Queensland is on course to be at the helm of the marine industry as construction begins on the new jointly-funded $11.8 million TAFE Queensland Marine Centre of Excellence at Coomera.
Federal Minister for Employment, Workforce, Skills, Small and Family Business and Federal Member for Fadden Stuart Robert said the state-of-the-art facility will help train and prepare Queensland’s workforce for the anticipated growth in the superyacht and marine industry.
“The Morrison Government is backing Queenslanders with record funding for skills and training, this investment is part of our Revitalising TAFE Campuses Across Australia program,” Minister Robert said.
“This facility on the Gold Coast joins a number of TAFE renewal projects Queensland and the Commonwealth have worked to deliver across our state for the benefit of Queenslanders.”
“This world-class facility will support locals across the Gold Coast to develop world-leading skills and compete on a global stage.”
Queensland Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer said the centre will accommodate up to 500 students in marine construction, maintenance and specialist superyacht training.
“We know Queensland is a prime location for marine industry expansion, but that’s only possible with the skills and training in place and a workforce ready to take on the ocean of opportunities,” Minister Farmer said.
“That’s exactly what the new Marine Centre of Excellence will deliver, ensuring Queenslanders are ready to capitalise on the industry growth as our economy recovers from COVID-19.
“The new facility will include workshops for electrical and mechanical work, fibreglass and lamination, marine textiles and upholstery, and an outdoor boat workshop, welding facilities, staff accommodation and student learning and breakout spaces.
“Since 2017, the Palaszczuk Government has invested more than $225 million into revitalising TAFE campuses, which means TAFE can continue to deliver world-class training with industry-leading facilities like we are delivering here on the Gold Coast.”
Adam Houlahan, Safety, Training and Recruitment Manager for Coomera-based Riviera – Australia’s largest luxury motor yacht builder – said increased training opportunities are great news for the industry and for the local area.
“Centres like this enhance our ability to upskill, train and raise awareness about the marine manufacturing hub here on the Gold Coast,” Mr Houlahan said.
“With a marine industry-focused facility right on our doorstep, we have great access to new technology and training.
“I encourage people to find out more about the career options available and make their way into the growing marine industry.”
The new Marine Centre of Excellence at the TAFE Queensland Coomera campus is partly funded through the Revitalising TAFE Campuses across Australia initiative under a National Partnering Agreement with the Federal Government.
More than 15 jobs will be created through the construction, which is due for completion by May 2022.
