The State Government has announced that enrolments are now open for technical colleges across South Australia for 2025 and 2026 starts. The Malinauskas Government’s initiative is set to provide young South Australians with the skills required to thrive in industries which are critical to the state’s economic future.
With a commitment of $208.8 million, the government’s plan saw the first of these institutions, Findon Technical College, begin operations earlier this year. The offering is set to expand with Port Augusta’s college expected to welcome students in the next academic year, followed by The Heights, Tonsley, and Mt Gambier in 2026.
Premier Peter Malinauskas and Education Minister Blair Boyer recently visited the currently under construction Heights Technical College to view the ongoing work. The construction includes new car parks, laying of the concrete ground floor and further structural development.
Premier Malinauskas highlighted the strategic importance of these colleges in aligning with key state projects and defence initiatives: “Defence projects such as AUKUS and the Hunter-Class Frigates will create a generation of work for South Australians and tens of billions of dollars for SA’s economy,” Malinauskas said.
He further added: “We want students to know they can start their journey to a career in defence while still at school, getting qualifications that will get them a job when they finish their SACE.”
The Heights Technical College is set to offer courses customised to key industries, including aeroskills for aircraft maintenance technicians, and advanced manufacturing and engineering for roles such as fabricators and welders. The college will also offer courses in construction for building industry careers, and courses for early childhood workers and teachers.
The government is particularly keen on fortifying the state’s aeroskills sector, with RAAF Base Edinburgh home for the nation’s fleet of P8A Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft. This relocation promises 30 years of sustainment and upgrades, which underscores the necessity for a robust vocational foundation available through these technical colleges.
Education Minister Blair Boyer noted the progressive nature of these colleges in bridging the gap between education and industry: “These technical colleges represent a new style of learning that connects our young people directly with employers and provides then with an exciting, hands-on pathway to their future career,” Boyer said.
He also mentioned the success already seen at Findon Technical College, which exemplifies the model’s effectiveness: “Students will walk out of the technical colleges with their SACE certificate and a guaranteed career in industries that are in demand here in South Australia,” he explained.
Registrations for the 2025 and 2026 academic years are now being accepted online, enabling families to secure educational pathways well-suited to the evolving job market. This initiative not only promises to enhance the skill set of the upcoming workforce but also to sustain the state’s economic growth by aligning educational outcomes with industry needs.
For more information and registration, click here.
More News
