Housing and Public Works Minister Tim Mander said the remote community employment program, delivered by the Queensland government, would provide opportunities in the construction and maintenance of social housing properties.  

“This is the kind of program that can be a life changer for those involved, with participants earning a training wage at the same time as working towards a Certificate III in construction,” Mr Mander said.  

Myuma has created an incorporated arm, Rainbow Gateway Ltd, to provide training and opportunities in building and construction on social housing properties by gaining state government supplier accreditation.

Mr Mander said the program could save taxpayers thousands of dollars on maintenance and see the turnaround time for vacant properties in Mount Isa tumble from 60 days to 25 days.  

University of Queensland Aboriginal Environment Research Centre Director Professor Paul Memmott said the scheme was an Australian first, integrating learning, training, employment and housing while also establishing an Aboriginal building industry while encouraging the dream of home ownership. 

Myuma managing director Colin Saltmere said the forward-thinking initiative would not have been possible without the strong  support of Mount Isa HSC staff. 

“These trainees have been cleaning properties, removing graffiti, replacing windows, doors and fixing verandahs.

“The program plans to evolve and provide training in painting, carpentry, electrical work and plumbing next year.

 “From there, we hope to place trainees in apprenticeships in Mount Isa because part of the program is about creating a skilled workforce for remote locations. 

“Rainbow Gateway is about social reform creating economic reform.

‘‘It is about utilising programs to get people employed rather than just training for training’s sake.”