Marine College 

The TAFE Queensland Great Barrier Reef International Marine College, located within the Cairns Marine Precinct (CUF), continues to expand its range of industry-leading marine training capabilities, offering domestic and international students specialised maritime training, including the delivery of Defence’s Pacific Maritime Training Services.

The provision of mandatory training for mariners across commercial and defence vessels, a material maritime skills shortage and the anticipated training required to support Regional Maintenance Centre North East, combine to see the current campus unable to meet growing demand.

In the 2023-24 Queensland Budget, the government committed $16m to deliver an extra 2,675m² for a new workshop, additional classrooms, staff facilities and a boat shed as well as increased training opportunities.

Benefits to the region

The expansion of the TAFE Queensland Great Barrier Reef International Marine College aims to significantly boost education and training capabilities by expanding the range of educational programs offered. It focuses on delivering essential credentials that align with the anticipated demands for future defense sustainment needs.

Moreover, this endeavor is poised to create employment opportunities, supporting approximately 37 jobs throughout the construction phase. This expansion not only caters to educational enhancement but also aligns with the strategic vision of addressing defense-related skill gaps while fostering local employment opportunities.