The Queensland Government has launched a new pilot initiative that will provide targeted skills development training in the mining industry.
Designed with multiple industries in mind, the new initiative will provide ‘micro-credentials’ to businesses, employees and job-seekers through short courses.
It is hoped that the skills learned from the courses will support innovation and productivity.
“The Palaszczuk Government’s key priority is ensuring Queenslanders have the skills and training for the future of work,” Minister for Training and Skills Development Shannon Fentiman said.
“Support for micro-credentials is just another way we are ensuring Queenslanders have pathways to access skills and training.
“In the state budget we committed $5.5 million for micro-credentialing pilots to fill some of the critical gaps in skills and training that are important to Queensland businesses.
“Micro-credentials aim to improve employability of workers by providing skills in demand from industry and increasing the labour productivity of enterprises through investment in technical, digital and soft skills.”
For mining, the new initiative will help teach workers and businesses about sensor technologies such as automated machines and trucks.
“In partnership with organisations such as TAFE Queensland, the Foundation for Young Australians, Central Queensland University and the Queensland Tourism Industry Council, we will be delivering skills in digital literacy, cyber security and digital data.
“As part of the pilot program, $2.3 million will be available through a funding round to consider market-led proposals from industry, as we want to see Queenslanders access training for more jobs in more industries.”
Industry applications for micro-credentials opens to 23 March 2020 and close 24 April 2020.