Regions spark interest in pathways to employment

The Legislative Assembly Economy and Infrastructure Committee travelled to Warrnambool and Geelong for its inquiry into student pathways to in-demand industries.

Local educators and trainers, employers, youth advocates, business groups and First Nations representatives were among the many witnesses who shared their insights.

In Warrnambool, committee members were impressed by the facilities at South West TAFE, which include a mobile agriculture schools lab.

“ ‘It was great to have a tour of South West TAFE and also see the redevelopment of their new tech school.' ”

Committee Chair Alison Marchant

There are life-size cows and sheep, a virtual tractor and a robot capable of ‘shaking hands’ and inspiring young Victorians to take up STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).

‘I think it shows what we’re capable of, it shows what the future need can be, and I guess the importance of continuing support for organisations like TAFE that provide such a valuable service and valuable programs for industry and people,’ South West TAFE’s John Flett said.

The committee also heard from the largest privately-owned business in the area. The Midfield Group employs 1800 people.

‘The main message I wanted to get across to the committee is that there are restrictions out there for businesses employing young people,’ Midfield Group’s Mick Williams said.

‘We do add a lot of value, and we don’t want our young people moving to the cities to get employment when there’s lots of employment here.’

In Geelong, the committee learned of a remarkable program which transforms unused land at schools into market gardens.

‘We basically come in, we work with the school community to engage students, teachers and the broader community as well… to basically grow nutrient dense food in a regenerative matter which goes into the community to feed and nourish the community,’ Farm My School co-founder James McLennan said.

The benefits of the initiative extend beyond the agricultural and horticultural sectors.

‘We can actually make this applicable to year 12 chemistry, making liquid bio-fertilisers, year nine geography looking at global food systems, literacy, numeracy, not to mention the wellbeing outcomes for students as well,’ Mr McLennan said.

Full transcripts of the public hearings are gradually published on the committee’s website.