TAFE NSW Wollongbar is responding to upgrades to Australian airport screening equipment and security legislation by adding to the suite of aviation courses available in the Northern Rivers. The Certificate II in Transport Security Protection will be available to locals this month after amendments to the legislation state new entrants will need a Transport Security Protection certificate.

The course will be delivered in simulated airport learning environments in addition to access to hands-on experience at Lismore Regional Airport.

TAFE NSW Aviation Team Leader Andrew Trease said the course introduces students to the security measures and regulations they need to know to work responsibly in the industry. It also provides examples of practices which can be applied in many situations to identify and prevent potential security threats.

“To learn and practice in simulated environments makes a real situation - whether it be a fire or an everyday task in the industry - a less daunting prospect. TAFE NSW students repeatedly perform these everyday tasks in an environment that feels realistic so they are familiar with industry best practice upon graduation.”

Mr Trease, said security is a concern for everyone in the industry, affecting virtually all areas of airport and aircraft operations. TAFE NSW graduates have gone on to work for various employers across the country including Qantas, Qld Health, Sydney Airport, Ballina Airport, Tiger Airways Virgin Airways and MSS security.

"Australia leads the way in terms of international airport security and TAFE NSW is committed to building a pipeline of employees with the critical skills they need to protect our borders.

Student Georgia Williams said she could not wait to complete the Certificate II in Transport Security Protection and get into the workplace.

“The career opportunities in aviation security are immense and my dream would be to work locally here on the North Coast, so it is really important to me that TAFE NSW teachers are experts from the local aviation industry.”

For more information about the Certificate II in Transport Security Protection or any other TAFE NSW course starting in semester two, please visit www.tafensw.com.au or call 131 601.

Media contact: Sarah Lievore, TAFE NSW Media Officer, sarah.lievore1@tafensw.edu.au