April 24, 2023

The Andrews Labor Government has opened a Registration of Interest process inviting Employment Suppliers and Group Training Organisations (GTOs) to assist contractors in finding people to help build the Victoria 2026 Commonwealth Games villages and venues.

Victoria 2026 will be hosted across four regional hubs including Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong and Gippsland, creating opportunities for concreters, bricklayers, electricians, carpenters, steel workers, plasterers, roof plumbers, plumbers, painters and landscapers.

Employment Suppliers and GTOs will need to be based in regional areas and have great networks within their local communities, with the ability to reach into a broad range of organisations.

Builders will need to employ workers from a diverse range of backgrounds to meet Labor Government policy requirements which support a more gender inclusive construction industry, while providing opportunities for Victorians with disabilities, disadvantaged Victorians, and Victorian Aboriginal people.

GTOs will coordinate with training institutions to train and prepare future workers for the requirements of the Victoria 2026 projects and will be responsible for contracting the trainees and apprentices to the builders for these projects.

The GTO must be willing to commit to the employment of trainees and apprentices for the entire duration of their qualification, and it is anticipated that many trainees will find permanent employment during their traineeship.

Once the list of Employment Suppliers has been established, people within the regions will then be able to register with Apprenticeships Victoria and the listed Employment Suppliers if they wish to be considered for roles on Victoria 2026 projects.

Builders who have been contracted to deliver the Victoria 2026 venues and villages will have the option to use this list to connect with future workers to help deliver on social policy outcomes, but will also be able to draw upon their existing talent pools and networks at their own discretion.

It is estimated the Commonwealth Games will contribute more than $3 billion to Victoria’s economy, creating more than 7,500 jobs before, during and after the Games.

Quote attributable to Minister for Commonwealth Games Delivery Jacinta Allan
“We’re making it easier to train and hire regional workers – creating long lasting economic benefits for regional communities and making sure locals are part of building Games infrastructure.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Games Legacy Harriet Shing
“As we showcase the best of rural and regional Victoria, we will also be creating inclusive employment opportunities, driving economic growth and delivering record housing and community infrastructure.”

Quote attributable to Chief Executive Officer Australian Employment Network, Gary Workman
“It’s great to see Government working with our members to maximise opportunities for local people to join the construction industry and build skills and capacity in our regions.”

MEDIA CONTACT: Mike Dolan 0474 909 471 | mike.dolan@minstaff.vic.gov.au