MBA calls for training changes

THE Master Builders Association has identified industry driven training schemes and employer bond systems as new strategies to address anticipated skills shortages over the next two years at its annual Skills Summit.

Other strategies supported by builders at the summit held last week included the Western Australian Government promoting WA jobs more aggressively in the eastern states and New Zealand; establishing overseas training centres; establishing an industry training regime to focus on specific skills required; promoting building and construction careers and jobs in schools; and enabling overseas workers to be engaged for specific projects.

Master Builders director Michael McLean said the next challenge would be to prioritise those strategies to make the most impact on boosting labour numbers and skill levels in building and construction.

Mr Mclean said a steering committee would be formed to progress the recommendations.

“A meeting with training and workforce development minister Peter Collier has also been requested to discuss the summit outcomes,” he said.

“To assess the level of apprenticeship training currently taking place among builders and specialist contractors, including reasons for not training, an industry survey will be carried out.”