Weld Australia and Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ) have launched a major statewide initiative offering 50 per cent subsidised welding training across Queensland in 2026.
The program will deliver Welding Supervisor training (AS 1796 Certificate 10 and AS 2214) and ISO 9606 welder certification at locations including Maryborough, Gladstone, Cairns, Brisbane, Townsville, Mackay and Bundaberg.
The initiative addresses ongoing industry demand for qualified welders and welding supervisors, particularly in regional centres supporting defence, energy, infrastructure and advanced manufacturing.
Eligible participants will benefit from significant cost reductions, with training aligned to nationally and internationally recognised certification pathways.
Geoff Crittenden, CEO of Weld Australia, said: “Queensland manufacturers are telling us the same thing again and again: they need more qualified welders and welding supervisors, and they need better access to nationally and internationally recognised certification pathways. This partnership with Manufacturing Skills Queensland to subsidise 50% of training costs will remove a major barrier for employers and workers — especially in regional areas — and help build the skilled workforce Queensland needs for future growth.”
Kris McCue, acting CEO of MSQ, emphasised the importance of certified welding skills for safety and compliance.
“MSQ’s investment in this subsidised training programme reflects our commitment to helping manufacturers build a capable and certified workforce that meets today’s demands and tomorrow’s challenges. Partnering with Weld Australia to halve the cost of welding training is a step towards closing critical skills gaps. It’s about empowering Queensland manufacturers with the talent and certifications they need to innovate and lead on a global stage.”
The program is open to employees of Queensland manufacturing businesses with fewer than 200 staff. Enrolments are now open.
Crittenden urged businesses to secure places early, describing the initiative as “a rare opportunity for both individuals and employers to access high-value welding training and certification at half the cost.”
Further details are available at Weld Australia.
