Students in Far East Gippsland are gaining improved access to vocational education, with 65 students now enrolled in VET Delivered to Secondary Students at Orbost Community College under a new regional delivery model.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll announced the update, saying the approach is designed to address barriers faced by students in remote communities.
Under the model, training is delivered at a single location, allowing trainers from TAFE Gippsland to teach directly from Orbost. This removes previous attendance challenges that had limited student participation in vocational programs.
The model brings together Orbost Secondary College, Orbost North Primary School and Orbost Primary School into one setting, with students from Cann River P-12 College also taking part.
The initiative is aimed at responding to regional constraints such as geographic isolation, limited training providers and smaller student cohorts. Students can now complete vocational training locally while continuing their senior secondary education.
Courses currently offered include automotive, engineering and cookery, providing students with broader subject choices and clearer pathways into employment. The program is also expected to support stronger completion rates in senior secondary studies.
The Victorian Government invested $8.5 million in 2025 to establish Orbost Community College. Additional support is provided through the VDSS Transport Fund, which enables trainers to travel to the region.
Enrolments are expected to grow further by 2027, with additional participation anticipated from schools such as Mallacoota P-12 College.
Mr Carroll said, “Labor has real solutions for students in the regions, making vocational education more accessible.”
He added, “Geography shouldn’t be a barrier to education – because very student has the right to attend great public school in Victoria.”
Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh said, “Orbost Community College is creating better opportunities for students in Far East Gippsland, giving them the choice to enroll in vocational education and training.”
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