Hon Tjorn Sibma questions the Minister for Skills and TAFE regarding the condition of South Metropolitan TAFE's training vessel Maritime Image, contrasting it with Central Regional TAFE's vessel and its impact on workforce training. The Minister's response confirms annual surveys and works, and attributes the Central Regional TAFE refit to a COVID-19 program.

AnsweredQoN 1042Legislative Council
Asked
13 November 2025
Portfolio
Skills and TAFE

QuestionView source ↗

TAFE training vessels
1042. Hon Tjorn Sibma to
the Leader of the House representing the
Minister for Skills and TAFE:
I refer to South
Metropolitan TAFE's training vessel Maritime Image .
(1) Can the minister confirm whether the training
vessel remains in reliable service despite significant corrosion and structural
deterioration, including holes in the hull at the waterline?
(2) Why was Central Regional TAFE's training
vessel Master Class rebuilt and refitted in
2023 while South Metro TAFE's vessel was left to deteriorate?
(3) How will failing to rebuild or replace Maritime Image impact the maritime and defence
workforce pipeline, particularly for local WA students and apprentices who rely
on these qualifications?

AnswerView source ↗

I thank the
honourable member for some notice of the question.
(1)–(3) A survey of training vessels is
undertaken annually as per Australian Maritime Safety Authority requirements,
with works carried out as required to ensure operability. Central Regional TAFE's
training vessel Master Class was rebuilt
and refitted as part of the COVID-19 response program.

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