Crumbling classrooms, leaking roofs, and 15-year-old Wi-Fi systems are heading for an upgrade with a new $300 million Government program now underway for TAFE NSW.
The program aims to address the critical shortage of skilled workers through functional classrooms with modern equipment.
The Government is investing $300 million into TAFE NSW this financial year to upgrade classrooms and campus infrastructure, deliver new teaching equipment, and improve digital connectivity across regional and remote campuses.
“This critical $300 million investment will rebuild the physical and digital infrastructure at 120 TAFE NSW campuses,” said Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan.
“Employers are relying on TAFE NSW to equip learners with in-demand skills using industry-standard equipment and technology, ensuring they graduate job-ready.”
“This announcement will ensure the right skills mix to drive jobs, opportunity and productivity in NSW.”
“The continued investment in TAFE NSW’s infrastructure will expand learning opportunities in local communities, improve educational outcomes, and support the state’s critical skills needs.”
This landmark financial injection into TAFE NSW will refurbish workshops and specialist facilities to train more electricians, metal fabricators, plumbers, and healthcare workers in communities like Armidale, Wagga Wagga, Albury, Goulburn, Port Macquarie, and Orange.
In addition to maintenance work and new teaching equipment, the investment also provides more than $36 million for over 8,500 new digital devices and directs funding into improved digital connectivity at 28 regional campuses across the state.
The investment in digital connectivity is a particularly major win for regional communities and will be used to overhaul outdated network infrastructure, improve Wi-Fi connectivity, and build cyber security resilience, which is critical for effective teaching and learning in the 21st century.
Northern NSW can expect more demand for skilled healthcare, hospitality, and construction workers over the next three years. This investment ensures TAFE NSW is well-placed to meet the educational and employment needs of such communities.
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