IN A COUP for the city 60 new jobs will be created when the Tamworth TAFE campus becomes the headquarters of a Shared Service Centre (SSC).
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The centre is a customer service hub "on steroids" that will handle all student enquiries from across the state on payments, course advice and IT issues.
The jobs boost couldn't have come at a better time, Tamworth MP Kevin Anderson said.
"It's critical, we've spoken all year about jobs, growth and keeping food on the table and a roof over people's heads so to have 60 new jobs right here in Tamworth is a significant investment," he said.
"We've seen a downturn in the economy particularly from the hospitality and tourism sector so there are a lot of people who will be looking for full-time work.
"JobKeeper will come off around March next year so we want to make sure we transition off that into full-time employment."
Mr Anderson estimated about $20 million had been spent on the local campus in the last few years.
Consultation will start in the next few months to determine what facilities need to be upgraded at the campus to house the centre.
Once that's set up, Tamworth TAFE will start to recruit for the new positions.
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TAFE western region head of delivery, implementation and performance Christine Maunder said she hopes a lot of locals put their hands up.
"It's really important for TAFE because this is going to be the hub for student enquiries," she said.
"It's exceptionally exciting for the Tamworth campus, it will bring a new dynamic environment and allow us to put this campus on the map NSW-wide.
"It's going to streamline the student experience greatly by allowing additional personnel to be on the end of the phone to pick up enquiries as well as our online enrolment options for students."
The SSC is expected to be fully operational by 2023.
Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee said the new facility was evidence of a commitment to regional jobs.
"Thriving regional centres like Tamworth have a ready supply of skilled labour, excellent digital connectivity, world-class infrastructure and practical and financial support from the NSW Government," he said.
"These 60 new jobs will build on that further for Tamworth, bringing new income into the community and building its capacity."
Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
