The State Government has welcomed the move by the Construction Training Fund (CTF) to launch a new $3.5 million program designed to help disaster-hit communities rebuild.
The Disaster Recovery Construction Training Grant will provide extra support to employers, apprentices and trainees who help to rebuild communities affected by the Wooroloo bushfire and Cyclone Seroja.
Currently, eligible businesses that have an apprentice or trainee can receive CTF grants of up to $21,000 to help with the costs of training.
The Disaster Recovery Grant will provide extra support for employers who are part of the recovery process.
Employers of apprentices and trainees working in the affected regions can claim an additional grant of up to $6,000 over the two-year period.
Their apprentices or trainees can also claim up to $2,000 over the two-year period to cover costs such as travel and accommodation.
Under the program, subsidies are also available to eligible applicants for short courses relating to construction skills, occupational licensing and occupational health and safety.
CTF is also investing additional funding into the Try-a-Trade program run by Central Regional TAFE in Geraldton and to MATES in Construction to support those in the construction industry dealing with the impacts of the disasters.
For more information and to apply, go to https://ctf.wa.gov.au/disaster-recovery-grant
As stated by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
"The State Government is committed to getting more tradies on the ground in disaster hit areas and this $3.5 million investment by CTF will encourage apprentices and trainees into the areas they're needed most.
"This is an important initiative that will ensure these communities can build back better and stronger than before."
As stated by Emergency Services Minister Reece Whitby:
"The Wooroloo bushfire and Cyclone Seroja destroyed many homes - a heartbreaking loss for residents and their communities.
"The resilience of these communities has shone through and rebuilding is another important step in their healing.
"I would encourage employees, apprentices and trainees to take up the extra financial support on offer. By working in these areas you're doing so much more than building houses - you're rebuilding communities."
