Aspiring nurses in the NSW Central West are set to benefit from a $635,000 investment that will see nursing training facilities at TAFE NSW Orange upgraded.
The NSW Government has announced plans to transform two existing four-bed wards at the TAFE facility into a cutting-edge simulated hospital environment.
The revamp will include purpose-built additions such as a clean preparation area, dirty utility, and a fully equipped training bathroom; all designed to replicate real-world clinical settings.
Students will train using the same equipment they’ll encounter on the job, including medical services panels at every bed, a medication fridge, and a lockable medicine cabinet, helping the build the confidence and competence to step straight into the healthcare workforce.
“This investment will set students up for real-world success now and into the future, not just in the classroom but in the region’s hospitals, clinics, and aged care facilities where they’re urgently needed,” said Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan.
“TAFE NSW Orange plays a vital role in training the next generation of nurses, and these upgrades will ensure students can confidently transition their skills from the classroom to the workplace.
“Whether it’s in Orange or across the Central West, we want our future nurses to have the best possible start, and that begins with world-class public training facilities”.
Orange is home to one of the largest regional health hubs in NSW. Nurses account for over 42% of the Western NSW Local Health District workforce, making the investment a critical part of strengthening the pipeline of skilled local nurses who can meet growing community needs, said Mr Whan.
The Minister visited the campus today to tour the existing nursing facilities and announce the funding package.
Work is set to commence later this year and will be completed by mid-2026.
