Federal election: David Bradbury
Federal election: David Bradbury
05 August 2013
published by www.penrithstar.com.au
Australia — More than 15 Aboriginal job seekers in Western Sydney are currently undertaking training towards jobs in bushfire management, thanks to a new $55,000 project funded by the Federal Government.
Federal Member for Lindsay, David Bradbury, today met with some of the jobseekers who are currently undertaking training by Muru Mittigar in the Mulgoa Nature Reserve.
This project is providing training for 15 local Aboriginal job seekers, with guaranteed jobs at the end of training which have already been negotiated with local employers, Mr Bradbury said.
This is a field struggling to get qualified workers, so this project has the dual benefit of giving local Indigenous people job opportunities, whilst also helping with the skills shortage in bushfire management.
Mr Bradbury said that the training is helping Indigenous job seekers remain in their community while doing work which benefits our local environment.
The Aboriginal Employment in Bushfire Management project is a great example of how our community can work together to create innovative employment and training solutions that help organisations, job seekers and the broader community, Mr Bradbury said.
The training, provided by Muru Mittigar will give participants qualifications in bushfire fighting at the end of the course and an opportunity to work with local councils, the Mining Sector, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Rural Fire Services and other land owners to effectively manage Australias bushfire risks.Aboriginal Ranger Coordinator and Darug Traditional Owner, Leanne Watson, said it is important the Darug community are actively engaged in management practices.This helps our people learn about natural and cultural heritage, but as importantly develop sought-after skills to secure employment and economic independence, Ms Watson said.Its probably one of the best ways for our younger generation to learn about history and use this knowledge for the benefit of people and the environment.
Local Employment Coordinator Narelle Wheatland helped to develop the project and has been talking with stakeholders throughout the region to tailor the training to the needs of the local area.
The funding for this project is part of the Federal Governments $45.2 million Priority Employment Area initiative, delivering targeted employment programs to help disadvantaged job seekers and employers in 20 regions across Australia.
