The Victorian Government is offering free, industry-endorsed digital training to help construction and advanced manufacturing firms lift capability and stay competitive.

The Digital Jobs Program for Construction and Advanced Manufacturing, announced in the state’s Economic Growth Statement in December 2024, builds on earlier Digital Jobs initiatives that have already upskilled more than 6,000 Victorians. It focuses on critical, in-demand skills – from AI and data analytics to digital project tools – delivered by institutions including RMIT, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne Business School and Holmesglen Institute.

Run by the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions, the program offers ‘vouchers’ so eligible businesses can enrol employees and senior leaders in approved short courses and leadership workshops at no cost. Companies can access up to five vouchers per round, subject to availability, enabling targeted upskilling aligned to immediate operational needs and longer-term transformation goals.

The government expects participating businesses to emerge with stronger leadership capability, a more digitally capable workforce, clearer technology adoption decisions and better staff retention through structured career development.

Upcoming options this year include:

• AI for Small Trade Businesses (Holmesglen) — Thursday 27 November, Chadstone campus; a half-day, beginner-friendly workshop covering AI fundamentals and practical tools to streamline quoting, customer engagement and operations.
• Digital Tools for Business Management (Holmesglen) — Thursday 4 December, Chadstone campus; a one-day leadership workshop examining platforms for e-commerce, CRM, analytics and AI integration, alongside governance and responsible innovation.

Beyond these, the program’s handbook lists additional leadership workshops and specialist six-week courses spanning Industry 4.0, BIM, CAD/CAM, agile project management, business analytics and digital marketing, giving employers flexible pathways to close skills gaps and accelerate technology adoption.

Victorian construction and advanced manufacturing businesses can check eligibility, explore the full course catalogue and apply for vouchers via the program page: https://business.vic.gov.au/djp