A new purpose-built electric vehicle (EV) laboratory will help bridge the emerging skills gap of specially trained technicians in Australia, thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Training and Skills and Higher Education Gayle Tierney today opened the new laboratory at the Kangan Institute’s Automotive Centre of Excellence at Docklands, made possible by a $1.4 million Labor Government investment.

The advanced automotive and electrical lab is home to the latest technology in electronic training boards and simulators, new computers and software programs and sophisticated teaching aids. This equipment can simulate almost all variants of EVs, making it flexible and adaptable to current and future markets.

These facilities will improve the learning opportunities of new students and apprentices as well as upskill existing industry technicians to make sure Victorians thrive as soon as they enter the workforce.

Kangan Institute will deliver a wide range of EV-specific accredited courses and skills to give those in the automotive industry the chance to upskill. A new apprenticeship program specialising in EVs will give all Australians the opportunity to train and work in an emerging industry.

This investment, delivered through the $12 million TAFE Equipment and Facilities Fund, will help Victoria achieve its target for EVs to make up 50 per cent of all new light-vehicle sales by 2030.

The Fund is part of the Labor Government’s $3.5 billion investment to rebuild TAFE and support universities and higher education to ensure Victorians have access to high-quality education and rewarding career pathways.

The Government has delivered nation-leading reforms to fix the broken TAFE and vocational education system left by the former Napthine Liberal Government including offering Free TAFE for more than 70 courses.

Free TAFE has saved students around $325 million in tuition fees since the Labor Government introduced it in 2019 – removing the barriers to training for a great new career for around 125,000 students.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney

“This investment will support auto industry workers to become fully trained EV technicians – getting them skilled and ready for the jobs of the future.”

“With more electric vehicles on our roads, it’s critical that Victorians have the specialist training they need to service them safely.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Climate Action Lily D’Ambrosio

“We know EV technology is becoming more popular and accessible – and it’s a vital component in our plan to reach net zero emissions by 2045 – which is why we’re investing in this centre for excellence.”

Quote attributable to Member for Northern Metropolitan Region Sheena Watt

“This investment benefits our whole community – creating more jobs, skills and a more sustainable future.”