The Andrews Labor Government is continuing its support of TAFE with a $50 million package to bolster training as the VET-FEE Help debacle impacts training levels.

The Minister for Training and Skills, Steve Herbert, today announced Federation Training will receive an additional $1.8 million to strengthen its capacity to deliver training in 2016.

The money will help support the TAFE to deliver important, relevant training and to drive growth in apprenticeships and traineeships.

It will also help the institute better meet the employment needs of the local community and industries by providing relevant skills to meet the needs of the changing economy.

The previous Coalition Government spent four years mismanaging the state’s training system and cutting funding to TAFE, which saw seven TAFEs close to collapse.

The Labor Government has promised to invest $1.2 billion into TAFE and training in Victoria and that’s what we are delivering on.

This announcement is on top of funding already announced for Federation Training including $2.6 million from the TAFE Back to Work Fund.

The institute also received $1 million towards establishing Skills and Jobs Centres in Gippsland.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Steve Herbert

 “We’re doing everything possible to make sure Victorians can get off the treadmill of unemployment and onto the footpath to success.”

“Federation Training plays an important role in training the future workforce of Victoria and this cash boost will allow them to continue their good work.”

“We are pushing ahead with support for skills and training that will grow Victoria’s economy.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing

 “For too long Federation Training was ignored by the former Coalition Government. This $1.8 million boost will help the institute bounce back from the years of neglect by the former Coalition Government.”

 “The Andrews Labor Government has invested an additional $7 million into the institute since coming to Government to make sure locals have access to high quality training.”