Daracon Group is proud to announce that it has successfully secured $11,200 in Smart & Skilled government funding to deliver a new pilot initiative – the Role Ready Program – designed to prepare eight new entrants for a strong start in the civil construction industry.
The fully funded, nationally accredited program delivered in partnership with Major Training Group supports individuals who are new to civil construction, equipping them with essential foundation skills as they begin their careers. Participants completed a suite of key entry-level units, including carrying out manual excavation, working as a safety observer or spotter, communicating in the workplace, identifying, locating and protecting underground services, entering and working in confined spaces and working safely at heights.
The Role Ready Program officially commenced on 2 February 2026 and concluded in mid-March. Developed by Daracon Group’s Training Team the program focused on giving participants both the confidence, capability and competency needed to begin contributing safely and effectively on site.
“The Role Ready Program is exactly the kind of training initiative we’re proud to support at Training Services. It gives job seekers a clear pathway into industry and equips them with the essential skills they need to confidently take their first steps in their careers. Programs like this not only empower individuals but also help strengthen economic outcomes for the region—particularly here in the Hunter, where a strong pipeline of public and private infrastructure projects continues to create demand for skilled workers,” said Liana Nadalin, Regional Manager, Training Services – Hunter & Central Coast.
Notably, out of the eight people in the pilot group, five participants previously took part in Daracon’s 2025 Career Starter Program, an initiative aimed at raising industry awareness across Hunter Academy of STEM Excellence high schools and encouraging young people to explore a career in civil construction.
“At Daracon, we’re proud to provide pathways into civil construction for people at all stages of life — from high school leavers coming through the Career Starter Program to mature-age participants looking to break into a new industry. That’s what makes the Role Ready Program so valuable. It delivers a strong foundation for anyone wanting to enter the diverse and exciting world of civil construction, regardless of their background or prior experience,” said Daracon Group Training Development Lead Georgina Evans.
Training is being delivered across two locations, with workplace experiences held across Daracon Group’s local project sites and formal training delivered at Major Training Group’s facility in Beresfield. This blended approach provides participants with valuable real-world experience supported by structured classroom learning.
“This program is a great example of how industry and training providers can work together to create meaningful workforce pathways. Major Training Group delivers the formal training and assessment component within our training facility, ensuring participants develop the foundational knowledge and practical skills required for the program,” said Traci McGee, Key Partnerships Manager from Major Training Group.
“By connecting structured training with real workplace experience, participants are not just learning about the job they are actively developing the skills needed to succeed in the civil construction industry while employers play a direct role in shaping future talent,” said Traci.
“As we wrap up the Role Ready Program, it’s exciting to see every participant prepared to step into a new career with us. They’ll have ongoing opportunities through Apprenticeships, Traineeships, and internal technical pathways within Daracon Group, which truly reflects the program’s impact,” said Georgina.
For more than 40 years, Daracon Group has played a pivotal role in the region’s civil construction sector, guiding hundreds of Apprentices and Interns through their qualifications and giving them the opportunity to work on iconic projects across the Hunter.
This article is published courtesy of Daracon Group.