A significant relationship has been forged between global resources company BHP and the State Government’s Technical College at Port Augusta.
Premier Peter Malinauskas detailed the partnership with Australia’s largest public company this week while visiting the site of the technical college, which is due to begin construction in the coming months on a co-located site at Port Augusta Secondary School.
Port Augusta Technical College is one of two regional facilities amongst five technical colleges committed to by the Malinauskas Labor Government as part of a $208 million plan to provide an alternative senior secondary option that equips students with the workplace skills needed in areas of high demand.
Based on analysis and engagement with stakeholders, the Port Augusta Technical College will provide school students with skills for jobs in key industries in the region including mining and mineral processing, renewable energy, manufacturing and construction, tourism and hospitality and health and social support.
It will provide students with direct pathways to careers as electricians, engineers, boilermakers, gas fitters and other secure, well-paid vocations and will be available to students across the wider region with short- stay accommodation available on-site.
Minister for Energy and Mining, Tom Koutsantonis said the demand for jobs in the mining and energy sector is booming and will continue to grow.
“It’s not a question of where the jobs are coming from, it’s a question of how we’re going to fill them,” he said.
“BHP are already one of the state’s best employers, and through this partnership, they are investing in the workforce of the future, and they’re doing it right here in the state’s north, where those jobs are needed most.”
While Port Augusta Secondary School already offers diverse pathways to help students on their educational journey, the technical college, due to open in 2025, will further build on providing opportunities for further study in the key industry areas required in the Upper Spencer Gulf.
“Students, and the wider community of this region are excited to see this project progress, with the technical college an important step in supporting young people to make successful transitions from school to employment,” said Port Augusta Secondary College Principal Simon Owens.
Mining giant, BHP is pleased to support the program, with company spokesperson, Anna Wiley, labelling it as a terrific example of positive collaboration between government, industry, and education providers to deliver broader benefits to the Upper Spencer Gulf community.
A technical college at TAFE SA’s Mount Gambier campus is planned to open in 2026.
For more details on SA’s technical colleges or to register your interest click here.
