Industry experts from Werribee are being encouraged to sign-up as TAFE teachers, with a new incentive program funded by the Andrews Labor Government.

Member for Werribee Tim Pallas announced the launch of the new TAFE Teacher Training Scholarship, with up to 200 study assistance scholarships valued at $10,000 each to be offered to experts across a variety of in-demand industries, including health and community services, construction and electrotechnology.

The program will enhance the TAFE teaching workforce amid skyrocketing VET enrolments, which increased by 13 per cent to May compared with the same time last year.

More than 87, 200 students have now started a Free TAFE course since the initiative launched in 2019 – giving Victorians better access to the high-quality training they need for the state’s most in-demand jobs.

The new TAFE Teacher Training Scholarship is also a unique opportunity for skilled workers seeking a career change or for those affected by the coronavirus pandemic to pass on their industry-relevant skills to TAFE students.

Leading the campaign is electrician Bec Newman and registered nurse Ian Balducci, who collectively have decades of experience and both teach their trades at Chisholm TAFE.

The Labor Government has made a record $3.2 billion investment to rebuild TAFE and support universities and higher education to ensure Victorians have access to high quality education and rewarding career pathways.

The Victorian Budget 2021/22 includes a $383.8 million investment in the sector to ensure more Victorians get the training they need for in-demand jobs.

To find out more about the scholarship, visit skills.vic.gov.au/s/contact-the-tafe-and-training-line.

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“This initiative is a great opportunity for both skilled workers from Wyndham to get involved to foster the next generation of Victorian trades workers – and create a pipeline of skilled workers for Wyndham.”

“We have rebuilt TAFE across Victoria – enrolments are booming and we need more teachers. If you have the know-how we want you to sign-up to help train the next generation of Victorian workers.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney

“The TAFE Teaching Scholarship program is all about harnessing the skills and knowledge of our fantastic industry experts to give students the highest quality, industry-focused training.”

Quote attributable to Chisholm TAFE electrical teacher Bec Newman

“Each day is different and it’s really rewarding teaching the apprentices and seeing them grow in confidence in their trade – teaching at TAFE allows me to still enjoy the trade I love, and I still keep in contact with industry.”