Australia is at a turning point. As technology reshapes industries and artificial intelligence (AI) becomes a cornerstone of economic growth, the demand for digital skills has never been greater. By 2030, the nation needs 1.2 million tech workers to remain competitive on the global stage. Yet, projections show a shortfall of up to 370,000 digital roles by 2026.1
To meet this challenge head-on, Chisholm Institute has been chosen to lead the country’s Digital, AI, and Technology Centre of Excellence – a bold initiative under the National Skills Agreement that will transform how Australians learn, work and innovate.
A national response to a national challenge
The Centre of Excellence, based at Chisholm’s state-of-the-art Frankston campus, is more than a training hub. It’s a catalyst for change – a place where education, industry and government converge to build Australia’s sovereign capability in digital and technology skills.
Backed by a joint investment from the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments, the Centre will:
- Deliver cutting-edge simulation labs for applied learning in AI, big data, cybersecurity and emerging technologies.
- Establish a national network of satellite campuses within leading Australian businesses and tech start-ups, creating real-world learning environments.
- Expand higher apprenticeships and traineeships, offering earn-and-learn pathways into digital careers.
- Launch a nationwide mentoring program and career readiness resources to support students from all backgrounds.
- Drive applied research to keep pace with rapid technological change and inform best practice across the TAFE sector.
Why this matters for all of Australia.
Digital skills are no longer optional, they’re essential. From healthcare and advanced manufacturing to finance and defence, every sector is being reshaped by technology. Yet, research shows that 95% of the Australian workforce will need some level of digital reskilling in the coming years.2
The new national Centre of Excellence will help close this gap by creating inclusive pathways for learners of all backgrounds, including women, First Nations peoples and regional communities. It will also foster collaboration through a nationwide TAFE community of practice, ensuring that best practice in digital education is shared across the country.
"Innovation happens when education, industry, and government come together and that’s exactly what this Centre will do. We're connecting the National TAFE Network, industry leaders, and government to create pathways that will close the digital skills gap, accelerate AI capability, and ensure every Australian has the opportunity to thrive in a technology-driven economy.
At Chisholm, we’re proud to lead this national effort to strengthen skills, boost productivity and drive innovation.”
- Damien Van Eyk, Executive Lead of the Centre of Excellence
What’s next?
The Centre of Excellence will begin operations in 2026, with early priorities to include:
- Launching digital simulation labs at Frankston.
- Rolling out digital traineeships and higher apprenticeships to fast-track careers.
- Developing national curriculum resources aligned to global frameworks.
- Delivering a TAFE teacher training program to uplift teaching capability nationwide.
- Establishing satellite campuses in partnership with global digital companies.
These initiatives will lead national direction in AI and digital innovation, while creating opportunities for thousands of Australians to upskill and thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.
A future-ready workforce starts here
The Digital, AI, and Technology Centre of Excellence is about meeting today’s needs and shaping tomorrow’s possibilities. By connecting education with industry, and innovation with inclusion, Chisholm is helping Australia build a workforce that’s ready for the challenges, and opportunities, of the digital age.
Artist impressions of Centre of Excellence facilities:
Need more information?
To stay connected with what’s next, follow the Digital, AI, and Technology Centre of Excellence on LinkedIn.
Or complete the form below to express your interest in partnering with the Centre.
View Chisholm’s official media release: Chisholm Institute to lead Australia’s Digital, AI, and Technology Centre of Excellence
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