The release of the NSW VET Review Interim Report by the state government provides an opportunity to place students and not institutions at the heart of the skills training system. That's the view of the Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA), the peak body representing independent skills training, higher education, and international education providers.
"The interim report initiates a crucial discussion on the future of New South Wales' skills training system, which will benefit from policy reforms that acknowledge the complementary roles of independent Registered Training Organisations and public TAFE colleges," said Troy Williams, ITECA Chief Executive.
ITECA is a strong proponent for reforms that puts students at the heart of New South Wales' skills training system.
"New South Wales' skills training system will be enhanced when government policies support a student's decision to study with their preferred provider, be it a quality independent RTO or a public TAFE college," Mr. Williams said.
As the New South Wales Government deliberates on strategies to address prolonged skills shortages, ITECA underscores the significant contributions made by independent RTOs. Data from the National Centre for Vocational Education and Research (NCVER) reveal that independent providers support 85.5% of the 1.23 million students engaged in skills training across the state.
ITECA is eager to ensure that the final report places a greater emphasis on aiding Indigenous Australians in accessing skills training, noting that the interim report includes vague references to objectives in this critical policy area. In New South Wales, independent RTOs support 70.7% of the 57,715 Indigenous Australians participating in skills training across the state.
"ITECA looks forward to working with the New South Wales Government to enhance the role of skills training in supporting Indigenous Australians not just into a job, but into a career," Mr. Williams said.
The NSW VET Review Interim Report also highlights the chance to improve access to skills training for students from remote, rural, and regional areas. According to NCVER data, independent RTOs support 83.8% of the 355,940 students from rural, regional, and remote areas across the state in obtaining skills training.
"ITECA is committed to ensuring that the final report includes robust recommendations on improving access to skills training for students from remote, rural, and regional News South Wales," Mr. Williams concluded.
