A new centre in Castlemaine will deliver vital training for Victorians pursuing a career in healthcare, boosting local job opportunities and strengthening the region’s healthcare infrastructure, thanks to the Allan Labor Government.
Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards announced the launch of a project to build Bendigo TAFE’s new Health and Learning Hub in Castlemaine, which is supported by a $4 million investment from the Labor Government.
Bendigo TAFE is collaborating with Dhelkaya Health to create the Hub, which will be based in a renovated hospital wing at 142 Cornish Street, Castlemaine. The new centre will have training facilities for Bendigo TAFE’s health services qualifications in subjects like allied health, nursing and aged care.
As well as supporting students to gain healthcare skills that are in high demand, the partnership with Dhelkaya Health also means students will have direct access to placements and jobs in the local health industry.
"I'm thrilled by the partnership between Bendigo TAFE and Dhelkaya Health, bringing job opportunities and essential training right in the heart of our community," Ms Edwards said.
“I’ve been proud to commit to an expanded TAFE for the Castlemaine community – and it’s fantastic that works to deliver this are underway.”
A project builder will be selected later this year and construction will begin soon after, with students expected to start training on site in 2025.
The project is funded through the $170 million Building Better TAFE Fund, which is helping to ensure students have the best facilities to train in, close to home – which is important for regional Victorians.
The Building Better TAFE Fund is also supporting new TAFE campuses in Melton and Sunbury and a Centre of Excellence for Inclusion in Disability, Health and Community Support at the Gordon TAFE in Geelong.
Since 2014, the Labor Government has invested more than $4 billion into training, skills and higher education, ensuring Victorians have access to high quality education and rewarding career pathways.
