If we just go to the budget papers, minister, page 123, TasTAFE, there's a significant move around of about $26 million in terms of TasTAFE's assets, cash and deposits.
Final question: in terms of the 2021 commitment, around 100 jobs, we've had extensive conversation across the table about that 69 FTE, including I guess 24 who have been bumped up to full time. That leaves 31 underneath the commitment of 100. You are recruiting. Can you confirm that you're recruiting to meet that 100 full-time equivalent position target? Does that still stand that you are recruiting and trying to fill another 31 positions?
In light of the rising skills shortages, how does the government intend to boost funding for TasTAFE to meet future workplace demands and ensure that students across the state in all regional areas have access to quality future‑ready vocational training?
Minister, you mentioned fee-free courses. I note that TAFE offers some courses and some eligibility in that space. TasTAFE obviously provides a really important education and training opportunities to young Tasmanians and people wanting to get trained up and stay here and work.
This National Skills Week, the Tasmanian Greens are calling on the Rockliff Government to prioritise investment in training opportunities in future industry jobs.
The Mercury quoted a former TasTAFE teacher who described the training institute's workplace as, a 'toxic environment'.
At the moment, we're looking at a nearly $18 million operating deficit in two years’ time. That is kind of devastating.
Minister, is it still your intention for the new TasTAFE act to commence on the 1 July this year and can you step us through the transition process?
This legislation has come from a single submission, from a former secretary of Treasury, Don Challen. One submission.
The Tasmanian Greens do not support the Government’s position to make TasTAFE a Government Business Enterprise.