QUALIFICATIONS REFORM

Overview

Since the introduction of training packages in the 1990s, industry has occupied a central place in Australia’s VET system. In terms of training products, industry has participated in training package development and review processes, directly through industry reference committee membership (since 2016) and through national consultation processes.

It is clear existing training products and processes underpinning their development have become out of step with expectations of industry and other VET stakeholders. Considerable room exists to simplify training products, and refocus them to better reflect industry and learner needs.

The Qualifications Reform Project Hub will enable industry, government and training providers to test elements of qualifications reform, including resources required to support employers and learners. This may also include supporting training providers to make a successful transition to delivering training products of the future.

Who is involved in the project?

Rio Tinto

FMG

Macmahon

BHP

WesTrac

Training provider partners include:

South Metropolitan TAFE

WesTrac

TAFEQld (under negotiation)

AUSMESA is also engaging VET regulators to better understand how they may regulate RTOs delivering under this project.

Why is AUSMESA doing this?

The training system has become overly complex, prescriptive in nature, and not delivering the outcomes expected by industry. Australia’s mining and energy sectors rely on a fit for purpose VET system delivering industry standard outcomes.

This project is exploring new ways of delivering training products that leverage transferable skills and potentially create a broad base with stackable skill set model.

What has happened so far?

Several rounds of consultation with industry and RTOs discussing alternate ways of expressing training products

Engagement with state and territory training agencies

Engagement with VET regulators

Consultation with DESE’s Qualifications Reform Trial Expert Body

Validation of these standards with industry and RTOs

Development of pilot occupational competencies and training standards for the target heavy-duty plant mechanic role.

How do I find out more?

If you are interested in finding out more about this project please contact us at projects@ausmesa.org.au