The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government is set to bolster its shift to renewable energy with an investment in skills training through the ACT’s TAFE system.
As part of the National Skills Agreement reached last year, the ACT Government plans to propose the establishment of a new centre of excellence at CIT Fyshwick .
Under the proposal, the existing Electric Vehicle Training Centre at CIT would be expanded to become a centre of excellence, focused on training more electric vehicle (EV) automotive technicians.
New funding has been announced to explore the feasibility of the Future Energy Skills Hub, with a particular emphasis on electrical trades.
The ACT Government’s analysis suggested a need for at least 1280 additional electricians and 270 more electrical engineers in the ACT by 2045 to meet growing demand.
The hub would also address local and national skills shortages in the electrical trades and explore pathways for those working in the gas industry.
The total funding allocated for scoping and designing the Future Energy Skills Hub is $500,000 over two years.
ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr highlighted the region’s leadership in climate action.
“Since 2020 the ACT has been powered by 100 per cent renewable electricity, and the ACT Government is committed to phasing out fossil fuel gas by 2045 at the latest,” Barr said.
“Emerging opportunities over the coming decades will create more jobs in renewables and increase demand for skilled workers. A Future Energy Skills Hub will ensure our workforce is prepared for the transition to the new economy.”
Minister for Skills Chris Steel stressed the need for a robust Vocational Education and Training (VET) system to ensure Canberrans have the right skills for emerging job opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
“CIT Fyshwick is the ACT’s trades training centre and reshaping the campus into a Future Energy Skills Hub will make it a centre of excellence for skills required in the new economy,” Steel said.
“By supporting a strong VET system and delivering advanced training in emerging industries we can make sure Canberrans have the right skills for the jobs of the future.”
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