- New $180,000 Technical Traineeship Pilot to strengthen the State's performing arts workforce
- Supporting career pathways for theatre and live production technicians across Western Australia
- Cook Labor Government fostering a vibrant and creative economy
The Cook Labor Government is supporting the future of Western Australia's performing arts workforce in partnership with CircuitWest through an expanded TechWest Conference and the launch of a new Technical Traineeship Pilot Program.
Running from 15-17 September at the State Theatre Centre of WA, the 2026 TechWest Conference brings together theatre technicians, production professionals, venue staff, and industry leaders from across Western Australia.
Produced annually by CircuitWest, TechWest is Western Australia's only professional development conference dedicated to the technical and production aspects of the performing arts.
This year's event has expanded from two days to three, reflecting growing demand for professional development and networking opportunities within the sector.
As part of the conference, the Cook Labor Government announced a new $180,000 Technical Traineeship Pilot Program to be co-ordinated by CircuitWest and delivered by Arts Centre Melbourne RTO in 2027.
The pilot program will provide structured, industry-based training opportunities for up to 12 trainees employed by venues and production companies across Western Australia, as well as mentoring and leadership development for up to 10 supervisors.
Participants will undertake nationally recognised Certificate III and Certificate IV qualifications in Live Production and Technical Services, helping to create stronger pathways into technical and production careers.
As stated by Creative Industries Minister Simone McGurk:
"Behind every successful performance is a highly skilled team of technicians, production staff, and backstage professionals whose expertise bring creative experiences to life.
"The new Technical Traineeship Pilot Program will help build a stronger network of skilled workers by creating clear training and career pathways into theatre and live production roles.
"This investment supports the long-term sustainability of Western Australia's performing arts sector."
