Holmesglen leading the way in sustainability

Holmesglen’s Building and Construction Department has introduced a cutting-edge timber finger jointing machine, a step forward in sustainable trades education. 

This high-tech machine minimises timber waste by repurposing offcuts into usable materials. For apprentices, there are two key benefits: they gain hands-on experience with high-quality timber that replicates real-world conditions, and they learn the value of sustainable craftsmanship. 

The Plumbing Department recently introduced a new Smart House, which is a compact model house structure with modern and sustainable plumbing systems. It allows students to practise sustainable plumbing, monitor energy efficiency in real time, and understand how multiple systems integrate as part of a home build or fit out.

Through teaching students to reduce waste and adopt eco-friendly practices, we ensure future tradespeople are equipped to lead the industry in adopting more environmentally sustainable construction methods and innovating in their chosen fields. 

Holmesglen’s Nursing Department has developed an innovative recycling program to tackle the challenge of medical waste. 

At the Moorabbin campus, staff and students work together to reuse items traditionally considered single use. Syringes, IV lines, dressing packs and other materials used in training simulations are cleaned, repurposed and reused in practice scenarios.

This initiative prevents tonnes of waste from ending up in landfill while also reducing costs by an estimated $150,000 each year. 

Items like medication vials are refilled with safe substances for simulation use, while components such as aluminium caps and plastic tops are recycled for other purposes. Disposable gloves are sent to a company that transforms them into new products.

Our recycling program showcases how education can be both practical and eco-friendly, reducing the environmental impact of training future healthcare professionals.

We are also leading the way in green energy training through our Renewable Energy Centre of Excellence at the Moorabbin campus. The centre features a 150kW solar carport equipped with Fronius inverters, BYD lithium batteries and four public EV chargers, all contributing to hands-on learning available through short courses.

Students gain practical experience with grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems and EV charging stations, essential skills in an era where renewable energy is reshaping the industry. These renewable energy courses prepare apprentices and electricians for large-scale commercial projects, including solar systems with capacities up to 100kW.

As the demand for renewable energy grows, driven by rising energy costs and renewable energy targets, our training ensures students are ready to meet industry needs through future-proofed skills and knowledge.

By integrating sustainability into its curriculum, classrooms, workshops and facilities, we are preparing students to be leaders in a greener economy.

Initiatives that benefit students, industry and the environment range from minimising waste in construction and healthcare to advancing renewable energy expertise.

Our focus on sustainability demonstrates the vital role education plays in addressing global challenges through innovation and practical training. 

Ready to build your sustainability career? Holmesglen offers conservation and ecosystem management courses alongside industry-ready renewable energy programs. From solar installation to environmental conservation, our hands-on training prepares you for the growing green economy with real-world experience and industry connections.