Plans for a new Kangan Institute campus in Melbourne’s west have been unveiled, with construction expected to deliver expanded vocational training capacity in the region.
Victoria’s Minister for Skills and TAFE, Mr Colin Brooks, this month released initial designs for the $55 million facility, which will be located in Melton. The campus is scheduled to open in 2028 and is expected to accommodate around 800 students annually.
A site has been selected near the Melton train station, with proximity to local schools and a future hospital development. The campus will include specialist training workshops for construction, gas fitting, welding, refrigeration and plumbing.
Additional facilities will include an emerging technologies laboratory and a cybersecurity simulation space.
The Melton project is part of a broader program of TAFE infrastructure development across Victoria, with new campuses also planned for Sunbury, Geelong and Bendigo.
According to government figures, more than 245,000 students have enrolled in Free TAFE courses since the program began in 2019. The government reports that the initiative has reduced tuition costs for students, with total savings exceeding $816 million.
Minister Brooks said the new campus would expand access to vocational education in Melbourne’s western suburbs. Local Member for Melton Mr Steve McGhie said the project would provide additional training opportunities closer to home for residents.
Kangan Institute CEO Ms Laura Macpherson said the campus had been designed to support practical learning and workforce pathways, with a focus on accessibility for the local community.