For more than four decades Campbelltown TAFE college has been an educational hub for local kids to upskill and gain crucial qualifications.
But now questions are being asked if this vital educational asset will become a victim of a horror NSW state budget.
The Liberal-National Government has refused to rule out privatisation, cutting courses, closing campuses and increasing fees.
After visiting Campbelltown TAFE, Labor leader Jodi McKay and Greg Warren, local MP and Western Sydney spokesman for the opposition, have demanded a guarantee on its future.
Ms McKay said investing in TAFE was critical to combat some of the worst skill shortages in NSW.
“Real and meaningful investment in education and training is more important than ever,” Ms McKay said.
“I’m here in Campbelltown today demanding the government doesn’t close this campus, doesn’t raise fees and doesn’t cut any further courses.
“In fast growing area like Campbelltown we should be growing TAFE, not having to fight to keep the doors open.’’
The population growth for the Macarthur region is immense, and Campbelltown is expected to double in size in the next 25 years, Mr Warren said.
“We
need be planning for this growth, not cutting back important institutions like
TAFE.
“There’s a big problem here with attracting skilled workers.
“There are massive skills shortages across Western Sydney.
“TAFE
is the solution. We need investment in campuses like Campbelltown not cuts.
“We can’t let the greedy government sell it off to pay for its budget
blowouts.”
As well as defending Campbelltown TAFE yesterday, Ms McKay announced Labor’s shadow
cabinet would meet in Camden next week.
It’s the third in a series of shadow cabinet visits outside of Parliament House
and comes off the back of successful meetings in Singleton and Tumut.
Ms McKay said it was important to travel with her shadow cabinet beyond
Macquarie Street.
