27 July 2021 

Jobseekers in Parkes have found a ticket to employment in civil construction and warehousing, thanks to a collaboration between TAFE NSW and Joblink Plus. 

Over the past three months, TAFE NSW has worked with the employment agency to help 25 students gain Statements of Attainment in Roller and Front End Loader or Licence to Operate a Forklift and Forklift Truck. By early July, 65 per cent of students had gained employment, with more jobs expected in coming weeks. 

TAFE NSW Business Development Manager Tanya Benett said the partnership shows how TAFE NSW is helping meet demand for emerging skills.  

“Local employers told us it was difficult to find forklift operators, so our training partnership with Joblink Plus is helping to fill that need,” Ms Benett said. 

“Many of the civil construction students are also likely to find jobs on the upcoming Parkes bypass highway project.” 

Joblink Plus Job Placement Consultant David McNally said the TAFE NSW training meant jobseekers would be able to find long-term employment. 

“There is strong demand for forklift skills, so recruiters and employers are quick to offer jobs once an individual gains that qualification,” Mr McNally said.  

“So far, these mostly young people have found work with a variety of employers in the Parkes region. 

“Some of the students are working in warehousing, some will be employed by a new pet food factory and others are working with civil construction companies.” 

After gaining his Statement of Attainment in Roller and Front End Loader, 19-year-old Seth Pearce quickly found work at Australia’s largest flour refiner, the Manildra Mill. 

“I’d been unemployed for a couple of months and being able to do this course meant I could get back into work quickly with a major regional employer,” the Parkes local said. 

To find out more about the range of study options available at TAFE NSW, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601. 

Media contact: Jenny Tinworth, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, mobile 0411 443 555.