Collaborative Training Initiative Delivers Real Results

In regional NSW, finding stable work after a long time out of the workforce isn’t easy.

For seven jobseekers in Coffs Harbour, including six First Nations Australians, a hands-on training program has paved the way to stable, long-term careers in the construction industry.

The opportunity came through fee-free training fully subsidised by the NSW Government under the Smart and Skilled program.

Delivered by National Courses in partnership with Tursa Employment & Training, the training gave participants more than just a qualification — it gave them a practical pathway back into the workforce.

Job-Focused Training, Not Just a Certificate

The program focused on mobile plant operations, giving students hands-on experience using rollers and skid steers.

All seven completed the course and gained five core nationally recognised units of competency.

For people who’ve been unemployed for years, getting through a full training program is a major win — and this one was built around employability from the start.

It wasn’t just about getting paperwork. It was about preparing participants for the actual work — and making sure that training led somewhere.

Why This Program Was Needed

Addressing the Skills Gap for Long-Term Unemployed in Regional NSW

Across Australia, 68% of unemployed people have been out of work for over a year, and on average, they’ve been looking for more than four years.

That gap makes it harder to re-enter the workforce — and the longer the break, the more reluctant employers become.

As Samuel Bohr, CEO of National Courses, explains:

“Finding a stable job can be challenging. Many people, especially those who have been out of work for an extended period, face real barriers to employment — such as a lack of up-to-date skills, meeting industry requirements, or employers being hesitant to hire someone who has been out of the workforce for years. For those entering the workforce for the first time or re-establishing themselves after prolonged unemployment, programs like Smart and Skilled provide the essential training, qualifications, and support needed to open real opportunities and build sustainable careers.”

That’s why training initiatives like the fee-free training fully subsidised by the NSW Government under the Smart and Skilled program are so important.

By removing financial barriers and targeting real skills needs, fee-free training gives people a fresh shot at employment — without the cost that often keeps them out.

The Results Speak for Themselves

Real Jobs and Measurable Impact

The outcomes were clear and measurable:

• 4 participants have already landed full-time jobs
• 3 in construction: roofing, plastering, and concreting
• 1 in manufacturing at a local sawmill
• 2 more are ready to start with Protech, a national workforce provider that supported the program
  
  

The only woman in the group secured a construction job, helping to improve gender representation in trades.

That’s at least 6 out of 7 who are now working or ready to begin — a huge result for any training program, especially one focused on long-term unemployed.

What Made it Work

Strong Support and the Right Local Partners

The success of this training program didn’t happen by chance.

It came from strong collaboration between the NSW government, local training providers, employers, and community leaders.

National Courses designed and delivered the program, tailored it to job outcomes, and brought regional networks together.

Tursa Employment and Training helped select eligible participants and gave one-on-one support throughout the training and job search. Special thanks to Dean and Mel for helping participants into work.

GBES Training, led by Graham and supported by Toni, provided the plant equipment and safe training facilities to make the course hands-on and practical.

Protech and JNC Group offered a direct bridge to work, with Tracey from Protech personally onboarding five of the participants.

A Smarter Way to Train for Jobs

How Fee-Free Training, Support, and Employer Engagement Lead to Real Results

This initiative is a model for how fee-free training, when paired with real support and employer engagement, can deliver serious results.

Participants didn’t just finish a program. They got jobs. They gained confidence.

And they proved that with the right backing, long-term unemployment doesn't need to be permanent.

It also improved workforce diversity, with multiple Indigenous Australians and one female participant now employed in industries where they’re often underrepresented.

About National Courses

Nationally Recognised Training and Certification for a Wide Range of Industries

National Courses Pty Ltd (RTO 41072) is a trusted training provider offering short, nationally recognised courses across Australia.

We specialise in practical, job-ready training for industries like construction, civil, safety, and first aid — helping individuals and businesses stay qualified and competitive.

National Courses PTY LTD works with government programs, employers, and community organisations to deliver training that leads to real employment outcomes.