Ms SPENCE (Yuroke) — (12 861) My constituency question is for the Minister for Public Transport and Minister for Major Projects, and I ask: what job opportunities are available on the Mernda rail extension project and the level crossing removal projects in the northern suburbs, and how can residents in the Yuroke electorate access these opportunities? As Yuroke residents have learned more about these projects, many have asked me how they can get involved and what employment opportunities might be available. I know that Yuroke residents would appreciate this advice from the minister, and I thank her for the great work she is doing to improve services and safety in the northern suburbs.

Response:

I would like to thank the Member for Yuroke and the Parliamentary Secretary for Public Transport for her continued advocacy for better public transport services on behalf of her community.

To date, the Level Crossing Removal Project has employed more than 4,500 Victorians, to help remove 50 of our state’s most dangerous and congested level crossings.

For example, the Mernda Rail Extension, delivered by the Level Crossing Removal Authority has established the Mernda Rail Jobs Hub as an industry leading initiative that makes it easier for people looking for work on the Mernda Rail Extension Project to find out about opportunities on the project. The Hub brings together a network of labour hire companies, sub-contractors and job support services, as well as TAFEs and training providers to connect people with job opportunities, training and support services.

The Mernda Rail Extension Project had already identified the initial 50 plus roles for apprentices, trainees and cadets. The number of apprentices and trainees on the Mernda project is set to grow further as it moves into construction as part of the Government’s Major Project Skills Guarantee initiative to deliver 10 per cent of all roles to these positions. The project also has an Aboriginal employment target of 2.5 per cent of work hours.

Job seekers can access the Mernda Rail Jobs Hub online or via a dedicated 1800 number to connect with local employment agencies and learn about what skills are required for a career in construction. They can also meet with industry specialists on site at the Jobs Hub in Epping to get practical help with looking for work.

Additionally, work will begin soon to remove five level crossings along the Craigieburn and Upfield lines, providing even more job opportunities for those in Melbourne’s North.

Hon Jacinta Allan MP
Member for Bendigo East
Minister for Public Transport