Employee demand for Maryborough’s industries has exceeded supply for some time, with recruitment and retention difficulties impacting local businesses, including in health care, aged care and early childhood sectors.
In contrast, limited post-secondary education opportunities in the region have been a major barrier to a skilled workforce, with young people often leaving the area to pursue vocational and tertiary education.
In 2024, Central Goldfields Shire Council was granted $75,000 to explore and develop a localised, online vocational education and training pilot program and connect young people to local career opportunities. This includes to secure commitments from providers to live-stream TAFE classes, model on-site study support with extended access hours, and gain business support for students through placements, work experience and employment pathways.
The hub will unite businesses, training providers and service organisations to create a community-owned skills hub, and ensure skills-based learning remains accessible to Central Goldfields and Loddon Shire residents.
Find out more about our Local Skills Partnerships Program.
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