A joint investment of $50 million, delivered through the National Skills Agreement (NSA), will establish a Renewable Energy TAFE Centre of Excellence to support Australia’s transition to Net Zero by delivering a skilled workforce for the future.
The new Centre will be embedded in TAFE campuses across Victoria, with the renewable energy digital training centre at TAFE Gippsland’s Morwell campus serving as a central ‘anchor’.
The Centre will be responsible for delivering key training initiatives including:
- Gender-inclusive training that better replicates modern construction practices.
- Qualifications to work in the Energy Supply Industry, specialising in electricity network infrastructure.
- Advanced digital training and virtual reality technology to simulate real-life situations in renewable energy working environments.
- Digitally enabled classrooms, a research and innovation lab and industry-responsive training programs.
- Large-scale renewable energy simulators to provide hands-on learning opportunities.
The Centre aligns closely with priorities under the NSA, including supporting the Net Zero transformation, strengthening Australian digital and technology capability, and advancing gender equality.
It also supports broader workforce priorities by expanding apprenticeship opportunities, increasing participation by underrepresented groups, and improving access to high-quality training in regional areas.
There are currently 5 clean energy Centres in operation or being established across Australia, including New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory. The latest Centre complements this national network while offering a distinct focus on smart grids, energy networks and home electrification technologies.
Background
TAFE Centres of Excellence aim to increase collaboration between TAFEs, through partnerships with employers, unions, universities and other stakeholders. They deliver the skills people need for good, secure work and meaningful careers.
The Australian government is investing $325 million under the 5-year NSA to establish a network of TAFE Centres of Excellence.
Each TAFE Centre of Excellence will focus on high skills needs to help deliver a skilled workforce for strategically important industries.
More information
- Visit the TAFE Centres of Excellence page
- Learn more about the National Skills Agreement
- Read the Minister’s media release