In a significant development for the Australian construction industry, Charles Darwin University (CDU) has commenced construction on a brand-new Trades Training Centre at its Casuarina campus. This latest addition to the university’s Trades Precinct will play a pivotal role in preparing the next generation of skilled tradespeople, equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industry.

The new two-storey centre will feature a dedicated heavy equipment precinct, an assembly area, an industrial sand pit, and classrooms. This $10 million project has received substantial support from the Territory Labor Government, which has contributed $4.8 million through a VET Capital Grant. This funding is intended to boost vocational education and training pathways, creating a skilled, agile, and capable workforce for the Territory.

Local business Aspire Design and Construct have been entrusted with this job-creating project. With early works already in progress, the project is slated for completion in late 2024.

Joel Bowden, Minister for Skills, Training and International Education, expressed his views on the project. He emphasised that the Territory Labor Government’s investment of $4.8 million is aimed at strengthening vocational education and training pathways for Territorians. He also highlighted the need for an innovative, capable and skilled workforce to meet industry demands and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to delivering more accessible training pathways.

“The new Centre will initially focus on delivering in-demand courses in carpentry and roof plumbing,” Bowden said. “Investing in apprenticeships and traineeships provides job opportunities for Territorians while ensuring we build a capable workforce here in the NT that businesses and industries need now and into the future.”

Bowden also stressed the importance of supporting the construction industry with practical courses that can help address skills shortages. He believes that this will fill the need for qualified apprentices in trades essential for housing and infrastructure developments.

The new Trades Centre will offer a dynamic learning environment that contributes to the professional growth of students. CDU TAFE aims to provide Territorians with unique training opportunities. The apprentices trained here will then contribute their newfound skills back into NT businesses, thereby enhancing the local workforce’s capacity to meet the demands of a rapidly changing industry.

Lisa Jenkinson, Executive Director of Aspire Design and Construct, shared her thoughts on the project. She expressed her pride in being part of CDU’s expansion of their core training centre and highlighted the importance of modern facilities for teaching and learning in the trades.

“Carpentry and roof plumbing are key trades in the construction industry. Having modern facilities will only enhance the successful completion of these trades, supporting NT growth now and, more importantly, for many years to come,” Jenkinson said.

As the construction industry continues to evolve, the need for skilled tradespeople is more crucial than ever. Whether it’s operating a Toyota Forklift, performing Forklift Repairs, or deciding between a Diesel forklift Vs Electric Forklift, the training provided at the new Trades Centre will equip apprentices with the practical skills they need to succeed.

For businesses seeking forklift hire Sydney or Forklift Servicing Sydney, this development is promising news. The training centre will help ensure a steady supply of skilled workers capable of meeting their needs, contributing to a healthier, more robust construction industry in Australia.