Twenty newcomers to the Townsville road transport industry are to receive a training boost under the Queensland Trucking Association’s (QTA) Driving Townsville’s Future Program.
The scheme is funded by Jobs Queensland through the Grow Your Own (GYO) Funding Program which is designed to tackle regional workforce challenges in Townsville.
The QTA said the initial intake will have the opportunity to undertake five core accredited units of competency and work experience, or on-the-job training.
The program aims to create a pathway into the Heavy Vehicle Driving Apprenticeship, Bus Driving and Supply Chain Traineeships. Participants will enter the program as a job seeker or newly employed hire.
“The program will support the transport and logistics industry in North Queensland with a practical skilling and on-the-job training program that provides entry level skills for people keen to work in the sector,” said QTA CEO Gary Mahon.
“It is important to involve employers in these training programs to ensure that participants can practice what they are learning to get that true industry work experience.
“This program is an excellent starting point to encourage more people into the industry and we will continue to pursue funding options to expand the program into other regions.”
The QTA said it actively seeks opportunities through government funding programs that provide solutions to workforce and skills shortages and to support employers fill positions now and into the future.
Jobs Queensland chair Jim Varghese said “from North to Townsville and West to Toowoomba, these ‘Grow your Own’ initiatives will deliver solutions tailored to each specific region and industry”.
“We heard from industry and regional stakeholders and will now support them to deliver solutions to challenges they identified”.
Candidates and employers interested in engaging in this program can contact the QTA for more information on 07 3394 4388.