The Palaszczuk Government announced that Cairns is set to reap the benefits of 17 statewide projects receiving grants of up to $250,000 each to provide critical skills development for existing workers and jobseekers in Queensland.
In a media statement, the government said it has allocated over $3.4 million for these projects under its Micro-credentialing Program.
This initiative aims to equip up to 7,525 Queenslanders with critical and priority skills, enhancing their employability and opportunities.
In particular, the Micro-credentialing Program supports industry development by offering specialised training that addresses skill gaps and emerging needs not covered by accredited training.
In 2023, the funding will enable organisations to deliver industry-supported short courses across the state in various sectors, including meat processing, construction, agriculture, and aged care.
Member for Cairns Michael Healy highlighted the importance of the Micro-credentialing Program, stating, “The Micro-credentialing Program is delivering important, focused training that gives existing workers or jobseekers important skills development.”
He stated that Cairns will benefit from funding awarded to CheckUP Australia, which will implement its “Going all OUT for Outreach” project, upskilling up to 250 outreach health professionals across the state.
This initiative will enhance the skills of a wide range of health professionals and assistants, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care Workers/Practitioners, allied health assistants, administration staff, medical practice assistants, doctors, nurses, and allied health practitioners.
Healy added the training will be provided through face-to-face regional workshops in Cairns and online, contributing positively to the community.
Meanwhile, Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer emphasised the effectiveness of the Micro-credentialing Program in addressing priority skills gaps outside traditional education and training models. She stated,
“Our workplaces are changing, influenced by trade, technology, and social forces, and we need to be on the front foot providing the right training so Queenslanders can access jobs and do them well,” the minister said.
He added that through collaboration with industry partners, innovative programs are being developed to offer flexible pathways that complement the significant investment in formal training by the Queensland Government.
Some of the successful projects under this program include CheckUP Australia’s “Going all OUT for Outreach,” the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health’s Indigenous health training, the Australasian College of Health Service Management’s micro-credentials in financial management, and TAFE Queensland’s initiatives in spatial measurement and innovative technologies.
Additionally, the Australian Information Industry Association Limited will provide a micro-credential in AI Adoption in business for online participants.
