Indigenous employment in Queensland is set to receive a boost following the culmination of a new traineeship program.
Over 30 young Indigenous Australians, including some from remote Gulf and Cape communities, have completed pre-employment courses in cultural heritage, civil construction and the resources sector.
Glen Elmes, minister for aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander and multicultural affairs, said the program, run by the Myuma-Dugalunji Group, is great news for traineeships in Queensland.
The politician attended the students’ graduation ceremony to congratulate them and acknowledge their hard work and dedication.
“The mining, coal seam gas and civil construction industries are demanding skilled workers and this project equips Indigenous people with the skills, confidence and knowledge to be part of these growing fields,” he explained.
Mr Elmes said it is vital for jobs to be available before traineeships begin in order to secure better outcomes for Indigenous people, including improved community sustainability and social cohesion.
He highlighted that his department is currently working on an aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander economic participation framework in order to facilitate these aims.
The Queensland government is also looking to enhance Indigenous employment opportunities by negotiating agreements with tourism, agriculture, construction and resources firms, the minister added.
