General News
22 August, 2025
Local training courses support employment
Partners in Training Australia (PTA) are proud to continue offering government-subsidised qualifications in Maryborough.
With the 2025 government cuts reducing the number of funded training places across many Registered Training Organisations, Partners in Training Australia (PTA) is proud to continue offering government-subsidised qualifications in Maryborough.
PTA business development manager Libby O’Dwyer said training locally means students are not only upskilling for employment — they are preparing to make a real difference in their communities.
“This is an opportunity to begin a career in a vital area of community support, particularly in drug and alcohol counselling, where demand continues to grow. In 2023, more than 250,000 Australians accessed treatment services for drug or alcohol-related issues,” she said.
Drug and alcohol-related harm remains one of the leading causes of preventable death and hospitalisation in Australia. A report released by the Victorian coroner’s office last week revealed deaths related to drug abuse are at an historic high, with 584 overdose fatalities last year.
Alcohol abuse is recognised as a major contributor to other social concerns such as family violence, poverty and mental illness.
Regional areas often face higher rates of substance misuse, with fewer services available — making local support workers critical to early intervention and long-term recovery.
“PTA has been delivering quality education in Maryborough for over 12 years, helping locals build rewarding careers in the health and community sectors,” Ms O’Dwyer said.
“This year’s courses offer face-to-face, nationally recognised training, delivered one day per week — making study flexible, accessible, and career-focused.”
For more details about PTA’s course options in alcohol and other drugs, aged care and disability care see the display ad on Page 23 of the Friday edition (August 22).