Member for Northern Victoria, Mark Gepp MP today announced a $477,000 funding boost for Bendigo Kangan Institute’s Echuca campus, to train the next generation of builders, plumbers and electricians in the Echuca region.
The project is being funded under the Regional and Specialist Training Fund, part of the Andrews Labor Government’s Skills First initiative, which is delivering training to respond to industry-led demand for specific skills in regions and specialist areas that are not being adequately met in the current training market.
With expected residential growth throughout the region, there will be an increased demand for these skills in Echuca.
Through this project, Bendigo Kangan Institute is working with the support of local plumbing, building and electrical businesses and suppliers to train and grow the number of apprentices in the region.
This funding addresses that need by providing increased pre-apprenticeship training provision within the Certificate II in Building and Construction, Certificate II in Plumbing and Certificate II in Electrotechnology Studies programs.
The funding will go towards the purchase of industry related tools and equipment along with the development of new, flexible training resources and assessment materials.
As well as these new tools and equipment, the Andrews Labor government has also increased the Government subsidy for these courses through the project meaning lower tuition fees for students.
Quotes attributable to Member for Northern Victoria, Mark Gepp
“The Andrews Labor Government is proud to be investing in this project to ensure we have enough well trained builders, plumbers and sparkies for this crucial industry.”
“I would encourage anyone who is interested in working in this industry to contact Bendigo TAFE’s Echuca campus for further information.”
“This project is another example of how the Andrew’s Labor Government is rebuilding our TAFEs so they can deliver training that makes a real difference in our communities.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney
“Through the Regional and Specialist Training Fund, we’re making sure Victorian students have access to real training that meets the needs of local businesses and industry.
Quotes attributable to Bendigo TAFE CEO, Trevor Schwenke:
"Today’s funding announcement greatly enhances our capacity to deliver local training pathways for the Echuca community."
“Investment in local training delivery also benefits Echuca employers by providing access to locally based trade training and Bendigo TAFE graduates.”
