The State Government is delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy, with construction now underway on the new Electrotechnology Centre at TAFE Queensland’s Alexandra Hills Campus.
The world class training facility will transform old empty buildings into modern workshops packed with cutting edge technology, to train the students who will be the next generation of electricians and energy specialists.
Once operational, the centre will train up to 140 students in Certificate II and III electrotechnology courses, helping locals learn closer to home.
Demand for electrical workers continues to surge, with Jobs Queensland projecting electrician numbers will grow by almost 5 per cent by 2028–29, with two-thirds of those jobs located in South East Queensland.
Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates said the new facility marked a turning point for energy skills training in Queensland.
“After a decade of decline, underinvestment and underutilisation in VET under Labor, our investment in the Electrotechnology Campus at Alexandra Hills is just one of the ways we are getting on with securing a pipeline of skilled workers, helping fix Labor’s skills shortage,” Minister Bates said.
“Queensland’s energy future depends on a highly skilled workforce. This $5 million Electrotechnology Centre will give students the tools, technology and training they need to power our State forward.
“This $5 million investment comes on top of our $201.1 million investment in TAFE Centres of Excellence – both of these investments are part of our plan to equip Queenslanders with the skills to build a better lifestyle through a stronger economy.”
Assistant Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training and Member for Oodgeroo Amanda Stoker said the project was about securing Queensland’s electrical and energy future.
“Queenslanders voted for a fresh start, and this is what it looks like, practical action that delivers opportunities and secures our electrical and energy future,” Ms Stoker said.
“We’re future-proofing Queensland’s economy by giving locals the right skills for the jobs of tomorrow.”
Member for Capalaba Russell Field said the project would deliver the skilled workforce local businesses need.
“This investment isn’t just about students; it’s about local businesses. They need skilled electricians and technicians, and this centre will deliver that workforce,” Mr Field said.
“As someone who did an apprenticeship through TAFE, I know just how much this new facility will see Capalaba benefit from a pipeline of talent.”
Member for Redlands Rebecca Young said the new facility would be a game-changer for local students and businesses.
“For too long, students in the Redlands had to travel long distances or make do with outdated facilities under Labor’s neglect. The Crisafulli Government is changing that with a modern training hub right here in our community,” Mrs Young said.
“This investment means young people in the Redlands can train closer to home for high-paying careers in a booming industry. It’s about creating opportunities and keeping talent local.”
