TAFE NSW is providing training in civil construction to locals from within Aboriginal communities as part of the Roads to Home program, which launched in Foster’s Cabarita Reserve this week.

Roads to Home is a program in collaboration with Local Aboriginal Lands Council which will deliver essential infrastructure upgrades to 10 Aboriginal communities across NSW. Recognising the importance of local training and employment opportunities, TAFE NSW students will work on the upgrades as a part of their training.

The 12 participants will do the work on the upgrades in Foster under the tutelage of TAFE NSW Civil Construction Head Teacher, John Richardson and alongside experienced workers in order to master the practical component of their training course.

“Equipping locals with skills in civil construction will enable the residents to continue to be involved in the planning, creation, and designing of infrastructure within their community by working on future projects or starting their own business.”

“The program will improve the connectivity of these communities as well as education and employment opportunities,” said Mr Richardson.

Trainees will complete a 10 week TAFE NSW Civil Construction course which involved 2 days per week of theory and practical modules and students will be earning while they are learning, being paid casual employment rates for their work.

Upon completion, two trainees will secure employment at EIRE, the Civil Construction company working on the project and two positions are looking to be filled by Mid Coast council.

Trainees are being equipped with practical skills including operating hand and power tools, excavator operations and roller operations. They will also cultivate skills which are transferable to any industry including communication, collaboration, team work and problem solving.

Upon completion, students will have the option to pursue further study or pursue entry level employment in the consistently growing civil construction industry.

For more information about TAFE NSW courses, please visit www.tafensw.com.au or call 131 601.

Media contact: Sarah Lievore, TAFE NSW Media and Communications Business Partner,  sarah.lievore1@tafensw.edu.au