The Maryborough Vocational Study Hub project explored how people in the Central Goldfields and surrounding communities could access vocational education and training closer to home. Led by Central Goldfields Shire and funded through the Local Skills Partnerships Program, the project worked with local learners, community organisations, Learn Locals, TAFEs, businesses and industry to design a practical, community-based study hub.
The project developed and tested a service model that could connect learners with online, hybrid and local training. A pilot helped identify what learners need to take part and succeed, including clear information about courses, help with enrolment, access to suitable study facilities and ongoing local support. The work also produced detailed learner profiles, explored partnership and funding options, and identified training opportunities linked to local jobs.
For the community, the proposed hub could make training easier to find and access, reduce the need to travel, and give more people the flexibility to study while managing work, family and other commitments. It could also help learners build confidence and receive support throughout their training.
For employers and the region, the model offers a way to connect training more closely with local workforce needs, including early childhood education and small business innovation. It also provides a model that other regional communities could adopt, using existing facilities, local partnerships and flexible training delivery to improve access to skills.
Find out more about our Local Skills Partnerships Program.
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