On 30 June 2023, Federal, State, and Territory Skills and Training Ministers convened in a collaborative effort to enhance vocational education and training (VET) across Australia. The purpose of this meeting was to advance key reforms, including the development of a new National Skills Agreement (NSA), with the aim of nurturing a skilled workforce and fostering a high-performing economy. Here are the significant outcomes from this productive gathering.
A New 5-Year National Skills Agreement
During the summit, Skills Ministers engaged in extensive discussions about the framework and funding arrangements underpinning the upcoming NSA, scheduled to come into effect on 1 January 2024. The primary focus was to establish a solid foundation for the next five years, providing States and Territories with the necessary flexibility, autonomy, and funding certainty to address their specific priorities while aligning with national objectives. The NSA will incorporate joint stewardship of the VET sector, recognising the importance of both national priorities and localised responses tailored to the unique needs of each State and Territory.
Qualifications Reform
Skills Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to qualifications reform as a crucial driver of workforce development and the growth of a resilient, productive economy. The objective is to design a VET qualifications system that is high-performing, user-friendly, and responsive to the evolving demands of employers and learners. The reform agenda also aims to encourage innovation and excellence in training delivery and assessment while upholding safety and quality in training outcomes. Furthermore, the emphasis lies in fostering an adaptable, skilled workforce that can effectively navigate structural changes. To ensure the success of this reform, a dedicated Qualifications Reform Design Group will be established. Comprising members with extensive VET sector experience, along with representatives from unions, employers, State/Territory governments, and education experts, this group will work collaboratively to draft new rules for the development of industry-specific units of competency and qualifications by the end of 2023.
Jobs and Skills Australia
During the meeting, Professor Peter Dawkins AO, the Interim Director of Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA), provided an update on the organisation’s progress. JSA’s upcoming priorities and the 2023-24 work plan, developed in consultation with tripartite partners, were discussed. The revised governance arrangements and expanded functions outlined in the Jobs and Skills Australia Amendment Bill 2023 were commended by Skills Ministers. These provisions grant JSA the capacity to provide independent data analysis and valuable insights on current and future workforce needs, skills development, and training requirements, thus serving as a vital resource for Skills Ministers and the nation at large.
Quality Reforms: RTOs Standards and VET Workforce Blueprint Update
The summit also delved into ongoing quality reforms, including potential modifications to the existing Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015. Skills Ministers highlighted the immediate priority of strengthening the Fit and Proper Person Requirements within the RTO Standards to ensure integrity within the VET sector. Furthermore, discussions revolved around potential changes to the RTO Standards to align with the updated Training and Education Package and support the growth of the VET workforce. A comprehensive suite of amendments will be separately considered, acknowledging the need for a thorough review process.
TAFE Centres of Excellence
The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss the progress of the nationally networked TAFE Centres of Excellence, currently under development. These centres will forge strategic partnerships with industry, universities, and governments to tackle critical challenges in the Australian economy. Some of the key areas of focus include the transition to a clean economy, boosting manufacturing and sovereign capability, and addressing regional priorities related to care and support. These Centres of Excellence will not only address skills shortages but also promote trust and confidence in the quality of training provided.
The gathering of Federal, State, and Territory Skills Ministers served as a testament to their collective commitment to enhancing vocational education and training in Australia. By advancing the development of a new National Skills Agreement, promoting qualifications reform, acknowledging the role of Jobs and Skills Australia, driving quality reforms, and supporting the establishment of TAFE Centres of Excellence, this meeting has laid the groundwork for significant progress in delivering the necessary skills and workforce to fuel a thriving and dynamic economy.
