A new project aimed at upskilling women has been launched by TAFE NSW, in an effort to address the growing skills shortage facing the town planning sector.
In collaboration with University of New England and Canberra Region Joint Organisation (CRJO), TAFE Digital has recently started delivering a town planning ‘taster’ course to about 30 women across New South Wales and the ACT.
The Women in Town Planning skill sets are being delivered virtually and in three stages, with graduates earning a Statement of Attainment in Introduction to the Built Environment.
The qualification can be used as partial credit towards a Diploma or Bachelor of Urban Town Planning through the University of New England. All women enrolled in the course are working in the planning sector, either in administration or as para-planners.
The course comes after extensive consultation with industry and the New South Wales Department of Planning.
TAFE Digital building design teacher, Joshua Lowe, said that the course was a powerful way to give aspiring town planners the knowledge and practical skills to forge a career in the industry.
“It is still a male-dominated industry but that’s slowly changing,” Mr Lowe said.
“There’s a massive shortage of town planners nationally, especially in regional areas, so it’s an in-demand industry.
“Town planners play such a critical role in getting developments approved and it’s a very rewarding job.
“The students have been loving the hands-on nature of the TAFE Digital course and the level of support they receive.”
New South Wales has a current workforce of about 5,000 town planners, responsible for creating plans and policies to help cities grow, while considering challenges such as traffic flow, environmental impact, social equality and urban sprawl.
The course has garnered support from Planning Institute Australia (PIA), the national peak body for the planning profession.
PIA NSW/ACT State Manager, Tessa Faucheur, said that in the dynamic field of town planning, TAFE NSW’s unique project to upskill women is a powerful step towards addressing the skills shortage.
“The TAFE Digital skill sets will help create a valuable pathway for aspiring planners to enter the industry and have exposure to a fulfilling career in urban and regional planning,” Ms Faucheur said.
“By encouraging more women to join the profession, we not only promote equality but also enrich our cities with fresh ideas, empathy, and comprehensive solutions.”
Featured image: Women speaking at a PIA event. Image credit: Planning Institute Australia.
