Member for Leppington, Nathan Hagarty and Member for Liverpool, Charishma Kaliyanda commend the Minns and Albanese Government’s announcement of a further 147,400 Fee-Free TAFE places over three years in New South Wales.

The places are made possible through the Commonwealth Government funding $130 million as the government’s partner-up to address persistent skills shortages, particularly in South West Sydney.

The investment also builds on the success of Fee-Free TAFE in 2023, which attracted record enrolments in NSW. As at 30 June 2023, there were:

• Over 20,700 enrolments in the Care sector
• Over 6,400 enrolments in the Technology and Digital sector
• Over 5,800 enrolments in the Construction sector, and
• Over 5,200 enrolments in Agriculture.

The Albanese Government is prepared to invest $3.8 billion, to support the Minns Government to expand and transform access to the VET sector, support quality training and implement reforms to address critical skills needs.

This substantial investment will be a significant asset for South Western Sydney and will foster a healthy and skilled workforce that will elevate TAFE in the region.

Member for Leppington, Nathan Hagarty said:

“The expansion of Fee-Free TAFE and VET is a significant boost to accessible education, particularly in places like South-West Sydney.

"This investment is a crucial step toward building and maintaining a skilled workforce in our region.

“It is a winning situation for locals as this investment not only addresses skill gaps, but ensures residents have access to quality education.”

DATE: 23 NOVEMBER 2023

MEDIA CONTACT: NICHOLAS PETKOVIC | 0418 273 258