The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) government has announced a major investment in zero-emissions technology skills through the proposed focus on the territory’s TAFE institution.
The ACT government says it will suggest to the federal government that a new centre of excellence should be established at CIT Fyshwick as part of a National Skills Agreement settled last year.
The centre of excellence would, upon negotiation, expand CIT’s Electric Vehicle Training Centre, allowing the facility to train more electric vehicle automotive technicians and support the electrification of the region.
New funding announced by the ACT government will also support the feasibility of a broader Future Energy Skills Hub at CIT that includes the centre of excellence to support the expansion of training in electrotechnology.
“As an early adopter, the ACT can be at the forefront of skills and training by working with local institutions to bridge the gap in skills needed to support Canberra’s electrification,” ACT chief minister Andrew Barr says.
“Emerging opportunities over the coming decades will create more jobs in renewables and increase demand for skilled workers, while a Future Energy Skills Hub will ensure our workforce is prepared for the transition to the new economy.
“This is an important part of our plan to reach a target of 300,000 jobs by 2030.”
ACT government modelling has determined that at least 1,280 extra electrifications and 270 more electrical engineers are needing in the territory before 2045 to meet the growing demand.
The funding is based on the belief that increasing the number of apprentices, particularly in the electrical trades sector, will be vital to ensure people can make the most of renewable energy.
The suggested hub would primarily focus on electrical trades while exploring the zero-emissions sector, such as in transport.
“CIT Fyshwick is the ACT’s trades training centre and reshaping the campus into a Future Energy Skills Hub will make it a centre of excellence for skills required in the new economy,” ACT skills minister Chris Steel says.
“By supporting a strong VET system and delivering advanced training in emerging industries, we can make sure Canberrans have the right skills for the future.”
The ACT government says total design towards scoping and designing the Future Energy Skills Hub is $500,000 over two years.