Aust Potash launches training centre

Australian Potash is opening a new training hub in the Shire of Laverton where it’s also proposing a 30-year sulphate of potash (SOP) operation.

The Laverton Training Centre will cater for apprentices in the mining and civil construction sectors, offering a Certificate II in Rural Operations.

The LTC can accommodate a maximum of 48 trainees within the first first three years, with post-training employment opportunities to become available for up to 32 people.

Training and financial support will be provided by Central Regional TAFE in Kalgoorlie and the Department of Training & Workforce Development.

Australian Potash said the centre formed part of its Indigenous engagement and regional development initiative.

The Matthew Shackleton-led company is proposing to develop its $208 million Lake Wells SOP project in the region, where first production is expected in mid-2023.

“[It] is appropriate that we look to foster the economic capacity of remote Aboriginal and other communities in the north-eastern Goldfields region over this long time,” Mr Shackleton said.

“With the financial and training support of Central Regional TAFE in Kalgoorlie and DTWD, and with us exercising our network across industry in the region, it is envisaged that the LTC will, in time, become a prominent example of a successful industry-government endeavor.”

Shares in Australian Potash remain unchanged at close of trade, at 13 cents a share.