The Australian Government announced recently that up to $25 million will be provided during 2009-10 for the Enterprise Based Productivity Places Program (EBPPP) for existing workers. This program will provide up to 11,000 new training places.

The Australian Government will fund up to 90 per cent of the cost for training places for existing workers in enterprises. The training will be at Certificate III to Advanced Diploma level in a range of qualifications included in the Priority Occupations PPP List.

Follow the link below to view the ‘Information for Applicants’:

http://www.mskills.com.au/DownloadManager/downloads/EBPPP%20information%20for%20applicants.doc

The draft guidelines have been prepared by the Commonwealth Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR). Final documents are not yet available; however they are not expected to differ from the draft. Manufacturing Skills Australia (MSA) will distribute final guidelines as they become available.

MSA is responsible for the coordination and implementation of the EBPPP through the Manufacturing and Automotive industries.

Important note: Timeframes for submissions are very short. MSA is seeking a first round of proposals from eligible enterprises and industry organisations no later than 15 January 2010. Second round proposals must be submitted by 16 April 2010.