Latest news regarding Australian Apprenticeships

If you would like to subscribe to these newsletters, please contact your local MEGT Australian Apprenticeships Centre. Call MEGT to transform your business with apprenticeships, traineeships and skilled training.  Australian Apprenticeships are an Australian government initiative   3 October 2011 Record investment in training - Tasmanian Building and Construction Industry Training Board Almost 8700 eligible participants benefited from Tasmanian Building and Construction Industry Training Board (TB-CITB) funded Training in 2010-11. The TBCITB provided more than $1.9 Million to fund building and construction industry training throughout the state. “Training is vital for the advancement of our industry so we are delighted that we have provided more people the chance to learn and develop their skills than ever before” said TBCITB chair David Hudson. Meanwhile the TBCITB 2011-2012 Training Plan has been approved by Minister for Education and Skills Nick McKim. Under the plan, $2.245 Million has been allocated for training for this financial year at a time when the industry is facing skills demand. David said the Board's target was to provide training for more than 8300 people in a number of priority areas identified after consultation with the industry, and that apprenticeship training would continue to be the main focus for the board. Source: http://www.tbcitb.com.au/TbcitbLists.php?t=news <<<<>>>> Schools most in need to receive $150 million for new Trade Training Centres Schools in disadvantaged communities or with a large number of students from lower socio-economic backgrounds will receive priority funding under the next round of Trade Training Centres (TTCs), Minister for School Education Peter Garrett said. Trade Training Centres will ensure that students have access to the best quality vocational education, helping them pursue a career in a trade or industry and encouraging them to stay in school. For more information on the Trade Training Centres in Schools Program and Round Four visit. For more information, follow this link: http://www.deewr.gov.au/ministers/garrett/media/releases/pages/article_110929_150007.aspx <<<<>>>> Critical Skills Fund to deliver training to thousands of workers Thousands of workers in the resource, construction, infrastructure and renewable energy sectors will benefit from $28million of Australian Government funding to ease critical skills shortages. Minister for Skills and Jobs, Senator Chris Evans, today announced successful projects under the $200million Critical Skills Investment Fund (CSIF), which in partnership with industry, will train new workers and up-skill existing workers to meet demand. Included are projects to up-skill senior tradespeople for frontline management jobs and specialist roles in mining and civil construction, training for workers in mining and quarrying and training for new and existing workers in rail operations to support resource projects. For more information, follow this link: http://www.deewr.gov.au/ministers/evans/media/releases/pages/article_110919_094943.aspx <<<<>>>> Swift GFC recovery for trainee and apprentice supply According to the Senator, the Hon Jacinta Collins, the Gillard Government’s record investment in skills meant the global economic downturn of 2008-09 had only a minor impact on the supply of skilled tradespeople to Australian business. source: http://www.deewr.gov.au/ministers/collins/media/releases/pages/article_110926_145325.aspx <<<<>>>> Skills Connect – connecting skills to jobs A National Workforce and Productivity Agency will advise on how best to meet the continuing demand for skilled workers and support industries and workers affected by structural adjustment by training and retraining workers for new jobs in growing industries and higher skilled roles. For more information, visit http://www.deewr.gov.au/ministers/evans/media/releases/pages/article_110921_132841.aspx <<<<>>>> Call for youth to represent young Australians Young people across Australia have the opportunity to represent their peers on an influential committee which drives public debate and community engagement on youth issues. Applications for the Youth Engagement Steering Committee for the 2012 Australian Youth Forum, open from 13-31 October 2011.  “The Australian Youth Forum is about engaging young people and the youth sector in an ongoing public debate on issues that affect the lives of young Australians.” There will be 10 young people on the 2012 committee, all aged under 24 and from all over For more information visit www.youth.gov.au/ayf   Or http://www.deewr.gov.au/Ministers/Garrett/Media/Releases/Pages/Article_110930_162441.aspx <<<<>>>> 2 September 2011 NATIONAL NEWS National Trade Cadetship Initiative A new advisory panel of leading education and training experts will provide the Gillard Government with recommendations on the development and implementation of the National Trade Cadetship. Students from year 9 will be able to undertake vocational education as an option under the National curriculum. There will be a focus on pre-apprenticeship pathways for students in years 11 and 12, delivered through the Trade Training Centres and other accredited training providers. For more information, visit http://www.deewr.gov.au/ministers/garrett/media/releases/pages/article_110823_125819.aspx <<<<>>>> New national VET regulator  ASQA has now assumed the responsibility for the applications of over 2000 RTOs, including RTOs from NSW, ACT and NT, and some RTOs from Victoria and WA.  Negotiations are also continuing with Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania about their transition to ASQA in the coming months. ASQA invites RTOs to please direct enquiries to the info line on 1300 701 801 or to enquiries@asqa.gov.au, and to visit the ASQA website—http://www.asqa.gov.au. <<<<>>>> New Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency The commencement of the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) marks the beginning of a new era of quality for Australian higher education. TEQSA has been established as the new national regulator and quality assurance agency for higher education. The implementation of a single national regulator for the higher education sector is a key step in improving the quality and consistency of higher education regulation around the nation, Senator Evans said. For more information visit http://www.deewr.gov.au/ministers/evans/media/releases/pages/article_110801_115544.aspx <<<<>>>> Group Training Association conference The GTA National conference is being held in Melbourne from the 19th to 21st of November this year. Please email admin@gtavic.asn.au for further information <<<<>>>> Establishment of the National Skills Standards Council Minister for Skills and Jobs, Senator Chris Evans, has announced the establishment of the new standards setting body for the vocational education and training (VET) sector which will improve quality and consistency of VET regulation throughout the nation. The National Skills Standards Council will advise Commonwealth (NSCC) and state and territory Ministers with responsibility for vocational education and training on the development of national standards for the regulation of vocational education and training, Senator Evans said. The key functions of the National Skills Standards Council are to develop and maintain national standards for regulation of vocational education and training for approval by SCOTESE and provide advice to SCOTESE on development and implementation of the standards provide information, through SCOTESE, to the regulators of vocational education and training on the implementation and interpretation of the national standards and on issues of quality standards generally in the vocational education and training sector provide information to the vocational education and training sector on the national standards and any changes to the standards provide advice to SCOTESE on the operation of the regulators of vocational education and training endorse national training packages. For more information, visit http://www.deewr.gov.au/ministers/evans/media/releases/pages/article_110826_162351.aspx <<<<>>>> Experience + for employing  Mature Age workers The Australian government is making available up  to $4400 for employers in trade industries to provide mature workers with qualifications. As part of the 2011 Budget, the Australian Government announced a new element of Experience+, the More Help for Mature Age Workers initiative. The initiative is part of Building Australia’s Future Workforce – Skills to promote increased participation. Over the next three years, 7500 workers aged 50 years and over with trade relevant skills but no formal qualifications will have the opportunity to have their skills assessed and formally recognised. For more information, visit  http://www.deewr.gov.au/Pages/default.aspx <<<<>>>> QUEENSLAND New ETES and monitoring for school-based traineeships The Education Training and Employment Schedule (ETES) has been reviewed to assist in monitoring employers and Supervising Registered Training Organisations who may not be adhering to the criteria set down by the Training and Employment Recognition Council.  The Queensland Department of Education and Training will also be monitoring a number of school-based traineeship qualifications to ensure the integrity and appropriateness of students undertaking a SAT for an initial period of 3 months. For more information, visit http://deta.qld.gov.au/ <<<<>>>> SOUTH AUSTRALIA Additional user choice funding for existing workers From 1 September 2011, in South Australia, all existing worker trainees undertaking Certificate III qualifications will attract a User Choice subsidy, enabling this group of trainees to access more than 400 funded nationally recognised qualifications. The initiative will contribute to the State Government’s commitment of an extra $194 million over the next six years to support an additional 100,000 training places.    Note that eligibility for User Choice funds applies only to existing worker trainees whose training contracts commence on or after 1 September 2011.   For more information please call your local MEGT Australian Apprenticeships Centre.   12 July 2011 NATIONAL NEWS Landmark reform to deliver strong National Regulator for the VET Sector The commencement of a national VET regulator - the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) - delivers a key reform to Australia's vocational education and training (VET) sector. Minister for Tertiary Education and Skills, Senator Chris Evans welcomed this landmark reform achievement which builds on the Gillard Government's record investment of $10.6billion in the VET sector. The implementation of a national regulator in the VET sector is a key step in improving the quality and consistency of VET regulation around the nation, Senator Evans said. For more information, visit http://www.deewr.gov.au/ministers/evans/media/releases/pages/article_110701_161748.aspx <<<<>>>>  SOUTH AUSTRALIA The SA State Government has announced additional qualifications now attracting User Choice Funding including for all Indigenous Trainees at all AQF levels. Fund Existing Workers in Certificate III in Children’s Services CHC30708 Fund New and Existing Workers in Certificate IV in ESI - Power Systems UET40109 Fund New and Existing Workers in Certificate IV in ESI – Sub Station UET40209 Fund all Indigenous Trainees (both new and existing workers at every AQF level). The above new User Choice funding rules apply to training contracts that commenced on or after 9 March 2011. In addition to the above funding is also extended to New and Existing workers who commenced their training contracts on or after 11 May 2011 in Certificate IV in Tourism SIT40207 For more information, visit http://www.training.sa.gov.au/MaintainingYourRegistration/ProvideApprenticeshipsorTraineeships/tabid/124/Default.aspx#User_Choice_Price_List <<<<>>>>  QUEENSLAND Training Awards news Congratulations to the top employers, apprentices, trainees, vocational students, teachers and trainers who have been selected as regional finalists in the 2011 Queensland Training Awards. Individual regional winners will be in the running for the state titles announced in Brisbane on 2 September 2011. All nominees should be proud of their achievements. The quality of nominations received was very high. Regional presentations Regional finalists will be recognised throughout the state in July at regional presentations, taking place at: Jupiters Casino, Townsville, 16 July 2011 - North Queensland region Jupiters Hotel and Casino, Broadbeach, 23 July 2011 - South East region Rydges, Yeppoon, 23 July 2011 - Central Queensland region Victoria Park Golf Course, Herston, 29 July 2011 - Metropolitan region Kingaroy Town Hall, Kingaroy, 29 July 2011 - Darling Downs South West region Maryborough City Hall, Maryborough, 30 July 2011 - North Coast region Sebel Cairns, 30 July 2011 - Far North Queensland region. For further information about the regional finalists, tickets to the regional presentations and our sponsors, please visit the QTA website at http://www.qta.qld.gov.au/. <<<<>>>>  QUEENSLAND Peter Ruhanen named Queensland's WorldSkills patron  Queensland’s Training Ombudsman Peter Ruhanen has been appointed as the Queensland patron for WorldSkills Australia, the nation’s premier showcase of youth skill and trade excellence. As Queensland patron Mr Ruhanen will promote WorldSkills to industry and the broader community throughout the state to attract sponsorship and encourage involvement in competitions. “WorldSkills is one of the best opportunities to showcase the skills learnt through apprenticeships in all industries and promote what an apprenticeship can provide to a person as a career,” Mr Ruhanen said. The WorldSkills competitions run on a two-year cycle with Queensland regional competitions currently underway across the state. After winning gold at the 2010 national competition, three Queenslanders will head to London in October as part of the Skillaroos representing Australia in Fashion Technology, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, and Sheet Metal Technology. For more information visit the WorldSkills Australia website http://www.worldskills.org.au/   21 June 2011 Nominations for the National Focus Awards 2011 are now open Closing date 1 August 2011 There are five opportunities to become involved in these Awards 1. Australian Apprenticeships – Employer Award This Award recognises employers who have made innovative improvements in training apprentices and/or trainees in Australia and have improved their outcomes through programs that address one or more of the following: improving retention and completion rates of Australian Apprentices fast tracking training and skills acquisition through credit transfer and/or competency based training lifting foundation skills levels and/or increasing productivity by better use of knowledge or technology.   Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be an employer of an Australian Apprentice (includes apprentices and trainees) at some time between 1 January 2010 and 30 April 2011. Statements addressing the selection criteria for this National Focus Award must be written with particular focus to the employment of apprentices and/or trainees. The application form is available on the DEEWR website http://www.deewr.gov.au/Skills/Awards/NFA/Pages/HowtoEnter.aspx   2. Leadership in Quality Award The Leadership in Quality Award recognises eligible individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership promoting and advancing quality to achieve positive outcomes in the vocational education and training (VET) sector. Applications must be an individual who provides leadership to the national training system.   3. Community Pathways to VET Award The Community Pathways to VET Award recognises community-based, not-for-profit organisations that demonstrate excellence and/or innovation in delivering pre-vocational education and training to their local community. The Award acknowledges the importance of an integrated system of quality training that offers multiple pathways to vocational education and training (VET), particularly for hard-to-reach learners. Applicants may be either individual organisations or a partnership of organisations, provided at least one partner meets the following criteria: is a community education or training organisation whose core business includes offering adult learning in local community settings is incorporated under Australian Government or state/territory government legislation as a ‘not for profit’ organisation is not a publicly funded TAFE institute.   4. School Pathways to VET Award The School Pathways to VET Award recognises eligible organisations including schools, Registered Training Organisations, industry bodies, employers that have collaboratively delivered (an) excellent vocational education and training (VET) training program to secondary school students and can demonstrate local impact on each of the following: secondary school students accessing vocational education and training programs meeting student needs, labour market and industry skill requirements achieving excellent outcomes for students maintaining or establishing community partnerships and collaborative enterprise innovation in the structure, content and delivery of programs. Applicants must: have delivered the training programs to secondary school students within the past two years be based on training packages that lead to qualifications or statements of attainment under the Australian Qualifications Framework. Skills for Sustainability - Educational Institution Award This Skills for Sustainability – Educational Institution Award recognises a Registered Training Organisation that demonstrates outstanding achievement in embedding sustainability principles through their programs, products and work practices in the provision of nationally recognised training. Applicants must be a Registered Training Organisation delivering nationally recognised training.       Applications forms can be accessed from: http://www.deewr.gov.au/Skills/Awards/NFA/Pages/HowtoEnter.aspx    27 May 2011   Australian Apprenticeships reduction in Certificate II incentives for non-equity groups Please note the advice above differs to advice in the previous newsletter 11 May 2011. On 10 May 2011 the Australian Government announced changes to eligibility for some incentive payments for employers and Group Training Organisations under the Australian Apprenticeships Incentive Program. These changes are in response to the Expert Panel report – Apprenticeships for the 21st Century – which emphasises the need for the Government to target support for Australian Apprenticeships to secure Australia’s skills and participation future. The Government believes that support for Certificate II level qualifications will provide a valuable pathway for many disadvantaged Australians to enter into training and employment arrangements.  The changes are effective from 11 May 2011. These changes restrict the payment of standard commencement payments and Group Training Organisation completion payments to Australian Apprentices who belong to nominated equity groups who are undertaking Certificate II level qualifications. Incentive payments for Australian Apprentices undertaking Certificate II level qualifications who commence or complete on or after 11 May 2011 will only be made for those who belong to at least one nominated equity group. The nominated equity groups are: Indigenous Australians Australian Apprentices with a disability Australian School-based Apprentices mature aged Australian Apprentices (aged 45 and over) Australian Apprentices working in a rural or remote area job seekers who are Job Services Australia stream 4 clients). The Government believes that this will ensure that valuable public funds are focussed on delivering a highly skilled, Australian workforce in the most cost effective way. Please note the advice above differs to advice in the previous newsletter as below. The cessation of eligibility for the incentive to non-equity groups has been amended from the effect date of the claim to the commencement date of the traineeship. We apologise for any confusion this may have caused; please do not hesitate to contact MEGT’s helpful Customer Service Officers on 13 MEGT if you have any queries about eligibility. <<<<>>>>  Assistance to provide jobs for Indigenous Australians Senator Mark Arbib has been outlining the Government’s new $50 million Indigenous Youth Careers Pathway Program which aims to support up to 6400 Indigenous students to undertake school based traineeships over the next four years.” The Indigenous Youth Careers Pathways Program will provide assistance for trainees, support for employers, workplace mentoring, work experience placements and support and preparation for work activities. “The program will also support organisations to help students find a job or move into further study,” Senator Arbib said. The program will operate in schools with large Indigenous populations or those located in low socio-economic areas with viable labour markets. Further details on applications for funding will be available in the near future. Together, the Indigenous Youth Careers Pathway Program and the Indigenous Employment Program form a commitment of more than $695 million over four years to improve the lives of Indigenous Australians. http://www.deewr.gov.au/ministers/arbib/media/releases/pages/article_110518_142812.aspx or http://www.deewr.gov.au/MINISTERS/ARBIB/MEDIA/RELEASES/Pages/default.aspx <<<<>>>>  Opportunities for Indigenous jobseekers in Aged and Child Care 220 Indigenous Australians will be provided with training and jobs in Aged Care and Child Care by 2013 thanks to the Gillard Government’s Indigenous Employment Program. Minister for Indigenous Employment and Economic Development Mark Arbib today welcomed the announcement of The Replay Group NSW and VIC 2011 Indigenous Employment Program. Employers are supported by Replay through training courses to onsite mentors who assist the new Indigenous employees as they adapt to their new jobs. http://www.deewr.gov.au/ministers/arbib/media/releases/pages/article_110517_102231.aspx  <<<<>>>>   2011 Victorian Training Awards - date change  The 2011 Victorian Training Awards Presentation Dinner at the Palladium at Crown will now be held on Friday 2 September 2011 (Note that this date has changed). The 2011 Victorian Training Awards reward excellence and innovation, and celebrate the valuable contribution apprentices, students, teachers, employers, and training providers play in ensuring our state has a strong skills base - now and in the future! Nominees gain recognition for outstanding achievements, increase their profile and gain valuable networking opportunities with senior industry and business leaders. Prizes of up to $10,000 are awarded to most winners, and winners have the chance to represent Victoria at the Australian Training Awards, held in Brisbane in November. Tickets go on sale in July. To find out more visit skills.vic.gov.au <<<<>>>> Queensland natural disasters jobs and skills package A number of initiatives under the 2011 Queensland Natural Disasters Jobs and Skills Package give direct assistance to apprentices or aim to achieve increased uptake of apprentices. They are: <<  Apprentice work teams Local Group Training Organisations are subsidised to employ apprentices in work teams to support flood and cyclone affected communities in their recovery efforts. Out-of-trade, formally stood down or at risk of cancellation apprentices are eligible to participate. Group Training Association Queensland & Northern Territory is coordinating Apprentice Work Teams. Whilst construction related trades are the major focus, any trade which can provide assistance to communities can be considered. <<  Government Apprenticeship Program This initiative will subsidise Local Governments in disaster affected areas to the level of $20,000 for up to 12 months to employ up to 200 additional apprentices for trades in future demand by industry. Priority occupations include but are not limited to, construction, electrotechnology, resources and infrastructure, engineering and horticulture. DEEWR Funded Initiatives DEEWR funds a number of initiatives to directly assist apprentices or apprenticeship uptake. <<  Apprentice Tools and Equipment aims to provide support for up to 500 apprentices to replace lost or damaged tools and work equipment as a result of the natural disasters. A one-off payment of $800 will be made to eligible apprentices. Apprentices must submit a claim and provide a statutory declaration before 30 June 2011.  <<  The Relocation Payment Initiative provides a one-off payment of $3,000 to apprentices who relocate to disaster affected areas to recommence an apprenticeship. This applies to apprenticeship occupations on the National Skills Needs List. The recommencement period is between 7 March 2011 and 7 September 2011. <<  Disaster Recovery Start-up Bonus will support the commencement of up to 1000 apprentices with small and medium sized employers (up to 200 employees) and registered Group Training organisations, to the amount of $3,300, in rural and regional flood and cyclone affected areas. The initiative targets apprentices aged 19 years and under and applies to apprenticeship occupations on the National Skills Needs List.  The Start-up period is between 7 March 2011 and 7 September 2011. For further information call the Jobs and Skills Package Hotline on 1800 773 048 or email disasterpackage@deta.qld.gov.au <<<<>>>>    Ministerial Council approves revised Australian Qualifications Framework Commonwealth, state and territory ministers have approved the final aspects of the strengthened Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) following the review undertaken by the AQF Council. The revised AQF is an integrated package of specifications for the 16 qualification types and policies The AQF now has an explicit levels structure of 10 levels against which the qualification types, with the exception of the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education, are located. The new AQF Qualifications Pathway Policy builds into the AQF the capacity to genuinely support students' lifelong learning. It will help to facilitate better linkages between VET and higher education in the move to develop an effective tertiary sector. The newly approved version, along with implementation arrangements, is available on the AQF website. http://www.aqf.edu.au/  <<<<>>>>  Skills Queensland welcomes National Resources Workforce Strategy Queensland’s independent skills commission, Skills Queensland has welcomed the National Resources Sector Workforce Strategywhich aims to address the skills and labour needs of more than 75 major resource projects over the next five years. Skills Queensland will work with the resource sector to take forward the Australian Government’s commitments to ensure the best result for Queensland. For further information, please visit http://www.deewr.gov.au/Skills/Programs/National/ResourcesWorkforce/Documents/AGWorkforceStrategy.pdf  <<<<>>>>   29 APRIL 2011 NATIONAL National VET Regulator bills passed Legislation to establish the National VET Regulator, to be known as the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), was passed by both Houses of the Australian Parliament in March 2011. While Victoria and Western Australia have not agreed to refer their powers, the Commonwealth Government has advised that it will continue to work constructively to bring these states within the national system. Further information is available from http://www.deewr.gov.au  <<<<>>>>   Australian Apprenticeships Roundtable 2011 The Australian Apprenticeships Roundtable for 2011 was held in Canberra on 29 March 2011. Discussions focussed on support received during apprenticeships quality of training experienced during apprenticeships how to effectively implement competency based progression  how to change Australian Apprenticeships from being perceived as an undervalued career choice.  The Report will be available in the near future  at http://www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au/RoundTable/2011.asp <<<<>>>>  Australian Training Awards The Australian Training Awards are the peak, national awards for the vocational education and training (VET) sector, recognising and rewarding organisations and individuals for their outstanding contribution to skilling Australia. The Australian Training Awards are the culmination of the state and territory training awards with winners from each state and territory eligible to compete at the national finals. Visit the How to Enter http://www.deewr.gov.au/Skills/Awards/ATA/Pages/HowtoEnter.aspxsection of this website to find out how you or your organisation could win an Australian Training Award. The 2011 Australian Training Awards include: Categories for organisations Small Employer of the Year Award Employer of the Year Award Small Training Provider of the Year Award Large Training Provider of the Year Award Industry Collaboration Award Categories for individuals Australian School-based Apprentice of the Year Award Vocational Student of the Year Award Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year Award Australian Apprentice (Trainee) of the Year Award Australian Apprentice of the Year Award VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year Award Lifetime Achievement Award. This year, the Australian Training Awards will also present the National Focus Awards which showcase Australia’s national priorities in the VET sector. Each year the National Focus Awards may change in order to highlight changing priorities of the VET sector in Australia. The Awards will be held at the Brisbane Convention Centre on 25th November. For more information, visit http://www.deewr.gov.au/Skills/Awards/ATA/Pages/default.aspx  <<<<>>>>  Up to $10,000 from Manufacturing Skills Australia Manufacturing Skills Australia (MSA) $10,000 study award is being presented for the first time in 2011. It aims to identify exceptional, unique and value-added outcomes that build upon Australia’s best teaching, learning and assessment practices. Applications are invited from all trade and skill teachers, trainers, lecturers and workplace assessors who work within MSA coverage in Registered Training Organisations including TAFEs and private RTOs within the manufacturing sector of vocational education and training (VET). There are no limitations on age or background. Categories include:  VET Professional Study Award – $10000 to study in Australia or overseas, to build upon Australian best teaching, learning and assessment practices Innovation Program Study Award – $10000 to study overseas skills and technologies Women at Work – Making a Difference Study Award - $5000 towards the winners training course. Closing date Fri 17th June 2011. For more information please visit http://www.mskills.com.au/News.aspx?NewsId=10461&SectorID=0  <<<<>>>>  VICTORIA The Victorian Training Awards rewards outstanding achievement and innovation. It recognises the valuable contribution apprentices, trainees, students, teachers, employers, and training providers make in ensuring our state has a strong skills base, so that Victorian communities and industries can prosper - both now, and in the future. In 2011, awards will be presented in 14 categories with prizes of up to $10,000 awarded to winners in most categories. Nominations are now open. Applications should be submitted no later than 6th May. For information, please visit http://www.skills.vic.gov.au/events/victorian-training-awards/how-to-enter. <<<<>>>>   Competency Based Apprenticeships - Frequently Asked Questions  Skills Victoria has put in place processes to support the full implementation of competency based completion of all apprenticeships. This is a useful resource and addresses a range of issues including when an apprentice is not competent, training plans, training provider reporting and communication requirements, wage progression, dispute resolution, role of the employer, and much more. To view the Competency Based Completion Frequently Asked Questions document visit Skills Victoria at http://www.skills.vic.gov.au/apprentices/competency-based-training-and-completion/competency-based-completion-faq#general-questions  <<<<>>>>   QUEENSLAND  Apprentices help rebuild flood affected Queensland Apprentices are now employed on projects across Queensland as the rebuilding effort gathers momentum. The $83million Queensland Natural Disasters Jobs and Skills Package is a joint initiative of the Commonwealth and Queensland governments which includes a number of measures designed to provide support to employees, apprentices and industries affected by this year's natural disasters. See the full story on http://www.deewr.gov.au/ministers/evans/media/releases/pages/article_110413_165221.aspx  <<<<>>>>   Status of the 2011 Queensland Training Awards  The 2011 Queensland Training Awards are now closed. All nominees will be advised of the status of their nomination in writing by June 2011.  Details of the regional eventsare now available on http://www.qta.qld.gov.au/dates/index.htm.  Individual and employer awards will first be contested at a regional level with winners then competing for the state titles alongside organisations at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on Friday, 2 September 2011.  Each state award winner may have the opportunity to apply for the Australian Training Awardsheld in Brisbane on Friday, 25 November 2011.  <<<<>>>>   NEW SOUTH WALES Status of the 2011 NSW Training Awards  Entrants to the 2011 NSW Training Awards are now being assessed by the 11 NSW Regional VET Promotional Committees. All nominees will be contacted by their local region over the next few weeks. https://www.training.nsw.gov.au/training_awards/ <<<<>>>>  SOUTH AUSTRALIA 2011 South Australian Training Awards The South Australian Training Awards are the peak State awards for vocational education and training (VET), recognising innovation and excellence in the training sector. These prestigious awards recognise and celebrate the achievements of apprentices, trainees, vocational education students, employers, trainers, training organisations and industry. They also aim to raise the profile of skills and reward individuals and organisations for innovative approaches to training that help to develop our industries and workforce. 2011 key dates Nominations close 27 May Judging – June/July South Australian Training Awards, Adelaide Convention Centre  16 September To apply, please visit http://www.satrainingawards.sa.edu.au/  <<<<>>>>  TASMANIA 2011 Tasmanian Training Awards  The awards for excellence in vocational education and training are the peak State awards for vocational education and training (VET), recognising innovation and excellence in the training sector. Fifteen awards are offered this year including three new awards: VET Teacher / Trainer of the Year Industry Collaboration Award Small Training Provider of the Year AND Small Business of the Year has been replaced by Small Employer of the Year (for employers with fewer than 40 employees) to encourage the participation of more businesses. Nominations close on 31st May. Judging will be in June/July Gala Presentation dinner in Hobart will be on 19th August. For information please visit http://www.skills.tas.gov.au/trainingawards <<<<>>>>   WESTERN AUSTRALIA WA Training Awards 2011 Applications are now open for WA’s prestigious Training Awards. Categories include: WA Apprentice of the Year WA School-based Apprentice of the Year WA Trainee of the Year WA Vocational Student of the Year WA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year WA Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Training Award WA Trainer of the Year Organisational categories WA Small Business of the Year WA Employer of the Year WA VET in Schools Excellence WA Training Initiative WA Small Training Provider of the Year WA Large Training Provider of the Year WA International Training Provider of the Year For more information please visit http://www.trainingwa.wa.gov.au/trainingawards/detcms/portal/     25 March 2011 Delivering skilled workers to the resources sector An 18 month apprenticeship training program for 1,000 workers and $200 million to fund targeted training projects for skills in critical demand are among a range of initiatives to address skills shortages in Australia’s resources sector. Releasing the Government’s response to the National Resources Sector Employment Taskforce report, Minister for Skills and Jobs, Senator Chris Evans said funding is being targeted at practical, industry-based solutions designed to deliver skilled workers. According to Senator Evans “Under the adult apprenticeship project, experienced workers will have their existing skills recognised and be given the opportunity to complete the competencies required to get a full trade qualification in just 18 months. “Existing resource sector employees and workers from across Australia will be recruited and on and off-the-job training provided so companies will benefit immediately from a boost to their workforces. “Workers with real skills will be able to gain trade qualifications in up to 18 months and secure highly paid jobs in the sector. “The innovation follows the Government’s commitment to simplify and reform the Australian Apprenticeship system to ensure it is better targeted to meet the critical skills needs of the Australian economy.” Information on the Critical Skills Investment Fund and the submission of expressions of interest for industry training and workforce development projects are available from www.deewr.gov.au/criticalskillsinvestmentfund  Submissions close on Friday 8 April 2011 For further information, please visithttp://www.deewr.gov.au/ministers/evans/media/releases/pages/article_110315_135934.aspx http://www.deewr.gov.au/Ministers/Evans/Media/Releases/Pages/Article_110315_135934.aspx <<<<>>>>  Today’s skills: Tomorrow’s Leaders applications The Today’s Skills: Tomorrow’s Leaders program provides an opportunity for high calibre apprentices and trainees who are employed through group training to increase their leadership skills. Today’s Skills: Tomorrow’s Leaders now runs over 5 days at the AIS, including a full day visit to Parliament House to meet with key politicians and usually a visit to Government House. Lifestyle Strategist, Ian Hutchinson, leads participants through a process of discovery, identifying their top interests, values, skills and personality traits. Participants then transform this learning into a lifestyle blueprint, creating an informed vision for their futures and realistic action plans to achieve their goals. View the Selection Criteriaathttp://www.gtav.com.au/images/stories/friday_file/TSTL_Selection_Criteria_2011.pdf <<<<>>>>   Enactment of new national VET regulator The enabling legislation for the new national VET regulator, to be known as the Australian Skills Quality Authority, has now been passed by Parliament. The new National VET Regulator will build on the current VET regulatory system to increase confidence in the quality and consistency of graduates across states and territories. The new regulator will use a risk-based approach, allowing it to focus closely on poor performers while reducing the regulatory burden for strong, proven providers. These reforms have received considerable support for the introduction of the VET regulator from stakeholders across the board. These include training providers, employers, industry skills councils and unions. From 1 July 2011, the new regulator will begin regulating training providers in New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory. Regulation of Queensland, South Australian and Tasmanian providers will follow later in the year once legislation is passed by respective State Governments. WA and Victoria will not refer their powers like the other States/Territories but intend to pass mirror legislation to give effect to the intent of the national framework. The legislation establishes a strengthened regulatory framework with a range of escalating penalties to ensure the new regulator can deal with underperforming training providers. The Government has committed $55 million over four years to create the new regulator, as part of the Skills for Sustainable Growth package announced in last year’s Federal Budget. Further information on passing of the three Bills that establish the new regulator—the National Vocational Education and Training Regulator Bill 2010 [2011]; the National Vocational Education and Training Regulator (Consequential Amendments) Bill 2011, and the National Vocational Education and Training Regulator (Transitional Provisions) Bill 2010 National VET regulator is available at www.deewr.gov.au/vetregulator <<<<>>>>  Gillard Government delivers national reform to Australia’s VET sector Landmark reform to Australia’s vocational education and training sector has been achieved today with passage of legislation which has established a national system of regulation for the first time. Minister for Tertiary Education and Skills, Senator Chris Evans, welcomed the passing of the three Bills that establish the new regulator. This will be a new era for the regulation and quality of vocational education and training benefiting more than 1.2 million students and thousands of Australian businesses.  These reforms have received considerable support for the introduction of the VET regulator from stakeholders across the board. These include training providers, employers, industry skills councils and unions.  For the full media release, visit http://www.deewr.gov.au/Ministers/Evans/Media/Releases/Pages/Article_110324_141509.aspx Further information on passing of the three Bills that establish the new regulator is available at www.deewr.gov.au/vetregulator. <<<<>>>>  11 March 2011 NATIONAL A Shared Responsibility Report An independent report into the future of the Australian Apprenticeship System titled A Shared responsibility - Apprenticeships for the 21st Century* has been released, which highlights many of the challenges and obstacles that can stand in the way of apprentices and trainees who play a key role in the development of Australia's skills needs. The report details the expert panel’s 14 recommendations to address these challenges which include:  skill shortages the economic cycle completion rates investment in training by employers the apprenticeship system being complex  misalignment of the Australian Apprenticeships system and the workplace relations system. *A Shared responsibility - Apprenticeships for the 21st Century*  Final Report of the Expert Panel 31 January 2011. To read the report, please visit http://www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au/experts/documents/Apprenticeshipsforthe21stCenturyExpertPanel.pdf  <<<<>>>>  TASMANIA Training initiative changing lives A joint State and Australian government training initiative is helping transform the lives of Tasmanians seeking to boost their skills. The Minister for Education and Skills, Lin Thorp, said the 2011 Productivity Places Program (PPP) will release $8million to train job seekers as well as existing workers. Further details on the program are available through www.skills.tas.gov.au/productivity <<<<>>>>  QUEENSLAND Flood recovery assistance Skills Queensland, in partnership with the Queensland Departments of Education and Training, and Employment, Economic Development and Innovation, and the Australian Government Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations, has released the 2011 Queensland Natural Disasters Jobs and Skills Package. These initiatives include employment and skills assistance for communities projects targeted at rebuilding community and public infrastructure and environmental restoration  Apprentice Support  training to address priority skills development. Further information Skills Queensland website at http://www.skills.qld.gov.au/disaster-package.aspx. Jobs and Skills Package Hotline - 1800 773 048  <<<<>>>>   Queensland Training Awards Nominations for the Queensland Training Awards 2011 are now open and the closing date has been extended to Friday 25 March 2011. Don't miss out on the chance to recognise a student, colleague, teacher or trainer for their hard work. This year the prestigious awards celebrate 50 years of recognising individuals and organisations who strive for success, best practice and innovation in training. The awards are the state’s highest recognition for excellence in vocational education and training. Visit http://www.qta.qld.gov.au/for the application information. <<<<>>>>   VICTORIA  Flood relief assistance Small business owners affected by the 2010 and 2011 floods are eligible for a range of State and Commonwealth grants and business assistance. The Victorian Government, through the Rural Finance Corporation, is offering a $25,000 Clean Up and Restoration grant for eligible small businesses. For more information visit  http://www.dhs.vic.gov.au/emergency/current-events/flood_recovery/business  9 February 2011 Flood and wet weather Managing employment conditions during floods and cyclones can be difficult both emotionally as well as making sure that employees entitlements are met. The Fair Work Ombudsman has included on their website information about how to manage the employment situation when the floods and other natural disasters have impacted on the capacity of businesses to operate. VICTORIA Victorian floods Victoria has experienced heavy rainfall and flash flooding during January 2011. The Victorian State Government has provided a comprehensive list of services available to flood affected Victorians. To access click on the following link: http://www.vic.gov.au/emergencies-safety/emergency-services/emergency-information/victorian-floods-january-2011.html#a3 <<<<>>>>   Return to Work – compliance Codes for public comment In 2010, a number of changes were made to the laws which govern workers’ compensation. To help employers to understand the new laws and how to comply with their return to work obligations, WorkSafe will introduce new guidance called compliance codes. The codes cover the following topics:  Return to work information Cooperating with labour hire employers about return to work Return to Work Coordinators Employers’ return to work obligations. The codes are legal documents that outline some of the ways that you can comply with the new laws. They do not replace the simpler, plain English information products that we currently have available, such as our employer brochure titled What to do if a worker is injured, A guide for employers. Visit the WorkSafe Victoria website for additional information http://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/wsinternet/worksafe/sitetools/about+worksafe/compliance+codes <<<<>>>>  WESTERN AUSTRALIA Train your staff in Frontline Management The Certificate IV in Frontline Management (BSB40807) has recently been approved to be delivered as a traineeship in Western Australia. This nationally recognised qualification is suitable for people who are either in the role of, or aspiring to be, supervisors, coordinators, leading hands, team leaders, customer service managers and project managers and includes the principles, values, models and skills of supervising and managing others. New entrant employees (employees employed less than 3 months full time or 12 months part time with your organization) may be eligible to attract up to $4,000 in Federal Government Employer Incentive funding. Employers please note – whilst this traineeship does not attract state government funding there are payroll tax exemptions for all trainees for the duration of their traineeship. For details on the qualification requirements click on the following link: http://www.ntis.gov.au/?/trainingpackage/BSB07/Qualification/BSB40807/rules Contact 13 MEGT for more information on how you can upskill your staff. <<<<>>>>   Attention all pharmacists Government funded training is now available for your employees to undertake a Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy (SIR40107) traineeship. The traineeship will equip your employees to manage financial resources, merchandising and store presentation; provide a safe working environment; lead and manage teams; coordinate interaction with customers, manage the retail office and staff recruitment; assist in dispensary operations and provide specialist information, products and services on blood pressure, pregnancy and maternal health. Upskill new and existing employees in this 24 month duration traineeship whilst accessing up to $4,000 in Federal Government Employer Incentive funding and State Government payroll tax exemptions. For details on the qualification requirements click on the following link: http://www.aatinfo.com.au/new_app_stp.cfm?u=3550&cfid=417772&cftoken=f75807f1977bc2ea-247889A7-270E-1FA5-62A8B92D0052E2EF Contact 13 MEGT for more information on how you can upskill your staff.   JANUARY 2011 Disaster Income Recovery Subsidy - Flooding and severe weather - November 2010 - January 2011 While this information is not exclusively for Australian Apprenticeships, many apprentices, trainees and their employers will be affected. The Disaster Income Recovery Subsidy has been activated to assist employees, small business persons and farmers who have had a loss of income as a direct result of the flooding and severe weather that began from 29 November 2010 and continued in January 2011 in the states of Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia. Payment Disaster Income Recovery Subsidy consists of ex-gratia payments equivalent to the maximum rate of Newstart Allowance, as detailed below: Rate Amount Single $469.70 per fortnight Single with dependent child $508.20 per fortnight Partnered $424 (each) per fortnight Under 21 (from 1 January 2011) $388.70 per fortnight Under 21 (from 29 November 2010 to 31 December 2010) $377 per fortnight 16-20 year old, single with dependent child $508.20 per fortnight For eligibility and claiming information please visit http://www.centrelink.gov.au/internet/internet.nsf/emergency/severe_weather_dec10_dirs.htm <<<<>>>> Increased funding for Tools for Your Trade From 1 January 2011, an additional $1,700 (on top of the current Tools for Your Trade payments of $3,800) will be available to eligible Australian Apprentices to assist with the costs of training, purchases of relevant tools and other costs associated with their Australian  Apprenticeship. Eligible Australian Apprentices are those undertaking a Certificate III or Certificate IV qualification that leads to an occupation listed on the National skills Needs List or undertaking an eligible agriculture or horticulture qualification. Eligible full time Australian apprentices will receive: $800 at the 3 month point of their apprenticeship $1,000 at the 12 months point $1,000 at the 24 months point $1,200 at the 36 months point $1,500 upon successful completion of their Australian Apprenticeship. The payments totalling $5,500 will be paid over the life of the Australian apprenticeship. More information is available at  www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au <<<<>>>>   DECEMBER 2010  Changes to Tools For Your Trade Payments From 1 January 2011 an additional $1,700 (on top of the current Tools For Your Trade payments of $3,800) will be available to eligible Australian Apprentices to assist with the costs of training, purchases of relevant tools and other costs associated with their Australian Apprenticeship.  Eligible Australian Apprentices are those undertaking a Certificate III or Certificate IV qualification that leads to an occupation listed on the National Skills Needs List or undertaking an eligible Agriculture or Horticulture qualification. Eligible full time Australian Apprentices will receive $800 at the 3 month point of their apprenticeship  $1,000 at the 12 months point $1,000 at the 24 months point $1,200 at the 36 months point $1,500 upon successful completion of their Australian Apprenticeship. The payments, totaling $5,500 will be paid over the life of the Australian Apprenticeship. For more detailed information about the incentive payments, follow this link. <<<<>>>>  Better training, more apprentices for Australia’s Defence Industry Minister for Defence Materiel Jason Clare announced the Australian Government would invest $12.5 million in almost 5,000 training places to boost the skills of the Defence industry workforce. This includes $1.8 million to support more than 400 apprentices. The funding is part of the Skilling Australia’s Defence Industry program, which has already funded more than 15,000 training places, including about 1,500 apprentices. This year the funding will go to training programs including: submarine engineering short courses a Masters of Explosive Ordnance Project Management diplomas and Aircraft Structural Repair training. A list of signed Skilling Australia’s Defence Industry Agreements for 2010/11 and more information on the Skilling program are available at www.defence.gov.au/dmo/id/sadi/. http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/claretpl.cfm?CurrentId=11097  <<<<>>>>  Critical Skills Investment Fund (CSIF) Advisory Board Senator the Hon Christopher Evans has announced the establishment of the inaugural Critical Skills Investment Fund (CSIF) Advisory Board whose role will be to advise on priority skills issues and strategic directions for the CISF. Its focus will be on training Australians to meet the increased demand for skilled labour as the economy strengthens. The CSIF provides $200 million over four years for Australian Government co-funding for industry partnerships to undertake projects that provide training and employment opportunities in the resources, construction, renewable energy and infrastructure sectors. For more information on the Critical Skills Investment Fund visit www.deewr.gov.au/criticalskillsinvestmentfund The first funding round for the Critical Skills Investment Fund will be in early 2011. Draft guidelines for the fund are available at www.deewr.gov.au/criticalskillsinvestmentfund.  <<<<>>>>  Apprenticeship and training numbers reach record high A record number of Australians are undertaking apprenticeships and training which will continue to drive productivity as the economy strengthens, Minister for Skills, Senator Chris Evans said. The June quarter estimates of apprentice and trainee activity in Australia, released by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) today, show a 16.9 per cent increase in trades commencements in the past 12 months, while the number of people enrolling in non-trade occupations has also risen by 6.2 per cent. Completions have also increased by almost five per cent. In total there were 440, 600 apprentices and trainees in-training as at the end of June 2010, an increase of 3.2% from the previous year. The Government’s four-year Skills for Sustainable Growth package includes $200 million for the new Critical Skills Investment Fund to deliver up to 39,000 additional training places in sectors facing high skills demand. The NCVER’s Australian vocational education and training statistics: Apprentices and trainees, June quarter 2010 are available from www.ncver.edu.au/publications/2326.html.

NOVEMBER 19 Additional tax exempt bonuses From 1 January 2011, trade apprentices working in ‘skill shortage occupations’ will receive additional tax exempt bonuses of up to $1700 as they reach milestones during their training. “This additional bonus brings to $5500 the total tax free Tools for Your Trade Payment provided to trade apprentices in skills shortage occupations,” Senator Evans said. http://www.deewr.gov.au/ministers/evans/media/releases/pages/article_101109_135018.aspx <<<<>>>> Increased support delivered to Australian Apprentices The Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook (MYEFO) signals increased support for Australian apprentices as the Gillard Government continues to invest in the skills needed for a strengthening economy. It will support 200,000 trade apprentices at a cost of $281 million over four years. It is clear that a number of Australian international education providers will be under pressure in 2011 from a range of factors, not the least of which is the high value of the Australian dollar, said Senator Evans. http://www.deewr.gov.au/ministers/evans/media/releases/pages/article_101109_135018.aspx <<<<>>>> 58 New Trade Training Centres - to boost vocational education Minister for School Education, Peter Garrett today announced $219.6 million for 58 new Trade Training Centres that will create vocational education pathways for students at 195 secondary schools around Australia. The funding announced today is part of the $2.5 billion investment in vocational education and opportunities for students delivered through the Trade Training Centres in Schools program to build or upgrade vocational training facilities in secondary schools. The Trade Training Centres in Schools program has already delivered 35 completed Trade Training Centre projects, 130 projects have also commenced construction and a further 64 are in either the planning or procurement stage. http://www.deewr.gov.au/ministers/garrett/media/releases/pages/article_101104_104912.aspx <<<<>>>> Australian Apprenticeships & Traineeships Information Service Relaunch The Australian Apprenticeships and Traineeships Information Service websites was rebranded and relaunched. To take a look go to the Australian Apprenticeships and Traineeships Information websitehttp://www.aatinfo.com.au/ - built for staff in Australian Apprenticeships support networks, or the Australian Apprenticeships Pathways websitehttp://www.aapathways.com.au/- a resource for the general public (previously published under the name Australian Apprenticeships Job Pathways). If you have any questions about the websites please give the AAT Information Service a call on 1800 338 022 or email contact@aatinfo.com.au. <<<<>>>> 2010 Australian Training Awards The Australian Training Awards are the peak, national awards for vocational education and training, recognising innovation and excellence in the training sector. The Australian Training Awards are the culmination of the state and territory awards with winners from each state and territory competing in the national finals. This year the Australian Training Awards will be held at the Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre, Homebush, on Friday, 19 November 2010. The event includes the presentation of Industry Awards and the Australian Flexible Learning Framework's Innovative Business Award. For more information visit http://www.australiantrainingawards.gov.au/Register_to_attend/#Event_Details <<<<>>>> Skills Queensland legislation passed The legislation to establish an independent skills and workforce development body in Queensland has been passed by Parliament. The independent skills commission, to be known as Skills Queensland, will be an industry-led body fully equipped to provide advice and make recommendations to the government on skills, workforce development and skilled migration. The new industry body will become the centrepiece of the vocational education and training sector in Queensland. Skills Queensland will be backed by a strategic skills investment fund of up to $100m from government and industry. This funding will be similar to the existing $10million coal seam gas and liquefied natural gas (CSG-LNG) training fund. Skills Queensland will be operational by the end of this year. An immediate priority will be the development of a Skills and Workforce Development Investment Plan for Queensland. For more information visit the Skills Queensland website http://www.training.qld.gov.au/industry/qsc/ <<<<>>>> Record number of Year 12 SATs for Queensland A record number of Year 12 students completed or were continuing school-based apprenticeships and traineeships (SATs) in Queensland last year. A recent survey of more than 36 000 students who graduated Year 12 last year confirmed that SATs were supporting young people to transition from school to further education and training or employment. The Next Step 2010 report shows that not all SATs are continuing on training pathways, with more than 13 per cent of last year’s school-based apprentices and trainees studying at university this year. Read the full report at http://education.qld.gov.au/nextstep/2010report.html

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