Through BHP’s Future of Work Program, more than 1,400 Australians have gained new skills, launched fresh careers, and made a difference where it matters most - in their communities.

Established in 2021 as part of Australia’s contribution to COVID-19 recovery, the program was developed in collaboration with the former Commonwealth Department of Education, Skills and Employment and local community stakeholders.

The program has helped people from regional towns pursue further education and contribute to essential industries. Students across Australia report meaningful improvements in their careers and personal growth, many say they would not have pursued further study without this support.

From regional towns to brighter horizons: hear more from the students powering change through BHP’s Future of Work Program:

Andrew was one of 479 students in Queensland who was able to access support through the BHP Future of Work program to advance his career.

“I wanted to apply for the regional education and skills program because I felt that I'd be able to advance my knowledge and give more to my community. It helped me by providing necessary funding for this course. It took away the barrier to attaining more knowledge.”

Rachael was one of 448 students in Western Australia who was able to access support through the BHP Future of Work program to advance her career.

“The more knowledge I have, the more I can progress in this industry as well. I applied for the Regional Education and Skills program because BHP gave me the opportunity to better myself and this community. I just want to help the community more. I'mvery proud that I can help people see.”

Georgia chose to study in the field of Community Health; she is one of 325 students in South Australia who was able to access support from the BHP Future of Work program to support her study aspirations.

“I love the study so much that I decided I wanted to do another degree, a Bachelor of Community Health. The Future of Work Program has been absolutely great. Without that program, I probably wouldn't have been able to go on and start the degree that I started.”

Anna is one of 193 students in New South Wales who was able to access support through the BHP Future of Work program to support her future career goals. 

“Some of the barriers that I faced prior to the course were definitely about the cost of tuition… because that's something that I've worried about the entire time. If it wasn't for the program, I probably would have been less inclined to study because I would have been too worried about the cost.”

We are proud to support these students on their learning journey, helping to build a skilled, resilient regional workforce, that plays a vital role in Australia’s economic future.