The Victorian Government is encouraging TAFEs and training organisations to apply for a new grant program to help them collaborate with industry on projects that will propel the state’s clean economy.

The Government’s $6 million Clean Economy Workforce Capacity Building Fund will help drive Victoria’s clean energy future and net zero emissions by 2050 through projects that promote training for an expanded clean economy workforce.

Applicants can receive up to $1 million for projects to address skills needs as major sectors transition, help upskill or reskill workers, and address issues within food production, transport and industry.

Importantly, the Fund will continue to foster valuable more opportunities for collaboration between the Victorian TAFE and training sector and industry on new training, jobs and products.

The Fund is part of the Government’s $10 million Clean Economy Workforce Skills Initiative, which includes the new 16-member Jobs and Skills Taskforce. It will develop a 10-year workforce strategy exploring renewable energy, circular economy practices and climate change adaptation.

Since 2014, the Government has made a record $3.2 billion investment to rebuild TAFE and support universities and higher education to ensure Victorians have access to high quality education and rewarding careers.

Expressions of interest can be submitted at education.vic.gov.au and close at midnight on Friday, 19 November 2021.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney

“The new Clean Economy Workforce Capacity Building Fund is great chance for training organisations and industry to team-up, building on their skills and knowledge, as we work towards net zero emissions.”

“There are so many clean, green training, job and product opportunities to be explored in Victoria – which is what this new fund is all about.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“Programs like this will ensure we drive towards a clean, green future and have the capacity to meet our ambitious target to halve emissions by 2030.”

Quotes attributable to Victorian Skills Authority CEO and Clean Economy Taskforce Chair Craig Robertson   

“Victoria is embarking on a new approach to skilling, with a strong focus on supporting emerging industries as part of the clean economy.”

“The Victorian Skills Authority is a skills incubation lab for training organisations and industry, bringing a cohesive approach to the delivery of quality post-secondary education to support jobseekers and the economy.”