State backs new co-ordinator role
The State Government is backing a new project designed to address industry and employment needs in Ararat, Stawell and the surrounding region.
Treasurer Tim Pallas visited manufacturing business AME Systems in Ararat to announce that $228,000 from a Regional Skills Fund would go towards establishing an industry skills co-ordinator position in the district.
The three-year co-ordinator’s role would be to link job seekers to industry, and help connect them to necessary education and training.
The co-ordinator is likely to be based in either Ararat or Stawell.
The project will also identify priorities for workforce development in and around Ararat and Stawell, and help find training solutions to district issues, align training provision to industry needs, help industry to navigate the training system and grow the educational aspirations of community members.
Central Highlands Regional Partnership is championing the project in response to priority issues raised by communities surrounding Stawell and Ararat.
A steering group made up of a broad cross section of community and industry leaders has been developed and will continue to guide the project.
The steering group includes representatives from Central Grampians Local Learning Employment Network, Stawell Neighbourhood House, Grampians Community Health, East Grampians Health Service, Ararat Regional Business Association, Stawellbiz and two local major manufacturers – AME Systems and Gason.
Driven by industry
The Regional Skills Fund is a place-based program driven by industry, in partnership with the tertiary sector, to build regional capacity and create job pathways.
Mr Pallas said it would help link people looking for a job with trainers, formal education and employers.
“We’ve listened to the community about what was needed in Stawell and Ararat and we are proud to help deliver this important skills project for these communities,” he said.
Training and Skills Minister Gayle Tierney said skills and training were vital for regional communities and economies.
“A skilled workforce is what’s needed to support jobs and keep our regional communities strong,” she said.