New program to retrain Liberty Bell Bay workers for construction careers

The Tasmanian Government is partnering with Master Builders Tasmania to launch a new program to retrain workers from Liberty Bell Bay for new careers in building and construction.

The FORGE AHEAD program will give Liberty workers the opportunity to undertake nationally recognised training needed to step onto commercial and residential construction sites - and connect them directly with builders who are hiring across the state.

Acting Premier Guy Barnett, said the Liberty workforce could play a critical role in building Tasmania’s future.

“This has been a difficult and uncertain period for Liberty Bell Bay’s workforce and their families,” the Acting Premier said.

“We threw everything at keeping Liberty going. Following the administrator’s disappointing announcement yesterday, our focus is now on ensuring workers and their families receive the support they need.

“The workers at Liberty Bell Bay are some of the most skilled and safety-focused people in our State, and we stand with them.

“By partnering with Master Builders Tasmania to deliver the FORGE AHEAD program, we are backing these highly valued workers to upskill and find new careers in the construction industry.”

Minister for Skills and Jobs, Felix Ellis, said the Tasmanian Government was doing everything it could to support Liberty workers.

“We want to turn this challenging situation into an opportunity for a prosperous future in construction,” Minister Ellis said.

“FORGE AHEAD is a practical, fast way to back the Liberty workers - giving them the construction credentials they need to move straight into an industry that is crying out for skilled people right now.

“We want these workers building the homes, schools and projects our State needs.”

Master Builders Tasmania CEO Jenna Cairney welcomed the partnership and said the program would begin within days.

“These workers already know how to work hard and work safely - and there are jobs waiting for them in our industry,” Ms Cairney said.

“FORGE AHEAD will stand up immediately, with seven nationally recognised micro-credentials delivered hands-on at our facilities in Mowbray and Cambridge.

“And because Master Builders is the peak body for the industry, we don’t just train people and wave them off - we connect them directly to our member builders and contractors who are hiring right now.

“We thank the Tasmanian Government for backing this program. We’re ready to get the first group started straight away.”

For more information on FORGE AHEAD, contact Master Builders Tasmania on 03 6210 2000 or max@mbatas.org.au.