AusNet is investing more than $3 million to grow Victoria’s future energy workforce, with ten new trainees starting paid traineeships this month, six of them in regional Victoria.
The intake comes as demand for skilled workers increases to support the state’s energy transition and renewable targets, with AusNet receiving nearly 2,000 applications for the traineeships last year.
AusNet Executive General Manager Distribution Andrew Linnie said the overwhelming response showed a strong appetite among people to be part of the future energy system.
“We were blown away by the level of interest. Those selected showed a genuine passion for the energy transition and we’re proud to have given them the opportunity to build long term careers close to home,” said Mr Linnie.
From this month, trainees will join teams across the AusNet business. Positions include four Energy Project Coordinator Trainees based in Leongatha, Sale, Bairnsdale and Seymour, three Access Planning Trainees in Beaconsfield, Seymour and Traralgon, and three Network Controller Trainees working from the Melbourne CBD.
“This program is about more than training. It’s about strengthening opportunities for regional communities and making sure Victoria has the skilled workforce needed to deliver the energy transition.
“We are creating meaningful careers in our regional communities, building the critical skills needed and helping Victoria meet its renewable energy and emissions targets,” Mr Linnie said.
The three-year program offers trainees an attractive starting salary, hands on industry experience and the opportunity to live and work locally while gaining nationally recognised qualifications.
On completion, trainees will graduate with an Advanced Diploma of ESI – Power Systems and a clear pathway into a permanent role within AusNet.
“These trainees will finish the program fully qualified and ready to step into permanent roles supporting Victoria’s energy future,” Mr Linnie said.