Land has been locked in for a TAFE Centre of Excellence that will train thousands of skilled workers to help meet the region’s growing infrastructure and housing needs.
The $78 million facility will be built within the Sunshine Coast Industrial Park, near Aura, which is one of Australia’s biggest master-planned communities.
The multi-level training hub for construction and allied trades will include advanced classrooms and workshops for carpentry, electrical, plumbing and more.
The centre, to be located on a currently vacant lot at 33 Maurice Harvey Crescent, is part of the state government’s plan to tackle a skills shortage and support regional growth.
Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates said the project was a key election commitment and would ensure Queenslanders have access to high-quality training.
“The Caloundra TAFE Centre of Excellence will train thousands of new tradies from 2028, helping deliver more homes, more infrastructure and preparing Queensland for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” she said.
“We are delivering the training facilities Queensland needs to build the homes, roads and venues of tomorrow.”
Member for Caloundra Kendall Morton said the centre would be a game-changer for young people and local employers.
“This is a win for Caloundra,” she said.
Want more free local news? Follow Sunshine Coast News on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram, and sign up for our FREE daily news email.
“We’re delivering a world-class training facility that will give young locals the skills they need to build successful careers, right here at home.
“Small businesses across Caloundra are crying out for skilled workers. This project is about delivering for our local economy, supporting employers and making sure we have the workforce to keep building our community.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the project would bolster the workforce.
“The Crisafulli Government has unlocked land, invested in training and is getting on with the job of building Queensland’s future,” he said.
“Economic Development Queensland is driving major precincts across the Sunshine Coast, Gladstone and Mount Isa to ensure communities have access to critical services and jobs close to home.”
Work on the centre will start next year.
