BHP Invests $5M in Goldfields Jobs Boost
Apprenticeships and traineeships in Western Australia’s Goldfields region will receive a significant boost, thanks to a $5 million contribution from BHP to the WA Department of Training and Workforce Development (DTWD).
The funding will support 35 new apprentices and trainees through the Group Training Organisation (GTO) Wage Subsidy Program.
Launched in 2022, the program helps small to medium-sized businesses by making it easier and more affordable to take on apprentices and trainees through GTOs.
BHP Vice President Western Australian Nickel, Annabelle Blom said:
“When we support local training and provide opportunities, we’re not just helping individuals – we’re building capability and strengthening the whole community.”
“By backing the next generation of local tradespeople through this program, we can tackle skilled labour shortages and help ensure the industry has the right skills it needs to grow and thrive.”
“It’s also about keeping talent in the region, by giving people local to the Goldfields the chance to learn, work and grow their careers close to home.”
Minister for Skills and TAFE, Amber-Jade Sanderson, said:
“Ongoing investment in apprenticeships and traineeships is vital to ensure we have a pipeline of workers to meet the workforce demand created by our growing economy.
“The Group Training Organisation Wage Subsidy Program assists employers to take on apprentices and trainees, with the Cook Government investing $134.6 million in the scheme since 2022.
“BHP’s contribution to the Department of Training and Workforce Development is a welcome investment that will boost the availability of skilled workers for the Goldfields.”
The funding will cover the full duration of a four-year apprenticeship and will be administered independently by DTWD in partnership with participating GTOs.
The $5 million investment builds on BHP’s broader commitment to the region, including the $20 million WA Nickel Community Fund established in late 2024 to support Goldfields communities through a transition to temporary suspension of BHP’s Western Australia Nickel operations.
https://www.bhp.com/news/media-centre/releases/2025/08/bhp-backs-next-generation-of-goldfields-jobs-with-5-million-investment