TAFE Queensland initiative offers mining jobs for ex-ADF personnel

Former Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel are being offered the opportunity to enter careers in the mining industry in a program led by TAFE Queensland, mining contractor Macmahon and specialist veteran recruitment agency, Ironside Resources that’s supported by the Queensland Government.

Under the program, which kicked off last year, veterans with suitable Heavy Commercial Vehicle trade qualifications are identified by Ironside Resources and referred to TAFE Queensland, who then work with Macmahon to upskill participants in Mobile Plant Technician skills, making them ready to take on a variety of employment opportunities in mining operations across Queensland and Western Australia.

Chief Operational Officer at Ironside Resources, Rowena Ferrarotto, said the partnership is an example of the meaningful employment outcomes that their business has been providing for ex-ADF members and their families.

“Whilst the ADF provides a high level of training and transferable skills for diesel mechanics, there is a gap between their qualifications and what they need to succeed in the mining industry,” Ferrarotto said. “This partnership aims to bridge this gap and offer meaningful employment and training.

“We advocate for investing in veterans’ knowledge and qualifications from the very start of their new career, to set them up for success.”

Ferraroto adds that TAFE Queensland has the Defence knowledge, resources and understanding to help these veterans, while the team at Macmahon have the desire to capture their capability, employ and train them on the ground.

This three-way partnership is a product of the award-winning TAFE Queensland Defence Solutions team, which provides a range of services to help support former and transitioning ADF members into successful and meaningful civilian careers. Candidates for this program may be eligible for funding from the Queensland Government, which has allocated funds to the ‘Defence to Civilian Success Training Program’ delivered by the TAFE Queensland Defence Solutions team.

The TAFE Qld team offer support, lived experience and guidance on industry trends that align with appropriate and meaningful training and employment opportunities. The team also helps ex-ADF members utilise the aforementioned Defence to Civilian Success Training Program funding, which allows ex-ADF members to receive free or subsidised training to kick-start a successful civilian career.

TAFE Queensland Chief Executive Officer Mary Campbell said veterans are thriving in the Defence to Civilian Success Training Program, progressing to study and into employment.

“Moving back to civilian life can present challenges for veterans and their families, and TAFE Queensland is extremely proud to be able to provide professional guidance and educational pathways as these veterans take the next step in their careers,” Campbell said.

“This partnership with Ironside Resources and Macmahon is a key example of TAFE Queensland’s ambition to provide ex-ADF members training and employment opportunities that bring them a meaningful civilian career. Ironside Resources and Macmahon are key partners who we are proud to work with to offer this opportunity to Queensland veterans.”

Mick Finnegan, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Macmahon, said each party in the program is working to deliver highly skilled employees.

“This program is a win-win for both the veterans and Macmahon. By providing training and support, we can help these highly skilled individuals transition into the civilian workforce and fill critical roles in our (mining) industry,” Finnegan said.

“With their extensive experience and dedication, these veterans have the potential to become valuable assets to our team. We believe in investing in our workforce and creating opportunities for all individuals, we look forward to welcoming these veterans into our company and watching them thrive in their new roles.”

ADF veterans interested in this program should contact Ironside Resources to find out more.

For more information about the Queensland Government and TAFE Queensland’s Defence to Civilian Success Training Program, visit tafeqld.edu.au or call 1300 308 233.