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Media Release
TACKLING SKILL SHORTAGES IN THE MINING INDUSTRY
10 June, 2004 MIN 733/04
The Prime Minister has today announced an important initiative to address skill shortages in the Australian mining industry.
This initiative, part of the National Skills Shortages Strategy, involves the Australian Government contributing up to $500,000 towards projects over two years from 2004, to:
- facilitate research into factors contributing to skill shortages in the Australian mining industry;
- develop an action plan to develop a sustainable skilled workforce across the diverse range of occupations in the mining industry; and
- develop and implement initiatives to promote our mining industry as an attractive career option to both young Australians entering the workforce, and mature age workers looking to improve their skills, or develop new skills.
Industries covered include those in the exploration, extraction and primary processing sectors such as the Australian coal, metals, industrial minerals, construction materials, drilling and civil construction sectors.
Innovative approaches to traditional trade apprenticeships such as “fast tracked” programmes, recognising the skills of existing and mature-aged workers and tackling the special skilling issues which arise in regional and remote locations will also be developed.
The initiative will complement and reinforce the mining industry Action Agendas developed in partnership with the Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources. It will tackle outdated perceptions of the industry and reinforce the fact that today’s careers in the mining industry can be both challenging and financial rewarding.
The Department of Education, Science and Training will work with the Western Australian Chamber of Minerals and Energy, other key mining bodies and relevant Australian Government, Western Australian Government and local government agencies. The newly created Resources and Infrastructure Industry Skills Council will also play a prominent role.
Together, these measures will provide a strong platform for addressing the skill needs of the Australian mining sector which is crucial for the on-going development and international competitiveness of the industry.
The Howard Government is committed to ensuring that the vocational education and training system meets the needs of industry and helps Australians find and achieve their potential, particularly the 70% of young people who do not go directly from school to university.
Media Contact:
Dr Nelson’s Office: Ross Hampton 0419 484 095
Dept of Education, Science & Training: Laila Lacis 0412 040 034
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