$3.1m boost for Hamilton campus
The Victorian Government has announced funding for an overall upgrade of existing facilities at the Ballarat Road campus.
South West TAFE CEO Mark Fidge said the major redevelopment would be a fantastic opportunity for the region.
“It ensures the Hamilton and Southern Grampians community will be provided with state-of-the-art facilities that deliver a great experience for our staff, students and our industry partners,” Mr Fidge said.
“These funds will be used to upgrade existing facilities and ensure we continue to meet the expectations of our students.”
Facilities set for improvements include classrooms, student and staff amenities, toilets and general infrastructure.
Mr Fidge said the upgrade was the biggest in the history of the campus and would enable South West TAFE to expand its existing course offerings in Hamilton.
“The Hamilton campus is already offering a wide range of in-demand courses in agriculture, horticulture, wool classing, early childhood education, nursing, individual support, VCE programs, conservation, training and assessment, business and finance, building, and children’s services and this funding will improve the experience for all students and staff and open new opportunities for the community,” he said.
Mr Fidge said the funding complemented the recently announced Country Universities Centre, a regional university study hub based at the Hamilton TAFE campus. “It ensures we are providing a place of that promotes life-long learning,” he added.
The funding is part of a $11.1 million State Government investment in regional TAFEs with upgrades also announced for FedTAFE in Ballarat and The Gordon in Geelong.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney
“The Allan Labor Government’s significant investment in the TAFE network is giving more students in regional Victoria access to state-of-the-art training facilities and local job opportunities.”
“This $3.1 million investment in South West TAFE will increase training and career opportunities in the region and deliver more skilled workers for local employers.”
Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora
“This upgrade is a game-changer for Hamilton—delivering better facilities, more training options and stronger pathways to local jobs for people across our region.”