The Construction Training Fund has introduced a new pilot program aimed at removing barriers for young people training in the building and construction industry.
Headed by the Construction Training Fund as a Driver’s Licence Training Support Program, the program helps students obtain a driver’s licence while ensuring apprentices entering the construction workforce are job-ready.
A spokesperson for the Fund said a driver’s licence was a key requirement for many construction roles and access to a driver’s licence was identified as a significant barrier to apprenticeship employment for young people in the construction industry.
“This pilot program offers standard driver training and supervision to help participants gain a valid Western Australian driver’s licence,” the spokesperson said.
“In addition, specialised training for driving in a construction environment, such as towing, safe management of vehicle loads, vehicle maintenance and driving in the sand, will assist young people to develop awareness and skills in road safety and vehicle management.”
The spokesperson said the Driver’s Licence Training Support Program will be available to 120 students, with 18 students currently participating in the first cohort.
It is open to Year 11 and 12 students in the Construction Training Fund Scholarship Program, to supplement their pre-apprenticeship training.
Minister for Transport, Rita Saffioti said having a driver’s licence opened many doors for a young person with more education, training and employment opportunities.
“This program complements our existing Driving Access and Equity Program, which is already delivering great outcomes in a number of regions across the State,” Ms Saffioti said.
More information about the pilot program can be accessed on this PS News link.
