Langbroek fails to rule out TAFE campus closures

Media Release 

Deputy Opposition Leader Tim Mulherin says the Training Minister John-Paul Langbroek’s assertions that it is business as usual at Queensland TAFEs means nothing unless he can guarantee no campuses will be closed.

Mr Mulherin said it is time for Mr Langbroek to clearly state what his plans are for Queensland’s 82 TAFE campuses and if he plans any closures.

“On Tuesday, the Queensland Skills and Training Taskforce recommended the slashing of 38 of the 82 TAFE campuses across Queensland,” Mr Mulherin said.

“Mr Langbroek has today sluggishly responded to concerns raised from the report claiming students have nothing to worry about.

“The only way Mr Langbroek can reassure TAFE students is by guaranteeing no TAFE campuses in Queensland will be closed.

“Prospective TAFE students are currently selecting their courses for next year, how can they make an informed decision without knowing which TAFE campuses will remain open?” he said.

Mr Mulherin said the closures were another attack on regional communities by the LNP Government which had already slashed thousands of jobs and services in the regions.

“The LNP is now making it even more difficult for people in regional areas to access the training and tertiary education needed to gain what employment is left in the regional towns where the LNP Government has cut jobs and services,” he said.

“The LNP Government has already slashed the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative which helped place young people and the long-term unemployed in work.

“Now the LNP Government is further disadvantaging regional communities by making access to education and training even more difficult.

“Mr Langbroek and LNP MPs also need to explain if access to TAFE will be maintained for local students in centres losing their campus.”