Kangan Institute's Automotive Centre of Excellence in the Docklands, Victoria, has been launched as the largest and most advanced automotive training and research facility in the southern hemisphere following the completion of the $84 million Stage 2 of the training facility.

 

Officially opening the state-of-the-art auto training facility today, Minister for Higher Education and Skills Peter Hall said the Victorian Government's contribution of $40 million to secure the very best facilities for supporting and developing skills for the Victorian automotive industry was money well spent.

 

"It is appropriate this fantastic new facility is located right here in Victoria because our state is the heart of Australia's automotive industry," Mr Hall said.

 

"The government's investment represents one of the largest capital investments in any TAFE infrastructure project in Victoria and demonstrates the Victorian Government's commitment to this vital industry."

 

The Automotive Centre of Excellence contains leading-edge technology including:

  • a world-class vehicle and engine testing facility encompassing motorcycle, light and heavy vehicle dynamometers and associated engine emission test units;
  • state-of-the-art auto electrical lab with the latest simulation and diagnostic equipment; and
  • specialised workshop spaces, including a dedicated workshop for industry training.
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It is expected 530 students a day will attend the new centre, with around 3,500 students involved in automotive courses this year.

 

"The new centre has been built in close consultation with the automotive industry to ensure the training, research and development that takes place further drives the competitiveness of the sector, encourages future investment and supports jobs growth," Mr Hall said.

 

Training offered at the Automotive Centre of Excellence includes apprenticeships, traineeships, post-trade specialities, industry training and short courses with qualifications from Cert I to Diploma level across all currently recognised automotive trades.