Council's acclaimed 'Kickstart Your Career' program returns for 2027 with a variety of traineeship and apprenticeship opportunities for Western Downs locals.
Kickstart Your Career is an initiative that provides essential hands-on experience and knowledge for both students and adults across multiple industries, allowing participants to gain a qualification while working with Council.
The program has supported 177 local trainees and apprentices since 2018, providing essential pathways to long-term employment, demonstrating Council's commitment to strengthening the Western Downs workforce.
Council Spokesperson for Corporate Governance and Finance Councillor George Moore said the Kickstart Your Career program provides participants with a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience while supporting the local community.
"The program continues to open doors for anyone seeking to acquire practical skills and a nationally recognised qualification since the initiative commenced in 2018," Cr Moore said.
"Through Kickstart Your Career, participants are not only investing in their own future; they are also developing the skills needed to help deliver essential services that communities across the Western Downs rely on every day.
"Many of our trainees and apprentices contribute to projects that support local roads, water infrastructure, parks, facilities and other vital Council services, helping to build a stronger region for future generations.
"Council is proud to provide opportunities that allow local people to learn and grow their careers close to home while addressing future workforce needs across the Western Downs."
Council supports inclusivity providing opportunities for applicants with disabilities, ensuring all community members have the chance to upskill having supported 13 Kickstart trainees and apprentices in gaining employment.
For Natasha Munchow, who started her career as a Treatment Operator's Assistant Trainee, now a Treatment Plant Operator, the traineeship provided a gateway into the water industry and the opportunity to build practical skills on the job.
The skills Natasha gained through the program have helped her progress into her current role as a qualified treatment plant operator, demonstrating the long-term career opportunities available through Council's trainee and apprentice pathways.
"The program is an opportunity to get your foot in the door to a meaningful and fulfilling career," Ms Munchow said.
Six months into his Civil Construction Traineeship, Fletcher Smith said the program has already provided valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to work with machinery.
"I wanted a career where I could work with machinery and learn practical skills every day," Mr Smith said.
"The team has been incredibly supportive and welcoming, and I would highly recommend the Kickstart Your Career program to anyone considering a traineeship or apprenticeship."
Applications for the 2027 'Kickstart Your Career' traineeships and apprenticeships are now open and will close on 14 August. The successful applicants are set to begin their careers with Council in February 2027.
