Boosting Gippsland’s clean energy future: Senator Walsh visits APRETC

Senator Jess Walsh visited Federation University Australia’s Asia Pacific Renewable Energy Training Centre (APRETC) in Gippsland on Thursday, highlighting the Albanese Labor Government’s support for job creation and workforce training for the region’s emerging offshore wind industry.

Developed in partnership with major international wind energy players like Corio Generation, Iberdrola Australia, OSMI Australia, and Origin X RES, APRETC addresses the region’s growing demand for skilled renewable energy workers. Based at Federation University’s Gippsland campus in Churchill, APRETC is well-positioned to support Gippsland’s clean energy future and build a pipeline of skilled workers, by convening community and building confidence within the region.

Gippsland’s coast has been identified as a prime offshore wind zone, capable of supporting significant power generation projects. The Australian Government has granted 12 feasibility licences for offshore wind projects off Gippsland’s coast in Victoria. These initiatives are projected to generate more electricity than the entire state of Victoria generated last year and create over 15,000 construction
jobs and 7,500 ongoing jobs, including in manufacturing, engineering, and operations.

And the recently established Net Zero Economy Authority prioritises regions experiencing economic transitions, such as Gippsland, to ensure no community is left behind. The authority will work closely with local unions, employers, and government bodies to ensure job security in emerging industries.

The Albanese Labor Government is committed to ensuring our regional communities have clear pathways to new careers in thriving industries. For places like Gippsland, that means a clean energy future with secure, long-term jobs and skills.

Quotes attributable to Senator Walsh:
“Renewable energy job training facilities, like APRETC, are essential for building the skilled workforce needed as we transition to clean energy. This is what the future of renewable energy looks like – community-driven projects that deliver long-term, local benefits.”

“Gippsland has the expertise, resources and community support needed to drive their role in Australia’s clean energy future, and it’s places like Federation University Gippsland that are driving that future.”

Quotes attributable to Prof. Iven Mareels, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Innovation and Executive Dean, Institute of Innovation, Science and
Sustainability at Federation University Australia:
“APRETC will bring industry, community and training opportunities together to give confidence for a bright future in Gippsland.”

Media contact for Senator Walsh: Riley Geary – 0402 261 235