The Queensland Government is funding $2.8 million to First Nations communities in regional areas for skills and training needed to secure jobs.
Under the Indigenous Workforce and Skills Development Grant program, 15 projects will equip First Nations’ job seekers with in-demand skills and training. The projects include workplace confidence development, cultural onboarding, foundation skills, mental health support, and learner driver assistance.
In the Far North Queensland region, $484,700 will support up to 50 participants in earning qualifications including a level three certificate in community services and in conservation and ecosystem management, as well as a level four certificate in training and assessment or marine dive certification.
Ros Bates, minister for finance, trade, employment and training, says the funding is part of the Queensland Government’s focus on The Right Plan for Queensland’s Future.
“Organisations like Wakaid will support up to 14 participants from Cairns, Thursday Island, Bamaga and Lockhart River to obtain the skills and qualifications needed for jobs in the native dive industry, including the Crown of Thorns Starfish control program,” Bates says.
“An important project tailored to the region, participants will gain the regulatory dive certification requirements and additional training in first aid, advanced resuscitation and oxygen therapy to be part of the control program or work in marine tourism, marine research, or commercial sector.”
Wakaid Director Frank Aragu says the project will provide training and employment pathways that safeguards natural areas.
“Our Malu Gubal project will help address local workforce needs, establish a direct connection to local services and employers for our participants and help protect the Great Barrier Reef,” Aragu says.
Meanwhile, Bree James, member for Barron River, adds that young Traditional Owners in Lockhart River will have the opportunity to complete a level three certificate in Conservation and Ecosystem Management.
This is achieved through Chuulangun Aboriginal Corporation’s Skilling the Next Generation Living and Working on Country project.
“Participants can gain employment as Indigenous rangers and take on the responsibility of managing the Indigenous protected area overseen by the Chuulangun Aboriginal Corporation,” James says.
Other projects will also be delivered in Townsville, Palm Island, Rockhampton, Gladstone Woorabinda, and across Southeast Queensland. The projects will include workshops to build the cultural competency of local non-Indigenous employers.
Write to Aaliyah Rogan at Mining.com.au
Images: IMARC
