The McGowan Labor Government’s $10 million upgrade of Central Regional TAFE’s Kalgoorlie campus is underway, with construction starting on a new trades workshop.
The $7 million workshop will expand training for plant mechanic and engineering trades, training locals to support the workforce needs of the Goldfields’ resources industry.
Existing workshops at the Kalgoorlie campus will undergo a $1 million refurbishment, with a further $2 million worth of industry-standard trades equipment being installed, with input from resource sector companies to ensure training meets their requirements.
Western Australian builder FIRM Constructions has been awarded the tender, which will employ 118 workers throughout the project, including apprentices.
Local and Aboriginal businesses have been engaged throughout the project to maximise local employment opportunities.
Once complete, the state-of-the-art facility will provide training space for the plant mechanics, heavy auto and auto electrical trade disciplines, with a dedicated workshop, classrooms and laboratory spaces.
Construction is expected to be completed in November 2022, with training to commence in Semester 1, 2023.
The $10 million project at the Kalgoorlie campus is part of the McGowan Government’s $184.3 million investment to fund essential infrastructure upgrades across the State’s TAFE network, as part of the WA Recovery Plan.
As stated by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
“The McGowan Government is committed to improving training options in regional Western Australia.
“The major upgrades to Central Regional TAFE’s Kalgoorlie campus will establish facilities to deliver practical, industry-focused training, training job-ready and highly skilled workers for the Goldfields region.
As stated by Kalgoorlie MLA Ali Kent:
“I am thrilled to see construction starting on the new trades workshop, and look forward to seeing the new building welcome students.
“As an integral part of Western Australia’s economy, the Goldfields needs skilled workers and it is important that we are boosting learning opportunities in industries for future jobs.”
