The Career Transition Service (CTS) commenced in October 2024 to assist individuals in the Whyalla region facing redundancy, job loss, or career change with funding from the Resources and Engineering Skills Alliance. The program received further funding from the South Australian Government, through the Department of State Development, under the Whyalla Emergency Response Package 2025-2027.

At February 2026, 256 people have registered for support, accessing tailored career guidance, job search assistance, and free accredited training. The program has achieved 89 employment outcomes, with 65 participants securing permanent roles and 24 securing casual roles.

This support has enabled 38 eligible workers to undertake 167 training activities with multiple Registered Training Organisations, delivering over 12,660 accredited training hours, including 12 full VET qualifications.

Training has ranged from essential industry licences to higher qualifications, including:

• Forklift licences, working at heights, and confined space training
• Licences for excavator, front end loader, crane, dogging, and rigging operations
• First Aid certification
• Certificate IV in Training and Assessment and Human Resource Management
• Certificate III in School Based Education Support
• Diploma in Environmental Management and in Surface Operations

Beyond training, all participants are offered a comprehensive suite of career support services including resume and cover letter tailoring, online job applications, networking, interview preparation, exploring hidden job markets, and identifying transferable skills for new career paths.

Recognising the challenges of unemployment, particularly for those who have worked their entire lives, the CTS role also addresses personal wellbeing. Participants are connected with mental health services, financial counselling, and other local support where needed. Feedback shows for many, the program not only offers practical skills and employment pathways but also restores confidence during a challenging period of transition.

The program will continue to ensure ongoing support through to 30 June 2027, building on the successes of its first year, and expand its reach into the Spencer Gulf region.

This combination of targeted training, wraparound career support, and personalised guidance has made the CTS a vital resource for the Spencer Gulf and Whyalla communities, helping people navigate redundancy with skills, confidence, and new opportunities.

Scott’s Story – From Redundancy to a Career Dream

Scott, a Shotfirer and on-site Firefighter/Emergency Services Officer (ESO) with Golding Contractors, was made redundant in December 2024. Determined to remain in Whyalla to be with his young family, Scott wanted to complete his Diploma in Emergency Service Health to become an ESO locally.

With financial support from the Resources and Engineering Skills Alliance (RESA) and guidance from the CTS, Scott was able to finish his training modules and undertake the practical assessment in Queensland. He also received assistance from Workforce Australia provider APM, covering licences, tickets, accommodation, and travel costs.

In May 2025, Scott secured a full-time ESO position with GFG – fulfilling a career dream he had held for years.

“From being made redundant back in December 2024 to gaining employment in May 2025 has been a mental journey. I was struggling financially…. but having the news that I could gain the tickets I need for the role I now have was amazing. The program was easy to access, and the people who assisted me have been incredible. I could never thank you all enough.”