By Staff Writer

The Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) is encouraging job seekers affected by the economic crisis to contact their local councils for employment opportunities.

More than 85 positions with 15 councils are listed on the LGAQ website and according to the Association’s acting executive director, Greg Hoffman, there are more than 60 other councils with similar vacancies.

"Queensland councils employ tradespeople, plant operators, HR and payroll personnel, engineers, accountants, technicians, truck drivers and labourers and many other occupations," Mr Hoffman said.

"Councils offer secure employment, very fair wages, superior employment conditions and professional and personal development opportunities.

"Local governments are local, so workers don’t need to move themselves or their families."

The LGAQ is also encouraging young people to make a direct contribution to their communities by seeking employment with their local council.

"Councils are mindful of the need to ensure young people have employment opportunities and have successfully worked with the State Government to engage over 12,000 trainees over the last five years – more than 85 per cent of them gaining permanent employment in councils at the conclusion of their traineeships," Mr Hoffman said.

"Interested workers should get on the phone now and call their local council."