A new training facility will be established in Muṯitjulu, near Uluṟu, with more than $2 million in Federal Government funding aimed at improving access to education and employment opportunities for First Nations people in remote Central Australia.
The Iyarrka Cluster Remote Training Hub is expected to become operational by mid-2027 and will provide training for residents of Muṯitjulu, Imanpa and Kaltukatjara (Docker River), the federal government said on Thursday.
The facility will offer accredited and non-accredited courses, including foundation language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills, as well as vocational training in construction, hospitality, land and environmental management, and infrastructure.
It will include indoor training and mentoring spaces, outdoor learning areas, upgraded digital infrastructure and accessibility improvements.
The project will allow people to gain qualifications without leaving their communities, Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy said.
"This investment reflects what communities have told us: they need training that is locally led, culturally strong and connected to real jobs and economic opportunities," she said.
Learners will also have access to dedicated transport, while a hub coordinator will work with registered training organisations, employers and community members to support training and employment pathways.
The Muṯitjulu facility is the second of seven Remote Training Hubs planned under the Federal Government's $30 million Central Australia Remote Training Hubs Network, the government statement said.
Federal Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles said the facility would bring training opportunities closer to remote communities.
He said feedback from residents during a visit to the community earlier this year had helped inform the project.
"This hub in Muṯitjulu will deliver dedicated training facilities, mentoring and support services that help connect people with local jobs, further training and new opportunities," Mr Giles said.
Member for Lingiari Marion Scrymgour said the facility would provide face-to-face training and mentoring in remote communities.
"Across Central Australia, our $30 million investment will deliver face-to-face training and mentoring on Country," she said.
