Animal studies training centre opens

The new $4.9M Animal Studies Training Centre at TAFE NSW Wyong has been officially opened.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan dropped by to join Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris at the opening.

The state-of-the-art facility is set to become the go-to-hub for more than 480 Central Coast students enrolled in animal care and veterinary nursing courses this semester.

They will have access to a simulated veterinary-style clinic, theatre and radiology rooms, as well as grooming and hydrotherapy facilities, and specialist animal habitats.

By equipping students with real-world skills in animal care services, veterinary nursing and even wildlife and exhibited animals, the new centre is unlocking exciting career pathways into the booming animal care industry.

With the number of veterinary nurses in Australia expected to grow by 5.9% from 2023 to 2028, and an ongoing shortage of animal care and veterinary nursing professionals, thisthe new facility will help address workforce demand across the Central Coast region.

Animal studies courses now being delivered at TAFE NSW Wyong include: Certificate II in Animal Care; Certificate III in Animal Care Services; Certificate III in Wildlife and Exhibited Animals; Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing; and Certificate II in Animal Care (TVET).

The investment is part of the State Government’s commitment to rebuilding TAFE NSW.

In addition to the new Animal Studies Centre, TAFE NSW Wyong is set to receive more than $2.6M to upgrade campus facilities ensuring students have access to top-tier education and training. 

“The new Animal Studies Training Centre at TAFE NSW Wyong is proof of our unwavering commitment to restoring TAFE NSW as a leading provider of vocational education and training aligned to local industry and community needs,” Whan said.

“This state-of-the-art facility is a game-changer for the Central Coast, giving students access to cutting-edge equipment and specialised training that mirrors real-world industry standards.

“We’re setting them up for success with job-ready skills that will open doors to rewarding careers in the growing animal care industry.”

Harris said like many regional communities, Wyong and the Central Coast rely heavily on TAFE NSW to deliver education and training to support local business and industry.

“Wildlife attractions, animal hospitals, and pet-loving residents contribute to the demand for skilled animal care workers and veterinary nurses,” he said.

“After touring the facility late last year it’s exciting to see that the doors are finally opening.”