The New South Wales Teachers Federation welcomes the announcement of a $47 million investment in a Centre of Excellence at Wollongong TAFE, which will deliver cutting-edge vocational education opportunities for students in the Illawarra region.
This investment demonstrates the joint state and federal governments' recognition of the critical role that public TAFE institutions play in delivering high-quality vocational education and training (VET), meeting the skill needs of local industries.
Acting President of the Federation Amber Flohm commended Premier Chris Minns and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for their appearances in Wollongong today and the commitment to rebuild TAFE, emphasising its vital place in securing the future of education and employment.
"This is a significant step towards strengthening our public education system and ensuring students have access to world-class training facilities. Investing in public assets for the public good is essential for our TAFE students and community," Amber Flohm said. "Young people and workers across the Illawarra will now be able to pursue high-skill, high-demand careers that contribute to the prosperity of our state."
The NSW Teachers Federation reiterated the importance of continued investment in public TAFE institutions as the backbone of Australia's vocational education system.
"Every dollar spent on public TAFE is an investment in the future of our economy and the lives of countless students who rely on secure, accessible and high-quality education."
While welcoming this vital infrastructure boost for the region, the NSWTF is also renewing its call for decisive action to address systemic issues posed by dodgy private training providers. Compliance breaches are leaving students with cancelled qualifications and shattered trust in the system.
"These incidents underscore the urgent need for greater regulatory oversight and a renewed focus on public education," Ms Flohm said. "Students deserve better. It's time to end the exploitation of students and misuse of government resources by substandard private operators. This flourished under the former state government and it must stop."
A stronger public TAFE system will safeguard the future of Australian vocational education, ensuring students and industries can depend on the quality and legitimacy of their qualifications.
"TAFE has a proven track record of excellence, delivering dependable public education that meets industry and community needs," Ms Flohm said.
