This post forms part of the Faculty’s Masterclass 2026 video series launching in September 2026
Building Regional Workforces That Last: Professor Larissa Bamberry’s Key Takeaways
What will it take to build thriving regional communities and resilient regional economies? As part of the Faculty’s masterclass series 2026, Professor Larissa Bamberry | Associate Head of School | School of Business, and Associate Dean Research, challenges us to rethink how we approach workforce development in regional Australia.
Drawing together the key themes, Professor Bamberry argues that workforce challenges are far more complex than simple labour shortages. Labour shortages, skill shortages, and skills gaps are distinct issues that demand different solutions. When these challenges are treated as a single problem, policies and interventions risk missing the mark.
A central message of the masterclass is the need for skills ecosystem thinking. Rather than relying on a traditional “pipeline” approach of training people and hoping that the skills naturally flow into the right regions, Professor Bamberry highlights the importance of connected, place-based solutions that bring together employers, training providers, governments, and local communities. Sustainable workforce development, she suggests, requires collaboration rather than isolated action.
The discussion also shines a light on the structural barriers shaping workforce outcomes. Housing affordability, access to childcare, training opportunities, employer capacity, and policy coordination all influence whether regions can attract and retain workers. The data presented throughout the masterclass paints a compelling picture of these challenges, from rising housing costs and extremely low rental vacancy rates to long childcare waitlists and changing workforce skill needs.
Importantly, Professor Bamberry makes the case that diversity and inclusion should not be viewed as secondary considerations. Expanding opportunities through migration support, gender equity, and genuine inclusion is not only socially important but also critical to building a productive and sustainable workforce.
Teaser video: Professor Larissa Bamberry discusses building the workforce foundations that support thriving regional futures.
If you are interested in the future of regional Australia, workforce development, and the practical steps needed to build stronger communities, this masterclass reflection is essential viewing.
Coming soon in September 2026
The 2026 Masterclass Series will launch in September 2026, featuring Professor Larissa Bamberry and four other scholars from the Faculty of Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences. Registration will open at launch, providing access to Professor Bamberry’s full presentation and a range of masterclasses exploring contemporary challenges and opportunities across the Faculty’s areas of expertise.
Larissa Bamberry is a Professor in HR Management with strong links to national and international research centres exploring the nature of work. Her recent research has focused on the intersecting gender relations of labour markets, households and organisations within the regional context. These subjects draw on her comprehensive research as well as extensive practice and experience in industrial relations and public policy.