Work is well underway on the new state-of-the-art Warrnambool Learning and Library Hub, funded by the Andrews Labor Government and built by South West TAFE students.
Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney today visited South West TAFE's Warrnambool campus to tour the construction site and meet the student apprentices and trainees who are helping build the $20.25 million TAFE and community centre, which is on track to open later this year.
The main construction milestones include the completion of roof slab form work, installation of the precast façade and progress on ground floor services.
Up to 90 workers are helping build the Learning and Library Hub, including 23 South West TAFE apprentices and trainees across a range of disciplines including plumbing, electrical and mechanical.
It will replace the existing South West TAFE and Warrnambool libraries with four times as much space, featuring study and meeting rooms, exhibition and display areas, a digital media zone, computer areas and a café.
There will also be a Jobs Hub facilitated by Apprenticeship Victoria to help connect local people with great training and upskilling opportunities as well as careers within their region.
The project is jointly funded by the Labor Government, the Warrnambool City Council and South West TAFE and is being built by Nicholson Construction.
The project is supported by the $33 million Big Build Apprenticeships program which will provide 1,500 opportunities to Victorian apprentices and trainees each year for four years to kickstart their careers on projects including the new Footscray Hospital and North East Link project.
At least 10 per cent of the construction hours on these projects will be completed by apprentices and trainees, strengthening pathways from the classroom to the workforce. Additionally, 2.5 per cent of the workforce will be Aboriginal.
Since 2014, the Labor Government has made a record $3.2 billion investment to rebuild TAFE and support universities and higher education to ensure Victorians have access to high quality education and rewarding careers.
As stated by Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney
"The new Learning and Library Hub will be a world-class asset for South West TAFE and the Warrnambool community - it's great seeing the progress being made and I'm looking forward to returning to cut the ribbon."
"This project is about local TAFE students getting the opportunity to work on a real project that will be a great launching pad as well as a source of pride for them, and their families, for years to come."
As stated by South West TAFE CEO Mark Fidge
"We know the local construction industry is calling out for more highly skilled workers - which is why we're fostering the next generation through world-class training and incredible opportunities like the Learning and Library Hub."
