Media releases

There will be more opportunities for people in Gippsland to train for skilled jobs that are in demand with local employers, thanks to a new agreement between Federation University, Wellington Shire Council and TAFE Gippsland. 

Federation University Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Duncan Bentley, Wellington Shire Mayor Garry Stephens and TAFE Gippsland CEO Grant Radford signed a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) today. 

Under the MoU, the organisations will work together to boost skills and education, research, innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities in Gippsland, as well as the region’s culture, liveability and wellbeing. 

They will work together to: 

• Facilitate meaningful links between industry and education to increase local job opportunities 
• Increase the level of tertiary education and skills across Wellington Shire and enhance the pathways into employment for its residents  
• Support and grow a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship  
• Promote research and skills development with a key focus on health, education, new energy, food and fibre 
• Leverage partnerships to explore shared use of assets and infrastructure in support of enhancing access to education, improving liveability, promoting cultural activities increasing community wellbeing, and creating stronger links to industry and jobs. 

The MoU is part of Federation University’s focus on partnering with industry, government and community to drive economic growth and jobs in its campus regions, including Gippsland, Ballarat, Berwick, Brisbane and the Wimmera. 

Quotes attributable to Wellington Shire Council Mayor, Cr Garry Stephens 

“Wellington Shire Council is absolutely committed to advocating for and supporting the very best educational outcomes for the youth and adults of our community, without them having to relocate out of the district.” 

“For the future growth of Wellington, we need to ensure our local industries are supported with adequately educated and trained staff." 

“This MoU is a commitment from all of us that we are all singing from the same song sheet and working together to achieve these outcomes.” 

Quotes attributable to Federation University Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Duncan Bentley 

“As Victoria’s regional university, Federation has a key role to play in transforming local economies and boosting local jobs through research, innovation and education.”  

“Food and fibre, health, and new energy are key growth areas for the Gippsland region. We are focused on partnering with industry and government to create skilled jobs in these areas and grow the local economy.” 

Quotes attributable to TAFE Gippsland CEO, Grant Radford 

“TAFE Gippsland’s investment in new vocational training facilities in Sale is further strengthened in this important collaboration between our valued partners in Federation University and the Wellington Shire Council. 

“We look forward to broadening our course offerings to meet the growing demand for skills training in Wellington – all in our new Port of Sale campus from early 2022.”