Australia: APLNG Appoints Matthew Burford as Industry Workforce Development Coordinator

Australia Pacific LNG has appointed Matthew Burford as an Industry Workforce Development Coordinator to deliver the skilled workforce required to complete the construction phase of its CSG to LNG project.

Funded by Construction Skills Queensland but being employed by Australia Pacific LNG, the pivotal role is the result of a unique strategic alliance between these organisations to proactively address potential skills shortages across the industry.

Matthew will work closely with contractors and sub contractors engaged with the project to identify training and employment opportunities in regional communities and implement programs to address them.

Origin General Manager, Project Delivery, Janet Hann welcomed Matthew’s appointment.

“Australia Pacific LNG has worked hard to create a comprehensive local content strategy to maximise local business participation and to attract local people to the project’s workforce,” Ms Hann said.

“To date more than 2,000 Australian businesses have registered their interest in being part of the project through our supplier portal and a further nearly 2,000 local people have participated in industry briefings and workshops hosted by Australia Pacific LNG in partnership with government.

“Matthew’s appointment represents a critical development in this strategy. With his extensive experience in the employment and training industry, Matthew has the necessary skills to help people and businesses to seize the opportunities the project presents,” Ms Hann added.

Matthew brings more than seven years experience in the Vocational Education Industry to the role and 11 years of management and leadership experience in the defence forces.

“I’m really excited to be part of an emerging industry that is growing substantially, in a role where I can focus on developing employment opportunities for regional people and businesses,” Matthew said.

“My top priorities over the next few months will include connecting with our contractors and sub contractors; identifying training and employment opportunities in critical skills areas; and promoting the capabilities of local suppliers to the major construction contractors.”

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LNG World News Staff, November 24, 2011; Image: APLNG