Charles Darwin University (CDU) has officially opened its new Trades Training Centre at the Casuarina campus, aiming to bolster local capacity for trade education and address skills shortages across the Northern Territory.
The 2,400-square metre, two-storey facility will support CDU TAFE in delivering training across a range of trades, with current courses already underway in construction pathways, carpentry, plumbing, and roof plumbing.
CDU has confirmed that the scope of training will continue to grow, offering additional trade programs to help meet workforce demand in the Territory, the university said in a news release.
Equipped with a heavy equipment precinct, assembly and workshop areas, an industrial sand pit, and classrooms, the Centre is designed to provide a hands-on, industry-aligned learning environment.
CDU Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive TAFE Michael Hamilton said the Centre will enhance the training experience for students pursuing careers in the trades sector.
“The University has enhanced trades training and the student experience by providing high-quality equipment, industry-relevant curriculum, and collaborations with leading trade professionals,” Mr Hamilton said.
“The Centre offers a dynamic learning environment that will contribute to the professional growth of our students.”
CDU Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Scott Bowman said the facility reflects the university’s commitment to delivering practical, job-ready skills for apprentices entering the workforce.
“Our commitment to providing modern facilities for vocational education is evident in the new Trades Training Centre, which will prepare apprentices with skills they need to succeed,” Professor Bowman said.
“We want to support the construction industry here in the Territory with practical courses that can help address skills shortages, filling the need for qualified apprentices in trades that are essential for housing and infrastructure developments.”
The new facility was delivered by Aspire Design and Construct, with Executive Director Lisa Jenkinson expressing pride in contributing to the project.
“Aspire is proud to be a part of such a great facility for up-and-coming trades people in the Territory,” Ms Jenkinson said.
“Construction is a significant part of the NT, and knowing firsthand the impact the shortage of skilled tradespersons has on the industry, local businesses throughout the NT will undoubtedly benefit from this facility.”
The Trades Training Centre is estimated to have cost $10 million, including $6.8 million in funding from the Northern Territory Government’s annual VET Capital Grant, which supports the development of Vocational Education and Training infrastructure.
Northern Territory Minister for Education and Training Jo Hersey said the opening of the new facility complements broader government initiatives to strengthen the Territory’s trade training pipeline.
“There has never been a better time to seize the opportunity to engage in trade training with the opening of the trades training centre, the recently announced 170 free TAFE places in construction and housing sector courses, and our Government’s HomeGrown Territory Grant of $50,000 for first home buyers to build or purchase a new home,” Minister Hersey said.
