The Albanese Government is delivering $22 million towards a nation-leading Heavy Vehicle Training and Experimentation Precinct in Wodonga, Victoria - as part of its $80 million investment in the Albury Wodonga Regional Projects (AWRP).
The innovative facility at Wodonga TAFE Logical Innovation Precinct will transform how heavy vehicle operators are trained, improving safe driving practices and better equipping them for the rapidly evolving transport and logistics industry.
This investment will support construction of a heavy vehicle obstacle circuit, a heavy vehicle repair and maintenance workshop, a main client building and car park, along with upgrades to external infrastructure, and the installation of a state-of-the-art cyber range for simulated courses.
The upgraded facility will support Wodonga TAFE to expand its Heavy Vehicle Technology Program, which is expected to attract up to 1,200 students in four years, and generate more than $70 million in gross regional product.
The Victorian Government also backed the project, with funding of $450,000 delivered last year through Regional Development Victoria, to support Wodonga TAFE fast track the necessary planning.
Construction of the facility will commence in 2024, and is expected to be completed in 2026.
It is just one of eight projects funded through the AWRP initiative, with the Albanese Government also investing:
- $20 million towards infrastructure that supports better health outcomes
- $15 million towards housing and accommodation for essential workers
- $10 million for the Albury Entertainment Centre redevelopment
- $5 million for the Albury Airport expansion
- $5 million towards the Gateway Island and the Murray River Experience
- $1 million to support First Nations priority projects
- $2 million for advanced manufacturing to accelerate the region's economic development
The Australian Government will continue to work closely with the New South Wales and Victorian Governments, the City of Wodonga and Albury City Councils, and key regional stakeholders to implement these transformative projects.
For more informaiton on the Heavy Vehicle Training and Experimentation Precinct project, visit: Logical Innovation Precinct (wodongatafe.edu.au).
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, the Hon Kristy McBain MP:
"Our $22 million investment in this truly trailblazing precinct will overhaul how we build new capability in the transport and logistics industry into the future
"This one of a kind facility will enable Wodonga TAFE to deliver specialist courses that will attract more apprentices and trainees - who will become our next generation of highly-skilled heavy vehicle operators
"Supporting up to 100 jobs during construction over the next four years, and on-going teaching positions once complete, this facility will also provide a number of opportunities for the local economy in the Albury Wodonga region in the medium and long-term."
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Senator the Hon Carol Brown
"The upgrade of the Logic Park campus will provide a range of innovative facilities that will expand on the learning opportunities within the Heavy Vehicle Technology Program, and address skills shortages across this key national industry
"This enhanced learning environment will improve the efficiency of heavy vehicle operators, and mean that they are equipped with advanced skills to improve their overall safety on our roads."
Quotes attributable to Victorian Minister for Regional Development, the Hon Harriet Shing MP:
"The Victorian Government supported Wodonga TAFE to fast track planning needed to develop its Heavy Vehicle Technology Program because we know it will build regional skills and unlock more job opportunities for locals."
"Trade and training pathways like these are a key part of the record jobs growth across the manufacturing, transport and logistics sectors in rural and regional Victoria."
Quotes attributable to Wodonga TAFE Chief Executive Officer, Phil Paterson:
"This is a momentous milestone for Wodonga TAFE and Logical Innovation Precinct, and we are really excited to be at the forefront of future skills, jobs and technologies, benefiting our communities and industries."
