The Albanese and Minns Labor Governments are investing $4.76 million to partner with, and build the capability of, Aboriginal Community Controlled (ACC) Registered Training Organisations (RTOs).
Access to education can transform lives, and by working in partnership with First Nations people we will achieve better training outcomes.
This investment is the first stage of a collaboration between the two governments which will see up to $104.6 million in funding invested in NSW over five years under the National Skills Agreement's Closing the Gap initiative.
The first stage will bring together a Community of Practice of RTOs owned and operated by First Nations communities to work in partnership with the NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative Group.
Support will be available for the leaders of RTOs to participate and engage in the design and delivery of partnership activities, including:
- rapid infrastructure and asset upgrades
- providing students with culturally designed wrap around support and mentoring
- creating resources for existing and new courses
- travel support for regional and remote students
- development of cultural competence qualifications for training providers.
The National Skills Agreement delivers on Closing the Gap by ensuring the design and delivery of skills and training to First Nations Australians is in full and genuine partnership.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles:
"The Albanese Government believes that all Australians should have the opportunity to access our skills and training system. Closing the Gap in vocational education and training is a priority of all Skills Ministers and we have enshrined it in our landmark National Skills Agreement.
"We know that the delivery of education and training is more effective when it is community led, community designed and community driven.
"We understand the importance of self-determination, partnerships and shared decision-making for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
"Creating the Community of Practice is a fantastic first step on our road to Closing the Gap in New South Wales. It brings together our First Nations education leaders and provides a forum for them to share their expertise. I look forward to seeing how they shape our actions moving forward."
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy:
"The Albanese Labor Government is committed to Closing the Gap in vocational education and training.
"The First Nations skills sector is a vital component to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to get the skills they need to access employment opportunities and to enjoy the outcomes that come with that.
"This investment and partnership delivers on our priority reforms under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, including building the Community-Controlled Sector by changing the way governments fund core training delivery".
Quotes attributable to the NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan:
"This investment marks a crucial step in closing the gap in skills and training outcomes for First Nations people across NSW.
"Access to high-quality education and training can be lifechanging. This funding will provide critical support - from infrastructure upgrades to tailored student mentoring, to ensuring First Nations learners have a say in ensuring access to the resources they need to thrive.
"This is about creating long-term opportunities and ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have a central role in shaping the training system that serves them."
Quotes attributable to the NSW Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, David Harris:
"We know that when Closing the Gap solutions are designed, led, and implemented by Aboriginal people and communities, in partnership with governments, we get better outcomes.
"This investment from the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments to partner with Aboriginal education leaders will lead to life-changing education and training outcomes for people."
