The discussion at the Wednesday Chamber of Commerce meeting comes after the Regional Development Australia’s (RDA) Southern Inland Skills Audit revealed the Goulburn Mulwaree had a 63 per cent shortage in skills between 2016-17. 

These shortages were most felt in the building, manufacturing, primary industries, motor trades and engineering and retail industry. 

Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) Business and Market Engagement Officer Catherina Pappas, who spoke to the Chamber, said the Goulburn Mulwaree Council had highlighted a lack of training options.

“The recent RDA skills audit report emphasise this point in a formal study. It has been highlighted by the local council that there is a lack of diverse training options in the vocational education space,” she said. 

“That gap between high school and university, and that often Goulburn residence have to travel to Canberra, Sydney or Wollongong to get face-to-face training.

“This of course takes people away from their families and limits the opportunity for personal and career development.”

Ms Pappas said providing the CIT Diploma of Project Management and Sports Development through Workspace2580 was successful, and could lead to similar opportunities in the future.

However, Chamber members on the day voiced concerns about only-online courses and the quality of content.

Others asked about ‘soft skills’ training.

“More and more employers are finding that training in these areas is needed along with the theory and practical aspect of their job,” she said. 

“Employee retention and dedication is higher in businesses who show a commitment to their employees through investing in training and upskilling.”

Flexible and face-to-face learning was recognised as the best middle ground solution. 

RDA project officer Camilla Staff encouraged business owners to read the report and work with key stakeholders to find a solution.

“They may read this report and believe they can provide some more insight into a certain finding or may have a unique idea to address skills shortages. We want businesses to speak up and be a part of the conversation,” Ms Staff said.

“Based on feedback from Goulburn businesses, greater investment into local TAFE and Universities needs to occur, as well as local training solutions better aligned to business needs.

“...We believe that any strategy must be underpinned by education.”

The report is only the beginning for the RDA with plans to organise round table meetings with businesses and stakeholders in each local government area. 

This follows talks with RDAs across NSW to explore a larger, collaborative strategy.