LABOR’S HEALTH TRAINING BOOST FOR NORTH WEST TASMANIA

A Shorten Labor Government will boost training opportunities for future nursing and aged care workers in North West Tasmania by investing $800,000 for a new interactive mini-hospital ward.  Labor will make sure the Devonport TAFE training facility includes viewing laboratories, high-level simulation mannequins and beds – so that locals studying nursing and aged care get the best training possible.  Labor’s candidate for Braddon, Justine Keay, said this is great news for North West Tasmania which is experiencing increases in demand for nursing and healthcare services.  “This announcement means locals will have access to the best possible skills and training right here in Devonport,” Ms Keay said.  “It will provide more vocational opportunities for young Tasmanians and will support the implementation of the National Disability Insurance Scheme and aged care reforms.  “Unlike Malcolm Turnbull, I don’t think aged care workers should go and ‘get a better job’. I think they do an amazing job, and we need more of them. That’s why Labor is investing in the nursing and aged care workforce here in North West Tassie.”  Opposition Leader Bill Shorten said jobs growth in the North West of Tasmania will continue to be concentrated in the health and community services sector.  “This offers nursing and aged care students the opportunity to practice in a safe and controlled environment before they start work in a clinical setting,” Mr Shorten said.  “Labor will support healthcare workers to get the skills and training they need, regardless of where they live or how much money their parents earn.  “My priority is better training and job opportunities for Tasmanians, not a $17 billion tax handout to the big banks.”  Shadow Minister for Skills, TAFE and Apprenticeships, Doug Cameron, said Labor will restore vocational education which has suffered under the Turnbull Government.  “The Turnbull Government has slashed $3 billion from TAFE and vocational education,” Senator Cameron said.  “Labor will re-invest in skills and training so young people have the opportunities to gain a qualification and get a good job.  “Bill Shorten and Labor are for TAFE and jobs, Malcolm Turnbull and Brett Whiteley are just for the top end of town.”