- Published:
- Friday 24 July 2026
Over 13,000 more Victorian students will get free, hands-on STEM learning thanks to the Labor Government.
Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams officially opened the $14 million Dandenong Tech School at Chisholm Institute's Dandenong campus.
Secondary students from 23 schools will visit the Tech School to build robots, create virtual reality worlds and crack cyber breaches – all for free, alongside their regular schooling.
Students learn on the same technology used in modern workplaces – robotics, drones and virtual reality.
Every program is hands-on and linked to real careers – from advanced manufacturing to cybersecurity.
Tech Schools are built on TAFE and university campuses, giving students a taste of study and career pathways beyond the school gate.
Independent research has found Tech Schools increase student engagement in STEM and build awareness of in-demand careers.
Dandenong Tech School is the second of six new Tech Schools opening across the state, backed by the Labor Government's $116 million investment in STEM learning.
The remaining four new Tech Schools – in Brimbank, Hume, Wangaratta and South West Victoria – will open by the end of 2026.
Once all six are open, more than 62,000 students will have free access to hands-on, immersive STEM learning.
Only Labor is giving every Victorian student – no matter their postcode – the skills for the careers of tomorrow.
For more information, visit vic.gov.au/tech-schools.
Quote attributable to Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll
"Labor is investing in the skills Victorian students need for today and tomorrow – and this Tech School delivers exactly that."
Quote attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams
"Labor has delivered a world-class facility right here in Dandenong – and local students will be the ones who benefit.
Quote attributable to Chisholm Institute Chief Executive Officer Stephen Varty
"This facility will help inspire young people to explore further education and careers in STEM, creating more opportunities and a brighter future for Dandenong and beyond."