It is an initiative of the state government in conjunction with the City of Ballarat and the Committee for Ballarat.

To be held on April 30 at the Provincial Hotel, the forum will be hosted by Regional Development Victoria, with discussions led by Employment Minister Jacinta Allan and Regional Development Minister Jaala Pulford.

Buninyong MP Geoff Howard said Ballarat needed 15,000 new jobs in the next 15 years to support a projected 35,000 population increase.

“The Ballarat economy will need to be transformed to deliver these new jobs,” Mr Howard said.

“Through the Andrews government Back to Work plan, we will work with business leaders to grow our industries and help create 100,000 jobs across Victoria.

“The Ballarat Jobs Forum will identify practical activities that will boost jobs growth in the region.”

Wendouree MP Sharon Knight said manufacturing played an important role in underpinning Ballarat’s economy.

“It’s crucial for the growth of our region that we continue to provide education and employment opportunities for young people that will deliver a productive, innovative and highly skilled local workforce,” Ms Knight said.

“The Ballarat Jobs Forums will bring together local businesses, community leaders, unions and key stakeholders to discuss opportunities to grow jobs in Ballarat.”

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Ballarat is regional Victoria’s leader in population growth.

From June 2012 to June 2013, Ballarat’s population grew from 95,194 to 96,940.

fiona.henderson@fairfaxmedia.com.au

AT A GLANCE

What: Ballarat Jobs Forum

When: April 30

Where: Provincial Hotel