The Victorian TAFE Association is recommending the next Victorian Government to commit $2.5 billion in TAFE infrastructure investment over the next decade to ensure Victoria can train the workforce needed to meet growing demand in housing, healthcare, aged care, childcare and renewable energy.
Victoria faces significant workforce shortages over the coming decade, including a need for an additional 360,000 health and social support workers, more than 160,000 construction workers and around 90,000 hospitality workers. TAFEs and dual-sector universities train the majority of these workers, but the system requires substantial infrastructure investment to keep pace with demand.
By 2036, Victoria's TAFE network is projected to require 20 per cent more floorspace to accommodate growing enrolments and deliver training in priority skill areas. At the same time, many campuses require essential upgrades, with the Government's 2023 Accessibility Audit highlighting significant improvement needs across the network, alongside a substantial unfunded maintenance backlog.
VTA CEO Alex White said modern facilities are critical to ensuring students can access high-quality, industry-relevant training.
"If Victoria is serious about building more homes, strengthening healthcare and aged care services, and supporting the transition to new industries, it must invest in the training infrastructure that produces the skilled workers these sectors rely on.
"TAFE needs additional facilities and floorspace to meet future demand. We also need investment to modernise existing campuses, address maintenance backlogs and ensure every Victorian can access contemporary, fit-for-purpose training environments.
"A $2.5 billion investment in TAFE infrastructure will help expand training capacity, support growth communities and ensure TAFE remains an attractive and accessible pathway into secure, in-demand careers."
This recommendation for investment forms one of the four key priorities the Victorian TAFE Association has identified as critical funding asks of funding bodies to ensure a sustainable and strong TAFE system.
VTA's Four Key Priorities
- Investing $2.5 billion into TAFE Infrastructure over 10-years, as recommended by Infrastructure Victoria
- Funding 10,000 additional TAFE places per year for 10-years (100,000 total)
- Remove Victorian TAFEs and dual sector universities from the VET funding model introduced to crack-down on unscrupulous private training providers
- Establishing TAFE as the 'first choice' provider for all Victorian Government Departments, major projects, and public sector entities.
About us:
The Victorian TAFE Association (VTA) is the peak body for the Victorian TAFE sector, comprising Victoria's 12 TAFE Institutes, four dual sector universities and AMES Australia. We proudly champion public vocational education and training (VET) with a focus on sustainability, quality, and outcomes for learners, industry, and community.
