The Victorian Government has invested $1.4 million in a new purpose-built electric vehicle (EV) laboratory at the Kangan Institute’s Automotive Centre of Excellence which will deliver a wide range of EV-specific accredited courses and skills to give those in the automotive industry the chance to upskill.
The new apprenticeship program specialising in EVs will give all Australians the opportunity to train and work in an emerging industry.
This investment, delivered through the $12 million TAFE Equipment and Facilities Fund, will help Victoria achieve its target for EVs to make up 50 per cent of all new light-vehicle sales by 2030.
Victorina Minister for Training and Skills and Higher Education, Gayle Tierney, opened the new laboratory at the Kangan Institute’s Automotive Centre of Excellence, located in Docklands, Melbourne.
“This investment will support auto industry workers to become fully trained EV technicians – getting them skilled and ready for the jobs of the future,” Ms Tierney said.
“With more electric vehicles on roads, it’s critical that Victorians have the specialist training they need to service them safely.”
The advanced automotive and electrical lab is home to the latest technology in electronic training boards and simulators, new computers and software programs and sophisticated teaching aids. This equipment can simulate almost all variants of EVs, making it flexible and adaptable to current and future markets.
These facilities will improve the learning opportunities of new students and apprentices as well as upskill existing industry technicians to make sure Victorians thrive as soon as they enter the workforce.
Victorian Minister for Climate Action, Lily D’Ambrosio, said, “We know EV technology is becoming more popular and accessible – and it’s a vital component in our plan to reach net zero emissions by 2045 – which is why we’re investing in this centre for excellence.”
Member for Northern Metropolitan Region Sheena Watt said, “This investment benefits our whole community – creating more jobs, skills and a more sustainable future.”
The Fund is part of the Victorian Government’s $3.5 billion investment to rebuild TAFE and support universities and higher education to ensure Victorians have access to high-quality education and rewarding career pathways.
