A specialist training program which helps young indigenous Australians find employment in the construction industry has been launched in South Australia.
The program, ‘I Got Built’, is an adaptation of a similar initiative which was established in Queensland 12 months ago. The ‘I Got Brushed’ program in Brisbane recently won funding support to continue for at least another year.
The South Australian version of the pre-apprenticeship initiative will provide real, on-the-job training alongside professionals in the construction industry.
Of the 13 participants to finish the first course in Queensland, nine have been placed into employment.
MEGT CEO Bridie Gildea says the introduction of a pre-apprenticeship program like ‘I Got Built’ in SA is recognition of the importance of pre-apprenticeship programs, especially as Australia rebuilds as part of the COVID-19 recovery process.
“MEGT has a strong belief in creating employment solutions for all Australians, that everyone has the right to equally access job opportunities”, she said.
“It’s very satisfying to see that a program designed specifically to help young indigenous Australians is being embraced and expanded, and the outcomes will benefit not only them, but the entire construction industry”.
It’s expected that a total of 17 indigenous participants will participate in the South Australian program, undertaking a nationally recognised Certificate II in Construction (CPC20113), with full support from a range of partners.
At least 70% of the participants will be signed to a full-time apprenticeship once they’ve completed the course.
MEGT’s ‘I Got Built’ initiative is supported by Carey Training, which will provide accredited training, while participants will be given specific indigenous mentoring and case management by INDI Services Construction and Engineering Pty Ltd.
The SA Housing Authority will assist in finding participants ongoing work, while PFM will also supply personal protective equipment.
