Central Coast News

The Housing Industry Association (HIA) is forecasting 125,000 houses are expected to begin construction this year across Australia, following a record 149,000 last year. This is driving hot demand for tradespeople until at least the end of 2023.

HIA’s General Manager Apprentices, Russell Holtham said TAFE NSW plays a critical role in the training of HIA apprentices in residential building trades in NSW.

“Vocational education is a key pathway into the construction industry. TAFE NSW offers students an invaluable combination of theory and practical experience, which combined with HIA’s apprentice offering means graduates are ready to hit the ground running.”

Tuggerah local and TAFE NSW Glendale student Tamzin Callary is studying a Certificate III in Tiling and Roofing and has secured work at Style in Tiling NSW.

“The course is hugely valuable, the TAFE NSW teachers had real industry experience to pass on as they had all worked in the construction sector themselves.”

“The TAFE NSW teachers gave me a big picture understanding of the future of the industry and it’s that kind of foundational knowledge you need to build a really successful career.”

TAFE NSW Construction Head Teacher Ian Austen, said as NSW’s leading provider of vocational education and training, TAFE NSW was uniquely positioned to arm students with the hands-on, practical skills they need to develop successful careers.

“There are so many opportunities to make a difference in a rewarding construction career, and our skills- based courses allow students to hit the ground running in local industries and stay living and working in regional areas,” Mr Austin said.

“Many of the construction sectors across NSW are experiencing growth in jobs, so there is currently an opportunity to choose from a diverse range of careers.”

Australia’s growing demand for tradies is unlikely to end any time soon, as the ongoing house building and renovation boom keeps skilled tradespeople like plumbers, carpenters, electricians, and builders busier than ever.

For more information about the range of construction industry courses available at TAFE NSW or via TAFE Digital, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601.