Alstom seeks workers for train build

ALSTOM Ballarat is preparing to become a final assembly and testing factory for twenty-five of Melbourne’s new X’Trapolis 2.0 trains.

Minister for Public Transport Ben Carroll visited the site last week which he said is set to become “unrecognisable,” as a team of new staff build the “trains of the future,” but first, the workers needed to be recruited.

“The product Alstom builds and expertise they bring is world class, but what this means for Ballarat is jobs, jobs, jobs, and apprentices, apprentices, apprentices,” Mr Carroll said.

“To local apprentices and local trade schools, be prepared to be saturated with the opportunity that rests here at Alstom. We are wanting electrical apprentices, auto electricians, and mechanics.

“If you’re looking for a career in rolling stock, what better place to look than right here in your own backyard at Alstom.”

Head of rolling stock development at the Department of Transport, Ben Phyland, said 150 workers are needed.

“Five per cent of our workforce initially will be apprentices, and we’re looking to build on that opportunity with Alstom over time,” he said.

“In the next few months, there will be a lot of upgrades to the site here, with new cranes, painting, and stands coming in, and later this year, construction will commence.

Local member Juliana Addison said the project will have major cross-community benefits.

“This recruitment drive is providing not only manufacturing jobs but a significant economic boost to Ballarat and the region,” she said.