HOW the Far North's business community can tap into more than $3 billion in major construction projects in the region will be detailed at a forum in Cairns.

The seminar next month will outline the major capital works being planned and tell business how they can tender or contract for the work.

Businesses which successfully win contracts will ensure job security for existing employees and new positions for job seekers.

The projects include current, ongoing and future works, such as the $560 million Mt Emerald wind farm near Mareeba, the ongoing $455 million Cairns Base Hospital redevelopment, a $425 million bio-energy plant at Ingham and $2 billion in mining.

The Cairns Chamber of Commerce backs the forum.

"It highlights the pro-active approach by the State Government to address much needed jobs and opportunities in the construction industry and associated building trade," president Anthony Mirotsos said.

"The flow-on effect can only promote a positive outlook for the Cairns economy."

But the construction industry wants to hear about new projects, what the level of commitment is, the funding and the starting dates.

Keir Constructions general manager Cambell Balderson said the forum was useful to first timers to identify works and how they could apply for contracts.

"Starting from cold it can be a labyrinth to sort through to bid for state government work," he said.

"It will be useful for newcomers so they know how they can bid for work."

However, Mr Balderson said he wanted to know about new work, not those already announced.

"We know it’s tight and I don’t expect anything grand but we’d like to know what commitments have been made, the funding and when," he said.

"To know what commitments are coming up in the next cycle will be very useful."

Great Barrier Reef International Marine College manager Kim Andersen said he would be attending the forum for the first time.

"We’ll be interested to see what projects we can get involved with," he said.

A Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning spokeswoman said all manufacturers, construction industry representatives and service providers were invited to attend "to discuss major project supply chain opportunities in the Cairns and surrounding area."

She said the forum, jointly hosted by the department and the Industry Capability Network Queensland, would detail:

Current and upcoming major capital works and related project opportunities in the private sector and at government levels.

How to apply for work on the projects.

Advise on amendments to the Queensland Government sustainable planning regulations.

The forum is at the Sheridan Plaza Hotel on October 26 from 7am. It costs $22. To register email businessassist.cairns@dtrdi.qld.gov.au

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