Queensland industry on the job to deliver training

Jobs will be created and Queenslanders will be able to find more meaningful employment with new partnerships between the Government and employers and industry groups.

Minister for Education, Training and Employment John-Paul Langbroek announced the first funding round of the Queensland Government’s $10 million Industry Partnerships Strategy to help meet training needs in priority skills areas.

“The Can-Do LNP Government is working hard every day to create jobs and opportunities by growing a four pillar economy,” Mr Langbroek said.

“More jobs are now being created in Queensland than in any other state and by targeting our training to the right areas this growth will continue.

“We’re revitalising the training sector and have an ambitious reform program to ensure Queensland is supported by a first class training system and becomes the nation’s leading economy.

“Working in partnership with industry means students will gain relevant training to increase job prospects for a brighter future.

“It also shows that the government’s VET strategy is flexible and responsive enough to join with businesses to deliver the innovative training solutions they need.”

Assistant Minister for Technical and Further Education Saxon Rice said employers and industry organisations – or a cluster of businesses with similar training needs and skills requirements – could apply to join a 50-50 funding partnership with the Queensland Government.

“We’ll provide up to $400,000 funding for each project and the amount will depend on the nature of the project, the assistance to be provided and the number of participants the project will benefit,” Ms Rice said.

“The organisations will be required to match the government’s dollar investment and demonstrate industry demand for and benefit from the training that students will access as a result of this partnership.

“I encourage industry and businesses across the state to consider this great opportunity to give their employees or potential employees nationally accredited training in areas that will increase their productivity in the workplace, or work to alleviate critical skills or labour shortages.”

Mr Langbroek said the Industry Partnerships Strategy was an important part of the Queensland Government’s $615 million 2014-15 VET Investment Plan.

“The Queensland Government is committed to investing strategically in training to deliver the best outcomes for individuals, families, business and the community as a whole,” he said.

Applications close on Friday 29 August. For further information, visit www.training.qld.gov.au/employers/funding-incentives/industry-partnerships-strategy.

[ENDS] 4 August 2014

Media contact: Amy Cobb 0418 996 503