WA based iron ore mining company Fortescue Metals Group has announced its intention to create a new apprenticeship program with the sole intention of increasing the number of Indigenous tradies.

Dubbed “Trade Up”�, the program will involve FMG working with its major contractors like Downer, Goodline, Thiess, ICRG, GUMA, DVG, and EGWYC to deliver the tradies program.

MG CEO Nev Power said the Fortescue is “committed to creating economic opportunities for Aboriginal people through training, employment and business development by providing a hand up, not a hand out”�.

“Consistent with our land access agreements, we are again delivering a sustainable program that will deliver generational benefits to our Native Title partners.

“We`re proud to be leading the way in training for guaranteed jobs for Aboriginal people.� The Trade Up program will open up the life-changing opportunity of a trade qualification for up to 40 of our Aboriginal employees every year,”� he said.

“We particularly welcome the support and collaboration of our key contracting partners in this innovative program which sets a new benchmark for industry-led Aboriginal apprenticeship schemes. All of the participating contractors will provide opportunities for work in a range of businesses and different trades for the successful applicants, ensuring the success of the program.”�

The new tradies program is slated to kick off in October, with a first class of 40 taking part in the 12 month traineeship that will lead into a four year apprenticeship program.