Thursday, 23 June 2022

Ministers statements: Workforce Training Innovation Fund

Ms TIERNEY (Western Victoria—Minister for Training and Skills, Minister for Higher Education) (12:17): Last week I was pleased to launch a new program that will boost skills in Victoria’s electrical workforce. Through the Workforce Training Innovation Fund the Andrews Labor government is investing more than $950 000 in a pilot program for 500 licensed electricians to upskill and work on electric vehicle technology to support our plan to reach net zero emissions by 2050.

This pilot program is led by the Electrical Trades Union and delivered by training providers the Centre for U and Holmesglen TAFE, and it will help inform the development of new course curriculum. It also demonstrates the importance of strong industry collaboration, and I am pleased that the program has the support of the Electric Vehicle Council, EVchoice, Energy Safe Victoria and Future Energy Skills. This program will also enhance community understanding ahead of the significant uptake of EV technology, which is anticipated in coming years. It is a great example of this government’s investing in Victoria’s clean energy future and promoting the expansion of the clean economy workforce.

But I must say the highlight of the launch was the excited looks on the faces of so many of the apprentices who were in attendance at the launch, including many female electrical apprentices, I might add, as they looked to their future, a future where training and upskilling opportunities continue to develop and respond to the needs of a modern clean economy, a future that ensures their skills and jobs will remain relevant and their careers will continue to grow.