The Department of Industry expects job opportunities to grow for certified water meter installers in regional NSW as new water metering rules roll out over the next five years.
Minister for Water, Melinda Pavey said that as part of the Water Reform Action Plan, some of the strongest metering rules in Australia were being implemented, significantly improving the standard and coverage of non-urban water meters.
“All meters, new or existing, covered by the new rules will need to have data logger and tamper-proof seals, and be validated by a certified meter installer to ensure they are properly installed,” Ms Pavey said.
“There are currently about 50 certified meter installers in NSW and another 130 people undergoing the certification process,” she said.
“To meet demand and perform ongoing checks we need to substantially increase those numbers.”
She said Irrigation Australia, the peak body representing irrigation professionals, offered training and certification programs that would qualify people to provide metering services in accordance with the new rules.
National Training and Certification Manager for Irrigation Australia, Geoff Harvey said that in NSW there had already been an increase in demand for certified meter installers.
“The Government will fund two traineeships to assist Indigenous job-seekers looking for a career in the water industry,” Mr Harvey said.
“Through the two-year program, the trainees will gain a Certificate III in Water Operations and the paid industry experience needed to become a certified meter installer and secure ongoing employment in the industry,” he said.
