Australian Resources and Energy Group AREEA welcomes increased Federal Budget funding for TAFE, VET and other training initiatives, much of which will assist the mining, oil and gas and related construction sectors to address looming skills shortages.
“Resources and energy employers are proud to see record earnings from our industry have delivered a $20 billion boost to the 2019 Federal Budget, as well as contributed about 20 percent of all company tax revenues,” said Tara Diamond, AREEA’s Director Operations.
“To underpin further resources and energy earnings growth, more investment and more industry-government collaboration is required to address skills shortages and better meet the future needs of employers and the wider industry.
“AREEA and our members are pleased the Government has recognised in the 2019 Federal Budget the need to work with industry on education and training systems to deliver a future pipeline of home-grown skills.
“Investing in the skills of the future is vitally important for a globally competitive Australian resources and energy industry, and sustaining the significant value such an industry delivers to our nation.”
Reform to Australia’s VET sector to focus training on high-demand skills, innovation and industry needs, was a key recommendation made by AREEA members to Minister for Resources Matthew Canavan during the 2018 Resources 2030 Taskforce consultation roundtables.
AREEA expects to work closely with whichever major party forms government after the 2019 Federal Election to put these initiatives and priorities in place.
“It is an exciting time for those considering a career in the resources and energy industry, with rapid advancements in technology creating new and more diverse employment opportunities,” Ms Diamond said.
“However many of these opportunities will demand higher levels of technical skills and expertise which will demand more from Australia’s VET and tertiary education sectors. The Government’s decision to establish a National Skills Commission will greatly assist in driving necessary reforms.
“Greater strategic coordination of curriculum and pathways across these education spheres will help unleash significant opportunities for Australian employees, employers, and all those regional communities and small businesses that rely on a thriving national resources and energy industry.”
