An innovative program at Melbourne Polytechnic will receive $2.5 million in Andrews Labor Government funding to get 1200 people skilled up for jobs in the growing health care sector.
Minister for Training and Skills, Steve Herbert, announced the grant from the Labor Government’s $50 million TAFE Back to Work Fund during a visit to the institute’s Heidelberg campus today with Member for Ivanhoe, Anthony Carbines and Member for Eltham, Vicki Ward.
The Labor Government’s funding will allow Melbourne Polytechnic to work with health care providers to focus on areas where there are skills gaps and develop training which leads to jobs.
The $50 million TAFE Back to Work Fund is part of a $350 million funding boost to the TAFE system, delivered in the 2015-16 Victorian Budget. This is in addition to the $20 million fast-tracked to secure the financial future of seven struggling TAFEs that were on the brink of collapse.
The Fund will support projects that allow TAFE institutes to provide training that leads to jobs by working in partnership with local industries, including those identified by the Government’s Back to Work Plan to create 100,000 jobs.
Mr Herbert said training offered by these initiatives would also support employers who plan to hire staff as part of the Government’s Back to Work Scheme, by creating more job-ready skilled workers in growing industries.
The Back to Work Scheme provides financial assistance to businesses which hire eligible young people aged 15-24 who have been looking for work for three months or more, out-of-trade apprentices, retrenched workers or someone who has been looking for work for 12 months or more.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills, Steve Herbert
“We’re supporting Melbourne Polytechnic to provide training that gives people the skills they need to get a job in the growing healthcare sector.”
“Labor is investing in our TAFEs to produce workers that will help us innovate, create new products and drive jobs and growth.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Ivanhoe, Anthony Carbines
“Melbourne Polytechnic goes above and beyond in providing first-rate skills and training to our local young people and community. I’m glad Labor is supporting this project, which will help the Institute continue its great work.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Eltham, Vicki Ward
“Our young people deserve a bright future and this $2.5 million investment will support Melbourne Polytechnic to provide more training that will lead to skills and jobs.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020