Prospective bus drivers could benefit from a $1 million heavy vehicle training transition program
July 13, 2012
Queensland Bus Industry Council and the Queensland Trucking Association have given their support to a Queensland government initiative to inject $1 million into a heavy vehicle driving program.
The program will train 400 participants in nationally accredited and industry-endorsed courses across three areas – bus driving, truck driving and multi-combination licence upgrades.
The program responds to requests from peak industry bodies the Queensland Bus Industry Council (QBIC) and the Queensland Trucking Association and for government to assist in the development of more skilled workers for the transport, logistics and supply chain industry.
QBIC Executive Director David Tape says the transition program was a great example of partnership between government and industry.
“This industry program is delivered by Transport and Main Roads with leadership from the Transport and Logistics Workforce Advisory Group Queensland (TLWAG-Q) made up of representatives from industry, government and Skills Queensland,” Tape says.
“The transition program is a great outcome of the TLWAG-Q partnership which aims to develop sustainable solutions for skills shortages in the industry,” he says.
“It is also strengthened by partnership funding from Skills Queensland.”
Queensland Trucking Association Vice President Roz Shaw says the program will bring critically needed skills to the industry.
“The $1 million transition program addresses critical skills gaps in the transport, logistics and supply chain industry,” Shaw says.
“Transition is a state-wide heavy vehicle driver training and licensing program for 400 new entrants and existing workers,” she says.
“The program will provide the skills and training needed for people to enter the industry – a great opportunity for unemployed and underemployed people.
“Additionally, existing workers can upgrade their current licence and skills.”
More information about how to become involved in the program is available at www.tmr.qld.gov.au/transform