Batemans Bay TAFE campus one step closer after bushfires, floods and COVID-19

Almost two years after construction was announced, the proposed $3.5M Batemans Bay TAFE campus has moved one step closer to reality.

What it could look like ... An artist's impression of the TAFE NSW Connected Learning Centre to be built in Batemans Bay.

Plans for the proposed $3.5 million new TAFE NSW campus at Batemans Bay have moved one step closer to reality.

The plans will go on public exhibition on January 11, with Eurobodalla Shire Council currently assessing the design for the proposed site on Beach Rd.

Bega state Liberal MP Andrew Constance said last year the campus, which he expected to be finished by the end of 2021, will mean less travel for many residents.

Its construction, which will be a first for the town, was announced by Mr Constance and then Assistant Skills Minister Adam Marshall in February 2019.

Supported by mobile training units, simulations and virtual reality experiences, the NSW Government said Connected Learning Centres will “enhance TAFE NSW‘s capability to deliver practical learning, and provide better access to teachers, both on and off site, as well as the skills students need for regional jobs”.

Gilmore federal Labor MP and former TAFE teacher Fiona Phillips said she was “pleased” the campus is “finally moving forward” almost two years after it was first announced by the NSW Government.

“Last year was tough on our community with the economic impacts of bushfire, floods and COVID-19,” she said.

The cost of the development being considered by Eurobodalla Shire Council is estimated at $3.5 million. Picture: Supplied

“Making sure that local people get local opportunities will be vital to ensuring our community can get back on its feet quickly.”

She said the TAFE education system is playing a critical role in the region’s recovery process.

“Not only does TAFE provide individuals with training opportunities to help them get the jobs they need, it also provides our local businesses with the workforce they need to stay afloat,” she said.

“Investment in TAFE and training leads to better economic outcomes, but sadly we have seen the Federal Government cut $3 billion from TAFE and training in recent years-leaving our vocational education system in tatters.

“While the new campus is welcome, it is imperative the Federal Government guarantees the public funding of TAFE and does not reduce face-to-face learning and local jobs.”

“Local people deserve to have access to the same educational opportunities as those in the city and we can’t risk residents being forced to leave to find these opportunities elsewhere.

“TAFE should be at the forefront of our economic recovery and I hope to see both the NSW and Federal Governments prioritise getting this campus off the ground as soon as possible,” she said.