$33.7 Million Upgrade Begins at TAFE NSW Kingscliff to Boost Regional Vocational Training
TAFE NSW Kingscliff has embarked on a significant development journey with the initiation of a $33.7 million upgrade to enhance its facilities and expand vocational training opportunities in the Tweed region. The Minister for Skills, TAFE, and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, officially marked the commencement of construction by turning the first sod at the site of the new multi-purpose building.
This pivotal $25 million building is designed to be a versatile educational hub, poised to host a diverse array of courses, including animal studies, aviation, creative services, and electrotechnology. Its establishment is aligned with the regional goals to bolster skills in key sectors such as construction, healthcare, wildlife conservation, and aviation, which are essential for supporting local industries and economic growth.
The initial phase of this extensive upgrade is set to conclude in June of this year. It includes a substantial $8.8 million allocation for refurbishing several existing structures on campus, particularly those used by health and community services. This refurbishment is aimed at enhancing the training environment for health students, who will benefit from a state-of-the-art simulated hospital setting, thereby gaining crucial hands-on experience.
Minister Whan highlighted the strategic importance of this upgrade in response to the growing local demand for skilled professionals across various industries. “The demand for skilled nurses, builders, and electricians in Northern NSW is expected to rise significantly over the next decade,” he stated. “This new facility is not just a building; it’s a future-proofing project intended to meet the increasing enrolment figures and workforce demands in the Tweed region.”
TAFE NSW Kingscliff is integral to the local economy, providing residents with the necessary skills to meet employer demands and supporting the anticipated regional growth as more individuals and families choose to relocate to this desirable part of the world.
“The investment in TAFE NSW Kingscliff is not only about expanding our capacity to train the next generation of professionals,” Minister Whan explained. “It’s also about ensuring our students and educators have access to modern, functional classrooms and the latest equipment to facilitate industry-ready training.”
This ongoing investment in infrastructure at TAFE NSW not only aims to enhance the learning experience but also ensures that the institution remains a cornerstone for meeting the educational and employment needs of the community. With improved facilities and resources, TAFE NSW Kingscliff is set to deliver better educational outcomes and play a pivotal role in addressing the state’s critical skills needs.
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