Auto Electrical apprentices are using the practical skills they are learning at TAFE NSW to change the lives of Australians affected by the recent bushfires, thanks to a new collaboration with Team Rubicon Australia.

TAFE NSW students are busy undertaking electrical work on disaster relief busses, which stock vital supplies for affected communities, while completing the Certificate III in Auto Electrical at TAFE NSW Wetherill Park.

The class has been busy connecting lighting, audio and general electrical work for three busses, which will transport personnel, food items and recovery supplies. The buses are owned and operated by Team Rubicon Australia which is an NGO made up of Defence Force veterans who provide relief to disaster stricken communities.

They have completed numerous disaster relief operations in response to the devastation of North Queensland’s tropical cyclones, the 2019 flooding in Townsville, drought in rural NSW and now the recent Bushfires.

TAFE NSW is currently helping Team Rubicon reach communities in Cobargo, Willawarrin and Scone as well as communities in Victoria and South Australia. In NSW alone, the recent bushfires affected more than five million hectares, destroying more than 2000 houses and forcing thousands to seek shelter elsewhere.1

Brian Zammit, convoy organizer at Team Rubicon Australia, thanked TAFE NSW students for their generous support to the cause.

“I’ve been so impressed with the level of support Team Rubicon Australia has received from these young and talented TAFE NSW auto electrical apprentices.”

“In times like this, it’s great to see how education and training providers like TAFE NSW are using their skills and knowledge for the good of the community.”

TAFE NSW Automotive team leader, Chris Roberts, said it was a great opportunity for students.

“An opportunity such as this gives TAFE NSW students the chance to put the hands on skills they have learnt in the classroom to practice in a real world environment,” Mr Roberts said.

This collaboration is a great example of the way TAFE NSW responds to the needs of local communities and industries.”

For more information on the range of automotive courses offered at TAFE NSW, call 131 601, or visit www.tafensw.edu.au

Media Contact: Jessica Cortis, Media and Communications Business Partner, 0456 170 211,