Perth architecture studio, Hassell has been appointed to design a $32 million facilities upgrade at North Metropolitan TAFE’s Balga campus.
Hassell will now start designing a new multistorey training facility to replace 22, 40-year-old transportable buildings on the northern suburbs campus which was originally built in the 1970s.
The major upgrade will be used to deliver training in building and construction, community services and general education, and assist in job creation.
The project also includes a simulated hairdressing training salon, new student services centre and a modern library and student learning hub, with the old library converted into a specialist instrumentation training space.
The Balga campus upgrade was announced in July as part of the WA Recovery Plan, which will see a record $167.4 million invested to fund upgrades to essential infrastructure across Western Australia’s TAFE colleges and create jobs for Western Australians.
Construction of the new campus is anticipated to start in March 2022.
As stated by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
“Creating jobs is the number one priority of the McGowan Government and this investment will not only do that but also create attractive, state-of-the-art learning facilities to encourage Western Australians to study at TAFE.
“This is a significant multistorey facility that will deliver world-class training opportunities in a state-of-the-art learning environment.
“Investing in training to assist in job creation will ensure we are well positioned as the WA economy recovers.”
As stated by Mirrabooka MLA Janine Freeman:
“I am thrilled to see this investment in our local area.
“The upgraded Balga TAFE will be a community hub that will give locals the opportunity to gain a qualification in a first-class learning environment.
As stated by Girrawheen MLA Margaret Quirk:
“This is a massive investment into our community.
“This upgrade will ensure locals will have easy access to high-quality training, and make getting a trade or traineeship an even more attractive option for those looking to begin or further their careers.”
As stated by Balcatta MLA David Michael:
“It was great to be able to make this announcement with the Premier and Education Minister at the Balga campus in July.
“It is terrific to see this project progressing so quickly, given its significance to the community.”
