Tenant information

Our Tenancy Vision

Current Tenants at Barkly Square

Introduction
The Barkly Square precinct has been a hub for learning since 1862. Through the efforts of a broad range of stakeholders, it is being transformed into a vibrant and green community centre focusing on education, training and employment outcomes in the Central Highlands and surrounding regions. BGT Jobs + Training are proud to be leading this transformational change.

This page outlines the tenancy vision and leasing policy aligned with the vision for the precinct, a vision which respects the historical, cultural and environmental significance of the site and recognises its importance in the life of the community.

Tenancy Vision
The vision for the site is to provide opportunities for collaboration and social connectedness to increase educational opportunities and pathways to employment and strengthen community ties.

Objectives
The centre will:

deliver high quality, work-relevant training and education closely simulating the workplace environment
deliver skills development and technical training in areas of industry demands in consultation with industry representatives and peak bodies
strengthen pathways to further education and employment
help to break the cycles of disadvantage through inclusive models of learning
provide a site for community growth, education, and wellbeing

Principles
In order to realise the vision and objectives of the precinct we will:

increase awareness of the Barkly Street Precinct: its location, activities and historical significance
be financially viable and self-sufficient with regard to annual operating costs
preserve the built and natural heritage of the site
create a lively public precinct, delivering inclusive and accessible programs

Community participation is an important aspect of the tenancy vision which emphasises the creation of a precinct that the whole community can access and use as a resource while respecting the heritage, cultural and natural values.

Leasing Policy
We envisage a mix of community and commercial tenancy in order for the precinct to be self-sustaining.
Tenancies should be aligned to the vision for the site and contribute to the Barkly Square community.

Tenancy Selection Criteria
Applicants must demonstrate a community spirit, respect for other site users and a willingness to contribute to the Barkly Square community.
Applicants must demonstrate their compatibility with the preferred uses designated in the Precinct Usage Plan for the buildings or spaces being applied for.
Applicants must be economically and financially viable. Not-for-profit community groups should be able to demonstrate that they can cover outgoings. In some circumstances, BGT may accept in-kind contributions (subject to negotiation).
Tenancy is subject to approval by the Department of Education and Training. Applicants must meet the Department of Education’s requirements as detailed on the expression of interest form.

Tenant Mix
The tenant mix should include a number of tenants who provide services to disadvantaged groups including early school leavers, the unemployed, youth at risk, people with a disability, people for culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those in lower socio-economic groups and the homeless.
Hospitality will be a significant contributor to the amenity and community engagement with the precinct and notable in the tenant mix. Management may enter into contractual arrangements for the provision of services such as food and beverage, catering and functions.

Managing Competing Uses
Care will be taken regarding the location of tenants within the precinct is mutually beneficial.
Care will be taken to avoid the possibilities of tenants undermining each other’s enterprise or being disadvantaged by inappropriate competitive activity.

Tenant Obligations
A tenancy agreement will be entered into with tenants consistent with the terms and provisions of the lease between BGT Jobs + Training and the Department of Education and Training.
The agreement will outline:

parties to the tenancy
the term of the tenancy
permitted use & any occupancy restrictions
the rental rate and associated fees (as applicable)
shared service arrangements, including provision for site management, repairs and maintenance

The tenancy will comply with all relevant laws including, health and safety codes, occupancy rules, equal opportunity and antidiscrimination laws. This includes compliance with a regular maintenance schedule and checks required for work health and safety and insurance purposes.