Bega MP Andrew Constance says the new Batemans Bay bridge project is exceeding state-wide employment targets, with almost 45 per cent of the workforce being locals and large numbers of under- represented groups also employed on the project.
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"There is a workforce of 133 people currently on the project, and this is expected to grow to 200 as progress on the new bridge is made," Mr Constance said.
"Almost 45 per cent of the workforce is made up of local employees, and through initiatives such as the Training Hub, these employees are gaining valuable knowledge and are being upskilled."
According to Mr Constance, the Batemans Bay Bridge replacement project employment figures are:
- Indigenous employees - 14%. State target is 4%.
- Under 25 - 10%. State target is 8%.
- Women in non-traditional roles - 6%. State target is 2%.
- Long-term unemployed - 5%. State target is 3%.
On Friday, July 12, the Batemans Bay new bridge project team recognised NAIDOC Week with a lunch, artwork and story-telling session with project staff, including Indigenous trainees, local Elders and the local Aboriginal Land Councils.
Mr Constance said the upskilling was allowing skills shortages to be filled and would improve future job prospects.
"This project has exceeded Infrastructure Skills Legacy Program targets set by the Department of Industry for four main groups of employees, Aboriginal, under-25, women in non-traditional pathways and the long-term unemployed," he said.
"We are hitting a number of targets on the project and are four percent above the state target for women in non-traditional pathways, and 14 per cent of the workforce are Aboriginal employees."
Mr Constance said the project had a number of opportunities for employees to be part of a diverse and inclusive workforce, including job-sharing and team events.
"Contractors John Holland have introduced job-sharing, to help workers achieve better work-life balance and to support a more inclusive and diverse workforce," he said.
For more information on the Batemans Bay Bridge replacement project visit rms.nsw.gov.au/BatemansBayBridge.
