A traditional landowner group in the Bowen Basin has entered an agreement with Queensland-based registered training organisation Civil Safety in a bid to bring new opportunities for the Barada Barna people.
The Barada Barna Aboriginal Corporation will use the ‘Online Anytime’ software platform and Civil Safety for a combination of online, classroom and on-the-job training to equip participants with the knowledge and skills required for employment within the local mining sector.
BBAC chairperson Luarna Dynevor said BBAC had placed many people into jobs with Central Queensland companies including Winnaa Pty Ltd, which conducted cultural heritage surveys and clearance amongst other works.
“Training and employment pathways are critical in increasing Barada Barna people’s likelihood of greater economic and social participation,” Ms Dynevor said.
“It creates a cycle of employment and stability in tune with today’s modern workforce. Being so remote, it can be hard to find job opportunities in the Moranbah and surrounding areas, but this training will create direct pathways to employment, ensuring there are always opportunities for the next generation to start a career particularly in mining.”
Civil Safety has offered training through its Moranbah centre for 15 years.
Online Anytime managing director Matthew (Matty) Bowen said Civil Safety recognised skills and training, for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples were more successful when solutions were designed and developed locally and supported by the community.
“With 43 mining sites across the Barada Bana land, our training allows for skills development, meeting both community and industry employment needs,” Mr Bowen said.
“Many Barada Barna peoples have already undertaken our Safe Operating Practices (SOP) courses, along with Standard 11s and site inductions that allow them to work with their mining partners.
“Working with BBAC, we create culturally appropriate training to aid with both completion of training and retention, and subsequent job placement.
“We’ve got job seekers on one side and employers on the other, and we ensure our training creates seamless pathways with positive outcomes for both parties.”