Change ahead for TAFE

Last week the Minister for Skills, John Barilaro unveiled a modernised structure for TAFE in NSW - which will reduce overheads, direct more resources to frontline teaching services and guarantee TAFE is meeting the training and skills needs of the State economy. The reforms mean that the independent Institute structure of TAFE will be replaced with a single, multi-campus TAFE NSW and this will make significant savings. More information about the changes to TAFE can be found by accessing: www.youtube.com/watch?v=7_7j4bGlDzQ

Regional achievement to be recognised

Nominations are now open for the 2016 NSW/ACT Regional Achievement and Community Award.

The awards are designed to encourage, acknowledge and reward the valuable contributions individuals, communities and businesses make throughout regional and rural NSW and the ACT.

Winners of each category will receive either $2,500 or an airtime package courtesy of PRIME7. More information on the awards can be obtained from my office (02) 6882 3577 or by visiting www.awardsaustralia.com/regional-achievement-community-awards/nsw  

Preventing people from going back behind bars

Doing time in prison is never on anyone’s “things to do list”, but having the chance to reform and reintegrate into society is most likely one of the hopes and dreams of those that have spent time there.

Last week the NSW Government announced a program in partnership with the not-for profit agency, Australian Community Support Organisation (ACSO) and the National Australia Bank as part of a social impact investment to target parolees with the aim of reducing the rate of re-offending and re-incarceration.

The new program, On Tracc (Transition Reintegration and Community Connection), will work with up to 3,900 parolees over five years to prevent reoffending and re-incarceration. On Tracc will provide parolees with intensive individual support to assist their successful reintegration into the community, particularly in their first 16 weeks of parole and will help improve community safety

Electorate Office Internship

It was great to have Campbell Chesworth from Rawsonville, a third year student at the University of Sydney studying political, economic and social sciences, shadowing me for the last fortnight for an internship.

Campbell had the unique opportunity to get a taste of all aspects of work in the life of a Member of Parliament, from office work, meetings with members of the community and joining me in hosting two ministerial visits. I wish him all the best for his future, whether that be in politics, farming or business – he’ll be an asset to the local region.

Artworks, Books and Trains

It was an immense personal privilege last week as Arts Minister to open the 2016 Archibald Prize and to welcome Dubbo local, Mark Horton to Sydney as one of the 51 finalists for the coveted prize. While some may say I’m biased (given I was the subject of Mark’s painting), it truly was a fantastic work of art. Mark, his family and friends can be very proud of his artistic talent and applaud him for his efforts in making it to the final stage of the competition.

Additionally, I look forward to welcoming a good friend, the former Deputy Prime Minister, train enthusiast and historian, the Hon Tim Fischer AC to our region this week. Mr Fischer will be visiting Tullamore and Narromine and has invited me to launch his latest book “Maestro John Monash” in Dubbo on Wednesday.

Have a good week,

Troy