The Victorian Government has established a new purpose-built electric vehicle (EV) laboratory at the Kangan Institute in Docklands to help improve the skills of specially trained technicians across the country.
The advanced automotive and electrical lab features the latest technology in electronic training boards and simulators, new computers, software programs and sophisticated teaching aids.
The facilities are expected to boost learning opportunities for new students and apprentices and upskill existing industry technicians to ensure they can use all the skills they learned as they support the EV segment.
Kangan will create a wide range of EV-specific accredited courses and skills to give individuals in the automotive industry a chance to upskill.
According to Victorian Training and Skills and Higher Education Minister Gayle Tierney, the new lab at Kangan’s Automotive Centre of Excellence was made possible through a $1.4 million State Government investment.
The investment, delivered through the $12 million TAFE Equipment and Facilities Fund, will help Victoria achieve its target for EVs to make up 50% of all new light-vehicle sales by 2030.
The fund is part of the State Government’s $3.5 billion investment to rebuild TAFE and support universities and higher education to ensure people have access to high-quality education and rewarding career pathways.
Minister Tierney said the investment would support auto industry workers so they can be 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,” she added.
Minister for Climate Action Lily D’Ambrosio said the Government is investing in the centre of excellence because it is part of broader plans to reach net zero emissions by 2045.
“This investment benefits our whole community, creating more jobs, skills and a more sustainable future,” Member for Northern Metropolitan Region Sheena Watt commented.
