Victorian rail project set to generate hundreds of new jobs

The Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) East project by the Victorian Government is set to revolutionise the state’s transport system while creating hundreds of job opportunities for Victorians, including students who are keen on starting their careers in the construction industry.

Once the project is completed, it is expected to manage an 80% increase in private vehicle trips while delivering an extra 11.8 million daily trips, making it a game-changer for both local and interstate travellers. According to Premier of Victoria Daniel Andrews, the SRL will not only support important jobs in the state throughout its construction but also create a pipeline of opportunities for Victorians looking to build their careers.

As part of the initial works package, more than 800 jobs are expected to be created, and a recruitment drive will be launched next month to attract workers across different fields, including engineering, technical specialists, trades, sustainability, health and safety, and urban planning. Apprentices, trainees, and cadets will complete 14% of hours during the first phase of construction, providing valuable learning opportunities.

The SRL East project crews have already begun paving the way for tunnel boring machines and preparing for the construction of six new underground train stations, with sites being established in Burwood, Glen Waverley, Monash, Clayton, Box Hill, and the stabling facility at Heatherton.

Victoria’s Suburban Rail Loop Minister Jacinta Allan has described the project as a generational investment in infrastructure that will transform the state’s public transport system while creating thousands of secure jobs. In addition, the SRL East traineeship program, delivered in partnership with Laing O’Rourke, Head Start, and Holmesglen TAFE, will provide additional opportunities to girls studying science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) subjects.

Through the school-based traineeship program, a group of Year 11 and 12 female students will gain hands-on experience on the SRL East project two days a week over the two-year program. This initiative aims to encourage more women to pursue careers in the construction industry, helping to close the gender gap in the sector.

In conclusion, the Suburban Rail Loop East project is set to create a huge pipeline of opportunities for Victorians while transforming the state’s public transport system. With the recruitment drive set to launch next month, now is the time for anyone interested in building their career in construction to explore the job opportunities available on this exciting project.