THE state government will announce a $1.5 million skills initiative for Bendigo to develop projects between training providers, schools and industry.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Minister for Higher Education and Skills Nick Wakeling will announce the Bendigo Skills Initiative when he visits Bendigo Kangan Institute on Tuesday.
The plan involves a steering committee, made up of Bendigo industry leaders, identifying areas of current and future skills needs in Bendigo.
Community stakeholders could then apply for funding to foster solutions as they seek to address these skills shortages.
Mr Wakeling said the initiative will provide real opportunities for people to obtain long-term employment.
"The Coalition Government recognises the importance of strengthening partnerships between training providers and industry to give students in Bendigo the best chance of securing a reward and long-term job in the future," he said.
The announcement is part of the government's commitment to provide opportunities to 850,000 Victorians to obtain relevant skills and 60,000 new apprenticeships.
Liberal candidates for Bendigo East and Bendigo West Greg Bickley and Michael Langdon will join Mr Wakeling to make the announcement.
Mr Bickley said further combining training providers, schools and industry to address skills shortages would benefit the Bendigo economy.
"This investment will enable Bendigo to develop stronger pathways for local students and create jobs that provide a significant boost to the region's economy," he said.
Employment in the health sector was identified as an area of growth in Bendigo, as the $630 million hospital approaches completion in 2016.
Mr Wakeling said the first project in the Bendigo Skills Initiative will provide "workplace learning opportunities" in healthcare.