The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) has provided funds for a training and employment project that aims to create jobs through the completion and repairs of two community halls on Moa Island.

The project will include finalising the St Pauls Hall, which is currently 40 per cent complete, and repairs to the Kubin Community Hall entry gates.

Delivered through the Community Development Programme (CDP), job seekers will gain a Certificate II in Construction and be provided with industry-specific training for the labour market on Moa.

The TSRA Chairperson, Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, said CDP job seekers will gain qualifications and be exposed to real-life work situations.

“The goal of the programme is to skill job seekers to improve their employment potential, given the current labour market need,” Mr Stephen said.

“The aim is to get job seekers from Moa to transition from participation in the CDP into paid employment and increase the number of CDP job seekers in the construction industry.

“It is hoped some of these job seekers will then be supported to move into full-time employment when opportunities arise.”

The projects are delivered in partnership with MyPathway and the Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC).

The St Pauls and Kubin Community Halls are considered as priority projects by TSIRC.

Mr Stephen said the completion of the halls will deliver vital infrastructure for the community and would provide much-needed facilities for meeting places for community gatherings.