Jess Kelso

Jess Kelso is the Chairperson of the Mount Isa Regional Jobs Committee, commencing the role in early 2026, and the Operations Manager – Regional Reset Program at Yabun Panjoo Aboriginal Corporation. She is a highly respected regional leader with more than 15 years of experience across employment services, youth development, education, community services and workforce participation throughout North West Queensland.

Jess provides strategic leadership across programs that strengthen education engagement, employment pathways and long-term community wellbeing. Her work is grounded in culturally safe, trauma-informed and person-centred practice, with a strong commitment to creating practical solutions that respond to the unique needs of regional and remote communities.

Throughout her career, Jess has worked closely with schools, employers, government agencies, Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations and community stakeholders to develop collaborative approaches that improve education, employment and social outcomes. A key achievement has been leading youth-focused initiatives that achieved 100 per cent re-engagement into formal education, while significantly increasing participation in positive community activities and employment pathways.

In recognition of her leadership and commitment to the Mount Isa community, Jess was awarded Mount Isa Community Service Officer of the Year in 2024. In 2025, she was appointed to the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) Taskforce, where she contributes regional expertise and practical workforce insights to national policy discussions.

Jess holds a Diploma of Community Services and a Diploma of Leadership and Management. As Chair of the Mount Isa Regional Jobs Committee, she is committed to strengthening regional collaboration, fostering industry-led workforce solutions and driving the implementation of the Committee's 2025–2027 Annual Action Plan. Her leadership focuses on building sustainable education, training and employment opportunities that create lasting benefits for individuals, businesses and the broader North West Queensland community.