The opening today of the new Western Cape Trades Skills Centre in Weipa will give local students pathways into the workforce and on to valued careers, Federal Member for Leichhardt, Warren Entsch said.
The Western Cape Trades Skills Centre is about giving local students real skills they will need to get jobs in the future, and provides practical training in engineering and construction workshops.
It is part of a $1.5 million funding commitment to develop trade training facilities around Australia.
“It’s great to be here today to open the centre and see the new facilities first-hand,” Mr Entsch said.
“Training centres like this enable local students to pursue vocational pathways and develop skills across a range of fields and industries.
“Many communities and regions across Australia are facing skills shortages in trades like fitter and turner and plumber.
“So the skills students will learn at the Western Cape Trades Skills Centre will not only benefit Weipa, but could potentially put them on a pathway to jobs anywhere in Australia,” said Mr Entsch.
“Students can also use the knowledge and skills developed here to continue further study afterwards.
“I congratulate the entire school community for its foresight in getting this centre up and running,” said Mr Entsch.
The Assistant Minister for Vocational Education and Skills, the Hon Karen Andrews MP, also congratulated Western Cape Trades Skills Centre on its official opening.
“There are many cities, communities and regions across Australia facing skills shortages in trades like metal fabrications and welding,” Minister Andrews said.
“Since 2008 the Coalition Government has invested around $1.4 billion towards 1289 projects that support secondary schools.
“The Australian Government is committed to improving the quality of our schools and equipping students with the skills they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive world,” Minister Andrews said.
(ENDS)
