Victorian Transport Association (VTA) chief executive Neil Chambers has urged companies in the transport and logistics industry to get involved in the 2014 VTA Logistics Cadetship Program.
"This program is supporting young people getting into this industry. We know there are plenty of young people who are interested and just need a guiding hand into this industry. This program has plenty to offer to both the cadets and the companies who take them on."
The transport and logistics industry is critical to the economic growth and sustainability of Australia's economy. It provides a vital service, moving people and freight locally, regionally, nationally and internationally using a variety of modes including road, rail, sea and air.
Research shows the Victorian industry will need almost 15,000 extra workers over the next three years. The Victorian transport and logistics industry is one of the state's largest sectors, employing more than 330,000 people and contributing more than 14 per cent of the state's gross state product.
Mr Chambers said "The cadetship program is available to all size companies, and many companies may have a potential cadet employed already. The program is open to anyone aged between 18 and 25 who has completed year 12."
VTA logistics cadets graduate after two years with a 'Certificate IV in Logistics' and a 'Diploma of Logistics'. Over the two year program the VTA helps with recruiting cadets, overseeing cadets at their workplace and during study blocks, and assists companies in managing their cadets and the program. The program is open to companies both in metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria.
"Another bonus is that employers may be eligible for financial incentives of up to $3,000 to support the training of the cadets," Mr Chambers said.
"The transport and logistics industry offers a diverse range of exciting career opportunities that are local, national and global. We just need companies to invest some time into these young people."
