- Published:
- Thursday 14 March 2019
Students and job seekers in Benalla now have access to training that leads to jobs supporting some of Victoria’s biggest infrastructure projects, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government’s Free TAFE program.
Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney visited the $60 million LS Precast facility, which supplies precast concrete for major infrastructure projects and is creating 400 jobs in the Benalla region. The concrete plant will deliver critical work to support West Gate Tunnel operations.
Locals who have completed a LS Precast pre-employment program with GOTAFE can progress to a Certificate III in Concreting, offered under the Labor Government’s Free TAFE program at the Wangaratta and Shepparton campuses. Completing this course is a pathway to a job at LS Precast.
There are 16 non-apprenticeship Free TAFE courses available at GOTAFE, which has more than 420 students enrolled in Free TAFE courses, including 35 students in Benalla.
GOTAFE is offering 47 Free TAFE courses across its campuses including the Diploma of Nursing and courses in education and community services.
Thousands of Victorians are on the way to getting the skills they need to secure jobs in high demand industries, with 13,500 students enrolled Free TAFE courses at the end of February, driving a 60 per cent increase in commencements in Free TAFE courses, compared to the same time last year.
Underlining the importance of TAFE to regional communities and industries, almost one quarter of Free TAFE commencements were in regional Victoria.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills and Higher Education
“Free TAFE is making it easier for thousands of Victorians to get the training they need to get jobs across a range of industries, including right here in Benalla.”
“Free TAFE will provide skilled workers for projects that keep Victoria moving – like the West Gate Tunnel project.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“I am so proud that because of Labor there are now training and job opportunities for hundreds of local people - this is why I fought so hard against the National Party’s attempt to stop the West Gate Tunnel Project.”