Victorian apprentices, trainees and cadets are helping to transform Australia’s oldest and busiest public library – State Library Victoria.
Minister for Industry and Employment Ben Carroll today toured the iconic building and met some of the young workers on the $88 million redevelopment.
The massive expansion will open up more space for public use and restore and reopen the majestic Ian Potter Queen’s Hall and the historic Russell Street entrance.
The redevelopment is creating 125 jobs and is providing an opportunity for local businesses to contribute their skills and expertise in trades including scaffolding, hydraulics, as well as the manufacture and installation of partitions.
The project is subject to the Andrews Labor Government’s Major Projects Skills Guarantee, meaning apprentices, trainees and engineering cadets carry out at least 10 per cent of total labour hours.
To date, of the reported 19,800 workhours completed on the redevelopment, more than 2,100 of them have been completed by seven apprentices, trainees and engineering cadets, exceeding the 10 per cent target.
The redevelopment is providing opportunities for engineering cadet Aiden, apprentice electrician Josh, student architect Sarah, and other young workers to fine-tune their skills and get valuable experience.
The Labor Government has created close to 3,500 opportunities for apprentices, trainees and cadets to help shape Victoria’s biggest projects and give them the valuable on-the-job training to further their careers.
To date, the Labor Government has set local content requirements for 81 strategic projects, with a combined total value of over $53 billion – supporting tens of thousands of local jobs.
The State Library opened in 1856 and welcomes over 2 million visitors each year through its doors. It has more than 5.1 million items ranges from books and manuscripts, photographs, music, art and ephemera.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment Ben Carroll
“What better way to pay homage to a Melbourne icon than having young Victorians on the books working to restore the State Library for future generations.”
“We’re restoring this mighty structure to its former glory and giving apprentices, trainees and engineering cadets the chance to hone their skills on one of the state’s most important projects
Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley
“The State Library is one of our city’s great treasures, and this expansion will ensure generations can continue to enjoy and explore its wonder.”
“By redeveloping this cultural icon, we are giving local businesses and local workers the opportunities they deserve.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020