Batchelor Institute, in collaboration with RN Employment Services, has kicked off a 10-week training block providing 24 Tennant Creek locals with access to a Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations.
The initiative is designed to address the skills shortage in Australia's remote regions by training locals for local job opportunities, especially with a surge in new mines coming online in the area. There has been a strong and consistent call from local people and organisations for more local employment to support these developments.
Batchelor Institute senior lecturer Barry Whalan said bringing the training to Tennant Creek is part of addressing the skills shortage in remote areas of Australia.
"Our goal is to empower local residents with qualifications and practical experience necessary for immediate employment in civil construction," he said.
The Institute described the course as "custom-tailored" to meet the needs of the local workforce, with a delivery model developed in partnership with RN Employment Services.
One local participant, James, expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity.
"I'm a machine operator already but when I saw this opportunity to do the Cert III I jumped at because in my 32 years in Tennant Creek, we've never had this opportunity before. It's come at the perfect time as well with all the mines opening up," he said.
RN Employment Services general manager Fiona McCabe said the focus is on creating job pathways for locals.
"With many mines opening up, there's an urgent need for skilled workers, and this program not only trains individuals on-site but also ensures they can step directly into roles that are in high demand locally, supporting both personal and regional economic growth," she said.
The curriculum includes training on a range of heavy machinery, with a special emphasis on equipment that is commonly used in local projects, thereby maximising employability.
NT Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Steve Edgington said bringing the training to Tennant Creek was a great step forward for the town and region, especially with more mines opening up in the area.
"Opportunities to help local trainees, including thirteen Aboriginal students, equip themselves with qualifications and practical experience to gain entry into the workforce is so important," he said.
"It not only empowers residents but unlocks economic participation which is essential to Closing the Gap."
As part of the program, Batchelor and RN have incorporated an industry visit days where key local employers will come and speak with participants. On Friday representatives from Tennant Mining and Remote Concrete NT will be present to speak directly to the participants, offering insights into their operations and discussing potential employment opportunities.
The program will utilise Batchelor's own machinery, including a newly purchased Wheel Loader, aimed at providing comprehensive, hands-on training.