Students in Melbourne’s West will have the opportunity to learn the tools of their preferred trade at the Hobsons Bay Region Trade Training Centre, which was today opened by Senator the Hon Scott Ryan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Education.

The Hobsons Bay Region Trade Training Centre, which will provide training facilities for students at five local high schools, was funded by a $7.4 million Australian Government grant. The project includes new workshops, associated learning spaces and amenities and the refurbishment of an existing hospitality facility to include a commercial kitchen and cool room.

“The new centre will give young people the opportunity to gain qualifications in areas where we have skills shortages,” Senator Ryan said.

“It is important that the training provided in these centres links in with the skills needed in today’s workplaces.”

The Hobsons Bay Region Trade Training Centre will deliver a wide range of qualifications including automotive electrical, general electrical, motor mechanics, panel beating, bricklaying, cabinet making, carpentry, painting and decorating, plumbing, metal fabrication, metal fitting, and hospitality.

Students at the lead school of Bayside P-12 College will benefit from access to these facilities, as will students at Laverton Secondary College, Emmanuel College, Point Cook Senior Secondary College and Williamstown High School.

“Australia’s future competitiveness depends on a highly skilled and well-trained workforce, and that’s why the Government is considering innovative and practical approaches to deliver trade qualifications in schools,” Senator Ryan said.

“Our new Trades Skills Centres will have a focus on stronger partnerships between schools, local businesses and industry.”

“We are providing funding of $209 million for 136 new Trades Skills Centres supporting more than 220 schools.”

“Through our Students First approach, we are building a world-class education system to equip all students to succeed in an increasingly competitive world.”

For further information on Trade Training Centres, visit: www.education.gov.au/trade-training-centres-schools-program.