For its part, NSW Labor says the Mid North Coast is perfectly positioned to take advantage of the 600,000 free TAFE courses it has announced to address skills shortages in areas such as aged care, child care and construction. These will roll out over a 10-year period.

The Member for Oxley, Melinda Pavey said the Government was ensuring people benefitted from the strong economy to get a job and get ahead.

“We know the costs associated with further education and training can be a dis-incentive. That’s why this announcement is all about removing cost barriers,” Mrs Pavey said.

The 100,000 additional courses will be made up of 70,000 new fee-free courses for young job-seekers taking on traineeships and 30,000 free TAFE places for mature-aged workers.

Mrs Pavey said the free courses would build on the free courses already being offered to apprentices and disadvantaged people.

The Country Labor candidate for Oxley, Susan Jenvey said the ALP announcement was a double bonus, providing the skilled workforce needed plus the revitalisation of the TAFE system.

"We’re welcoming more and more families fleeing high housing prices in the capital cities and these families will need jobs," Ms Jenvey said.

"In a few years time construction will commence on the Coffs Harbour Bypass and run for several years. We’re in a prime position to supply workers for this. Federal Labor, if elected, is also committed to building over 250,000 new affordable houses and units over the next decade.

"Our TAFE campuses in Kempsey and Macksville are perfectly positioned to deliver the people and skills for these and other projects. These projects will also help reduce our chronic unemployment problems and give our regional economy a much needed boost."

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