The hands-on trade expo
Try A Trade is a fun and interactive way for students to discover the world of trades and vocations. Exhibitors range from local TAFE’s and training providers to a diverse range of employers across many different industries. Short, practical activities are run that young people can participate in to learn different workplace skills and gain more information about their desired pathway. We take into account skill shortage areas and showcase trades ranging from electronics to hospitality, ensuring that we cater to the individual interests of all students.
Try A Trade 2026
In 2026, we’re running Try a Trade over two days, with partners Workforce Australia Local Jobs Western Melbourne and Western Bulldogs Community Foundation!
Try A Trade is a unique hands-on trades event, offering students and young people from Melbourne’s west the opportunity to discover the world of trades and vocations in a safe, fun and interactive way.
We invite local businesses, registered training organisations and TAFEs to provide engaging activities that allow attendees to try their hand at a range of trades and vocations. The second day Open Session will end with a brief networking lunch for attending activity providers.
Queries and RSVPs can be directed to tryatrade@mmvllen.org.au.
Schools session
9:00am - 3:15pm, Tuesday 17 March 2026
Western Grounds, Whitten Oval, 417 Barkly Street, Footscray VIC 3011
Please note: Registrations for our schools sessions have now closed.
Open session
10:00am - 2:30pm, Wednesday 18 March 2026
Western Grounds, Whitten Oval, 417 Barkly Street, Footscray VIC 3011
We’re opening up Try A Trade to all young people 15 years up, who may be unemployed or under-employed and looking for guidance with the next steps. Come along (it’s FREE), bring a parent/guardian/support person if you’d like, and try a trade. You may just find your future!
Impact
93% of students rated Try A Trade as either good or excellent
90% of students said Try A Trade increased their understanding of trades and vocations
96% of teachers said Try A Trade added value to their school and/or activities
Source: Try A Trade feedback survey (2019)
“Our students don’t usually get the chance to get this type of hands-on experience, so Try A Trade has been worthwhile for them. The exhibitors cover all trades that we’re looking for and there is plenty of staff available to help and answer questions.””
“It was really interesting to learn some new things and see different career options.
I didn’t think the event would be this good.”
“I’ve taken my students to three Try A Trade events now. There are increasingly more activities and a wider range of courses for trades. The students certainly enjoyed it, have taken away a lot of information and importantly had a lot of fun.”
Get in touch
Exhibitors - TAFEs, RTOs, GTOs and employers
Contact us if you’d like to forge connections with local schools, raise the profile of your organisation and promote career opportunities, which may assist attracting young people in future.
Schools
If your Year 9 - 12 students, especially those looking at undertaking VET or VCE VM studies, are interested in attending our next Try A Trade, please contact the mmvllen team.