The Federal Member for Gorton and Minister for Employment Participation, Brendan O‘Connor MP, today announced Australian Government funding of $2 million toward establishing a new multi-trade Industry Skill Centre in Derrimut.

The new centre will cater for an additional 720 apprenticeships in the automotive, engineering, electrical, plumbing and building construction trades. The centre includes four separate but connected training centres, incorporating administration IT and classroom space.

"This centre is an excellent example of the government, local industry and community working together to meet the skills needs of businesses." said Brendan O’Connor.

The facility will provide a venue for quality training and will help address the demand for skilled workers in Melbourne’s western suburbs. It also provides opportunities for local youth in an area with a higher than average level of unemployment.

"The Government is committed to improving the skills of Australians to cope with the challenges of today and the changing workforce in the future."

"Investing in the infrastructure for training is a vital part of this commitment."

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