Ballarat’s Federation TAFE will begin delivering nationally accredited training in medicinal cannabis cultivation and production this year.
The TAFE will offer two-year accreditation, with a Certificate III course launching in 2024 and Certificate IV available from 2025.
Federation University Australia provost Liam Sloan told the ABC a pilot will enrol 12-18 students with the new qualification bringing job opportunities to regional Victoria.
He added: “It’s a traineeship model where students will be working, earning and learning… a real multiple benefit. We know it’s a growth industry, so there is a sustainable career there for these individuals.
“They will also be studying units that span regulatory requirements, propagation, harvesting and pre-processing, operating equipment, health and safety.”
Certificate IV will include management and leadership units.
Students will be employed while they undertake their studies, giving them the opportunity to acquire skills in controlled growing and licensed medicinal cannabis operations.
Federation TAFE provides vocational education and training delivered by Federation University Australia with a strong focus on employment-based training.
Melbourne-based cultivator GemKom has partnered with the educator to provide practical training for the students.
