The document summarizes workforce issues and challenges in the Upper Hunter region of New South Wales, Australia. It finds that the region's population is aging, with many residents over 55, especially in Great Lakes, Gloucester and Dungog. Singleton and Muswellbrook have younger populations due to mining jobs. There are differences between local government areas in industries, jobs and unemployment. Key workforce issues for the region include an aging workforce, youth unemployment, skills shortages, and the need to improve education and training opportunities to develop the local skills base and attract new residents. The workforce is reliant on trades and many current workers lack post-secondary qualifications, posing future issues.