Steve Whan
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education

MEDIA RELEASE

NSW Government bolsters regions animal care workforce 

Tuesday, 2 July 2024

Construction has commenced on new Animal Care facilities at TAFE NSW Kurri Kurri to help meet the persistent demand for skilled workers in the thriving industry. 

Demand for qualified animal care workers, including veterinary nurses and animal care attendants, in the Hunter Region is expected to grow by 15 per cent over the next five years.

TAFE NSW Kurri Kurri is one of three campuses to deliver Animal Care courses within a 100km radius, training animal-loving learners for careers in veterinary nursing and animal care from across the Hunter region.

The $1 million refurbishment will provide larger, modernised learning spaces with increased capacity for both learners and animals.

The new facilities will also enable the practical teaching of more services for more animals, expanding the range of hands-on skills students experience as part of their training. 

The new building will include a practical learning space, general purpose classroom, hydro-bath area, dog run, and animal enclosures for dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and chickens.

Set to be complete in September 2024, the new facilities will be used to deliver training for Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, Certificate III in Animal Care Services, Certificate II in Animal Care and Certificate II in Animal Care (TVET).

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said:

"These refurbished facilities at TAFE NSW Kurri Kurri will enable more students to access the specialised training needed to enter the booming veterinary industry.

"The improved facilities will support students to develop the job-ready skills required to enter the industry and work confidently with a wide range of animals.

"Australia has one of the highest pet ownership rates in the world with more than two-thirds of all households owning at least one pet, so it's no surprise the demand for skilled pet groomers and veterinary nurses remains high."

Member for Cessnock, Clayton Barr said:

"TAFE NSW Kurri Kurri is such a key institution in the electorate of Cessnock, and it's great to see the NSW Government investing in these facilities.

"I can't wait to see this new building completed and improved facilities for our local students."