The Mildura Development Corporation (MDC) will receive $75,000 funding support, Member for Northern Victoria Region, Candy Broad announced today.
“Under the Local Skills Partnerships Program, the Brumby Labor Government is committing $75,000 towards the appointment of a suitably qualified Innovation and Renewable Energy Development Project Officer to help MDC deliver economic development outcomes,” Ms Broad said.
The Mildura region has been identified as the preferred location for medium and large scale solar developments which includes multi million dollar investment proposals from Silex Systems and TruEnergy.
Ms Broad said that these new solar developments will require industry capacity from the local manufacturing, electrical and technology sectors that are already established across north western Victoria.
Further staff and training will be required to ensure local engagement in the construction of facilities and ongoing maintenance.
The appointed Project Officer for Innovation and Renewable Energy Development will be employed by MDC for two years to:
- facilitate the supply of labour with appropriate training and engagement to enhance the future development of the renewable energy and energy efficient sectors
- work with key industry sectors to identify the capacity required and business growth opportunities for engagement with renewable energy
- undertake research to identify workforce needs and issues
- identify sustainability and innovative practices
- identify market segments for innovative and sustainable industry growth, and
- develop economic strategies to assist with new and existing industry opportunities.
Ms Broad said that the Innovation and Renewable Energy Development project will promote the Mildura region’s strengths, enhance economic development and attract new investment.
“This will be achieved by identifying market segments and encouraging the use of sustainable and innovative practices to generate new opportunities and assist industry growth.
“The skills partnership will enhance the capability of the MDC to deliver economic development outcomes in the Mildura region.”
Ms Broad said the Local Skills Partnerships Program is part of Ready for Tomorrow – A Blueprint for Regional and Rural Victoria, the Brumby Labor Government’s $631 million policy to generate new opportunities and build a prosperous and sustainable future for regional and rural Victoria.
Ready for Tomorrow includes new initiatives to create more jobs, improve tertiary education opportunities and boost businesses and industries.