Western Australia Report - December 2009

Coming events: some dates to save for 2010
With 2010 just around the corner, we would like you to make a note of the following event dates for the early stages of 2010:
    16 February – South West Meeting (The Goose Busselton)
    19 February – Little Wheel Regatta (South of Perth Yacht Club)
    4 March – South West Golf Day (Sanctuary Resort Bunbury)
We are planning an industry luncheon with a senior member of parliament and hope to have confirmation of the date (we are requesting March or early April) to you early in the New Year.
Training incentives
One of the most significant benefits CCF WA provides its members is training services. As a registered training organisation (RTO), CCF WA is dedicated to ensuring that all members have a skilled and sustainable workforce into the future through our Civil Train venture.
Already talk is focussing on the next mining boom in Western Australia and the effects that will have on availability of skilled labour. Early indications are that demand for skilled labour has already greatly increased. CCF WA wants to assist members by ensuring you have the opportunity to attract and retain the right employees by developing and formalising their qualifications.
CCF WA welcomes the ‘Developing a Workforce for the Future’ initiative announced in November by WA Minister for Training Peter Collier. The Building and Construction Industry Training Board has responded to the 40% drop off in apprenticeships and traineeships during 2009 and increased the subsidies available to employers.
The maximum subsidy has been raised to $9000. The Minister said that the board believes many employers in the construction sector, are still concerned about the economy, and the bonuses are aimed at easing uncertainty.
Regional areas have also received increased incentives with the southern areas receiving 10% extra and northern areas 20%, bringing subsidies to $9900 and $10,800 respectively. The mature age eligibility has changed from 30 to 21 years of age, which attracts an additional bonus of $3000.
With workforce development in the construction sector being given the appropriate priority, CCF WA members have an opportunity (and available funds) to ensure they have skilled employees for future projects.
Collier also announced the creation of the new Department of Training and Workforce Development, which as the name suggests, “…will place a greater emphasis on workforce development.” The Minister also said that “in addition to its vital training role, the new department has broader responsibility; to build, attract and retain a skilled workforce to meet the economic needs of this state.”
He also announced the development of the WA’s Workforce Development Plan: ‘A Skilled Workforce for the Future’; which will be coordinated by the new department.
CCF WA believes the new initiatives, which take effect from 1st January 2010, present an opportunity for all WA members to put together their own workforce development plans to address future skills shortages.
For those interested in registering certificate III and certificate IV-level traineeships, or the range of short course options, please contact Civil Train directly on 9240 5233. We will then assist you with determining eligibility criteria and what subsidies will be available.
Christmas greetings
Most would agree 2009 has been a tough year. We hope as you read this, that you realise some of the good things that have come out of a difficult year, and they helped to develop and strengthen your business for the future.
CCF WA looks forward to providing continued service to you in 2010 and beyond. We wish you and your families a safe and happy Christmas and a well-deserved break.