Opening of unique retail training centre at Joondalup

21/2/96

A northern suburbs shopping centre has teamed up with TAFE to offer its retailers training facilities on site.

Employment and Training Minister Norman Moore today opened the unique retail training centre at the Lakeside Shopping Centre in Joondalup.

Mr Moore said local businesses would be able to choose the training which best suited their needs, and that training was available at a convenient location on their doorstep.

"The Joondalup Training Centre is another great addition to Western Australia's vocational education and training system," Mr Moore said.

"North Metropolitan College of TAFE is ensuring its courses are meeting the specific needs of its clients through the unique initiative.

"The development of this centre opens up many opportunities for local businesses, and students will receive 'hands-on' training experience in an industry setting."

Mr Moore said the facility came about through a recognition that retail workers needed training in their own environment.

"The college got together with the shopping centre management, which has led to this excellent partnership," he said.

Mr Moore said the relationship between the training sector and industry had never been more important.

"We are determined that WA, through the Department of Training, develops a more flexible and responsive training system which responds effectively and quickly to the changing needs of industry and the community," he said.

The centre will provide a range of programs, from entry level skills to advanced retail sales and marketing techniques.

Media contact: Anabel Gomez 321 1444 or 222 9595