the short term, labour supply and skills shortages remain a serious challenge, especially in light of a strong Australian dollar and strong consumer confidence combined with high inflationary expectations.

"However, the recent surge in capital expenditure, ambitious business plans for investment in equipment and solid R&D business expenditure provide some hope that the economic growth will continue despite a tight labour market", he said.

According to Chris Whisson, there may never be a better time to find a job on the Sunshine Coast. "Think about it", he said. "People come from all over the world to holiday in this little piece of paradise. People in high demand occupations can combine a fulfilling career with a world of sun drenched beaches fringed by azure blue waters, year round swimming, surfing and sailing, hill side villages renowned for their arts and craft, top dining spots, some of the country's best golf courses and of course, regional prosperity."