LABOR has promised to pump $10 million into Redlands TAFE infrastructure in a bid to boost training for young workers.
Capalaba MP Don Brown said the investment was part of Labor’s commitment to training and facilities.
“This cash injection is vital for investing in TAFE in a growing region and the Department of Education and Training will work closely with the local TAFE to establish priority works,” Mr Brown said.
The announcement includes $85 million over three years to fund campus redevelopment and refurbishment work at Cairns, Pimlico (Townsville), Mount Gravatt, Toowoomba, Redlands and Gold Coast campuses.
Labor also proposes to reinvigorate the traditional apprenticeship system, employing up to 40 new apprentices in Public Works and Housing Department over three years.
Labor Redlands candidate Kim Richards said 15 per cent of the works would be carried out by trainees and apprentices, to help them develop trades.
“For TAFE to be the premium provider of training in this state, they need to operate in facilities that are easily accessible, modern, fit-for-purpose and flexible,” she said.
Oodgeroo candidate Tony Austin said he knew that local employers valued the work TAFE did and this would ensure a long term pathway for their staff and ensure a pipeline of locally trained apprentices for Redlands.
Training Minister Yvette D’Ath said the under the previous government, the TAFE system had been in crisis, with more than 2100 staff sacked, $63 million cut from its budget and courses were discontinued across the state.
The Alexandra Hills TAFE has just turned 30 years old and expects to have about 2000 students enrolled next year.
