The Western Australian Government has confirmed it will invest $1 million toward expanding WesTrac Technology Training Centre (WTTC) located in the south western township of Collie, to create new training and job opportunities.
The support – delivered through the Collie Futures Industry Development Fund – will assist with the next stages of growth for the cutting-edge Collie facility.
The expansion will deliver two additional buildings, which includes theory and virtual reality training rooms, along with reception, administration and a multipurpose room. New plant and machinery will be purchased, and communications infrastructure will be enhanced.
New courses relevant to the resources and civil construction sectors will become available, including additional technology training solutions for both maintenance and operator pathways.
The expanded training centre will provide new courses and apprenticeship pathways for local students and transitioning workers, supporting the State Government’s $662 million investment in Collie’s transition.
Western Australian Premier, Mark McGowan, said the investment further supports the ambitious training project.
“We’re continuing to build on Collie’s historical strengths as an industrial hub – transitioning the local economy to support new jobs and opportunities, and setting up the town for the long term,” Mr McGowan said.
“The WesTrac Technology Training Centre is part of Collie’s future – putting the town on the map as a national centre of excellence for autonomous equipment training, with ongoing benefits to WA industry and the community.”
WesTrac, South Regional TAFE and Collie Senior High School will continue to deliver a Certificate II in Autonomous Workplace Operations. With the expansion, additional qualifications will be introduced, with the goal being the delivery of Certificate III courses.
Through a partnership arrangement with WesTrac, the not-for-profit Motivation Foundation has been able to deliver a local pilot program supporting young people to earn qualifications and secure full-time employment.
The Motivation Foundation aims to educate and develop both life and employability skills for school students enrolled in years eleven and twelve or equivalent.
The expansion of the WTTC will provide enhanced facilities to enable this partnership to continue into the future.
The WTTC opened in August 2020 with support from the State Government – and is only the second of its type in the world – focusing on the technical skills needed to operate autonomous equipment, with a focus on Caterpillar mine haulage vehicles.
The Centre has experienced significant industry demand for its current course offerings, having provided training to more than 350 people since its opening.
