A $1.5 million investment has been committed to train apprentices and tradespeople for the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ). The program aims to ensure local communities benefit from the estimated 1,800 construction jobs and nearly 1,000 ongoing operational roles expected in the region. Delivered by Skillset in partnership with EnergyCo and the Department of Education, the initiative offers free pre-apprenticeship training to help aspiring workers gain necessary qualifications.
The Group Training Organisation (GTO) model allows employers to hire apprentices for specific project durations without committing to full four-year terms. If a construction contract ends, Skillset places the apprentice with another employer, facilitating continuous training across multiple sites. This approach reduces administrative burdens for businesses and helps meet workforce targets, including minimum quotas for apprentices in the trade workforce. The program complements over $13 million in other local business and workforce initiatives underway in the REZ.