Sam Rae (Hawke, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Labor is the party of education. Whether through TAFE or universities, we're delivering policies that invest in people and their future while keeping education costs down. Two weeks ago, the Albanese Labor government introduced legislation to make permanent free TAFE a feature of Australia's education system. This guarantees 100,000 free TAFE places annually and creates vital pathways for Australians to gain the skills that our nation needs.

Last week, the Albanese Labor government announced a new university study hub in Melton, in my electorate, ensuring that where you live doesn't limit your access to university education. This hub will give local students the resources and support to pursue university studies close to home, creating more opportunities for education and upskilling. These important initiatives come alongside investments by the Victorian Labor government, including funding for new TAFE campuses in Melton and Sunbury. Alongside permanent free TAFE, these projects will deliver world-class vocational education, meeting the needs of both students and local employees.

After nearly a decade of neglect under the Liberals which saw TAFE gutted, the Albanese government is rebuilding our vocational education and training sector. While we're making free TAFE permanent, the Liberals are calling it wasteful. The Liberal Party have no vision for education and no plan for skills. Peter Dutton's arrogance is putting Australia's future at risk. (Time expired)