Student housing opens at Burnie TAFE for Tasmanians powering clean energy future

Learners from all around Tasmania, and even beyond will benefit from a new student residence at one of Tasmania’s largest TAFE campuses, which was officially opened today.

The Albanese and Rockliff Governments have unveiled the new facility at TasTAFE’s Burnie campus, which will house up to 25 students at a time.

The facilities will reduce travel for students from regional and remote areas accessing the Clean Energy TAFE Centre of Excellence on campus, which positions Burnie TAFE as a national leader in clean energy skills.

Affordable accommodation close to training facilities removes a barrier to participation in face-to-face learning, enabling more students to access and benefit from the specialised training opportunities.

The accommodation is one of several initiatives being delivered through the Clean Energy TAFE Centre of Excellence, supported by a $26.4 million joint investment from the Albanese and Rockliff Governments under the National Skills Agreement (NSA).

The TAFE Centre of Excellence is delivering hands-on training in wind generation and hydro pump technology, strengthening pathways into clean energy careers and help build the skilled workforce to support Australia’s transition to net zero.

The Centre is one of 20 TAFE Centres of Excellence announced nationally through the NSA, and forms part of a $324 million investment from the Albanese Government to foster innovation across the vocational education and training sector.

Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Minister for Skills and Jobs, Felix Ellis:

"North-West Tasmania is at the centre of some the most exciting economic opportunities in the State,” Minister Ellis said.

"Whether it’s major renewable energy projects or Tasmania’s thriving agricultural sector, these industries will rely on a highly skilled workforce, and TasTAFE is helping train that workforce right here in Burnie.

"We are building an even better Tasmania and this accommodation facility means more learners can access those opportunities, regardless of where they live.

"As part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we’re putting learners at the centre through ongoing investment in TasTAFE’s facilities, ensuring it can continue delivering the training and skills Tasmanians need.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles:

"I want to ensure Tasmanians right across the state can seize good career opportunities for themselves, and in particular be able to make a contribution to the success of communities in north-west Tasmania."

"One of the best things about TAFE is that it opens doors. It gives people the skills and qualifications they need to get a secure job, build a career and create a better future for themselves and their families."

"Australia's clean energy transformation is creating exciting new opportunities for skilled workers – including close to home for people in north-west Tasmania."