The first cohort of students has commenced training at the new TAFE NSW Net Zero Manufacturing Centre of Excellence in Newcastle, equipping the region’s workforce for Australia’s clean energy transition.
The facility will offer up to 1,000 fee-free training places annually, allowing local workers to upskill or retrain for emerging careers in advanced manufacturing and renewable energy.
Delivered as a Higher Apprenticeship, the inaugural course, the Diploma of Renewable, Sustainable and Circular Manufacturing Management, blends technical expertise, leadership skills, and practical industry experience. The program is specifically tailored to support projects across the Hunter-Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone.
The Centre was established through a joint AU$56.21 million investment from the federal and state governments under the National Skills Agreement, alongside an additional AU$5.27 million from the Commonwealth’s Turbocharging TAFE Centres of Excellence initiative.
Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles said that the investment directly targets the jobs of the future, connecting local industry with targeted training.
“Through the National Skills Agreement, we’re investing in TAFE Centres of Excellence that connect industry with training and help deliver the skilled workforce for Australia’s clean energy and manufacturing future,” the minister said.
“The Hunter has powered NSW for generations and we have the people and the industry here to keep powering our future,” Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley added, noting that most students in the intake already reside and work in the region.
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan contrasted the initiative with previous policy settings, stating that future-focused qualifications are essential to rebuilding TAFE and preparing workers for economic change.
Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon and State Member Tim Crakanthorp highlighted Newcastle’s industrial legacy, noting that local pathways ensure residents can secure high-paying, sustainable careers without leaving the region.
As Australia accelerates toward its net-zero targets, the Hunter’s new training hub establishes a key pipeline for the skilled personnel needed to drive green manufacturing across the nation.