Upskilling for hydrogen shift “a pressing issue facing the nation” says new report 

Australia has an “alarming” shortfall in hydrogen skills and training available needed to meet its decarbonisation goals, according to new research by Swinburne University of Technology’s Victorian Hydrogen Hub (VH2.)

Implementing hydrogen is a key part of Victoria’s goal of being emissions-neutral by 2050. The report – with input from 37 industry representatives – urgently recommends training be developed in all sectors, including establishment of a Hydrogen Skills Centre, to grow skills and knowledge.  

“As we move towards a more innovative and sustainable planet through hydrogen technology, we must be focused on teaching the skills required to make this technology a reality,” said Swinburne Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), Professor Karen Hapgood. 

The Hydrogen Skills Roadmap, released on Tuesday, shows mechanics, drivers, gas and electrical workers, plumbers and technicians among those likely to be impacted, with skilling and upskilling workers “a pressing issue facing the nation”. 

Heavy vehicles – and the mechanics needed to service them – were singled out as an area needing urgent attention.

“Trades people will need to know about the intersection between hydrogen gas and electricity,” said Gordon Chakoadza, VH2’s Director.

“Diesel mechanics may become extinct in the decades to come, due to fuel cell technology being taken up rapidly by the heavy vehicle industry. We must start preparing for this now.”

VH2 is led by Swinburne in partnership with CSIRO and Germany’s ARENA2036 factory, and supported by $10 million in funding through the Victorian government’s Higher Education State Investment Fund.

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