Wednesday 15th July 2020

Students and residents in Lilydale are a step closer to having a world-class construction training centre, with work on the project under way, thanks to the Victorian Government.

Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney today attended a virtual event to celebrate the sod turning that marks the start of construction on the $10.2 million Integrated Centre for Sustainable Construction Technologies at Box Hill Institute’s Lilydale Lakeside Campus.

May Constructions has been appointed to build the centre, a modern industrial facility fitted with the latest technology needed to deliver cutting-edge carpentry, electrical and plumbing apprenticeship training.

This includes an emphasis on sustainable construction practices and technologies, providing students with industry-current skills and a clear pathway to the jobs of the future in the construction industry.

The centre will provide the region with a range of training opportunities and address key skills and training gaps in Melbourne’s outer east.

The centre will include ultra-modern workshops, classrooms, material storage facilities, staff workplaces and general amenities. The centre is expected to open in early 2021.

Since 2015, the Victorian Government has committed more than $1.5 billion to rebuild our TAFE system and ensure students can get the skills they need for the jobs they want.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills and Higher Education Gayle Tierney

“This centre will help give Victorians – particularly those hit hard by the pandemic – the skills they need to secure high-quality jobs.”

“TAFE is a ticket to skills, jobs and a stronger Victoria – that’s why we’re investing heavily in the TAFE sector.”

Quote attributable to Member for Monbulk James Merlino

“We’re proud to be delivering our election commitment, investing more than $10 million in Lilydale, to give students a clear path to the sustainable construction jobs of the future.”

Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing

“This new centre means that students from Lilydale and surrounding areas can access local training for the jobs that will be needed as part of our recovery from the pandemic, and as our population continues to grow.”