Today’s news that the Cook Government has lodged a proposal to establish a Clean Energy National Centre of Excellence in WA shows that positive steps are being taken to position Western Australia as a global clean energy powerhouse. Their efforts support the development of WA’s renewable energy sector, which has faced skills shortages and skill mismatches in recent years. These challenges have been a critical bottleneck for the industry, limiting its full potential and impeding quicker development.
The most effective approach to strengthening the renewable energy industry and achieving emission reduction targets is by cultivating a highly skilled workforce capable of supplying the necessary skills to green emerging industries.
The Clean Energy National Centre of Excellence aims to support WA’s transition to clean energy and enhance skill development. To achieve this, the proposed centre will collaborate with industry, unions, universities, and key training stakeholders.
Better Climate acknowledges this significant step towards agreeing on a curriculum that meets the skills demand of the industry, and praises the approach to ensuring the Centre collaborates with industry, unions, universities, and key training stakeholders.
Better Climate is also pleased to hear that the Centre will support the participation of Aboriginal students and women in the clean energy sector. We strongly advocate for accessible programs that empower both existing workforce members and newcomers to enhance their skills and adapt to changing industry demands.
Whilst training new apprentices is vital in driving the energy transition, it is critical the Government does not neglect those already employed in the energy sector. Reskilling and upskilling workers from carbon intensive industries will enable a smooth transition to more sustainable industries, ensuring that no one is left behind.
We urge the Commonwealth Government and the Cook Government to collaborate effectively to achieve this goal.
ENDS
