Pimlico TAFE to build Townsville’s creative workforce for 2032

• New state-of-the-art creative arts campus opens at TAFE Queensland Pimlico.
• Courses tailored to meet North Queensland’s growing demand for creative industry skills.
• Supporting Queensland’s creative economy ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The Albanese and Crisafulli Governments are delivering on their commitments to delivering training opportunities across Queensland, with the opening of a state-of-the-art creative and visual arts campus at TAFE Queensland’s Pimlico facility.

As Queensland prepares to host the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the demand for creative talent across design, media, and cultural production is predicted to grow rapidly. This new facility ensures North Queenslanders are not left behind in seizing those opportunities.

The investment also fills a critical gap left by the withdrawal of James Cook University’s creative arts program, ensuring aspiring artists and designers in the region have access to high-quality, hands-on training.

The $4.5 million facility, jointly funded by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments, includes specialist spaces for sculpture, printmaking, drawing and painting, as well as dark rooms, a 3D and multimedia tech lab, and multipurpose art studios. 

It’s designed to give students access to the tools and technology required to succeed in a modern creative economy.

Courses available at the new facility include the Diploma of Visual Arts, Certificate III in Visual Arts, and studio access for printmaking, sculpture, and painting short courses. 

Federal Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles, said the investment highlights the importance of collaboration in delivering education and training in communities.

“The Albanese Government is proudly working with the states and territories in upgrading TAFEs, including here in Townsville, and ensuring local communities have access to quality facilities to upskill and re-skill for their futures,” Minister Giles said.

“This investment will support our aspiring artists and creative minds to receive high-quality training, delivered by dedicated TAFE teachers.”

Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, Ros Bates, said the investment reflects the Crisafulli Government’s focus on job-ready training and regional growth.

“This is about giving North Queenslanders access to real training that leads to real jobs,” Minister Bates said.

“These brand-new facilities are going to support students to build skills, unlock new opportunities and forge strong careers in the creative industries.”

Member for Mundingburra and Assistant Minister for Community Safety, Defence Industry, Veterans and North Queensland, Janelle Poole APM, said the new facility was a major win for the region.

“This new facility is a game-changer for Townsville’s creative community,” Mrs Poole said.

“With the Brisbane 2032 Olympics on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to invest in the creative industries,” 

For more information on the facilities and availability of courses at Pimlico TAFE campus, please visit https://tafeqld.edu.au/about/campus-locations/north-queensland/townsville-pimlico

ENDS