In too many sectors skilled and unskilled workers are being told they're no longer required. Laid off workers are being left to wonder when or where another job may become available.

At the same time, international recruitment agencies are gathering up an army of foreign workers to work in our mines.

• Australia's biggest pay rises
• Mining job boom myths
• Job fightback campaign

More stories from reporter Jackie Quist

• Morgan Consulting - www.morganconsulting.com.au