Already a leading provider of training to the telecommunications industry, GippsTAFE has recently been announced as an approved training provider for the National Broadband Network.

With the assistance of a small number of selected training organisations, NBN Co aims to deliver the first national wholesale-only, open access broadband network in Australia, to all Australians. 93% of homes, schools and workplaces will be connected to the network with optical fibre to provide fast broadband to urban and regional Australian towns. Those 7% remaining will be connected to next generation fixed wireless and satellites.

GippsTAFE’s Chadstone Campus will be a strategic site for NBN training, with the purpose built National Broadband Training Centre.

Spanning across three hectares of land, the multi-million dollar facility boasts premium equipment, including a pit and pipe system that allows cable hauling, installation, testing and termination skill development for students.

“The unique indoor and outdoor training locations offer practical training environments, emphasising the importance of real work simulation and ensuring industry relevant training,” explains Chadstone campus manager Alan Penny.

“The NBN Safety and Awareness program is a prime example of the training to be delivered here at GippsTAFE. It provides workers with invaluable health and safety training in areas such as traffic management and working in confined spaces.”

While work has already commenced in some parts of Australia, the rollout is set to continue through to the 30th of June 2015. A total of over 1500 communities and 3.5 million premises across Australia will be connected.

“GippsTAFE is highly committed to providing quality NBN training over this time. We have a clear role to play in ensuring Australian NBN workers are well equipped to complete the project safely, efficiently and to the highest possible standard,” Alan concludes.