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Media Release
INITIATIVES TO BOOST AUSTRALIA’S SKILLS BASE
25 November, 2004
The Australian Government is committed to continue working with industry to solve critical skill shortages. A range of initiatives have been announced which represent the most significant boost to vocational education and training ever undertaken by any government.
Speaking at the Victorian Employers Chamber of Commerce and Industry Training Stakeholders Forum today, the new Australian Government Minister for Vocational and Technical Education, Gary Hardgrave MP said “continuing strong economic growth has seen our existing pool of skills fully utilized; if we are to sustain this growth then additional skills development is urgently needed.“
“The Government has announced $1.06 billion over 4 years for initiatives aimed at increasing skill development in key trades and strengthening the training system - this has been strongly welcomed by industry.“
“This funding is in addition to the $2.1 billion already committed to support vocational education and training and to support the record numbers of New Apprentices.”
“Consultations have already commenced on the creation of 24 Australian Technical Colleges to provide trade training for about 7,200 students over four years. Six of the Colleges will be in Victoria, in areas experiencing critical skill shortages such as Geelong, Warrnambool, Bendigo, Sunshine, Eastern Melbourne and the Bairnsdale/Sale region.
“This is a ground breaking concept and will significantly raise the profile of technical education,” Mr Hardgrave noted.
“The Government will also develop an Institute for Trade Skill Excellence, which will play an important role in recognising training providers responsive to industry, and promoting the trades as exciting career options for young people.”
“We are also putting in place a number of strategies to help New Apprentices embarking on their new careers in the trades, such as Tools For Your Trade, the Commonwealth Trade Learning Scholarships and other measures which support individual New Apprentices,” Mr Hardgrave concluded.
Media Contact:
Mr Hardgrave’s Office: Anthony Moate 0402 415 167
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