TAFE SA, PORT PIRIE

In reply to Mr BROCK (Frome) (15 May 2012).

The Hon. T.R. KENYON (Newland—Minister for Employment, Higher Education and Skills, Minister for Science and Information Economy, Minister for Recreation and Sport): The Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology (DFEEST) assumed responsibility for the Port Pirie campus of the former Australian Technical College (ATC)—Spencer Gulf and Outback from the Australian Government's Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations. Under this arrangement, DFEEST would assume responsibility/ownership for the site over the three year calendar period from January 2010.

The site is used intermittently by TAFE SA Regional for training purposes and to store some heavy vehicle equipment.

As advised during question time, St John's Ambulance and Port Pirie Radio Broadcasters (TRAX FM) currently lease sections of the site.

The Member for Frome also referred to the alleged relocation of certificate courses in the heavy vehicle mechanics area from allegedly proposed delivery at the former ATC site, to the Mary Elie Street campus car park.

I am advised that TAFE SA Regional does not currently deliver Heavy Vehicle Mechanics (Diesel) training from the former ATC site. TAFE SA Regional continues to explore future uses for the site.

However it does deliver training for the mining and resources sector generally through Port Augusta Campus, Whyalla Campus, Port Pirie Campus and intermittently from the site of the former ATC.

TAFE SA Regional has sought funding via submission to the Commonwealth Government's EIF (Education Investment Fund) Regional Priorities Round to support the redevelopment of Port Augusta campus, which would assist in accommodating the expansion of various training areas, including Heavy Vehicle Mechanics (Diesel). A decision by the Commonwealth Government on the submission is not expected until the second half of 2012 and, if successful, it is expected that the redevelopment will take up to 24 months to complete.

Should the EIF application be unsuccessful, it would be TAFE SA Regional's intention to deliver Heavy Vehicle Mechanics (Diesel) training from Port Pirie Campus and this would require use of the former ATC site.