Member for Eden-Monaro, Mike Kelly said the program aims to help young people to equip themselves with the skills they need to effectively and competitively participate in the workforce of tomorrow.

“It addresses skill shortages in traditional trades and emerging industries by ensuring Australian students have access to high-quality relevant education and training opportunities that engage and encourage them to complete their studies,” he said.

“The Australian Government is increasing opportunities for young people in partnership with the states and territories and the non-government school sectors.

“This investment in trade based education in the Bega Valley Shire will ensure our kids are not missing out in comparison to city based schools.”

On February 3, 2009 the Government announced a further $14.7 billion to build the education revolution.

“Congratulations to all our local secondary schools that applied for and were successful in Round Two of this Program,” Mr Kelly said.

Further information about the Trade Training Centres in Schools Program is available at: www.tradetrainingcentres.deewr.go v.au