Kangan Institute’s cutting-edge new Health and Community Centre of Excellence officially opened its doors today, ready to transform vocational health and community training in Australia!
The innovative facility is located in the heart of the Broadmeadows and will offer the most in demand courses, the latest technology, the best teachers and industry partners as well as unparalleled practical environments where students can maximise their learning.
Minister for Skills and TAFE The Hon Gayle Tierney MP was on hand to unveil the new landmark Centre of Excellence, which was completed on time and budget through a $60 million Victorian Government investment.
The Premier of Victoria, the Hon Jacinta Allan joined the Minister onsite to tour the facility and meet students who are studying at the new Centre and aiming for careers in the health and community sector.
Along with the new facility come new courses for Melbourne’s North in skills that are needed most, including nursing, aged care, pathology, allied health. Existing Kangan Institute courses in areas like mental health, disability, justice and early childhood education and community services will now be delivered out of the Centre of Excellence.
Over 1,000 students will train at the facility in 2025, with that number to double from 2026. These students will have access to placements and pathways available through Kangan Institute’s collaboration with universities, industry and community partners.
The wide range of courses, including Free TAFE* options come at a crucial time as demand for skilled workers in health and community professions is rapidly growing. With the industry set to employ more than 86,000 new workers by 2027, the Health and Community Centre of Excellence will play an essential role in meeting that demand, helping to build a workforce that is capable, competent and compassionate.
This new Centre of Excellence is innovative, sustainable and flexible with hands-on, industry relevant simulation and learning spaces featuring throughout, including:
• A multi-purpose 360 degree, virtual reality immersion gallery
• State-of-the-art laboratories, including 3D interactive digital anatomy functions
• Hospital, aged care, bariatric care, home care, pathology, counselling and early childhood simulation suites.
• Highly specialised twin bed simulation suites for one-on-one training and assessments.
Human connection is critical too. The thoughtful design includes striking exterior brickwork patterning, the impressive foyer sculpture ‘Three Bilangs’ by First Nations artists Aunty Kim Wandin and Christine Joy and landscaping that connects with the Broadmeadows Town Park.
This project, designed by award winning team at Architectus and constructed by leading capital project company Hutchinson Builders is also the outcome of engagement with First Nations representatives and the Wurundjeri Council, as well as industry and community stakeholders.
The Health and Community Centre of Excellence will support a more inclusive, empowered future for Melbourne’s north, where access to best-in-class education in health and community services is made possible through TAFE.
Learn more about courses available at the Health and Community Centre of Excellence here.
Quotes attributable to Premier Jacinta Allan:
“Free TAFE is life-changing, giving more Victorians the opportunity to learn new skills and opening the door to good, secure jobs.”
“Whether it’s healthcare or community services, we’re making sure Victorians have access to world-class training – without paying a cent of tuition fees.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney:
“Free TAFE has already helped thousands of Victorians start new careers in high-demand industries – and this new Centre will mean even more people can access world-class training without the financial barrier.”
Quote attributable to Member for Broadmeadows Kathleen Matthews-Ward:
“This new Centre is a game-changer for Broadmeadows, giving local residents access to Free TAFE, helping them gain in-demand qualifications, and secure great jobs – without the stress of tuition fees.”
Quotes attributable to Kangan Institute CEO Sally Curtain:
"Kangan Institute’s new Health and Community Centre of Excellence is officially open, and we couldn’t be more excited!
“This world class facility was delivered on time and on budget, and it’s here to give our students the skills, experience, and confidence to thrive in the health and care industries.
“Our Centre of Excellence is a launching pad for rewarding and in-demand careers. With strong partnerships across industries, communities, and universities, we’re not just keeping up with today’s needs—we’re helping shape a healthier, stronger future for Melbourne’s northern corridor and beyond."
Quotes attributable to Board Chair Sharan Burrow AC:
“Kangan Institute is ready to empower the next generation of health and care workers through our new Health and Community Centre of Excellence.”
“This innovative facility and its programs will set the standard for the future of vocational training in the health and care sector, equipping student with the tools, education and support they need to thrive, and it’s happening right here in Broadmeadows!"
(*Some or all of this training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding. Free TAFE on selected courses only. Eligibility criteria apply. Tuition is free, other fees and charges may apply. Visit freetafe.vic.gov.au.)
