The Allan Labor Government has announced the location of a new TAFE campus in Sunbury, taking another step towards ensuring locals have access to quality TAFE facilities and training close to home.
Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney today visited the site that has been purchased for a new Kangan Institute campus in Sunbury, which is expected to open in the north-west Melbourne suburb in 2028.
The news comes as Australia celebrates National TAFE Day on 10 September - a day to appreciate the achievements of our public TAFEs, which sit at the heart of vocational education and training in Victoria.
The Labor Government has invested $25 million in funding to establish the new campus, in addition to Kangan Institute's Broadmeadows and Melton campuses.
The site of the new TAFE campus spans almost 3,000 square meters at 7 Evans Street and 2-4 O'Shanassy Street in Sunbury, close to the town centre and public transport.
Kangan Institute was selected as the TAFE provider to construct and operate the new campus based on its strengths in delivering training in skills areas that are high priority for Sunbury. Kangan Institute also has a strong geographic connection to the region.
The course program will focus on digital technologies, early childhood education, community services, pre-apprenticeships and industry-specific short courses.
The new TAFE will provide a vibrant learning environment, giving students access to contemporary equipment and technologies as well as supportive teachers with real-world experience.
Meanwhile, Kangan Institute is already offering courses in Sunbury through the Hume Global Learning Centre, beginning with a TAFE and industry trainer course and vocational English.
The $25 million for the new campus is being funded through the Labor Government's Building Better TAFE Fund, which received a $170 million funding boost in the Victorian Budget 2023/24 and is ensuring students have the best facilities to train in, close to home.
This fund is also providing for a new Kangan Institute campus in Melton, a Centre of Excellence for Inclusion in Disability, Health and Community Support at the Gordon TAFE in Geelong, and establishing a new Bendigo TAFE Community Health and Learning Hub at Dhelkaya Health in Castlemaine.
As stated by Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney
"All Victorians deserve access to skills and training no matter where they live, so we're expanding Victoria's TAFE network to offer high-quality training where it is needed most, including in outer metro suburbs and the regions."
"Thanks to the Member for Sunbury's strong advocacy, Sunbury residents can look forward to having a fit-for-purpose campus that meets local skills needs."
As stated by Member for Sunbury Josh Bull
"I know Sunbury residents have long wanted education and training opportunities close to home which is why we're building this new campus that will deliver high-quality TAFE education right in the heart of Sunbury, so locals can learn without needing to travel far."
As stated by Kangan Institute Acting CEO Janelle Arena
"We are thrilled to partner with the Victorian Government on this new Kangan Institute campus, expanding access to quality TAFE skills, training and facilities for Sunbury residents."
"Our deep experience in the north-west growth region, coupled with our existing capabilities, positions us to collaborate effectively with the local community, industry, and schools to address current and future skills needs."
