Sod turned on $40 mil Collingwood campus transformation

The $40 mil transformation of Melbourne Polytechnic's Collingwood campus has begun with a sod turning event held on Tuesday 18 October 2022.

The event was led by Labor member for Richmond, Richard Wynne MP, who unveiled artistic impressions of the campus, which is expected to open to students and the community by early 2024.

Establishing a contemporary space for TAFE, it will offer world-class facilities and create a revitalised precinct in Melbourne’s vibrant inner north.

With a focus on improving employment outcomes in priority areas and building skills for the future, the revitalised campus will foster strong connections to industry and community and support people unable to find employment.

The project is funded as part of the Victorian Government’s $220 million Building Better TAFEs Fund, dedicated to upgrading TAFE campuses and buildings. Under the project plan – designed by Tectura Architects – the existing multi-storey building will be redeveloped to include state-of-the-art teaching and learning spaces, contemporary collaboration and library spaces, front-of-house services, café and student services.

The revitalised Collingwood campus will offer courses in growth areas, including information technology, business, creative arts and English as a Second Language (EAL). It will also offer Free TAFE courses in areas including community services and cyber security.

Construction Commenced

Construction work has now commenced and is led by Head Contractor, Building Engineering Pty Ltd of West Melbourne.

Melbourne Polytechnic Chief Executive, Frances Coppolillo said, “Melbourne Polytechnic has been providing education and training to the Collingwood community and Melbourne’s inner north since around 1910. We are a part of the community’s history and remain committed to its future.“

“The project will breathe new life into this campus. It will provide much-needed future-focussed education and training opportunities for the community and contribute to the vibrancy of the dynamic Collingwood precinct.”