Over 1,000 Canberrans enrolled in the first week of key skills training courses being opened to help build skill capability during COVID-19.
Minister for Tertiary Education, Chris Steel said the special release of the Skilled Capital program two weeks ago was aimed at addressing workforce demand and supplying issues as a result of COVID-19 with more than 2,000 subsidised training places available across 60 qualifications and 39 skill sets.
“Over 1,000 places were taken in the first three days, including 536 people enrolling in community services courses including children services, disability support, aged care, mental health, education support and community work,” Mr Steel said.
“One hundred and seventy eight [people enrolled] in business services, 141 in hospitality and retail and 69 in construction,” he said.
Mr Steel said the training would support Canberrans in meeting their learning needs and ensure that local industries could continue to build the skills profile of their workforces through the COVID-19 recovery period.
“What we’re seeing is many Canberrans who are now out of work taking up training to gain new skills and re-enter the workforce on the other side,” he said.
“We know sectors like early childhood, disability, aged care and construction have skills shortages, so this is an opportunity for Canberrans to move into new vocations where jobs are available.”
He said almost half the people who enrolled would undertake Certificate II and III level qualifications to help them enter the workforce.
“The other half of training places are at Certificate IV to Advanced Diploma level, and will support upskilling of existing workers.”
Mr Steel said Skilled Capital places were still available in key areas including health and aged care; disability support; cleaning; tourism; community pharmacy; hospitality; and community services.
Information on the available Skilled Capital places can be accessed at this PS News link.
