MINING'S NEXT GENERATION

THE 'SKILLAROOS' TRAINING SQUAD IS PREPARING TO SHOWCASE THE STRENGTH OF TOMORROW'S WORKFORCE AT THE WORLDSKILLS INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION IN SHANGHAI.

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Mines rely on a vast range of skills and roles to operate efficiently, from welders and fitters to nurses and catering staff members. This is especially prevalent with sites using a fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) model, where everyone on site has an important role to play.

With autonomous machinery becoming commonplace on so many mine sites, issues around skills shortages are being felt across. The Federal Government has identified a shortage in fitter-welders, miners and several engineering roles at the regional and state levels.

This emphasises the importance of training the next generation of operators to ensure mining operations continue for years to come, a situation to which WorldSkills Australia is no stranger.

Since 1981, WorldSkills Australia has empowered more than 100,000 young Australians to showcase their talent in hands-on careers through its regional, national and international competitions.

As industries like mining shift with new technologies and demands, the organisation is harnessing these changes to spark interest in trades and training. It's not just about medals, but building a future-ready workforce with practical skills the country urgently needs.

The skills of the industry are being shown through its 2026 'Skillaroos' training squad, whose members are looking to cement their place in Team Australia for next year's WorldSkills International in Shanghai, the world's largest skills competition.