SkillsDMC said the “clock is ticking” on the National Workforce Development Fund, a federal skills initiative which has allocated $20.5 million to the coal mining, metalliferous mining, quarrying, drilling and civil infrastructure sectors.

A representative of the organisation told ILN about half of the money allocated to these industries was still available through the program but the current round of applications would close by the end of April.

SkillsDMC chief executive Steve McDonald remarked on the valuable opportunity for up-skilling and re-skilling current and future workers, but stressed the limitations of deadlines and availability.

“Through our industry engagement we have a detailed understanding of the breadth and depth of skills challenges in the resources and infrastructure industry,” he said.

“The NWDF provides a tangible and meaningful opportunity for enterprises to overcome some of these challenges, though it’s an opportunity that won’t last long.”

At a press conference regarding the NWDF, Senator Chris Evans said the program would be an investment in both current and future skills, especially for mine-related infrastructure industries.

“One of the things about this program that is unique is that we are allowing for the training of existing workers as well; allowing those with experience to up-skill to take up the higher skill level jobs,” he said.

“[T]here’s a lot of focus on the mining boom and the demands that’s placing on Australia for workers and for skills.

“One of the key areas that the mining industry [is] driving demand for is in construction – civil construction – people who are constructing the mines, constructing the ports, constructing the rail, constructing the roads that support the mining industry.”