Published: 7 Apr 2017
An exciting new boost for Australia’s maritime industry will open its doors tonight, with the highly-anticipated launch of the Maritime Employees Training Ltd. (METL) Training Centre in Henderson.
ALP WA Senator Glenn Sterle will officially open the centre in front of hundreds of industry and union leaders, including those from the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA), ASP Ship Management, regulators, training providers and employers.
“This facility is a shining example of industry and unions working together to fill a training gap, as is the global standard, particularly in parts of Europe,” MUA National Secretary Paddy Crumlin said.
“Some governments in Australia have a problem accepting that unions and industry can work together and that perception has to change.”
METL Chief Executive Officer Simon Earle said tonight’s official opening was the exciting first step in building a regional maritime centre of excellence.
“This facility has the potential to train thousands of people every year, and will work with employers in the coastal and shipping trade and the oil and gas industry, to provide the very best maritime workers,” Mr Earle said.
“The centre will also offer a suite of maritime services, including welfare support, rehabilitation and return to work programs, as well as financial skills training.”
MUA WA State Secretary Chris Cain applauded it as a win for local people and local jobs.
“METL is the largest employer of trainee seafarers in Australia and through this new facility METL will continue to build the skills of our maritime workforce to ensure we remain the safest and most highly trained in the world,” Mr Cain said.
“The facility will be testament to Labor’s support of the maritime industry and its workers in Western Australia and across the country.”
