The NSW State Government will invest $2.5 million to upgrade training facilities at TAFE NSW Wetherill Park, as demand grows for skilled workers across the state’s freight and transport industries.
The funding will deliver a new covered outdoor learning area for hands-on heavy vehicle training, along with upgrades to the campus’ engineering grinding room.
The investment comes as road freight demand is projected to grow by almost 80 per cent by 2050, increasing the need for workers able to build, maintain and repair trucks, trailers and buses.
The new outdoor learning area will provide dedicated space for practical training in heavy vehicle dismantling and assembly. Engineering upgrades will include new industry-compliant extraction systems and safety improvements, with construction expected to begin in mid-2026 and works scheduled for completion in 2027.
Students will also gain exposure to emerging clean transport technologies through a collaboration between TAFE NSW and clean energy company Pure One, which has offered a hydrogen-powered electric prime mover truck valued at $780,000 for educational purposes.
The vehicle will allow apprentices to learn about hydrogen as a zero-emissions energy source alongside battery electric and conventional heavy vehicle systems.
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan says the investment will help build the workforce needed to support the NSW freight sector.
“The NSW freight industry underpins our economy. We need a pipeline of skilled workers who can build, maintain and service the trucks, trailers and heavy vehicles that keep our state moving,” says Steve.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car says the investment will help ensure local students can access long-term training opportunities close to home.
The funding builds on the government’s $54 million investment in the TAFE NSW Advanced Manufacturing Centre of Excellence – Western Sydney at Wetherill Park, strengthening the campus’ role in supporting manufacturing, engineering and transport skills.
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