The creation of job opportunities for young people during a period of unprecedented investment is vital for the future of the Victorian industry and economy – increasing workforce capacity and capabilities state-wide.
Building a sustainable workforce not only permits the expansion of businesses but also enables them to gain new opportunities locally and internationally.
Since the Local Jobs First policy was enacted in Parliament and the Major Project Skills Guarantee (MPSG) was implemented, all construction projects valued at over twenty million are required to now use Victorian apprentices, trainees or cadets for at least ten percent of the total estimated labour hours.
This is enabling a never before seen investment in the next generation of workers, increasing workforce capabilities for the future, with over four million contracted hours provided to 3700 apprentices, trainees and cadets since 2016. This equates to one hundred and sixteen projects worth collectively over sixty-three billion dollars.
Local Jobs First Commissioner, Don Matthews said: “Local Jobs First is definitely providing new opportunities for apprentices, trainees and cadets. These cohorts are the future of Victoria. Thanks to Local Jobs First and MPSG, we are equipping a new generation of workers in Victoria with the skills needed to succeed. I take great pride in advocating and engaging with these cohorts and look forward to continuing to work together.”
The Local Jobs First policy and MPSG is not only supporting the development of young Victorians through major infrastructure projects, it is also providing the next generation of skilled workers in Victoria.
By continuing to invest in the future of Victorian workers, we will continue to strengthen and increase the level of services offered and opportunities for industry growth.
