Apprentices, trainees and cadets are bringing the Shepparton Law Courts redevelopment to life, as the Andrews Labor Government puts young Victorians to work on the state’s major projects.
Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan met apprentices and trainees today during a special tour of the construction site for the $73 million project.
Construction is well underway on the five-storey complex, which will include six courts and dedicated family violence facilities and services.
The project is expected to be finished early next year and has already created around 100 jobs, including positions for 11 apprentices, trainees and engineering cadets as part of the Labor Government’s Major Projects Skills Guarantee (MPSG) – with that number expected to grow.
The MPSG requires contractors on major infrastructure projects, such as the Shepparton Law Courts, to ensure apprentices, trainees and engineering cadets are responsible for at least 10 per cent of total labour hours.
The MPSG has already been applied to 20 major government projects, which will create more than 1,300 employment opportunities for young people.
The Government’s record infrastructure pipeline is creating more than 20,000 jobs across Melbourne and regional Victoria.
In a separate announcement, RPM Pipes in Lancaster has been awarded a grant from the Future Industries Manufacturing Program (FIMP) to expand its business and create new jobs.
The manufacturer of plastic pipe and water management products will purchase and install new technology, expand production and create three new jobs.
FIMP has so far supported 28 projects that are expected to create 243 jobs in a sector that’s vital to the state’s economy.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Employment and Industry Wade Noonan
“Giving young people opportunities on major government projects is setting them up with skills for life.”
“I’m delighted to meet young apprentices, trainees and cadets who are making such a terrific contribution to the Shepparton Law Courts redevelopment. I look forward to watching their progress.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“Maintaining and developing the state’s skilled workforce is critically important – and the Andrews Labor Government will continue supporting job opportunities for young people in Shepparton and across the north of our state.”
“We’re proud to be supporting local manufacturers like RPM Pipe to expand production and take on new workers.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020