The course expansion includes anti money laundering, drone training and workplace innovation courses.

Northern Tablelands MP said the new courses will help regional students keep up in the rat race.

“The skills that you can learn now might be transferable to whatever career you end up in,” Mr Marshall said.

“With technology playing a bigger part and the world becoming a much smaller place – cyber security is becoming a significant issue for government and the private sector.

“And people in their own homes who just want to protect their personal details.”

Around a dozen new courses have been developed by TAFE NSW.

All will be available digitally at the Connected Learning Centres in Tenterfield and Glen Innes.

Increase in drone use has led to tougher regulations.

The Civil Aviation Authority requires drone users to undertake a formal qualification before working in a commercial setting.

Drone training is expected to have a positive impact on the agriculture industry, MP Adam Marshall said.

“These courses are able to train people to have a nationally recognised accreditation to enable them to work in their field,” he said.

“It might not necessarily mean you have to move to Sydney.

“With anti money laundering courses you might be able to work in a bank or credit union where those skills are important.”

Many of the courses will be heavily subsided by the NSW Government’s Smart and Skilled.

It’s expected to significantly lower the cost for students.

The opening of the TAFE Digital Headquarters in Armidale will impact the way some of these courses are taught.

Virtual and augmented reality and visual simulation technology will change the experience for regional students.

Other new courses include payroll services, counter terrorism financing skills and working with children in performing arts.