The Mining Skills Navigator project developed a practical workforce plan for the mining and resources sectors across North, Central and Western Victoria. Funded by the Victorian Skills Authority, it was led by SuniTAFE in partnership with Federation University and Bendigo Kangan Institute. The project responded to skills shortages, changing technology and barriers to training and employment in regional communities.
TAFEs, government, industry bodies and local employers helped identify priority roles and skills. These included mobile plant operators, heavy diesel mechanics, maintenance workers, electricians, engineers, supervisors and safety and environmental specialists. Digital, automation and data skills are also becoming more important as the industry adopts new technology.
The project mapped career pathways and recommended more flexible training options. These include entry-level programs, vocational education and training for school students, micro credentials, recognition of transferable skills and modular training that meets licensing and ticketing requirements. It also proposed a regional skills observatory to monitor workforce trends and a portable skills passport to record workers’ competencies across industries and state borders.
The research found opportunities to increase participation by First Peoples, women, young people, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and mature-aged workers. It also identified challenges including housing shortages, long travel distances, competition for workers and staff turnover.
Overall, the project provides an evidence-based and place-based model for workforce planning. Continued collaboration between training providers, industry and government will be important to turn its recommendations into practical training and employment outcomes and to adapt the approach for other sectors and regions.
Find out more about our Local Skills Partnerships Program.
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