CQU has been given a role in a new pilot mining industry project aimed at providing training opportunities for young people in Queensland.

The University's Mackay Campus has been nominated to provide facilities, including classrooms, PC labs and library resources, to support the project announced recently (August 22) by the Federal Minister for Vocational and Further Education, Andrew Robb.

The campus will also host visits from simulation trailers, currently in service for training of equipment operators.

Mr Robb has announced that the Australian Government is investing $154,000 for the pilot of the Mine Readiness project, which will provide much-needed 'mine ready' individuals for local mining companies in the Bowen Basin

"This important project expects to place 50 people in training, and seeks to overcome a significant barrier to unskilled people entering the mining industry by providing relevant training to potential employees before they start work," Mr Robb said.

" In a time of severe skills shortages in the resources sector, this project will not only enable individuals to achieve a recognised pathway into the mining industry but it will also take an essential step towards creating a sustainable workforce for the future."

Young Indigenous people and unemployed young people registered with the Job Network who would like to be considered for the training which starts this September will also be strongly encouraged to apply.

The project will be managed by the Mining Industry Skills Centre, with off-site training through CQU Mackay.

Major mining companies within the Bowen Basin have already expressed their support for the pilot and if successful, the project will roll-out across the State by the end of the year.

"This is an excellent demonstration of a partnership between industry and training providers to ensure that young people in the Queensland region are given training relevant to local business needs," Mr Robb said.