Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at TAFE NSW Queanbeyan now have access to the first dedicated Aboriginal student learning spaces at the campus, with the Minns Labor Government investing $127,000 to improve student outcomes.
The new facilities include a refurbished classroom with a new kitchen and upgraded workstations for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students learning at the campus.
In addition, a purpose-built yarning circle, a traditional outdoor gathering space featuring dedicated seating and a central fire pit, set among Australian native plants designed to support respectful conversation, listening, learning and connection to country has been created.
These upgrades to learning environments directly support Closing the Gap priorities by improving access, participation, and wellbeing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) research shows that while Indigenous participation in the vocational education and training is strong, completions and employment outcomes improve when training environments actively support wellbeing, relevance and cultural safety.
Designed in consultation with Ngambri and Ngunnawal communities, the spaces provide a welcoming environment that supports wellbeing, strengthens engagement and ensures teaching and learning reflects and respects culture.
Four new flagpoles have been installed, so the Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags can be proudly displayed at the campus.
Importantly, the project was delivered by local Aboriginal businesses, backing jobs and creating economic opportunity within the local Queanbeyan community.
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said:
"Connection to culture and community is a powerful foundation for learning. These new spaces at TAFE NSW Queanbeyan ensure Aboriginal students have somewhere they feel safe, supported and proud of who they are.
"As the local Member, I am proud to see this investment delivered here in Queanbeyan. Our community is stronger when every person can gain skills, build confidence and pursue meaningful careers close to home.
"This investment reflects the Minns Labor Government's commitment to Closing the Gap and to working in genuine partnership with Aboriginal communities to improve education, skills and employment outcomes across NSW."
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and treaty, David Harris said:
"These dedicated learning spaces at TAFE NSW Queanbeyan demonstrate what meaningful partnerships look like; listening to community, investing in local businesses and creating places where culture is visible, valued and respected.
"Initiatives like this are an important part of our government's commitment to Closing the Gap and achieving better education and overall outcomes for Aboriginal people across NSW.
