Former Hazelwood power plant workers are getting their skills recognised to boost their employment prospects as they look for new jobs and opportunities, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney joined Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing at Federation Training in Morwell today to present certificates to the first former Hazelwood workers to graduate from the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program.
The Labor Government has been providing support to the Latrobe Valley following the closure of the Hazelwood power station, including $1 million for Federation Training to respond to the needs of workers.
The RPL program commenced in February 2017 and was developed after engagement between the Morwell Skills and Job Centre staff and Hazelwood workers.
The program recognises that many workers already have significant skills and experience that could benefit from formal accreditation and upskilling to enhance their future employment prospects.
The Labor Government committed $16 million to support TAFEs and dual sector universities establish Skills and Jobs Centres.
These centres are one-stop-shops providing services for prospective students, employers, apprentices, trainees and unemployed or transitioning workers.
Federation Training’s Morwell Skills and Job Centre has assisted more than 400 Hazelwood workers through training advice, resume support, careers advice, employer and industry services and recognition of prior of learning.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney
“This graduation today is an important next step for both Hazelwood workers and their families.”
“The Recognition of Prior Learning program provides these workers with the recognition they deserve for the skills they learnt while working at the plant.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing
“We said we’d support these workers and that’s exactly what we’ve done – making sure they get recognition for the skills they gained while working at Hazelwood.”
“We’re working every day to support the Latrobe Valley and Federation Training is playing an important role in giving locals the skills they need for the jobs they want.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020