New Toowoomba Training hub to boost local jobs

• The Crisafulli Government has opened a new $3.8 million gas fitting workshop at TAFE Queensland’s Toowoomba campus.
• Up to 112 locals can now train close to home for plumbing and gas fitting jobs each year.
• The training helps fill local skills shortages and support local jobs.
• Construction has now begun on a new $8 million plumbing training tower at the campus.

The Crisafulli Government is delivering practical training where it is needed, opening a new multi-million-dollar gas‑fitting workshop at TAFE Queensland’s Toowoomba campus.

The facility will allow up to 112 students a year to train locally for plumbing and gas‑fitting jobs that are in demand, saving locals the long trip to Brisbane to gain these qualifications.

Under the former Labor government, too many training facilities were left behind while shortages grew across construction and trades which led to Labor's skills shortage. 

This upgrade is part of the Crisafulli Government’s plan for Queensland’s future – putting training where jobs are, and helping Queenslanders build secure working lives.

The workshop gives students a modern space to learn practical skills used across homes and businesses.  

Work has also begun on a new $8 million plumbing training tower. The tower will simulate a multistorey building, giving students hands-on experience so they are ready for work as soon as they graduate.

Treasurer David Janetzki said the new facility was giving people in Toowoomba, the Darling Downs and surrounding areas a chance to train and learn where they live.

“It means more young people have the chance to pursue the careers they want, without the need to upend their lives and relocate,” Treasurer Janetzki said.

“It also means more people are training to fill the in-demand jobs we need to build our economy.”

Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, Ros Bates, said the investment was about helping people get skills that lead to jobs.

“Queenslanders deserve training which leads to work, not training for training’s sake,” Minister Bates said.

“Modern training facilities help match people’s skills with the jobs employers are looking to fill.

“Backing skills and training is how we build secure jobs and a stronger economy for the future.”

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Christian Penny, 0439 882 294