Plan to strengthen workforce

A NEW plan to build skilled workforce in Peel region was announced for the region today.

The plan includes 17 priority actions to address workforce challenges.

The State Government outlined a series of targeted priority actions in a four-year plan that will strengthen workforce development opportunities in the Peel region.

Training and Workforce Development Minister Liza Harvey said the Peel Workforce Development Plan 2015-2018 had a strong focus on improving education and training outcomes for young people, while also enhancing links with industry.

"The workforce development plan identifies and explores many key issues that impact the region's economy and workforce participation, while also outlining a series of priority actions to address these issues," Mrs Harvey said.

The Minister said actions to be explored included young leaders and mentoring programs, local careers expo for students, enhancement of school-based apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities and skills development programs in key industry areas.

"Peel has Western Australia's fastest growing population. It has also experienced significant growth in its labour force, which recognises the economic expansion that has occurred within Peel and across the State," she said.

"It is vital that we understand the industries driving our changing economy, so local job seekers are equipped with the best skills to gain employment in those sectors."

The plan was prepared by local stakeholders on the Peel Workforce Development Alliance. The alliance will also oversee the implementation of priority actions and is the result of extensive community consultation.

Mrs Harvey said the plan was the latest initiative to target employment and training in the region, with the Government recently committing to establishing a Peel workforce development centre. This will provide local job seekers with comprehensive career advice and support.