Last week, the Boating Industry Association of Victoria (BIAV), in collaboration with the Australian Furniture Association (AFA) and the Multi-Industry Collaboration Group (MICG), proudly celebrated the achievements of ninety-six students who participated in the “Take A Seat With Us” program. Delivered by Holmesglen Institute of TAFE in Chadstone, Victoria, this program showcases the power of cross-industry cooperation in addressing the critical skills shortages across Victoria’s manufacturing sectors.
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Dr Reed, Careers Advisor
The success of this initiative is a testament to our collective industries’ commitment to building a sustainable future workforce. The BIAV, alongside the Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce, Caravanning Industry Association of Victoria, and Specialised Textiles Association, continues to work towards addressing the skill gaps that impact more than 10,000 Victorians employed in our industries. This collaboration allows us to consolidate valuable resources and deliver meaningful educational pathways that directly respond to industry needs.
Just last month, the Australian Furniture Association hosted the “Grow. Promote. Protect” forum, where all participating associations discussed the evolving challenges facing our industries. One clear takeaway was the importance of collaboration in meeting the demands of both State and Commonwealth policies to deliver a “Future Made in Australia.” This program exemplifies how shared efforts can yield tangible, industry-led outcomes.
The “Take A Seat With Us” initiative not only addresses the critical shortage of upholstery, trimming, and textile fabrication skills, but also underscores the growing demand for repair and reuse markets as Australia transitions to a circular economy. The BIAV is excited to see these skills applied across a variety of industries, including boating, where high-quality craftsmanship is essential. Whether it’s creating upholstered seating in boats or restoring marine furnishings, the skills gained through this program have a far-reaching impact, aligning with the National sustainability goals.
The program has truly resonated with participants, from those transitioning from law, architecture, and hospitality, to professionals entering new industries such as boating and marine services. The collaboration between our five associations has laid the groundwork for significant outcomes:
- 96 students trained in upholstery, trimming, and textile fabrication.
- 450+ expressions of interest, showcasing immense demand for these skillsets.
- 20% of graduates transitioned directly into employment across industries.
- 38 students have enrolled to undertake further Certificate training at Holmesglen Institute.
- A waitlist of over 40 pre-enrolled students, ready to participate pending additional funding.
This industry-led initiative demonstrates the immense potential of apprenticeship pathways, especially within the boating industry, where demand for skilled workers remains high. The program has been met with tremendous positive feedback, and our ultimate goal is to facilitate smooth transitions for graduates into mature-age apprenticeships across all five industries involved.
The “Take A Seat With Us” project, funded by the Victorian Government’s workforce training innovation initiative, is an important milestone in developing a workforce ready to meet future challenges. The skills acquired are highly transferable across industries such as transport and aerospace, and this program positions graduates for long-term success in exciting, dynamic careers.
We are thrilled with the success of the program so far but remain focused on securing further funding to support additional students and expand the impact. As we work to bridge the skills gap in our sector, we invite industry members to continue sharing feedback and innovative ideas.
For more information or to get involved in this program, please reach out to BIAV or the Australian Furniture Association at care@theafa.asn.au.