“We have the majority of the courses on scope that Journey Management delivered,” Mr Fidge said.

“We are working with the government at the moment to ensure there is a smooth transition for those students that are affected. Right across our region there are quite a few students affected.”

It comes after the Warrnambool training provider closed its doors on Friday afternoon when staff at Journey were told the forklift, truck driving and earth-moving training centre was finishing in the city, and at all sites across the state, including Ballarat and Geelong. 

Mr Fidge said TAFE had accommodated students who had been in similar situations before.

“We are always there for students in the hope it leads to further education or job outcomes,” he said.

The state government’s education and training department spokeswoman Katie Elliott said it would be in contact with all  government-funded students to explain their options for further training.

“This is a difficult time for students and we will help them complete their training by transitioning them to a TAFE or, where this is not possible, another training provider contracted by the department,” she said.

“The department will also be working with Hall Chadwick Chartered Accountants who have been appointed liquidators in providing assistance to students.” 

She said advice and support for students was available by calling the TAFE and Training Line on 131 823 or email tafe.courseline@edumail.vic.gov.au.   

A note posted on Journey’s now defunct website directed viewers to a letter from liquidator David Ross. Mr Ross’ letter said he was appointed liquidator on Monday.

“I understand that the company ceased to trade as of Friday, July 13,” it reads.

“As a result the training and courses provided by the company will no longer be available to students. As liquidator I will be working with Skills Victoria to identify any available companies that may provide similar training and courses for the companies students to transition into if possible.”

Debra Judith Blakeborough is listed as director and secretary of the company, having taken over both roles from Shane Malcolm Blakeborough in July 2017.

Mr Blakeborough had also been in charge Geelong-based transport company Transtex, which went into liquidation in late 2017.  Months earlier Mr Blakeborough’s other company, Shane Blakeborough Logistics, also folded.