Several of the Victorian Government’s major infrastructure projects have given opportunities to more than 600 young workers and people from other industries that are re-skilling.
The government’s Major Projects Skills Guarantee (MPSG) mandates that at least 10 per cent of work on projects valued at more than $20 million be undertaken by apprentices, trainees or engineering cadets.
This guarantee has created 610 apprentice, trainee and engineering cadetship roles in Victoria.
Many of these workers are starting out in their careers, but others are experienced workers changing careers or re-skilling from industries like the auto-sector.
The (MPSG) currently covers seven projects, including the $400 million Melbourne Metro Rail Early Works preparatory works package, the $1.6 billion Caulfield to Dandenong Level Crossings package, and the Monash Freeway Upgrade Project, part of the $5.5 billion Western Distributor Project.
The MPSG will also apply to 38 additional major projects, including the Mernda Rail Extension and the Casey Hospital Expansion Project.
Victorian Minister for Industry and Employment, Wade Noonan, said, “We’re giving young and re-skilling workers the experience and opportunities they need, while we deliver the infrastructure Victoria needs.
“More than 600 apprentices, trainees and engineering cadets are working on our major projects, and as construction starts on new projects, there’ll be more opportunities for these workers.”
“This is about putting people first and making sure our major projects create local jobs, build local skills and boost Victoria’s economy.”