Premier Daniel Andrews today joined local member Christine Couzens, apprentices and the plumbing industry to officially open Geelong’s new state of the art Plumbing Industry Climate Action Centre (PICAC).
The centre offers highly specialised trade and post-trade training for workers in the plumbing industry, ensuring workers have the skills needed to deliver the next generation of sustainable and water efficient buildings.
From water reuse methods and installing water efficient products to solar water heating and embracing new technologies, this centre will give Geelong’s plumbers the world class skills they need for the jobs of the future.
The centre will also play its part in retraining retrenched automotive and supply chain workers, and allow them access to the growing number of jobs in the construction sector.
This is Victoria’s second PICAC and follows the award winning centre in Brunswick. The centre is an industry partnership supported by the relevant industry groups and the Plumbing and Pipes Trades Employees Union (PPTEU).
The new Geelong facility was a key election commitment at the 2014 State Election, with $5 million provided in the Victorian Budget 2016/17 for the fit-out in Geelong and building the Narre Warren facility. Construction on the Narre Warren facility is expected to commence in 2017.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“This is about putting people first and giving workers in the plumbing industry the specialist skills and training they need to help build our state’s future.”
“We’re also supporting retrenched workers and allowing them to retrain in one of Victoria’s key growth sectors.”
Quote attributable to Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
“This centre will be a fantastic addition to Geelong’s strong education and training sector complementing our world class schools and tertiary institutions. This will mean local workers will have the skills to take on any job.”
Quote attributable to PICAC Chair and Federal Secretary of the PPTEU Earl Setches
“PICAC has, against the odds, created something no other industry has been able to replicate. This new Centre is proof of our dedication to creating a strong, well trained industry for Victoria and the country.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020