Thousands of apprentices and trainees will be better connected with real learning and job opportunities through Apprenticeships Victoria, a partnership between the Victorian Government, major project employers and the TAFE training system.
Through the $33 million Big Build Apprenticeships program, the Victorian Government is providing 1,500 opportunities to Victorian apprentices and trainees each year for four years to kickstart their careers on some of the state’s largest projects, including the new Footscray Hospital, North East Link and Warrnambool Learning and Library Hub.
At least 10 per cent of the construction hours on these projects will be completed by apprentices and trainees, strengthening pathways from the classroom to the workforce and supporting employers by increasing the pool of highly skilled workers in Victoria.
School leavers and young people are encouraged to get involved, with priority given to workers who were affected by the coronavirus pandemic, disadvantaged Victorians and those under-represented in the construction industry.
Apprenticeships Victoria (AV) will provide a point of contact for Victorians as they complete their apprenticeship and provide support by removing barriers for students and workers looking to upskill, creating better pathways to the workforce, fostering connections for employers and industry, and overseeing programs like Big Build Apprenticeships.
A walk-in AV hub will open mid-2021 in the CBD with dedicated staff to help foster the next generation of highly skilled workers.
Acting Premier James Merlino said the new body, and the investment in major projects, will deliver a pipeline of opportunities for workers starting their career, or reskilling from another industry.
“A strong skills and training sector is vital to our economy and recovery from the coronavirus pandemic – that’s why we’re backing it with initiatives like this,” he said.
Minister for Training and Skills and Higher Education Gayle Tierney also commented: “These projects are about giving Victorian apprentices and trainees real-life learning opportunities – so if you are interested in working in the construction industry, I encourage you to sign-up today.”
A website has been launched for school leavers and other Victorians looking to work on the state’s Big Build projects: apprenticeships.vic.gov.au or 131 823.
