The Greens are calling on the Liberal Government to provide an urgent update on the statutory TasTAFE review, following news TAFE is cutting jobs in southern Tasmania.
It is disappointing that the Liberals have dropped the ball on TasTAFE. TAFE is so important to the state – in providing opportunities for people, supporting industry, and contributing to the economy.
The Greens have consistently raised concerns about the impact of TasTAFE’s Automotive training facility in Campbell Street being closed until 2026. The Government should be investing in providing an alternative training facility – or better yet finally developing an Automotive Centre of Excellence with EV training courses. Instead, they’re cutting jobs and forcing some apprentices to travel to Launceston.
The Liberals previously promised 100 extra TAFE teachers but that promise seems to have been let slip . It’s crucial that we are talking about hiring additional teachers, and not just replacing those who have left.
With so many important – and concerning – developments happening with TasTAFE, we want to know where the legislatively required review of the organisation is. There is no excuse for it to be late, but the Liberals haven’t even tried to explain where it is.
With job cuts already underway, and this week’s news of cuts to public service jobs and privatisation of Government Businesses, there is significant uncertainty for TasTAFE – which is uniquely positioned as a not for profit Government Business, rather than a GBE.
The Liberal Government must not make any decisions on the future of TasTAFE until the statutory review has been completed.
