Media releases

Federation TAFE has received $2.6 million from the State Government to establish a new engineering learning space, enabling delivery of the Certificate III Engineering – Fabrication Trade course back on-site at its Wimmera Campus.

The Federation campus on Baillie Street has been reconfigured to accommodate a new engineering workshop and ancillary facilities, with safety and sustainability key elements of the design.

The new, fit for purpose facility with contemporary learning spaces and industry-standard equipment accommodates up to 15 students at a time.

Federation is fast becoming the preferred training provider for engineering in the Wimmera and with the development of units in automation, will be able to deliver more engineering qualifications to better support the growing needs of the Wimmera engineering sector.

Engineering fabrication is a major skill set requirement in the region and Federation TAFE has worked collaboratively with other Registered Training Organisations in the Wimmera to develop a growing pipeline of engineering apprentices, assisting many students to complete their apprenticeships locally in Horsham, saving the time and expense of travelling for training.

The funding from the Victorian Government comprises a $1.74 million Capital Works grant and a further almost $800,000 for equipment and resource development from the Regional and Specialist Training Fund (RSTF); a targeted funding stream that supports training for specific skills in regional and specialist areas not met by the current training market.

The refurbished engineering learning space is now ready to host teaching delivery.

Quote attributable to the Minister for Skills and TAFE and Minister for Regional Development, The Hon. Gayle Tierney MP

"Everyone deserves the opportunity to go to TAFE and get a great qualification for our state’s most in-demand jobs, regardless of where they live. Our investment in this engineering learning space is just one way we can help provide the highly skilled workers needed in regional Victoria.”

Quote attributable to Federation University Australia CEO, TAFE, Darren Gray

“Federation TAFE is happy to welcome engineering back on-site to the Wimmera Campus. The new engineering learning space will enable those previously disadvantaged by distance to access quality local training and stay in the region to live and work. The significant investment means we can continue to grow Federation TAFE, help local industry thrive by addressing skills shortages, and give our students a solid foundation to build a successful career.” 

Quote attributable to Smallaire Director, Lolita Small

“Smallaire has a strong partnership with Federation TAFE with five Federation apprentices currently on our books, so we fully support the new facilities. There is such a skills shortage in Horsham, and we are always working to attract more young people to the industry. Having the new learning space will save our apprentices time traveling for their schooling and we hope that having the opportunity to train in such a new and modern space will encourage even more kids in the region and surrounding areas to get into the industry. It’s a big win for our industry and the community.”