The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by TAFE NSW Managing Director, Steve Brady, and Managing Director and CEO of BlueScope, Mark Vassella during a community celebration event at the Port Kembla Steelworks last night.

The signing came as BlueScope released a Master Plan for 200 hectares of landholdings adjacent to the Port Kembla Steelworks.

Under the MoU, TAFE NSW and BlueScope will work together over the coming six months to explore the establishment of a flagship training campus on the site.

Minister for Skills TAFE, and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said the Memorandum of Understanding with BlueScope is another example of positive collaboration between TAFE NSW and industry.

“The NSW Government is committed to advancing skills training through collaboration with industry,” Mr Whan said.

“TAFE NSW maintains a robust presence in the Illawarra, with campuses at Wollongong, Wollongong West, Shellharbour, and Yallah.

“In light of BlueScope’s master plan for surplus land at its Port Kembla site, a unique opportunity has arisen for both parties to forge closer ties.”

Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast, Ryan Park said:

“BlueScope is one of the biggest employers in the Illawarra but also indirectly drives job creation throughout the region.

“I am so proud of this partnership.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, and Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said:

“The potential to incorporate a new ‘super TAFE’ on the surplus BlueScope land is an exciting opportunity for the Illawarra.

“Getting a great education opens up so many opportunities for people, this partnership has the potential to be so beneficial to our local community.