Minister for Training and Skills Steve Herbert has today toured a number of education and training providers in the Horsham region to discuss skills needs for current and future apprentices, trainees and students.
During the visit, Minister Herbert met with apprentices from Skillinvest, one of the Group Training Organisations set to benefit from the Andrews Labor Government’s $9.3 million boost to support apprentices and trainees.
Mr Herbert visited their host employer O’Connors Farm Machinery, to highlight the strengths of Victoria’s hands on approach to providing quality training to the state’s future workforce.
Without the help of the Labor Government, Victorian GTOs would have struggled to put on apprentices and trainees after the Federal Liberal Government axed its support for the GTO program.
This money will assist more than 17,000 apprentices and trainees across the state and play a critical role in helping them find regular employment as they move through their training.
Mr Herbert also visited Longerenong College during his visit to the region.
Skillinvest, which now runs the site, successfully offers a variety of training at Longerenong including Certificate and Diploma courses.
During the visit, Minister Herbert met with students and staff and discussed what part the Government can play in growing rural and agricultural training and to make sure students in the region are supported.
The Labor Government is committed to making sure every Victorian, no matter where they are, has access to quality training.
Mr Herbert used the visit to emphasise the importance of the use of partnerships in country Victoria between training providers and employers, to provide meaningful opportunities for locals.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Steve Herbert
“GTOs like Skillinvest play a crucial role in supporting people to develop the skills they need to get long-lasting and rewarding jobs. They often help disadvantaged apprentices and trainees in our community.”
“We know that strong partnerships between training providers, industry and government, particularly in regional areas like Horsham, are vital to providing a strong skills base for all Victorians.”
“The Andrews Labor Government is working to build a better TAFE and training system for all Victorians, after the former Coalition Government spent four years neglecting the needs of TAFEs, especially in regional areas.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020