Australia has the potential to become the world’s leading liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter by 2020, according to the Australian Mining and Metals Association (AMMA), but to do so it must take stock of talent issues now.

This is according to a new report titled 'LNG Talent Strategies: Time for a Re-think?’ by HR and resourcing consultancy Harrier.

At its peak, the LNG industry will employ around 130,000 construction workers and a further 20,000 in engineering and technical roles, the report notes. This would make up nearly 2% of the national workforce.

The report says: “Looking ahead, it’s clear that a short-term or tactical approach to immediate hiring needs is unsustainable and diverting resources to longer-term staffing solutions is becoming crucial.”

Strategies would include making the best use of diversity policies, ensuring effective recruitment marketing and creating a globally mobile workforce.

However, the report adds that there are a number of factors complicating the picture, including the fact that LNG projects often face significant and unpredictable delays, and that five of Australia’s state capital cities are among the world’s top 20 most expensive for cost of living.