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    National Environment Centre

    A person in high-visibility clothing assists with planting or tending to vegetation in a natural area, and two individuals, wearing wide-brimmed hats and holding tablets, engage in a conversation amidst a wooded environment.

    The National Environment Centre (NEC) is located on a 180-hectare farm just outside Albury, NSW. In partnership with TAFE NSW, the NEC offers practical courses in sustainability and environmental management.

    Study at NEC

    When you study at NEC, you’ll receive training that's relevant to current environmental challenges and opportunities. 

    You’ll gain real-world experience in sustainable agriculture, ecological practices and responsible land care. 

    At NEC you can study subjects like:

    • conservation
    • water operations
    • land management
    • permaculture
    • agriculture.

    Studying at NEC also means you’ll have access to:

    • a working farm
    • purpose-built facilities
    • the latest technology
    • networking opportunities
    • industry-experienced teachers. 

    Studying at NEC through TAFE NSW prepares you for a career in environmental sustainability and related fields.

    Find a course

    Practical education at NEC

    At NEC, you’ll have access to:

    • laboratories
    • glasshouses
    • specialised preparation rooms for rural science.

    Our immersive learning environment allows you to fully engage with your studies. By using our resources, you can enhance your learning experience and develop the skills needed to make a meaningful impact in a range of environmental fields.

    A group of people are engaged in environmental work in bushland. Two people are kneeling, while two others stand nearby, suggesting a collaborative effort in land restoration or conservation. The setting is bright and natural.

    The NEC Green Gate Farm

    At NEC, you'll have access to our organic Green Gate Farm.

    Here, we focus on:

    • sustainable and ethical farming practices
    • permaculture and agro-ecological principles
    • cultivating seasonal crops
    • soil health and animal welfare.

    The farm also supports the community by selling its produce directly to locals and partnering with nearby businesses. Open most Thursday afternoons, our on-farm shop sells lamb, pork, honey, vegetables and flour.

    A portrait of a young farmer standing proudly beside her plots holding a watering can.

    Our courses

    A girl is taking notes while sitting by a body of water. In the background, two people appear to be engaging in an activity related to environmental exploration.

    Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management

    AHC31421-01

    Help keep our ecosystem intact by learning how to preserve and rehabilitate our natural environment. Learn how to identify plants, pests and animals and work with national parks to restore bushlands and support conservation projects.

    Two male landscapers attentively reviewing a landscaping project.

    Diploma of Sustainable Practice

    HE20517V01

    The higher education Diploma of Sustainable Practice gives you the knowledge and practical skills to integrate sustainable practices into any organisation. This course is aligned with the International Society of Sustainability Professionals (ISSP).

    Sustainable Practice group

    Undergraduate Certificate in Sustainable Practice

    HE20537V01

    The higher education Undergraduate Certificate in Sustainable Practice covers the first half of the Diploma of Sustainable Practice. It builds on your existing knowledge and skills, preparing you for a career as a sustainability professional.

    Meet our students

    Jimmy W.

    Diploma of Permaculture
    “Permaculture has fundamentally changed the way I look at the world. The principles don’t just apply to gardens, the methodology works for everything. It’s amazing!”

    Monique B.

    Diploma of Permaculture
    “It’s been an amazing experience, and I really feel like I’ve found my calling. The teachers were so knowledgeable. It was a perfect mix of practical skills and theory.”

    Jason S.

    Diploma of Permaculture
    “The teachers and education support officers really are amazing. They go out of their way to try and help you wherever they can.”

    We’re here to help

    TAFE NSW’s National Environment Centre is located at Ettamogah Road, Thurgoona 2640.

    If you want to know more about us and what we do, call us on 131 601 or follow us on Facebook.

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