As the Nyaal Banyul development continues its rapid rise on Geelong's Waterfront, the Allan Labor Government is supporting new job opportunities for Geelong residents who have experienced barriers to employment.
Through a joint government, industry and community program called the GCEC Early Engagement Social Procurement (GEESP), 43 apprenticeships have now been created and more than 37,000 hours of training delivered in mechanical, carpentry, plumbing and electrical trades.
The number of hours of training delivered is expected to reach 45,000 hours by time Nyaal Banyul is completed, highlighting the power of the project to create jobs and develop skills.
The program includes 12 weeks of fully funded training at the Gordon TAFE, mentoring, pre-employment guidance and on-site work experience for participants, many of whom have faced significant barriers to employment before stepping on site, such as long-term unemployment, educational challenges, or limited industry access.
The GEESP program creates career pathways in construction via nationally accredited qualifications, with its first apprentice recently securing ongoing employment with Faulkner Roofing, a Geelong company that has installed 8,000 square metres of roofing at the convention centre precinct.
The program was co-designed by Development Victoria, the Give Where You Live Foundation's GROW initiative, and social enterprise gforce, and is being delivered by the Nyaal Banyul head contractor, Built.
In September the program was named the winner of the Industry Collaboration category of this year's Victorian Training Awards.
Beyond the career-shaping apprenticeship opportunities, the Convention and Event Centre development has also created 1,450 jobs during construction, with hundreds more expected upon completion.
Nyaal Banyul is being delivered as a partnership with the Plenary Conventions consortium, with Plenary Group as a sponsor, investor and hotel and commercial building developer, Built as builder, Woods Bagot as architect and BGIS as facilities manager.
The project is funded through the Geelong City Deal, a $676 million investment from the federal and state governments and City of Greater Geelong. to revitalise Geelong and unlock the potential of the Great Ocean Road visitor economy.
With more than $47 billion delivered in rural and regional investment in just over a decade, the Victorian Government continues to drive regional economic growth. For more information, visit: www.infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/cities
As stated by Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes
"Nyaal Banyul is more than just a landmark project for Greater Geelong - Its award-winning GEESP program offers participants clear career pathways and is helping these young apprentices develop the skills they need to succeed in the construction sector."
As stated by Minister for Development Victoria and Precincts Harriet Shing
"We're creating real pathways into the construction industry for people who've faced barriers to employment, supporting Victoria to continue to grow - and grow well."
As stated by Member for Geelong Chris Couzens
"The Nyaal Banyul Convention and Event Centre is a shining light in Geelong, not only enhancing our city skyline but creating many jobs, including 43 trade apprenticeships."
As stated by apprentice roof plumber Georgia
"Getting permanently employed from the GEESP program by Faulkner Roofing was amazing. It's changed my life in so many ways. I have a career now."
As stated by Faulkner Roofing Managing Director Dane Hoyer
"Georgia's got a great personality, a great work ethic, and she gets along with the team very well. Social procurement has been good for the local Geelong area and it gives back to the community."
As stated by Built Head of Operations Andrew Morgan
"The GEESP program is reshaping how we think about opportunity and inclusion in construction. Our team has seen a shift in site culture, helped by inclusive coaching with over 50 subcontractors on the project."
As stated by Give Where You Live Foundation CEO Zac Lewis
"We know that inclusive employment changes lives and the GEESP program at Nyaal Banyul, supporting 41 apprentices, is proof of that."
As stated by gforce employment + recruitment Service Delivery General Manager Greg Haynes
"gforce is proud to have contributed to the Nyaal Banyul project through the GEESP program, helping to advance social procurement in the region."
