Applications are now open for the Federal Coalition Government’s Future of Work Partnership with BHP.
Federal Member for New England Barnaby Joyce said up to 750 people living in regional areas, including parts of the New England, would have the opportunity to study a short course, with their student contribution covered through the program.
“The Government is committed to giving regional Australians, and those in the New England, opportunities to boost their skills and improve their prospects of getting into a job,” Mr Joyce said.
“This is yet another platform to grow our regional workforce and upskill local people with the qualifications they need to prepare them for jobs in years to come.”
The key regions the Future of Work Partnership will focus on include: the Bowen Basin and Mackay, Queensland; Roxby Downs and Upper Spencer Gulf, South Australia; the Pilbara and Goldfields, Western Australia; and Hunter Region, New South Wales.
The Future of Work short course program is available to students currently enrolled or considering enrolling in a short course (Undergraduate Certificate or Graduate Certificate) who live in these areas.
Minister for Education and Youth Alan Tudge said the initiative builds on the Government’s Job Ready Graduates package that will create an additional 100,000 university places by 2030, 50,000 new short course places, and provides more incentives for regional students.
“We’re creating more options for school leavers, and for workers who want to upskill or reskill – particularly those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Minister Tudge said.
Minister for Decentralisation and Regional Education Andrew Gee said the partnership is a great incentive for people in New England to take part in further study and training.
“This fantastic program will support growth in specific regional areas by improving access to education, enabling locals to upskill and create pathways to employment,” Minister Gee said.
“We know country people have to fight harder for these opportunities than their city cousins, so we’re delighted to see this program help level the playing field.”
BHP President Minerals Australia Edgar Basto said the company was investing $30 million in the Future of Work Program through its Social Investment program.
“BHP is proud to be supporting a business-led recovery through our ongoing operations and significant investments in regional Australia,” Mr Basto said.
“Australians will be able to re-skill, embrace technology and find new jobs in many sectors, not just mining. We are proud to play our part in helping
Australian communities on the road to recovery.”
As well as having their student contribution fee covered by BHP, students who meet the eligibility criteria may also be eiligible for other financial support.
For more information, including how to apply, visit https://regionalfutureofwork.com/
(ENDS)