The Andrews Labor Government is lifting the burden forced on Chisholm Institute by the former Liberal Government with a $3.5 million boost to support students.
Minister for Training and Skills Steve Herbert joined Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams and Member for Narre Warren South Judith Graley at Chisholm’s Dandenong campus to announce the funding, which is part of the Labor Government’s $320 million TAFE Rescue Fund
Chisholm plans to expand and improve a number of programs with the funding, including its Learner Success Program which will support culturally and linguistically diverse students as well as early school leavers.
Without this extra funding Chisholm wouldn’t be able to expand the program to meet increased demand. The program will feature academic and learner support, online tutoring, engagement activities as well as improving library resources.
Chisholm will also be able to secure and expand its Young Parents Program which allows parents who may have dropped out of training to complete their course in a supportive environment, with their children.
Coalition funding cuts devastated TAFEs across the state, ripping away funding needed to provide vital student services and support for disadvantaged and vulnerable students.
Mr Herbert also used the visit to launch an innovative partnership between Chisholm and Ventura Bus Lines to deliver a Certificate III in Driving Operations/Foundation Skills to train new bus drivers which Ventura expects to create 150 new jobs over the next two years.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Steve Herbert
“Public TAFEs play a vital role across Victoria in helping disadvantaged students gain access to training and job opportunities.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams
“Chisholm plays such an important role in the Dandenong community, providing training opportunities for locals and a pathway to employment.”
“We’re making sure Chisholm has the resources it needs to provide quality training.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Narre Warren South Judith Graley
“Today’s announcement is great news for Narre Warren students who will benefit from strengthened pathways to employment.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020