WA Labor Invests in the Future of Transport with Free TAFE Driver Training Program Site in Hazelmere
The Transport Workers’ Union commends WA Labor for Continuing to expand career opportunities for the next Generation of Truck drivers, with their latest announcement of a bespoke Heavy Vehicle Driver Tafe program operating out of Hazelmere.
The Free TAFE course will save students more than $350 in enrolment fees and will train up to 170 students a year in heavy vehicle driving operations as a one-stop shop for multiple license qualifications, including a Heavy Rigid license and a forklift license.
With more than 78,000 workers needed across freight, logistics, and transport by 2029, Today’s announcement solidifies the State Government’s commitment to ensuring transport workers are adequately trained to work safely on our roads.
Students will graduate with industry-required competencies and can apply for careers in truck driving, forklift and warehouse operations, delivery, or bus driving, along with a range of other transport and logistics roles.
The training will be delivered in partnership with North Metropolitan TAFE and Keen Bros, with the Hazelmere site endorsed by the Western Australia Transport Industry Association.
QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO TWU STATE SECRETARY TIM DAWSON:
“Since 2021 when the Cook Labor Government released its Heavy Vehicle driver training program it has trained more than 1,100 students to enter the industry, and today they have delivered again.”
“I would like to congratulate Minister Sanderson for her ongoing support for driver training and her support for transport worker’s in general.”
“The Transport industry keeps Australia’s economy moving, and without adequate training facilities, such as the new Hazelmere site, transport jobs would be left behind.”
“Drivers continue to face significant challenges, including fatigue, unsafe load restraint practices, dangerous goods handling, licensing requirements, and compliance obligations, but the apprenticeship model aims to tackle these issues head-on by strengthening education in all these areas.”
As work continues to identify a site near Neerabup for a new truck driver training facility, more students will gain access to training opportunities, helping to build the next generation of skilled transport workers.
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Media Contact: Bianca Gimondo 0493 648 371