The Australian Centre for Energy and Process Training in Munster has celebrated the graduation of its first students, according to reports.

Australian training minister Peter Collier handed out awards to the students, who received oil and gas training focusing on plant operations and engineering.

The centre, which is run by Challenger TAFE, is a AU$21 million ($13 million) facility which was opened in February of this year and is committed to providing community-based training and development, with a particular focus on improving prospects for indigenous populations and women who want to work in the energy sector.

Australia.to reports that there 15 women and 22 indigenous graduands at the ceremony.

"The industry needs talented, well-trained people who have responded to a shortage of skilled workers and it is satisfying to see that the centre is providing innovative training so quickly," said Mr Collier.

Among the oil training equipment at the centre is a full scale process train which has been designed to give workers a practical understanding of how oil facilities operate.

Oil and Gas Directory: Training and Development