The Andrews Labor Government is funding a new regional skills program to support vulnerable workers, boost skills and create more jobs across the Mallee region.
Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development announced $395,454 through the Regional Skills Fund to help Shaping Futures deliver the Innovative Workforce Cluster – Sunraysia Employment Program project.
The project will improve knowledge sharing between Mallee industry leaders, training providers, community organisations and government departments.
It will provide pre-employment training to locals, to ensure they have the entry level requirements local industry need, and boost skills in the traditional harvest labour workforce so they can gain more permanent employment by meeting the demands of different horticulture industries across multiple peak periods.
The project is expected to create at least 126 full-time-equivalent roles in the Mallee by mid-2020.
Strategic partnerships with key industry leaders such as Cozwine, Olam, and SuniTAFE will be established to provide industry-identified skills training in the horticulture sector.
The Mildura region is experiencing rapid growth caused by the expansion of the horticulture sector as growers and companies begin to take advantage of the new free trade agreements and new markets.
The region is also expected to see a significant boost in jobs across the construction, tourism, hospitality, transport and logistics sectors and this funding will support that growth in the skilled workforce.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“This project will be a real team effort, bringing together industry leaders, training providers, community organisations and government departments to improve training, share information and create jobs in the Mallee.”
“We’re proud to support this vital initiative, which will strengthen Mallee communities, and the regional economy.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney
“We’re investing in training right across regional Victoria, and equipping workers across the Sunraysia and Mallee region with the skills they need for the job they want.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp
“This is about creating the skills and jobs of the future right across the Mallee – and we’re proud to play our part.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020