$34M to rescue Queensland TAFE from Newman government cuts

Media Release

Labor will launch a bold package to rescue Queensland TAFE colleges following their decimation under the Newman Government.
Opposition Leader Annastacia Palaszczuk said Labor would invest $34 over three years to rebuild TAFE as a leading provider of vocational education in Queensland.
“Labor recognises the need to support skills and training, and we will rescue our TAFE system that has been torn apart by the LNP,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“Campbell Newman cut courses and implemented massive fee rises but Labor will restore TAFE as the leading provider of Vocational Education and Training in our state.
“Put simply, TAFE Queensland will not survive another term of the LNP Government.”
Ms Palaszczuk said the $34 million rescue package included:
• creating up to 100 TAFE teaching and support positions,
• funding new training in emerging industries
• investing in student support services, and
• subsidising foundation skills courses for disadvantaged learners.
“We will also scrap the LNP’s approach that is taking TAFE out of young people’s reach,” Ms Palaszczuk.
“TAFE is essential if young Queenslanders are to have viable career choices.
“We know youth unemployment is skyrocketing in some parts of Queensland and apprenticeships are dangerously low.
“Labor views TAFE as a provider of well-trained workers for our future.
“The LNP sees it as yet another asset to strip bare and sell off.”

Labor will repeal the Queensland Training Asset Management Authority legislation, passed by the LNP to allow for the easy disposal of assets after the 2015 election.