The NSW Government today announced the start of construction of a new $80 million Institute of Applied Technology (IAT) for Construction at TAFE NSW Kingswood.
Premier Dominic Perrottet said the new facility would help train the workforce of the future in a purpose-built environment, and ensure the next generation of trades workers have the skills needed to build the smart cities of the future.
"Our $108 billion infrastructure pipeline means thousands of people working on new schools, hospitals, roads, and social housing right across NSW," Mr Perrottet said
"We are determined to not only help build better communities but also create the careers of the future and this new centre at Kingswood will deliver on this."
Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney and Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres and Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee were on-site to turn the first sod of the new signature training hub.
Minister Ayres said the new IAT for Construction will revolutionise education and training in Western Sydney.
"The new IAT will skill up the trades workers needed to support the pipeline of major infrastructure projects, civil construction works, and residential developments that will service Western Sydney's fast-growing population," Mr Ayres said.
"These brand-new facilities are what the local community deserves - a signature construction training hub that fosters a network between schools, universities, and industry, will significantly enhance education and training in the region.
"Importantly, the new facilities will ensure TAFE NSW can continue to deliver high quality, industry-relevant and innovative training that leads to jobs."
Minister Lee said the IAT will deliver specialised training for 700 new trades students each year.
"The IAT will transform TAFE NSW Kingswood into a construction-focused campus with state-of-the-art facilities.
"This $80 million construction project is estimated to create between 200 to 250 jobs over the life of the project," Mr Lee said.
"With its partners, the Institute will develop market-leading training in areas such as trades, smart construction, digital design, smart infrastructure, renewable energy, and supply chain skills."
Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies, said this announcement is a great win for young people in the local community.
"The NSW Government is investing in our young people today to see them equipped for the construction jobs of the future, and for their own businesses one day," Mrs Davies said.
Australian-owned company ADCO Constructions was awarded the construction contract with the facility scheduled to open in early 2023.
ADCO's NSW State Manager John Basilisco said ADCO was thrilled to be selected as the builder of choice for the IAT for Construction.
"With nearly 50 years' experience, ADCO has a successful track record in delivering large-scale, quality, and innovative commercial projects across Australia. We are excited to commence construction on the IAT at Kingswood," Mr Basilisco said.
Find out more about the NSW Institute of Applied Technology
