NECA hires lobbyist to push skills shortage issues

Stuart Corner
Thursday, 13 July 2006 19:03

IT Industry - Strategy

The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) has appointed Steve Balzary, a former director with the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, "to boost its presence within federal and state government and assist with a strategic approach to addressing the skills shortage in the electrotechnology industry."
Balzary will work specifically with the NECA executive and the national office "to inject expert knowledge and strategic advice into the Association’s skills projects, ensuring its industry leadership activities in labour market and skill development are recognised by government and attract the necessary support."

He worked for ACCI in a range of capacities for nearly twelve years and is now director of a new company, Business Group Australia, a consultancy specialising in skills and labour market matters.

NECA president Neville Palmer, said the Association was working to address the skills shortage through initiatives and projects instigated in conjunction with the Australian Government, and had recognised a need to inject some additional knowledge and experience. "Our work with Steve while he was employed by the Chamber has given us confidence in his knowledge, experience and contacts within government circles," Palmer said.

NECA says it will inform readers of specific initiatives in the skill development arena of relevance to employers and workers across the industry.