TAFE enrolments are plummeting across NSW, according to the state opposition, citing a leaked document which contradicts positive government figures outlined in this year's budget.
NSW Skills Minister and Deputy Premier John Barilaro faced questions over the leaked document during Thursday's budget estimates, which show overall TAFE enrolments were down more than 11 per cent in the year to July 2017.
Mr Barilaro was ambushed with the document just moments after reiterating what had been set out in the budget as an almost 120,000 increase in enrolments across NSW.
"Why does the budget show enrolments going up but this internal document shows enrolments in free-fall," Labor MP John Graham asked.
However, Mr Barilaro said he could not answer the questions, and referred the matter to his assistant Adam Marshall.
"I've not seen the document you're referring to. I can't answer that question and furthermore, as I'll continue to say this afternoon, TAFE questions should be directed to the minister responsible for TAFE," Mr Barilaro said.
The leaked document, titled 'TAFE NSW enrolments (preliminary counts) 2016/17 year to date', states there has been an 11.2 per cent drop in enrolments as well as a 45 per cent drop in diplomas and advanced diplomas.
Mr Graham accused the government of "fiddling" with enrolment figures and criticised Mr Barilaro for attempting to "shuffle us off to the officer junior" in Mr Marshall.
Opposition skills spokeswoman Prue Carr said Mr Barilaro must explain the massive discrepancy in enrolment data.
"John Barilaro needs to explain to students and parents right across NSW today why his government has deliberately hidden the extent of the enrolment crisis in our TAFE colleges," Ms Carr said in a statement.
In a statement provided to AAP on Friday evening, Mr Barilaro stood by the TAFE enrolment figures outlined in this year's budget.
