Yakka Training
Training Services
Inland Rail
Transport
Laying the foundations: Yakka Training and Inland Rail empower regional communities
Inland Rail is set to revolutionise freight transport between Melbourne and Brisbane, with a 1,600km corridor currently under construction.
This ambitious project will enhance Australia’s transport infrastructure, significantly reducing rail freight travel time and boosting economic opportunities along its route.
The line will traverse some of the country’s most iconic townships, including Albury, Parkes, Narrabri, Goondiwindi, and Helidon before reaching Kagaru, just south of Brisbane.
It is the largest freight rail project in Australia and one of the most significant rail infrastructure projects in the world. Once completed, it will cut freight travel time between Melbourne and Brisbane from 33 hours to less than 24 hours – making it a strong competitor to road transport.
Aside from the commercial benefits this will bring to both regional and national economies, the project is creating significant skills enhancement and job opportunities for Indigenous youth.
Through the Inland Rail Skills Academy, 100% Indigenous-owned and managed Yakka Training is driving skills development and employability outcomes for young people living in regional communities along the rail route.
Yakka Training is a Supply Nation Certified Supplier based in Salisbury, Queensland. They deliver accredited national training and certification in civil construction, mining, horticulture and rail, as well as mentoring and support services for people on their employment journeys.
Proud Ngiyampaa man and former champion NRL player, Joel Thompson, is steering the business in exciting directions and making sure Indigenous youth have the skills and opportunities to succeed.
The outcome
The partnership with the Inland Rail Skills Academy is providing a platform to receive certification and secure a rewarding career in the rail sector.
“Our partnership has created a lasting impact, reaching communities along the Inland Rail alignment. It has genuinely transformed lives through training and employment,” said Yakka Training Managing Director Joel Thompson.
With rail sections in NSW prioritised for completion by 2027, and the project securing approvals north of Narromine, there will be significant scope for real opportunities in regional communities.
“Inland Rail and Yakka Training are able to provide opportunities to local people and local workforces, especially our First Nations communities, and it’s great to see regional and rural towns come alive with the Inland Rail project through the opportunities we are helping create,” said Cathy Duncan, Senior Program Skills and Training Advisor.
To date, more than 460 First Nations people have completed Inland Rail Skills Academy training courses. As construction progresses, the partnership with Yakka will continue to open doors for regional students, trainees and workers.
