About Skilling Queenslanders for Work Program (SQW)

The Skilling Queenslanders for Work (SQW) initiative is designed to help individuals gain meaningful employment by providing tailored support and training opportunities. The program focuses on disadvantaged groups, including young people, mature-age job seekers, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, individuals with disabilities, women re-entering the workforce, ADF veterans, recently released prisoners, and culturally and linguistically diverse communities. With a strong emphasis on individual pathways, voluntary participation, and comprehensive assistance, SQW creates opportunities to build skills, confidence, and readiness for the workforce.

About Skill Up @ EKKA

Skill Up @ EKKA is part of the Skilling Queenslanders for Work (SQW) initiative, which aims to help individuals gain meaningful employment through tailored support and training opportunities. This project is specifically focused on providing participants with practical skills, real-world work experience, and a pathway to future careers in construction and related industries.

Work Skills Traineeships
Participants in Skill Up @ EKKA will complete a Certificate I in Construction over 18 weeks, combining hands-on training with paid work experience at the iconic RNA Showgrounds. WetTrade Apprenticeships will employ 10 participants, enabling them to gain valuable experience while contributing to community-focused initiatives. This training is proudly funded by the Queensland Government through its Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.

Wet Trades Focus:

Participants will gain experience in the following wet trades:

• Painting & Decorating
• Wall & Floor Tiling
• Solid Plastering
• Wall & Ceiling Lining
• Construction Waterproofing

Eligibility Requirements for SQW Participants:

• Must be aged 15 years or older.
• Must be a Queensland resident.
• Australian citizen Australian permanent resident (includes humanitarian entrants)
• Temporary resident with necessary visa and work permits on a pathway to permanent residency
• New Zealand citizen
• Must no longer be enrolled in school Unemployed
• Must not be currently enrolled in or have previously completed a Skilling Queenslanders for Work program.
• Committed to completing the 18-week program (Monday – Friday, 8am – 3:30pm)
• Ability to attend training and work at either Salisbury (near the train station) or the RNA Showgrounds as required

Candidate Expectations:

•   Hold a valid driver’s license (or be close to obtaining one)
•   Genuine interest in construction
•   Full work rights in Queensland
•   Physically capable of manual work
•   Able to follow safety procedures and work efficiently
•   Reliable, hardworking, and eager to learn
•   Able to work independently and in a team

Skill Up @EKKA – Launch Your Construction Career!

Get paid while earning your Certificate I in Construction – beginning 24th March!
Are you interested in a career in the wet trades but unsure where to begin? This could be your chance!

WetTrade Apprenticeships is offering a fully funded training program designed to equip you with the skills and experience needed to start your journey in the wet trades industry.

Key Dates (attendance at all is required):
📅 4th March – Information Session – 10am
📅 6th March – One-on-One Interviews – Between 9am – 3pm
📅 19th March – Final Enrolment Session – 10am
📅 24th March – Program Begins – 8am

👷 Hands-On Training
Learn on the job with expert guidance and real-world experience in the construction industry.

🚀 Opportunities for All
Whether you're young, re-entering the workforce, or looking for a fresh start, this program is designed to help you succeed.
First Nations people, women returning to the workforce, and disadvantaged youth are strongly encouraged to apply.

Don't wait—places are limited!

Click here to apply now and start

Building your Future.

This initiative is proudly funded by the Queensland Government.