5/10/05
Four Aboriginal carpentry apprentices from Geraldton will be included in the team that has won a $782,239 contract to build three new homes in Mullewa.
Housing and Works Minister Francis Logan said the contract had been awarded to the Midwest Training Group (MTG), as part of a program to encourage the participation of Aboriginal community members in the construction business.
Mr Logan said the Mullewa contract would be the MTG’s first project outside Geraldton.
“The Department of Housing and Works has previously supported the MTG by awarding them construction projects on a single-select tender arrangement in Geraldton,” the Minister said.
“We have been very impressed with the quality and efficiency of their work.
“The contract to build three homes for the Murchison Regional Aboriginal Housing Corporation in Mullewa was awarded to them under a community construction program which aims to maximise employment and training opportunities for young Aboriginal people.”
Mr Logan said the State Government was committed to encouraging the growth of community-based organisations like the MTG in the construction industry, to engender a sense of ownership of the completed buildings and establish an ongoing maintenance capability.
“This is where our construction tender waiver policy steps in and gives builders such as the MTG the opportunity to bid for projects like this one in Mullewa, thus giving apprentices the chance to build on their skills,” Mr Logan said.
The construction tender waiver policy has also been used where registered training organisations wish to establish an Aboriginal-specific construction training program.
Mr Logan said the Gallop Government was committed to providing new jobs and opportunities for Western Australians wherever they live.
MTG chief executive Terry Maddren said the Mullewa project would provide a different experience for the apprentices involved.
“In dollar terms, it is the biggest project we have ever taken on.”
“It is also the first time we have done a contract outside of Geraldton and it will be a great experience for the guys involved.”
Minister's office: 9222 8950
