A push by The Nationals WA to remove the resource industry’s long-standing exemption from a training fund has been adopted by the McGowan Government.
Member for the Agricultural Region Hon Martin Aldridge MLC welcomed the announcement, which will finally see the resource sector contribute to the Building and Construction Industry Training Fund (BCITF) to support training and skills development in Western Australia.
“The Nationals WA have been working alongside industry stakeholders to end this exemption,” Mr Aldridge said.
“The State Budget announcement and subsequent amendment to regulations will assist with further skills development, job creation and ultimately assist with housing affordability.
“It will also assist having a skilled and responsive workforce to respond to building and construction demand, including that in the resources sector.”
Mr Aldridge introduced a motion in State Parliament earlier this year to expand the BCITF, with Upper House MPs voting 29 to 4 in favour of the move.
“The BCITF supports a wide range of initiatives aimed at ensuring we have a skilled and capable building and construction workforce including skills development programs, support for the employment of trainees and apprentices, entry level training, research and accreditation,” Mr Aldridge said.
“The Nationals WA want to use the levy to ensure future investment into training incentives and support for employers of apprentices and trainees in the building and construction industry.”
The levy currently applies to all residential, commercial and civil engineering projects undertaken in Western Australia, where the total value of construction is estimated to be more than $20,000.
