Midwest Shires have taken up the opportunity to participate in the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations Workplace English Language and Literacy (WELL) Program.
The WELL Program is funded by the Australian Government to assist organizations to train workers in English language, literacy and numeracy skills.
Local Shires participating in the training project include the Shires of Coorow, Carnamah, Mingenew, Morawa, Mullewa, Perenjori and Three Springs. The Shires have received a total of $264,000 in funding, over 3 years, from the Federal Government to facilitate the program.
The Mid West Regional Council is collaborating with Durack Institute of Technology to deliver the WELL training, which is delivered in the workplace to ensure integration with on the job requirements.
Mr. Bert Beevers, Managing Director of Durack Institute of Technology said “This kind of training is imperative to contributing to better workplace skills including more effective communication, increased involvement in training and skill development programs, improved OH & S and ultimately, increased productivity”.
From the seven shires a total of 186 staff have been nominated to participate in the program.
Mrs. Suzanne Ward, Chief Executive Officer of the Mid West Regional Council said, “This funding will be utilized to upskill shire employees in preparation for local government restructure and an agreement that is being negotiated with Main Roads WA for supply of services. Other areas covered by the training will include, development of computer literacy, improved report writing skills, team building, conflict resolution, cross cultural awareness and leadership”.
The WELL program partnership between the Mid West Regional Council and Durack Institute of Technology aims to improve job performance and safety of employees through development of language and literacy skills with a view to more effective business operations and use of resources.