Construction is underway on a belt splicing workshop at North Metropolitan TAFE’s Midland campus in Perth, WA.
The training facility aims to meet industry demand in Western Australia’s thriving resources sector, addressing skill gaps and increasing the supply of a locally skilled workforce.
The shed-style workshop was designed with industry input, and will be fitted out with specialist equipment including conveyor belt, splicing tables and reels, ensuring students receive hands-on training.
The specialist training facility will support the delivery of a Certificate III in Polymer Processing (Conveyor Belt Maintenance and Repair) – a new course to North Metropolitan TAFE.
Armstrong Parkin Architects designed the new facility, with construction undertaken by Perth-based LKS Constructions.
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WA Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said the Midland workshop will be used to train apprentices in the operation and maintenance of large industrial conveyor belts – a critical skill in industries such as mining and logistics.
“It is vital that we support training for Western Australia’s resources sector, an industry that delivers significant benefits to our local economy and has the potential to employ even more locally skilled workers.
“The $2 million project is in addition to the McGowan Government’s record $167.4 million commitment to upgrade TAFE colleges as part of the WA Recovery Plan.”
Midland MLA Michelle Roberts said the facility is a brilliant investment in providing skills and opportunities for our local workforce.
“It’ll equip local people to get the skills they need to gain employment in some of the most in demand industries in our State, setting them up for jobs and the future.”
Construction is expected to be completed by October 2021, with training commencing in Semester 1, 2022.