The Minister for Resources and Energy, Martin Ferguson AM MP, has told the 5th National Convention of Skills DMC that now it is now time to boost training in preparation for the global economic recovery.
Skills DMC is the national industry skills council for the resources and infrastructure sectors.
Minister Ferguson said: "When demand for resources and energy accelerated in the past decade, Australia was caught unawares. Today, the signs of recovery are appearing almost every day - we must prepare now, by investing in skills and training if we are to make the most of the looming return to growth.
"It is also important to recognise the efforts of those companies across the resources and energy sectors that have retained staff during the global financial crisis by reconfiguring holiday pay and shifts to reduce hours while maintaining employment levels and secure employment for Australian workers.
"Many resources and energy companies have identified the importance of retaining a skilled workforce during tough times."
Minister Ferguson also outlined recent Government measures to prepare the workforce for the return of global growth.
"The 2009-10 Budget contained a number of employment and training initiatives that will help position Australia for the next upswing in demand," he said. "Under the Skilling Australia for the Future initiative, the Commonwealth has funded the Productivity Places Program over five years to deliver 711,000 training places. These places will address areas of skills shortage to ensure that Australian workers develop the skills they need."
Of the 711,000 training places, more than 390,000 will be allocated to existing workers wanting to gain or upgrade their skills, and 319,000 will be allocated to job seekers, including 20,000 structural adjustment places.