The centrepiece of this service is a database of applicants interested in working in Western Australia. The database contains the resumes of skilled tradespeople and professionals seeking to migrate to Australia. Businesses can access and view these candidates by subscription to the Skills Match Database.

The Chamber established the database following on from the 2004 Emigrate show in Sandown, England, to assist WA businesses with accessing employment experience and information on overseas candidates for suitable skilled employment vacancies. That service has undergone considerable enhancement in response to business needs and has become an interactive web-based service.

To build on this database and offer CCI members a comprehensive service to address skilled labour shortages, CCI has developed the CCI Skills Match Consultancy service which provides tailored advice and support services to businesses seeking enterprise-specific solutions, including short, medium and longer-term strategies. These solutions may include

• Training options, including traineeships and apprenticeships, up-skilling and gap training for existing workers
• Recruitment and retention strategies
• Recruitment of skilled overseas workers

The CCI Skills match service has also represented businesses at the DIMA initiated Australia Needs Skills Expos in England, China, India and the Philippines in 2005 and 2006 via sponsorship arrangements. This service has focussed on matching potential candidates to specific advertised vacancies at sponsor companies.