The program provides a unique opportunity for participants to gain exposure and insight into a major ACT Government infrastructure project.
13 July 2026
In brief:
- The Pathways Hub can help build core skills for entry into the construction industry.
- Participants will receive free, hands-on training through CIT Fee-Free Construction.
- The program includes work experience on ACT Government projects.
Kickstart a career in construction with free, hands-on training through the Pathways Hub.
The program helps build practical skills and gain work experience. Participants will be able to:
- find training opportunities
- connect with industry
- change career path in construction.
How does it work?
Through CIT Fee-Free Construction participants will complete the General Construction and Safety Taster.
This is a pre-apprenticeship short course that runs three-days a week in one learning term.
Course subjects include:
- Prepare to work safely in the construction industry
- Prevent crystalline silica exposure
- Identify and report asbestos containing materials
- Apply WHS requirements, policies and procedures in the construction industry
- Carry out measurements and calculations
- Undertake a basic construction project
- Handle construction materials.
These short courses give participants experience of the trade industry and can prepare them for a trade apprenticeship.
The course is free for eligible participants. To find out more about Fee-Free Construction, visit the CIT website.
After completion of training, participants will complete five days of work experience with industry employers.
Who can apply?
To be eligible for Fee-Free Construction, applicants must:
- be at least 17 years of age, not enrolled at school (including Year 11 or 12) or another program leading to the completion of Year 12 (including the ACT Senior Secondary Certificate)
- be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, permanent Australian resident or an eligible VISA holder
- live or work in the ACT
- not have enrolled in the course previously
- meet the eligibility requirements of individual courses.
When does it start?
Places are limited in the remaining 2026 intake. The next course starts on 29 July.
Details are:
- Duration: 7 weeks
- Days: Wednesday to Friday
- Delivery: Classroom, practical training, site visits and employer engagement
- Cost: Free.
Will I gain any real work experience?
The Pathways Hub provides a unique opportunity for participants to have exclusive site visits to major ACT Government infrastructure projects including the Canberra Theatre Redevelopment.
These site tours provide participants with an understanding of a project's lifecycle and the diverse career opportunities associated with delivering a major project.
Participants will also gain five days of work experience with industry employers. This will provide them with valuable exposure to real construction and infrastructure workplaces and allow them to apply the knowledge gained throughout the program.
Two successful programs
In collaboration with industry partners, the Pathways Hub has successfully delivered two pre-employment construction taster programs in 2026.
There are a two more programs planned for this year and early 2027.
The last program was specifically designed for women and gender-diverse people interested in pursuing a career in the construction industry.
The program achieved a 100% completion rate, with all 14 participants successfully completing the course.
Since the program concluded on 28 May 2026, 10 participants have commenced work experience placements, one participant has commenced further study, and one participant has secured employment.
Register your interest now
For more information or to register your interest in the upcoming program, visit the Pathways Hub webpage.
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