Work is expected to begin soon on the $35 million Mount Gambier Technical College, which will have a teaching focus on agri-tech for careers in forestry and agriculture.
The college, one of five being built across South Australia thanks to a $208 million investment by the State Government, will also have an emphasis on filling gaps in aged care, early childhood development, plumbers, carpenters and electricians.
It will be run in conjunction with nearby high schools and allow students to complete their SACE, while also getting trade qualifications.
The college, set to open in 2026 within Mount Gambier's Research, Education and Training Precinct on Wireless Rd, will support 15 full-time staff and accommodate 300 students in Years 10 to 12.
Only one year level will be present on-site at any one time, with year levels rotated on a weekly basis. The college will also offer short-stay accommodation for up to 44 students at a time.
The two-storey building will house facilities including workshops, general learning areas, computer suites, quiet spaces and common areas, and is expected to be open between 7am and 10pm on weekdays.
Research, Education and Training Precinct Leader Peter Gandolfi said the technical college would complement the options offered by the local TAFE SA and UniSA.
“Planning approvals are underway, but the Research, Education and Training Precinct will be reinvigorated with investment in the technical college, the Centre for Forestry Excellence and upgrades to TAFE SA,” Mr Gandolfi said.
He said a number of pathways would be offered at the college, which were designed to address the skill shortages in the region.
"These have been identified through consultation with industries and establishing what areas of demand there are from employers within the Limestone Coast," Mr Gandolfi said.
The Findon Technical College opened at the start of this year, Port Augusta Technical College will open in 2025, and colleges at Tonsley and The Heights (Modbury) will join Mount Gambier in welcoming students in 2026.
For more information about the Mount Gambier Technical College and to apply now for 2026, visit the Technical Colleges website.
