In Federal Parliament today, Federal Member for Gorton, Brendan O’Connor congratulated Gippsland Group Training – Apprentices Victoria, on receiving $2 million in funding from the Federal Government for construction of a new multi-trade industry centre in Derrimut.

The new centre will provide opportunities for 720 new apprenticeships in the automotive, engineering, electrical, plumbing and building construction trades.

“I cannot overstate the significance of this announcement to my electorate, and to neighbouring electorates in Melbourne’s west.” Mr O’Connor said.

 “Melbourne’s western suburbs suffer higher than national average rates of youth unemployment. 

“At the same time, industry is crying out for skilled labour.  

“At the moment, many of the young people in my electorate who take up apprenticeships must travel up to 2 hours each way, to the other side of town, if they wish to participate in training.

 “The new industry skills centre will provide opportunities for young people in my electorate, and help local industry by providing a skilled local workforce.”

The funding is delivered through the Australian Government National Training Infrastructure Program. The new centre is expected to open in 2010.