Shellharbour MP Anna Watson is urging Illawarra residents to "talk about TAFE" to ensure the future of smaller regional campuses like Dapto.
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Ms Watson said TAFE Illawarra had already closed down the library at Dapto TAFE late last year and she had "real concerns" that the entire campus was under threat due to state government budget cuts to the sector.
"There are very significant changes to TAFE taking place right now," Ms Watson said.
"The O'Farrell government is chipping away at the education system including TAFE, which was originally set up to be an affordable and accessible further education option.
"Under these cuts and so-called reforms a TAFE education may soon be put out of the reach of many community members.
"And smaller campuses in regional areas like Dapto may end up closing, which is a disgrace as these are the areas where quality, affordable education and training is needed most."
Last year, the state government announced a $1.7-billion cut to education spending, which will result in the loss of 800 TAFE jobs statewide and the abolition of some TAFE courses.
The government also announced its Smart and Skilled reforms, which will see TAFE colleges forced to compete with private providers for government subsidies from 2014.
"It is important if the local Illawarra community really values TAFE services to be ready to speak up in support of this public vocational education and training institution," Ms Watson said.
"Whether you are a TAFE student, you know one, or you want your children to attend in the future - you need to have your say now to safeguard TAFE for the years to come."
Ms Watson encouraged community members to take part in the Let's Talk About TAFE consultations being conducted online at haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/tafe. The closing date for consultations is April 12.
She hoped TAFE Illawarra management would also organise face-to-face consultations in the region, including at Dapto, to allay community concerns.
A TAFE Illawarra spokeswoman would not confirm whether regional consultations would be held, but also encouraged residents to have their say online.
"Under Smart and Skilled reforms to be introduced from July 2014, TAFE NSW will offer high quality education and training, which is more closely aligned with the skill needs of our state," the spokeswoman said.
"The role of TAFE NSW as the public provider of vocational education and training is being defined and you are invited to share your views."