17/04/2026
Announcing a new South West advanced manufacturing training hub!
RCR has secured $100K through the Government's RED Grants Program to establish a regional advanced manufacturing training hub in Bunbury Western Australia. Delivered with South Regional TAFE, this brings block-release training back to the South West, reducing the need for apprentices to travel to Perth.
💡 Why it matters:
- Tackles critical shortages in machinists & fitters
- Trains apprentices in a real production environment
- Supports mining, defence, rail & renewables
- Future to include training for electrical and hydraulics
📊 Real impact:
- Up to 70 students trained each year
- Significant savings for industry
This is about keeping skills, jobs and opportunity in the South West and building long-term sovereign capability connected to industry.
Thanks to NRW Civil & Mining, South West Development Commission, WA Premier Roger Cook, Hon Don Punch MLA and the Hon Stephen Dawson MLC for backing regional industry. And to our partners: Geographe, CCR Group Pty Ltd, LGM Industries and Piacentini & Son.
If you're keen to get involved, please get in touch. You can view the official government media statement here: https://www.wa.gov.au/government/media-statements/Cook%20Labor%20Government/RED-Grants-back-South-West-advanced-manufacturing-training-hub--20260416