Supporting Queensland’s workforce with essential skills training

Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ) has engaged leading training providers to deliver a wide range of subsidised short courses across Queensland for manufacturers. This initiative aims to upskill workers in critical areas such as workplace safety, equipment operation, and manual handling and more.

Program highlights

  • MSQ will subsidise up to $300 for short courses that are part of this program.
  • Training is delivered by accredited providers including Harness Training Pty Ltd, Major Training Group, Australian Trade Training College, Worksafe Connect, SDS Training, Pro-Lift training FNQ, Pro-Lift Training Mackay, SWQ Training, Yakka Training, Kallibr Training, Narbil Training Services, Advanced Industry Training and Host Safety and Training.
  • Courses are available across multiple Queensland locations such as Brisbane, Mackay, Townsville, Cairns, Rockhampton, Gladstone, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Toowoomba, Roma and Gympie .
  • Programs focus on practical skills and compliance with workplace health and safety standards, including working at heights, confined spaces, forklift operation, manual handling, and emergency response.
  • To register or learn more about available courses and locations, please contact the training providers directly.

Courses available

Courses available through this program cover a broad range of essential skills and certifications designed to enhance workplace safety, operational efficiency, and compliance.

The following courses are a high priority for the program, and we’ll consider supporting other licences where the RTO has capability to deliver and there is a genuine business need.

Other approved short courses may be available in your region. Contact a participating training provider to discuss available courses and eligibility.

RIIWHS202E

Enter & Work in Confined Spaces

RIIWHS204E / CPCCLRG3001

Work Safely at Heights

RIIHAN301E

Operate elevating work platform

TLILIC0003

Licence to Operate a Forklift Truck

CPCCLDG3001

Licence to perform dogging

CPCCLRG3001

Licence to perform rigging basic level

TLILIC0005

Licence to operate a boom-type elevating work platform (boom length 11 metres or more) TLILIC0005

Locations and delivery partners

  • Cairns – Pro-lift Training FNQ
  • Townsville – Worksafe Connect, Advanced Industry Training

  • Mackay – Pro-lift Training Mackay
  • Rockhampton – Harness, SDS Training, Yakka Training
  • Gladstone – Harness, SDS Training, Yakka Training, Narbil Training

  • Bundaberg – Harness, SDS Training, Yakka Training, Australian Trade Training College
  • Maryborough – Harness, SDS Training, Yakka Training, Australian Trade Training College
  • Hervey Bay – Harness, SDS Training, Yakka Training, Australian Trade Training College
  • Gympie – Harness, SDS Training, Yakka Training, Australian Trade Training College

  • Sunshine Coast – Australian Trade Training College, Major Training, Worksafe and Host Safety and Training
  • Moreton Bay –  Australian Trade Training College, Major Training, Worksafe Connect and Kallibr Training
  • Greater Brisbane – Harness, SDS Training, Australian Trade Training College, Major Training, Worksafe Connect and Kallibr Training
  • Gold Coast –  Australian Trade Training College, Major Training, Worksafe Connect and Kallibr Training
  • Toowoomba – Harness, SDS Training, SWQ Training and Worksafe Connect

  • Roma – SWQ Training

OUR PROVIDERS

This program is delivered by accredited providers, ensuring consistent, high-quality training across Queensland.

Course availability, locations, and funding are dependent on the training provider and eligibility criteria.

Advanced Industry Training

Advanced Industry Training (AIT) is a nationally recognised Registered Training Organisation with over 25 years of experience delivering quality training and assessment services. Based in Townsville, AIT provides industry-focused training across Queensland and the Northern Territory, supporting the construction, transport, logistics, agriculture, manufacturing and mining industries.

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Australian Trade Training College

Australian Trade Training College (RTO 31399) is a leading RTO shaping Australia’s skilled workforce. With campuses across Queensland and deep industry ties, we deliver nationally recognised, hands-on training in automotive, construction, engineering, electrotechnology, and more. Our programs are built around real industry needs ensuring students graduate job-ready and employers find the talent they need. Whether you’re a school-based trainee, apprentice, or tradie looking to upskill, Australian Trade Training College offers flexible pathways, expert trainers, and direct access to paid employment. We support every learner with mentoring, modern facilities, and over 19 years of proven success helping thousands build rewarding

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Harness

Since 2006, Harness (RTO 40521) has delivered specialist workforce solutions across labour supply, training, apprenticeships, and consultancy services to high-risk industries. We deliver a comprehensive range of safety and technical training both via a regular public training schedule at our conveniently located training centres. We also deliver accredited and flexible training solutions for groups at client sites across client regions. We provide flexibility and quality with highly experienced trainers, state of the art facilities and simulators to meet the most exacting needs of your role, organisation and industry. Explore our courses to find out more or submit an enquiry to request a personalised training solution

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Host Safety and Training

HOST Safety and Training (RTO 40772), a Parabellum International company, delivers nationally accredited training and specialist safety services across Australia. With training locations in Caloundra, Gladstone and Darwin, HOST supports industries including resources, construction, defence, government and utilities. Committed to operational excellence, HOST provides high-quality, responsive training solutions tailored to industry needs.

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Kallibr Training

Kallibr Training (RTO 32365) is a Registered Training Organisation specialising in high-risk work licences, Health and Safety training, and other competency-based training. With well-equipped facilities in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sydney and Melbourne, Kallibr delivers practical, industry-focused training in lifting, access, earthmoving and workplace safety. Led by experienced trainers, courses are delivered in realistic training environments, either onsite or at Kallibr facilities, preparing participants with the skills and confidence required for the workplace.

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Major Training

Major Training Group (RTO 6139) brings over 25 years of experience delivering industry-aligned training and workforce development solutions. As a leading Registered Training Organisation (RTO 6139), we specialise in education for priority trades, partnering closely with industry to deliver practical, job-ready outcomes. Our offering includes Qualifications, Apprenticeships and Traineeships from Certificate II to Diploma level, along with machinery training, short courses and high-risk licences. We deliver training across Queensland and New South Wales through established training sites and flexible delivery models.

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Narbil Training

Established in 2006, Narbil Training (RTO 31890) is a family-owned training provider based in Gladstone, Queensland, delivering a range of nationally recognised training courses. Originally specialising in online training, Narbil has expanded its services to include face-to-face training in workplace health and safety, high-risk work licences and industry-specific competencies. With a strong focus on quality training and practical skills development, Narbil remains committed to supporting local industries, businesses and the wider community.

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Pro-lift Training FNQ

Pro-Lift Training FNQ (RTO 40817) delivers nationally recognised, industry-compliant training across North Queensland. With strong local industry knowledge, they are committed to equipping individuals with the practical skills, confidence and qualifications needed to succeed in their careers

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Pro-lift Training Mackay

Established in 2006, Pro-Lift Training Mackay (RTO 40817) is a locally owned and operated training provider specialising in High-Risk Work Licences and industry-specific competency training. With a strong focus on practical, hands-on learning, Pro-Lift delivers quality training using simulated workplace environments to prepare participants for real industry conditions. Supported by experienced trainers, Pro-Lift is committed to upskilling local communities and providing accessible, industry-relevant training that meets workforce needs.

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SDS Training

SDS Training (SDS) is a regional based RTO (RTO No: 32505) focused on delivering quality, industry relevant training in the Civil Construction, Resources, High Risk, Rural, Transport (Rail & Road), Logistics and Health sectors. Established in 2012, SDS Training commenced with a small nucleus of dedicated personnel delivering a narrow scope of services; today, some 10 years later, we have evolved into a dynamic RTO with 30+ staff, delivering industry-based training across seven industry sectors throughout Queensland and New South Wales. As a regionally based organisation, SDS had its genesis from the notion of wanting to create employment opportunities for regional communities; we invest and support at a grassroots level and have successfully contributed to employment and further study outcomes. SDS Training (RTO 32505) collaborates with businesses and industry bodies to deliver nationally accredited training that aligns with workforce requirements.

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SWQ Training

Established in 2006, SWQ Training (RTO 32199) is a Queensland-based training provider delivering quality, industry-focused training across regional Queensland. With training facilities in Roma and Toowoomba, SWQ Training is committed to developing skilled, confident and competent workers through practical training that promotes workplace safety and efficiency. With strong regional industry connections, SWQ Training continues to support local businesses and communities by providing accessible training that meets workforce and industry needs.

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Worksafe Connect

WorkSafe Connect (RTO 31385) is a Queensland-based provider of practical workplace health and safety training, supporting manufacturers since 2006. We deliver nationally recognised safety, compliance, and risk management training focused on outcomes that transfer directly to the job. Courses include WHS, risk management, confined spaces, working at heights, fire safety, first aid, HRWL, machinery competencies, and verification of competency, supporting manufacturers across food and beverage, warehousing and distribution, fabrication, packaging, and industrial operations. Training is delivered onsite at client workplaces across Queensland, online, or via public courses in Brisbane and Townsville—backed by experienced trainers, streamlined booking, and reliable and friendly end-to-end support.

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Yakka Training

Yakka Training is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO 41176) delivering industry-focused training across the rail, civil, construction, conservation and horticulture sectors. With a strong commitment to mentoring and supporting individuals into training and employment, Yakka focuses on developing practical skills and improving workforce readiness. Supported by experienced industry professionals, Yakka Training works with leading Australian infrastructure and construction organisations to deliver training that meets industry and workforce needs.

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Eligibility criteria

Business eligibility

Small to medium manufacturing businesses (<200 Employees) located in Queensland

Manufacturing capabilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Aerospace and Defence
  • General Manufacturing and Engineering
  • Food and Beverage
  • Chemicals, Hydrocarbon, and Refining
  • Furnishings and Other Products
  • Meat and Seafood Processing
  • Textiles, Clothing, and Footwear
  • Printing and Graphic Arts
  • Pulp, Paper, and Packaging
  • Polymers, Plastic, and Rubber
  • Pharmaceuticals and Medical Technology
  • Renewables and Low Carbon
  • Timber and Wood
  • Supporting Capabilities including Laboratory Operations, Sustainability, and Process Plant Operations

Participant eligibility

Employees of small to medium Queensland manufacturing businesses with <200 Employees:

  • Permanent Qld resident
  • Permanent resident or Australian citizen
  • One subsidy per employee.
Contact us if you have any questions
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Funding acknowledgement

Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ) is an independent body established by the Queensland Government to build a sustainably skilled workforce for a future-proofed manufacturing industry. Manufacturing Skills Queensland is funded by the Queensland Government.

QLD Queensland