Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan today announced the start of construction for $29 million in upgrades to the Coffs Harbour Education Campus, a project set to further strengthen vocational education and training in the region.
The investment is part of a $300 million statewide program delivering upgraded facilities and equipment to more than 120 TAFE NSW campuses across the state.
Minister Whan turned the first sod on the site of a new Creative Arts facility to mark the start of construction, which will include upgrades to existing classrooms and staff facilities.
Mr Whan said the project is focused on delivering world-class vocational education and training to the region.
“It’s an exciting time for education and training in the Coffs Harbour community as we focus on accommodating for future growth and enabling a greater variety of courses to be delivered to the region.
“This project will deliver facilities for creative services, business and adult migrant English program courses as well as upgraded student services, library services and staff workspaces.”
Mr Whan said the investment in vocational education and training demonstrates the NSW Government’s commitment to fostering a skilled workforce and meeting industry needs.
“Coffs Harbour is one of the fastest growing and dynamic areas in regional NSW so it’s crucial that we are providing high quality learning facilities to help build a pipeline of workers that meet the skills needs of the city and surrounding areas,” Mr Whan said.
“TAFE NSW offers an extensive range of courses in Coffs Harbour from agribusiness and health, to trades and hospitality, information technology and maritime skills.
“Coffs Harbour is fast becoming an epicentre of vocational education and training opportunities.”
The Optimisation Project follows the successful delivery of the $13.3 million Trades Hub and $3.2 million Health Hub, which offer learners interaction-rich and work-based learning experiences to help prepare them for the workplace.
The project is expected to be completed in 2025.
