The NSW Government has announced $2.5 million in funding to upgrade freight and transport industries training facilities at TAFE NSW Wetherill Park.
With road freight demand projected to grow by almost 80% by 2050, the Government said there is an increasing demand for the specialist workers who build, maintain and repair the trucks, trailers.
The upgrades will deliver a new covered outdoor learning area to support hands-on training for vehicle manufacturing apprentices, as well as upgrades to the campus’ engineering grinding room.
The outdoor learning area will provide dedicated space for practical training involving heavy vehicle dismantling and assembly, while engineering upgrades will include new industry-compliant extraction systems and safety improvements.
“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,” said Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan.
“These upgrades will strengthen specialist training at TAFE NSW Wetherill Park while giving students exposure to emerging technologies that are helping shape the future of transport.”
Apprentices will also be supported to upskill in emerging 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 truck will give students exposure to next-generation heavy vehicle technology and demonstrate how hydrogen can be used as a zero-emissions energy source alongside battery electric and conventional vehicle systems.
“The Minns Labor Government is investing in modern TAFE facilities across Western Sydney including at Wetherill Park to ensure local students can access the training opportunities they need for long-term success,” said Deputy Premier of New South Wales and Minister for Western Sydney, Prue Car.
“This investment in training is being backed by our generational investment in projects like Western Sydney Airport, securing highly skilled jobs for locals so they can work close to home.”
Construction of the outdoor learning area is expected to commence mid 2026 with engineering upgrades scheduled for completion in 2027.
