Construction for CDU Trades Training Centre underway in Darwin

CDU has taken the next step in its trade training journey as it prepares to build a new state of the art classroom facility.

Construction for the Charles Darwin University Trades Training Centre started on Wednesday. Picture: Sierra Haigh

The future of tradie training is due for an upgrade as access to the latest plant equipment comes to CDU classrooms, giving apprentices access to knowledge from an array of trades.

Charles Darwin University Vice Chancellor Scott Bowman and TAFE Pro-Vice Chancellor Mike Hamilton said construction was now underway for the Trades Training Centre.

Mr Hamilton said the “future proof” centre’s primary focus would first be on construction and roof plumbing, but was designed to be multifunctional.

“We’ve got nearly 11,000 students at the table during 2023 already, so we expect 12,000 by the end of the year,” he said.

“2169 of those are apprentices, many of which will filter through this new facility once it’s constructed.”

Aspire Design and Construct Executive Director Lisa Jenkinson, Skills, Training and International Education Minister Joel Bowden, CDU Vice Chancellor Scott Bowman, CDU TAFE Pro-Vice Chancellor Mike Hamilton. Picture: Sierra Haigh

Mr Bowman said the university's past trade facilities were ageing and needed replacing, and he looked forward to opening its doors in the third quarter of 2024.

“It’s been a glint in my eye for about two and a half years,” he said.
“Our facilities that we’ve got now are absolutely packed to the rafters – in fact, we’ve opened up parts of the university that have gone into disuse so that we could do things like carpentry. That’s not ideal.
“You need cutting edge facilities, and that’s what this is all about.”

Skills, Training and International Education Minister Joel Bowden announces the beginning of construction for the Charles Darwin University (CDU) Trades Training Centre. Picture: Sierra Haigh

Skills, Training and International Education Minister Joel Bowden said the NT government was investing $4.8 million to “strengthen vocational education and training pathways for Territorians”.

“The Territory needs an innovative, capable and skilled workforce to meet industry demands and we are committed to delivering more accessible training pathways for Territorians,” Mr Bowden said.

“The Northern Territory government is investing in apprenticeships and traineeships to maximise job opportunities for Territorians and, to support business and industry build workforce they need now and into the future.”