Labor is helping Victorians prepare for the jobs of the future, investing in critical skill gaps in priority sectors.
Minister Brooks visited RMIT University to announce the recipients of Round 2 of the Skills Solutions Partnerships program, with five innovative projects awarded a total of $1.7 million in funding.
Since 2023, the program has brought industry and training providers together to develop and deliver targeted training that builds skills, fosters innovation and creates more jobs for Victorians.
One project, led by RMIT University in partnership with Memko, Navantia, Leap Australia and Engineers Education Australia, will strengthen Victoria's capabilities to contribute to AUKUS.
It will develop four new micro-credentials in high-demand fields including Model-Based Systems Engineering, Digital Mission Engineering, Artificial Intelligence and Autonomy, and Cybersecurity.
Another project, delivered by Microsoft and Victoria University, will help build a pipeline of critical environment technicians, strengthening Victoria's emerging status as Australia's data centre capital.
South West Institute of TAFE will lead on a partnership with Melbourne Polytechnic and several manufacturing businesses, upskilling entry-level manufacturing workers to operate in technologically advanced industrial environments.
The program is delivering on the Victorian Industry Policy, which charts a clear path for industry to innovate, adopt new technologies and build the skills needed for a competitive, future-focused economy.
Labor has provided $4.8 million to extend Skills Solutions Partnerships. The program targets priority sectors identified in the Economic Growth Statement including advanced manufacturing, defence and digital technologies.
Expressions of Interest for Round 3 of the Skills Solutions Partnerships program are now open. To learn more and apply, visit: business.vic.gov.au/ssp.
As stated by Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing Colin Brooks
"We're creating a pipeline of workers where they'll be needed and making sure Victorians are well placed to embark on rewarding careers."
As stated by Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney
"Our TAFEs prepare Victorians with the skills they need for the changing economy."
As stated by Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs Danny Pearson
"Through the AI Mission Statement, we are paving the way for our state to become the nation's capital of AI - and we're making sure Victorians have the skills they need for jobs of the future."
As stated by RMIT Vice-Chancellor Professor Alec Cameron
"RMIT is pleased to see investment in the next round of Skills Solutions Partnerships and we look forward to its expansion as we see true value in dynamic education models like this. It's a system solution critical to developing a modern economy and supporting the upskilling of our current and future workforces. The more partnerships of this kind the better."
