With road freight demand expected to increase by almost 80 per cent by 2050, the upgrades are aimed at ensuring a pipeline of workers capable of building, maintaining and repairing the trucks, trailers and buses that keep goods moving across NSW.
The project will deliver a new covered outdoor learning area for vehicle manufacturing apprentices, providing dedicated space for practical heavy vehicle dismantling and assembly training.
The campus engineering grinding room will also be upgraded with new extraction systems and improved safety measures to meet modern industry standards.
The investment comes as the sector faces an ageing workforce, with almost half of Australia’s vehicle body builders aged 45 years and older, highlighting the need to train the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
Students will also gain experience with emerging clean transport technologies through a partnership between TAFE NSW and clean energy company Pure One.
The company has provided a hydrogen-powered electric prime mover truck worth $780,000, giving apprentices hands-on exposure to zero-emissions technology alongside conventional and battery-electric vehicle systems.
Construction of the outdoor training area is expected to begin in mid-2026, with engineering upgrades scheduled for completion in 2027.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said the investment would ensure local students had access to modern training facilities and opportunities close to home.
“The Government is investing in modern TAFE facilities across Western Sydney to ensure local students can access the training opportunities they need for long-term success,” Ms Car said.
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said the upgrades would help rebuild TAFE NSW and deliver the skills needed by the freight industry.
“We need a pipeline of skilled workers who can build, maintain and service the heavy vehicles that keep our state moving,” Mr Whan said.
Member for Prospect Hugh McDermott welcomed the funding, saying the upgrades would provide students with practical skills in both traditional heavy vehicle manufacturing and emerging clean transport technologies.
The latest investment builds on the Government’s $54M commitment to establish the TAFE NSW Advanced Manufacturing Centre of Excellence – Western Sydney at Wetherill Park.
