A Queensland training college with four campuses has collapsed into voluntary administration.
College of Australian Training called in external managers late last week, with Sam Kaso and Daniel Juratowitch from Cor Cordis appointed joint voluntary administrators.
College of Australian Training has campuses in Townsville, Cairns, Maroochydore and the Gold Coast.
The college offers nationally recognised hospitality, hairdressing, beauty, business and tourism training from 35 different locations across Australia, according to its website.
Its sister business, College Cuts, has also been placed in administration.
College Cuts specialises in discounted haircuts by advanced hairdressing trainees under supervision from teachers.
When SmartCompany attempted to contacted College of Australian Training for comment, a voicemail message confirmed the business has been put into administration.
“The College of Australian Training Pty Ltd and its sister company College Cuts Pty Ltd have been placed into the hands of administrators,” the voicemail says.
“The campuses located at Cairns, Townsville, Maroochydore and Gold Coast have been closed.”
The recorded message says its government-funded students will receive a list of local, approved RTOs they can approach to continue their training.
Sam Kaso, partner at Cor Cordis, told SmartCompany there has been some interest in the business from potential buyers even though it has only been two business days since his appointment.
“We’re seeking urgent expressions of interest with a view to hopefully find a solution urgently that will provide continuity for students and ongoing employment for staff,” Kaso says.
“But at the moment we’re working through that process.”
Kaso declined to comment on the factors leading to his appointment, saying it is too soon to tell.
Broede Carmody is a former senior SmartCompany reporter. Before this, he was a co-editor of RMIT University’s student magazine Catalyst.
