Building and construction skills centre for Yarrabilba

Developer Lendlease and skills, jobs and enterprise hub The Exchange have teamed up with a training organisation Gold Coast School of Construction to make the facility a reality.

Lendlease offered unused land in a future infrastructure corridor for the facility, which will consist of demountables that can move as the area is developed.

Yarrabilba’s population, currently at about 6,000, is expected to grow to 30,000 in 30 years.

Training has already begun for a number of young people from Yarrabilba who have started a Certificate One in Construction.

Gold Coast School of Construction co-ordinator Rod Eske said the new facility gave them an opportunity to provide training and employment outcomes.

“The building and construction industry is essential to support Yarrabilba’s growth,” he said.

“We’re excited to be able to offer locals an opportunity to gain skills in the industry right here at home.

“Partnering with Lendlease and The Exchange to deliver this new facility means we will be able to easily connect with local jobseekers and students who are interested in gaining skills and ultimately employment in construction.

Mr Eske said they were hoping to connect with builders at Yarrabilba to make employment outcomes for the graduates easier and get local people into local jobs.

Logan councillor Laurie Koranski welcomed the facility and said there was a long lifespan for construction work in Yarrabilba as development was expected to continue for 30 years.

“The Exchange hub, which started in 2013 to provide support and training, is helping ensure local people can work locally,” she said.

Communities in Queensland general manager Guy Gibson said connecting residents with local jobs was a key consideration as Yarrabilba grew.

“We are committed to partnering with like-minded organisations to create places that promote growth and generate economic prosperity,” he said.

For information, visit yarrabilba.com.au/employment or gcsc.edu.au.