Construction has commenced on the upgrades to the Coffs Harbour Education Campus in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW). 

The A$29m ($18.92m) upgrade is part of a A$300m statewide programme designed to enhance facilities and equipment at more than 120 technical and further education (TAFE) campuses across NSW.

Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Minister Steve Whan marked the beginning of the project by turning the first sod on the site of the forthcoming Creative Arts facility.  

The upgrades will extend to the refurbishment of existing classrooms and staff amenities.  

The project is aimed at providing superior vocational education and training to the region. 

Whan said: “This project will deliver facilities for creative services, business and adult migrant English programme courses as well as upgraded student services, library services and staff workspaces. 

“Coffs Harbour is one of the fastest-growing and dynamic areas in regional NSW so it’s crucial that we are providing high-quality learning facilities to help build a pipeline of workers that meet the skills needs of the city and surrounding areas.” 

Completion is anticipated in 2025. 

Separately, the NSW Government has revealed that the Hillsborough Road upgrade is progressing, with AECOM Australia securing the contract to deliver the detailed design for the first stage.  

Construction of phase one is anticipated to commence in 2025 and is expected to last approximately 18 months, subject to final staging plans. 

This infrastructure initiative is part of the government's ongoing commitment to setting up regional communities for future success.  

It aims to enhance safety on regional, rural, and remote roads, as well as reduce travel times and boost productivity.