$9 million to continue Mining Industry Skills Centre

The State Government’s agreement with the Mining Industry Skills Centre to deliver training to mining employees has been renewed for a further three years.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said Mining Industry Skills Centre Inc (MISC), which had acted as a broker for training since September 2005, was cost-effective and supported by industry.

“A new $9 million Funds Management Agreement 2008 – 2011 will continue the highly successful industry leverage arrangements, “Mr Welford said.

“The Mining Industry Skills Centre has created a ‘one stop shop’ for both industry and government for training and the development of a sustainable workforce to meet the mining industry's current and future needs.

“The role of the centre includes helping mining companies develop training programs, maintaining Regional Network Groups, evaluating training to ensure it meets site requirements and offering training through the use of underground and surface mining simulators.

“The government and industry partnership arrangement allows industry to take ownership of its skills formation processes.

“Negotiations for training occur directly with employers who also make a financial contribution.”

Mr Welford said the Mining Industry Skills Centre had helped coordinate training for more than 9000 employees by both public and private registered training organisations.

The training covers a wide range of skills including plant and equipment, drilling, risk management and assessment, emergency response and mine rescue, occupational health and safety and laboratory practices.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000