Victorians looking to upskill or start work in the disability sector will now have access to a new TAFE course to help them find a job or go on to study courses eligible under the Andrews Labor Government’s Free TAFE initiative.
Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney today visited The Gordon’s East Geelong campus to launch the Introduction to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) course, which was developed by industry and employers with the Victorian Skills Commissioner in response to jobs growth in the disability sector.
After completing Introduction to the NDIS, students can go straight into jobs in the disability sector or move on to specialist courses in Individual Support, Mental Health, Community Services, Disability and Allied Health, which are on the Labor Government’s new Free TAFE course list.
These are all vital areas where there is a high demand for skilled workers and the Labor Government is investing in TAFE and training to give Victorians the skills they need to be first in line for NDIS jobs.
Ms Tierney also announced The Gordon would receive a $2.7 million Community Service Funding boost to support vulnerable students throughout their training and get them into a job.
The Victorian Budget 2018/19 is investing an additional $644 million to strengthen TAFE, address skills shortages and ensure all Victorians can access the training they need to get a good job.
The Government is investing $172 million to waive fees for eligible students for 30 priority TAFE courses and 18 pre-apprenticeship courses that lead to jobs that are most in demand from Victorian employers.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney
“TAFE has a crucial role in getting Victoria ready to deliver the NDIS and this new course will help people get the skills they need to get a job in this important growth sector.”
“This new course and the four Free TAFE courses it leads to provide a great opportunity for students to gain the skills they need to start a rewarding career in the disability sector.”
Quote attributable to Minister for House, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley
“This course will help build a work ready, highly skilled workforce to deliver the NDIS and give Victorians with a disability the support they need.”
Quote attributable to Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
“Geelong and The Gordon is leading the way in training workers for the landmark NDIS – this announcement is a great way for people in Geelong to find the best path to a qualification and a career.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020