Wednesday, 5 March 2025

 Sheena WATT (Northern Metropolitan) (18:21): (1474) My adjournment matter today is for the Minister for Skills and TAFE, and the action I seek is for the minister to provide some information on what the new RMIT Trades Innovation Centre will mean for my community and the types of courses that this centre will offer. Recently I had the opportunity to join my colleagues the member for Mill Park Lily D’Ambrosio, the member for Bundoora Colin Brooks and the federal Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles at the official launch of the RMIT Trades Innovation Centre at the Bundoora campus. This exciting development marks a significant step forward in training and education for the future workforce in Victoria. This is state-of-the-art facility will provide students with the advanced skills and experience needed to tackle the critical skills shortages in our state, and it will support key initiatives like Victoria’s Big Build and contribute to Australia’s transition to renewable energy.

It is fantastic that this also represents a bold and forward-thinking vision for the future of vocational education and the industries that will define our economy for many years to come. At the heart of this centre is a focus on practical, hands-on training that mirrors real-world challenges. Onsite training at this centre will simulate the timeframes and multidisciplinary nature of actual construction projects, offering students the opportunity to hone both technical skills and essential non-technical skills like communication and collaboration. These soft skills are increasingly recognised as critical in modern workplaces, where effective teamwork and clear communication can make all the difference in achieving success. One of the most exciting aspects of this centre is the purpose-built training bays and cutting-edge equipment it offers to students. This allows them to engage with the latest industry technology and work in environments designed to replicate the demands of actual job sites. It is an incredible opportunity for students to gain a deeper understanding of their chosen trade, all while having access to some of the best resources available.

What is even more encouraging is that this facility aligns with the Allan Labor government’s vision of tackling workforce shortages and driving future growth. We know that addressing skills gaps and training workers in high-demand fields like construction and renewable energy is critical to Victoria’s future economic success and the construction of more homes and more opportunity. This centre not only is a place for students to learn but also plays an important role in helping us meet the needs of our industries as they continue to grow and evolve. Free TAFE and subsidised training have already had a transformative impact on our state, opening doors for Victorians to get the skills they need to get a job for life. This centre’s opening represents opportunities for students to get a quality vocational education at low or no cost.

Given the commitment of the government to expanding access to quality vocational education, I am asking the minister to provide information on what this centre will mean for my community and what type of courses it will offer.