THE State Government has secured land for a new $78 million TAFE Centre of Excellence at Caloundra, aimed at tackling skills shortages and boosting training for construction and allied trades.
The purpose-built facility will be located in the Sunshine Coast Industrial Park, just north of Aura, and is expected to train thousands of new tradespeople from 2028. It will include classrooms and workshops for carpentry, electrical, plumbing and other high-demand trades.
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the project showed the government’s commitment to unlocking land and delivering infrastructure in key growth areas. “After just 10 months, we’ve unlocked land, invested in training and are building Queensland’s future,” he said.
Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Minister Ros Bates said the centre was a key election commitment.
“This investment will help deliver more homes and infrastructure while preparing Queensland for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” she said.
Member for Caloundra Kendall Morton said the project would be a gamechanger for young people and local businesses.
“We’re delivering a world-class training facility that will give locals the skills they need to build successful careers, right here at home,” she said.
The facility is designed to help meet growing demand for housing and infrastructure across South East Queensland while supporting small businesses crying out for skilled workers.