Construction has started on the state Government’s $20 million Hydrogen Training Centre of Excellence at Beenleigh, which is set to create 100 jobs.
Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said this initiative, one of four training centres worth more than $50 million, would skill up a hydrogen workforce enabling the State’s future economic development.
“Queensland’s opportunity to grow jobs in manufacturing and resources needs cheaper, cleaner energy, and the future demand for hydrogen is being met as the Palaszczuk Government is ensuring Queenslanders have the skills to deliver it,” he said.
“Already, Queensland’s renewables industry is worth $8.5 billion, and with our abundance of solar and wind capacity, Queensland is the ideal candidate to produce hydrogen for domestic and international use.”
The project is expected to employ 70 apprentices during construction and support a total of 100 jobs.
Treasurer Cameron Dick said the new facility is a key part of the government’s plan to fast track the development of the industry and ensure Queensland is at the forefront as the supplier of choice for hydrogen.
“Our Queensland Hydrogen Industry Strategy 2019 – 2024 is focussed on developing the hydrogen industry to create jobs and is a vital part of our plan to Unite and Recover for Queensland Jobs,” the Treasurer said.
“By 2030, it is estimated the Queensland hydrogen industry could be worth about $1.7 billion a year in exports, providing jobs throughout the state.
“Investing in state-of-the-art training facilities will attract new workers to the industry as well as meet projected demand from existing apprentices and tradespeople.”
Macalister MP Melissa McMahon said that Logan was the right place to be making this important investment in Queensland jobs.
“This investment adds to the wealth of training and learning opportunities already here in our community.
“Learning a trade sets you up for life and it’s the Palaszczuk Government who is taking this making sure that our kids get a foothold in these industries of the future.”
