An Australian-first tunnelling training centre will open next year in Oakleigh. The centre will train thousands of local workers to deliver tunnel projects in Victoria - including the Metro Tunnel.

The new $16 million Victorian Tunnelling Centre currently being built at Holmesglen Institute’s Chadstone campus will train and skill local workers in underground construction and tunnelling.

It will include a replica tunnel with a full-height entrance, three multi-purpose engineering workrooms and training facilities including tunnel shaft and concrete lining spray simulators, as well as virtual reality experiences.

The tunnel boring machine replica tunnel will be the exact diameter of the Metro Tunnel, while the mined replica tunnel will be the equivalent width of a three-lane freeway.

Holmesglen Institute will offer both existing and new courses at the tunnelling centre, including Certificate and Diploma qualifications as well as safety-based training for working underground. By 2021, it is estimated up to 5,000 students will participate in training courses at the centre each year.

The centre is modelled on the successful Tunnelling and Underground Construction Academy established as part of London’s Crossrail and the Tunnel Training Academy in Kuala Lumpur.

The VTC is expected to be fully operational and taking students during Semester 1 2020.

For further information, please contact the Holmesglen Skills and Job Centre by phone on (03) 9564 2755 or visit the Holmesglen tunnelling centre website. https://holmesglen.edu.au/Employers/Holmesglen-tunnelling-centre/