As Cardinia residents lack accessible TAFE options, Rachel asked if the government would commit to establishing a TAFE location within Cardinia Shire. Given the government’s focus on free TAFE with the Education and Training Reform Amendment (Free TAFE Guarantee) Bill 2026, campus accessibility must be considered.
Wednesday the 1st of April, 2026
Victorian Legislative Council
Rachel Payne (South-Eastern Metropolitan):
My constituency question is for the Minister for Skills and TAFE.
My constituent is a resident of Beaconsfield Upper. He is looking to study horticulture with aspirations to become an arborist. My constituent has found course options in Cranbourne and Glen Waverley. However, he lives out of home and does not drive.
There are no viable public transport options from Beaconsfield Upper to these locations on weekdays. Beaconsfield Upper is a suburb of Cardinia Shire – one of the fastest growing areas of my electorate – which currently has no TAFE facilities.
My constituent would have no choice but to use a rideshare service to travel to TAFE. This is a cost many students simply cannot afford.
So, my constituent asks: Will the Minister commit to expanding TAFE options in Cardinia Shire?
