“While the NSW government is focusing on

trying to sell the idea of privatising electricity infrastructure, it is quietly going ahead with the effective privatisation of vocational education,” Ms Harding said.

“Instead of being supported for the value they provide, TAFEs are being forced increasingly to compete with private providers at the same time as facing deep funding cuts.”

Ms Harding said TAFE had touched the lives of most Australian families at some time in their lives.

“TAFEs enrol more than a million students each year – more than attend university,” she said.

“TAFE provides opportunities for education throughout people’s lives, with more than two-thirds of students aged over 25. 

“In regional areas such as the Eurobodalla, our TAFE not only provides the opportunity for gaining skills, but it helps keep our young people living here, and it is also a significant employer in its own right.

“It’s time to tell Mike Baird and his government to stop the cuts and support this valuable asset.”

The morning tea will be held on Wednesday, June 18, at Moruya TAFE, on the Princes Highway, from 10.30am.