Premier

The Gordon TAFE: Bigger And Better Than Ever

26 September 2019

Students in Geelong now have access to state-of-the-art TAFE facilities so they can get the skills and training they need for the job they want, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

Premier Daniel Andrews today joined Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney, teachers, students and community members to officially open The Gordon’s rejuvenated $10 million student hub and library building.

The upgraded buildings include a new student service centre, modern student library and courtyard, digital screen and a new computer lab that can be used after-hours, a new auditorium and updated learning facilities.

The upgrade is part of the City Campus Rejuvenation Project, which is rebuilding The Gordon so local students can access world-class facilities to get the high-quality training they need for the most in-demand jobs.

The Victorian Budget 2019/20 also provided $23.5 million for state-of-the-art culinary school at The Gordon to help deliver Free TAFE courses for Victoria’s booming hospitality sector. This will establish a social enterprise café and build a new bakery training facility.

This project includes a $10 million co-contribution from The Gordon and is expected to be completed in 2021.

Free TAFE has been a big hit for students across the Geelong Region, with The Gordon experiencing a 41 per cent increase in enrolments – from 734 in June 2018 to 1,032 in June 2019.

Since 2015, the Labor Government has invested more than $1.3 billion to rebuild our TAFE and training system.

Quote attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews

“We said we’d save The Gordon TAFE and we’ve delivered. Whether it’s world-class new facilities or Free TAFE, we’re making sure The Gordon is better than ever.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Training and Skills and Higher Education Gayle Tierney

“The new digital screen and improved façade is a benefit for all people in Geelong. It visibly demonstrates the state-of-the-art facilities available to train up people in the local community.”

Quote attributable to the Member for Geelong Christine Couzens

“The Gordon TAFE was on its knees after the Liberals took the axe to it. It’s only Labor that is investing in the TAFE facilities that Geelong students need to grow and prosper.”

Quote attributable to the Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville

“Thanks to Free TAFE, more students than ever across the Geelong region are getting the training and skills needed to get a job to help keep Geelong and Victoria moving.”

Quote attributable to the Member for Lara John Eren

“This new building will give students the very best facilities to get the skills they need for the jobs they want.”

Quote attributable to the Member for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman

“When you support TAFE and training you give kids a future – and that’s exactly what we’ve done at The Gordon.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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