Future of Work partnership opens up short courses for ECEC studies in regional areas

Applications for the Federal Government’s Future of Work Partnership with BHP are now open, offering the opportunity for up to 1,000 people living in regional areas to study a short course from this year, or start an Advanced Apprenticeship later this year, with their student contribution covered through the partnership programs.

Federal Minister for Education and Youth Alan Tudge said the partnership was part of the Government’s focus on giving Australians, particularly in regional Australia, the opportunity to boost their skills and improve their employability in a variety of professions, including early childhood education and care (ECEC).

The partnership with BHP, he said, will also support growth in regional areas by improving access to education, upskilling locals and creating pathways to employment, building on the Government’s Job Ready Graduates package that will create an additional 100,000 university places by 2030, 50,000 new short course places and provides more incentives for regional students.

“We’re creating more options for school leavers, and for workers who want to upskill or reskill – particularly those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr Tudge said, touching on themes raised by the Big Roles in Little Lives campaign, which seeks to encourage those impacted by COVID-19 job losses to consider a career in ECEC. 

BHP President Minerals Australia Edgar Basto said the company was investing $30 million in the Future of Work Program through its Social Investment program, proud to be supporting a business-led recovery through ongoing operations and significant investments in regional Australia.

“The advanced apprenticeships and short courses offered by the Future of Work Program will help develop the workforce of the future,” he said. 

“Australians will be able to re-skill, embrace technology and find new jobs in many sectors, not just mining. We are proud to play our part in helping Australian communities on the road to recovery.”

As well as having their student contribution fee covered by BHP, students who meet the eligibility criteria may also be eligible for other financial support.

The higher education opportunities will be offered to people in areas of regional New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia.