Thanks to the Skilling Queenslanders for Work program, Skill360 will be supporting more job seekers into the construction trade for the Cairns region.
The Queensland Government recently announced a further $13.7 million funding for the Skilling Queenslanders for Work (SQW) program that is expected to support a further 2,000 job seekers into training and work through 80 community projects in the State. The second round of funding for 2020-21 brings the total SQW investment for the financial year to more than $55.8 million for 284 projects that provide training and assistance to a total of more than 7,400 jobseekers.
Skill360, a Group Training Organisation in Cairns who deliver a range of skills training, apprenticeship and employment support, were one of the few Cairns organisations awarded funding to deliver a SQW program in the Cairns region, supporting job seekers with training and work experience in the construction and resource industries. With significant planning of civil construction projects in the region, and throughout Queensland, the program offers a unique opportunity to prepare and skill Cairns job seekers for work opportunities in the industry.
Under the SQW program delivered by Skill360, named ‘Trade Skill-ED’, job seeker participants can undertake a Certificate I in Construction over a 10-week course. In addition to the construction course, Skill360 have also partnered with registered training organisation, Major Training, to offer participants the option to complete a 10-week course undertaking Certificate II in Electro-technology orto complete a 16-week course to undertake a Certificate II Resource and Infrastructure preparation. The SQW Trade Skill-Ed program will also provide employability skills training and wrap-around support to prepare participants for the workforce, along with job placement with local employers. On completion of the program, an expected 80% of participants will be supported into employment or further training.
Paul Daly, CEO of Skill360 stated, “Our research indicates that there is a skills shortage within the Construction and resource sector in this region. Through the SQW program, industry visits and on-site work experience are crucial for facilitating employment opportunities, as well as providing hands-on experience to help participants understand the specific roles and requirements of working in the industry”.
“Our expansive relationships with employers and industry and our expertise in a range of support services allow us to unlock pathways through traineeships, apprenticeships and employment opportunities for participants, while supporting the changing needs of industry and skills shortages.” Paul further stated.
On announcement of the extra funding for SQW, Minister for Employment and Small Business and Minister for Training and Skills Development stated, “SQW projects support a number of social enterprises that bring specialist support and employment opportunities for people who face disadvantages when applying for work.”
“More than 56,000 people have been skilled for work since 2015, with more than 34,000 people finding a job as a direct result of participating in SQW projects or traineeships,” Ms Farmer further stated.
For more information regarding Skill360 and the Skilling Queenslanders for Work program, visit www.skill360.com.au or contact Skill360 on 1300 933 358 or email info@skill360.com.au
MEDIA CONTACT:
Michelle Ryan
Ph: 0407 169 029
or email Michelle.Ryan@thebusygroup.com.au
