MS TIERNEY (Western Victoria—Minister for Training and Skills, Minister for Higher Education) (12:45): I rise to share that Wodonga TAFE was recently awarded the Australian Defence Force driver machinery and plant training services contract at the army school of transport at Puckapunyal. This is an outstanding achievement for a TAFE. The contract spans up to nine years, cementing Wodonga TAFE as a leading defence training provider across Australia. Wodonga TAFE has a proud history of delivering training for the Australian Defence Force at the army school of health, the army school of logistics and the army school of transport. As of last year, the TAFE commenced delivery of training at the army school of electrical and mechanical engineering.
I did have the opportunity to visit the Australian Defence Force Bandiana barracks last year, and I heard firsthand how valued Wodonga TAFE is by the Australian Defence Force. Wodonga TAFE is not just delivering training to the Australian Defence Force; they are delivering world-class training. This was also recognised with the TAFE being awarded the 2019 Academic Institution of the Year at the Australian Defence Industry Awards.
This contract is good for Victoria, and it is great for Wodonga. As a result of the partnership, Wodonga TAFE are investing significantly in their capacity, their workforce and their community. The TAFE is focused on ensuring that the benefits of this contract are invested in the local community, with the supply of goods and services sourced from the local area. This contract also enhances education and training opportunities for the region, including upgraded facilities. This is why we invest in TAFE, because that investment leads to innovation. It leads to opportunities that support local communities all across Victoria. Congratulations to all involved in achieving this outstanding outcome.