Free renewable energy training means jobs for locals

More residents in Central West NSW can now enrol in the free, nationally-accredited Renewables Taster Program, gaining practical skills that have already led to residents finding jobs in the construction industry.

The program expands on two courses delivered last year that are already leading to great results - 9 participants have already secured employment in traffic control, civil or labouring roles.  

After completing the course, Dubbo local Liza Everleigh turned graduation day into a job opportunity, securing a role with western NSW Aboriginal-owned traffic management and haulage company, Workcontrol Operations.

The Women in Construction and the Renewables Taster Programs provided valuable opportunities for mothers seeking flexible work, long-term job seekers to get jobs locally and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to access opportunities.  

All participants reported a boost in confidence and job-seeking drive.

The upcoming two-week courses, running in Mudgee and Dunedoo from May, are backed by the NSW Government’s $2.9 million Renewable Energy Skills Legacy Program, which is building accredited training and career pathways linked to jobs from the state’s energy transformation.

The programs will be delivered in partnership with VERTO and SKIVL. The programs provide essential industry skills including safety practices (White Card training), traffic control, risk management and machinery operations, alongside practical work-readiness workshops covering resumes, cover letters and interview skills.  

Like Ms Everleigh, participants will have the opportunity to connect with employment representatives from renewable energy industry projects and civil works providers in the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).  

Courses are open exclusively to Central-West Orana REZ residents aged over 18 who are not enrolled in school, TAFE, or university. Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities are strongly encouraged to enrol.

To apply or find out more: https://www.energyco.nsw.gov.au/tasterprogram

Quote attributable to EnergyCo Chief Executive Hannah McCaughey:

“This program means that local people can build the skills they need for construction and clean energy jobs right across the Central-West Orana region.  

“Investing in practical, job-based training, means the NSW Government is ensuring regional communities are the first in line for the opportunities created by the state’s energy transformation.”

Quote attributable to Department of Education A/Deputy Secretary, Education and Skills Reform Amanda Lawrence:

“Access to high‑quality training ensures local residents can build the skills and gain the accredited qualifications needed to work in renewable energy jobs.  

“Programs like this provide practical training and strong pathways into employment. helping to ensure the state’s energy transformation leaves a positive legacy for local communities.”

Quote attributable to former participant, Liza Eveleigh:

“I went home feeling like I’m on top of the world. The course brought my confidence way up and I have since started work as a Traffic Controller."