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Skip to main content Department of Training and Workforce development * Site map * Accessibility * Contact us Enter your keywords Go to whole of WA Government search * Home * Training * Training in Western Australia * Lower fees, local skills — Reduced course fees * Vocational education and training * Apprenticeships and traineeships * International students * Learning support and assistance (Participation program) * Foundation skills and equity courses * Awards and competitions * Scholarships * Statistics and the WA data standard * Career development * Career planning and development * Career services * Aboriginal Services * Migration Services * Workforce development * Workforce planning and development * The State priority occupation list * Skilled migration * Outlook and assessment for WA * Developing your workforce * Support and information services * Apprenticeship Office * Welcome to Apprenticeship Office * COVID-19 support for employers, apprentices and trainees * WAAMS — Your 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and the WA data standard * Career developmentExpand * Career planning and development * Career services * Aboriginal Services * Migration Services * Workforce developmentExpand * Workforce planning and development * The State priority occupation list * Skilled migration * Outlook and assessment for WA * Developing your workforce * Support and information services * Apprenticeship OfficeExpand * Welcome to Apprenticeship Office * COVID-19 support for employers, apprentices and trainees * WAAMS — Your 24/7 online client portal * Jobs and Skills WA Employer Incentive * Apprenticeship Office news and updates * General information and FAQs about apprenticeships and traineeships in WA * The apprenticeship/traineeship training contract * Variations (changes) to the training contract * Updating personal or employer details on your training contract * Trade certificates (information and/or application) * Apprenticeships / traineeships for secondary school students * Submit an enquiry * Online servicesExpand * Online services * Apprenticeship Office — Forms and fact sheets * Contacting the Department * Full time courses at WA TAFE colleges — Search and apply * Migration Services — Applications and assessments * Muresk Institute — Course enquiries, accommodation and payments * TAFE International Western Australia — Search courses, apply, pay fees, make enquiries * WA Training Awards * About usExpand * About the Department * Annual report 2020—21 * Strategic Plan 2019—2023 * Reconciliation Action Plan 2022—23 * Workforce Diversification and Inclusion Strategy 2021–2025 * Aboriginal employment strategy 2019 * Disability access and inclusion plan 2017–2021 * Review of skills, training and workforce development * WA State Training Plan 2021—22 * Our structure * Working with us * Media and news * Public interest disclosure * Freedom of information * Contact us * Enquiries, compliments and complaints * Legislative framework, policies and guidelines * Priority Start policy * Western Australian Defence Industry Workforce Office (WADIWO) * Training providers and schools * Employers, business and industry * Individuals, students and parents Home | What's new WA STARS CONTINUE TO SHINE 29th November, 2021 Congratulations to all eight WA finalists The 2021 Australian Training Awards (ATAs) have once again delivered a successful virtual event! The ATA gala dinner usually takes place in a host capital city, but with border restrictions and interstate travel out of the question for many, the ATAs once again live-streamed a virtual presentation. Each State and Territory was invited to host a local event to watch the results as they were announced. WA had eight finalists in the running for national awards, seven of whom were 2021 WA Training Award winners and one who was a direct-entry finalist. To make it a special day, the Department of Training and Workforce Development hosted an event for finalists, their family members, employers and training providers as well as the WATA sponsors to watch the live stream together. While other state finalists attended dinner events, watch parties and dialled in from home, WA guests enjoyed a high tea at the Duxton Hotel as the results were announced. Western Australia once again held its own in a large and competitive field from around the country, scooping recognition in the following: * Maryke Gray, Runner-up Australian VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year * Zoe Tucker, Runner-up Australian Vocational Student of the Year. Both Zoe and Maryke were at the event with family members, and were able to enjoy a cheer and a round of applause as their names were called. Looking forward to 2022, WA has six new ambassadors who are all living proof that a VET pathway is the best decision you can make - and they are all ready to get out there and spread the word. Our six 2021 winners and the names to look out for are: * Maryke Gray, Runner-up Australian VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year * Zoe Tucker, Runner-up Australian Vocational Student of the Year * Amber Ugle-Hayward, WA Trainee of the Year * Courtney Short, WA School-based Apprentice of the Year * Kevin Wilson, WA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year * Christian Ferrone, WA Apprentice of the Year. The 2022 ATAs will be hosted in Adelaide! Photo: Zoe Tucker (Runner-up Australian Vocational Student of the Year) and Maryke Gray (Runner-up Australian VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year) Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more MANDURAH—PEEL REGIONAL SKILLS SUMMIT HAPPENING TODAY! 29th November, 2021 Actions to grow the local skilled workforce Local business and government leaders are meeting in Mandurah today to generate innovative ideas and practical actions to grow the skilled workforce in the Peel region. The Mandurah-Peel Regional Skills Summit is the ninth of a series of 10 Regional Skills Summits hosted by the WA State Government since August 2021, and insights from today's event will form the basis of a local action plan to meet the region’s unique workforce needs."I am thrilled to be able to host one of the Skills Summits in Mandurah." said Mandurah MLA David Templeman. "The region has unique skills needs and I am interested in hearing about new ways of ensuring we can continue to grow our local workforce to support local jobs." More than 40 government and regional business leaders from a range of sectors are attending; including the region’s biggest employing industries of retail, health care and social assistance, construction, education and training, manufacturing and accommodation and food services. Recognising the importance of training to build a skilled workforce and retain people in regional areas, the State Government has been working to ensure its investment in training initiatives reaches all corners of WA. * Peel locals are snapping up affordable training opportunities offered through the Lower fees, local skills (LFLS) initiative, with a 27 per cent increase in LFLS enrolments in the region this year. * Employers have responded by taking on more apprentices and trainees in the Peel region in 2021, with commencements up by more than 75 per cent in the 12 months to 30 September 2021. The LFLS program has recently been expanded by a further 30 qualifications from 2022, to include a total of 210 courses with heavily reduced course fees in priority industry areas including hospitality, health care, construction, retail and others. * Workers in industries which have a critical need to upskill workers – including childcare, aged and disability care, and civil construction – will be able to access low fee existing worker traineeship places to help meet the skills needs of these sectors. The new initiatives respond to workforce issues raised by industry leaders at the Perth and regional skills summits held to date, and are jointly funded through a $103.5 million agreement between the State and Commonwealth governments under the expanded JobTrainer Fund agreement. Other initiatives progressing from the Perth Skills Summit include: * attracting onshore skilled migrants to fill jobs in demand in WA; * supporting mature age apprentices; * promoting the tourism and hospitality industry to school students to grow the workforce; * extending the Apprenticeship and Traineeship Re-engagement Incentive; * freezing regional Government rental accommodation to attract public sector workers to the regions; and * boosting Aboriginal youth employment opportunities. The State Government is also providing support for jobseekers experiencing disadvantage to obtain a driver’s licence; progressing targeted advertising campaigns to attract interstate workers and increase participation of under-represented groups in WA; has smoothed the pipeline of construction work; and is running a series of 10 Regional Skills Summits, including the one being held today. "Through Skills Summits our Government and industry leaders are working together to increase the capability of local workforces across the State." said Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery. "Ideas and discussions captured at the Mandurah Skills Summit will inform local action plans to address changing workforce needs in the Peel region, with a focus on local solutions for local issues." Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN (RAP) 2022—23 29th November, 2021 Outlining our vision for reconciliation The Department is proud to have launched our new Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan January 2022–December 2023 (RAP) at a recent event for all staff, with special guests including Whadjuk Elder Sharon Gregory. founding Co-chair of Reconciliation Australia Hon. Fred Chaney AO, and Justine Bennell from Site Skills Training. Acting Director General Karen Ho pledged this third Innovate RAP it will be our last. "Over the next 24 months you will see us transform into a culturally informed and responsive organisation to prepare for our transition into a Stretch RAP.". OUR VISION FOR RECONCILIATION Our vision for reconciliation sees Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities thriving and accessing the real economy through their engagement in meaningful education, training, employment and business activities. Our new Innovate RAP strengthens the voice of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees in shaping the strategies and initiatives which influence their working environment. It deepens our engagement with external Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders and other government agencies, and continues the Department’s focus on maximising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s participation in training and sustainable employment. Its development was informed through the results of a staff survey and workshops with our RAP Steering Group and Corporate Leadership Group,with support from our Aboriginal Policy Planning and Reconciliation branch and Reconciliation Australia. View and download our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2022–23 The artwork featured in this RAP is titled ‘Moving Mingas’, by artist Noeleen Hamlett. Minga means ‘ant’ in the Wajarri Yamatji language, and the many vibrant elements in the artwortkexemplify the roles we all play in achieving reconciliation. The ants model harmony, hard work and planning, and the goanna signifies the important role of leadership – ‘the boss that looks over and guides the employees,’ as described by Noeleen. Bold, contemporary colours and patterns portray a landscape of varied terrain; rolling hills, rivers and water holes, which represent the challenges on our journey. Noeleen Hamlett is a Wajarri Yamatji artist and former North Metropolitan TAFE student with a lifelong passion for art. Noeleen undertook her Certificate IV in Visual Arts in 2015 and was the winning artist in the logo competition for NMTAFE’s Koolark Centre for Aboriginal Students. She now has many public pieces and community projects around Perth. Read less Read less Read less Read less Read less WORKFORCE DIVERSIFICATION AND INCLUSION STRATEGY 2021—25 RELEASED! 25th November, 2021 Creating a diverse and inclusive work environment We are happy to announce that our new Workforce Diversification and Inclusion Strategy 2021–25 has just been released. The strategy outlines our plan to diversify our workforce and create an inclusive work environment. It includes separate action plans for each diversity group with tailored initiatives designed to increase the representation of people from diverse backgrounds at all levels across the Department, and ensure our staff experiences a sense of belonging and inclusion at work. We are committed to achieving the following diversity employment targets by 2025. * Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people: 3.7 per cent * Culturally and linguistically diverse (CalD): 15.5 per cent * People with disabilit: 5.0 per cent * Women in SES (Executive): 50 per cent * Youth 24 years and under: 5.8 per cent The Strategy supports the Public Sector Commission’s Workforce Diversification and Inclusion Strategy for WA Public Sector Employment 2020–25, and aligns with our Workforce Plan, our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan, our Multicultural Plan and Disability Access and Inclusion Plan. We have also developed a new Workforce Diversification and Inclusion Resource Hub which offers a range of information and resources designed to assist and support our leaders and managers in promoting awareness and understanding of diversity and inclusion, and support inclusive workplace practices. The resource hub contains information and resources to develop knowledge and understanding of diversity and inclusion topics such as access and inclusion, gender equality and cultural diversity; career development and networking opportunities for diverse groups; services and supports for diverse groups; and information to support managers in recruiting and managing a diverse workforce. To further support the implementation of our diversity and inclusion initiatives, the Department has also recently become a corporate member of the Australian Network on Disability and the Diversity Council of Australia. View our new Workforce Diversification and Inclusion Strategy here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more 16 DAYS IN WA TO STOP VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN 25th November, 2021 Don't be silent when you see violence Today marks the start of this year’s 16 Days in WA to Stop Violence Against Women campaign. The campaign runs from 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, through to International Human Rights Day on 10 December. The Department will be actively supporting this year’s 16 Days in WA campaign, and we encourage you to also get involved and help end violence against women including family, domestic and sexual violence. The theme for the 2021 campaign is Don’t be silent when you see violence; encouraging bystanders to speak up and contribute to positive change towards the safety and respect of women in our community.Recent statistics * 65 per cent of assaults recorded in WA in 2020 were related to family and domestic violence — up 15 per cent from 2019. Of the 22,257 victims, 73 per cent – or 16,262 cases – were female. * One in two women and one in four men have experienced sexual harassment since the age of 15. * There were 3,048 victims of sexual assault in Western Australia last year – a 10 per cent increase on 2019. Of these, 86 per cent (or 2,615 victims) were female. HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED * Be part of the change by educating, motivating and advocating in your workplace and community. * Call out disrespectful behaviour when you see it, to help build a community that shows respect towards women. * Look for and use the hashtag #16DaysinWA on social media, to share information and resources. FREE RESOURCES Check out the campaign kit available for this year’s 16 Days in WA — including fact sheets, posters, social media tools, and resources to help develop understanding and support conversations. The kit also offers ideas for hosting an event, to help raise awareness at your workplace or in your community. Take a look at the 16 Days in WA website SERVICES AND SUPPORT If you or anyone you know is experiencing family and domestic violence, there is help available. * Call 000 if you or someone you know is in immediate danger * 1800RESPECT is the National Sexual Assault, Family and Domestic Violence Counselling Service. This is a free and confidential telephone and online counselling service for any person, regardless of age or gender, who has experienced or is at risk of domestic and family violence and/or sexual assault, and their family and friends. T: 1800 737 732 * Crisis Care is an information and counselling service for people in crisis needing urgent help. T: 1800 199 008 * Women’s Domestic Violence Helpline is a Western Australian 24-hour helpline to support women experiencing family and domestic violence. It provides support and counselling, including referrals to women’s refuges. T: 1800 007 339 * Men’s Domestic Violence Helpline provides counselling and referrals for male perpetrators, as well as male victims of family and domestic violence. T: 08 9223 1199 or 1800 000 599 Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more WA TAFE COLLEGES TO GET NEW STATE OF THE ART EQUIPMENT 23rd November, 2021 $25M investment for new tech in priority training areas Premier Mark McGowan and Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery have announced details of the State Government's $25 million investment in new equipment for Western Australia's TAFEs, to train students and create a pipeline of job ready graduates. TAFE colleges across WA will receive $25 million of modern equipment as part of a four-year program to upgrade and modernise their equipment to contemporary industry standards; helping students, apprentices and trainees become more job ready. TAFE colleges identified areas of need based on local demand and emerging industry training needs. South Regional TAFE will receive more than $1.1 million as part of Stage 1 of the TAFE Training Equipment Refresh Program. The Collie campus will receive $670,000 to purchase a heavy vehicle simulator and automation training equipment. The heavy vehicle driving simulator will equip students with simulated working conditions, allowing them to receive high quality training prior to driving large trucks on the road. The new equipment at the Collie campus will support the delivery of the Heavy Vehicle Driving Operations Skill Set, adding more skilled workers to the essential transport industry to meet increased demand created by local infrastructure projects including the Bunbury Outer Ring Road. More than $380,000 will go towards automation equipment for the Albany campus, including industrial process automation simulated plant and a programmable logic controller system. Other highlights of Stage 1 include: * $300,000 common rail diesel trainer for rail operations at North Metropolitan TAFE's Midland campus and $593,000 for electromechanical training systems across the Balga, Clarkson and Midland campuses; * $1.4 million to install large high tech spray painting booths for panel beating at South Metropolitan TAFE's Carlisle campus; * $2 million for heavy plant equipment across Central Regional TAFE's Geraldton and Kalgoorlie campuses; and * $178,000 for nursing equipment at North Regional TAFE's Pundulmurra campus and $1.4 million for hydrogen and renewable energy equipment at the Karratha campus. The $25 million investment adds to the State Government's record $184.3 million package for essential infrastructure upgrades across the TAFE colleges, which is currently underway. Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more LOWER FEES, LOCAL SKILLS SUPERCHARGING AUTOMOTIVE TRAINING 18th November, 2021 Apprentice and trainee commencements highest on record! Automotive apprenticeship and traineeship commencements are at a record high thanks to the WA State Government’s massive investment in vocational education and training. Speaking today at the opening of the Motor Trade Association of Western Australia’s (MTA WA) Automotive Innovation Training Centre, Premier Mark McGowan and Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery revealed that apprenticeship and traineeship commencements for the automotive industry have increased more than 176 per cent since September 2016. * There has been almost 7,200 publicly funded enrolments in automotive qualifications in 2021 to the end of October – a 25 per cent increase on October last year. * More than 6,200 (87 per cent) of publicly funded automotive enrolments in 2021 have been part of the Lower fees, local skills program, which offers over 200 qualifications with course fees reduced by half or more. * The courses with the most enrolments are the Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (1,520 enrolments) and the Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology (1,429); with enrolments in these courses increased by 24 per cent and 31 per cent respectively compared to the same period last year. The automotive industry is critical to the State and having a skilled workforce is a high priority for the State Government. Job adverts for motor mechanics in WA have increased by almost 61 per cent compared to this time last year, while employment within the Automotive Electricians and Mechanics occupation group has increased and is today estimated to be 19 per cent higher than five years ago. Find out more about Lower fees, local skills on the Jobs and Skills WA website The opening of the new Automotive Innovation Training Centre will further drive skills creation and address the changing training needs of the automotive industry created by advancing vehicle technology. The centre will offer training programs in auto electrical, battery and hybrid electrical programs, advanced driver assistance systems and airconditioning, with further programs to be added as technologies develop. “These figures are proof that my Government’s investment in training is working.“ said Premier Mark McGowan. "The automotive industry is experiencing the greatest level of change since Karl Benz first drove his automobile in 1886. The Automotive Innovation Training Centre will play a significant part in meeting the industry’s skilled workforce needs. Congratulations to the MTA WA on its wonderful and timely new training facility, which will help meet future industry skills needs and challenges.”. Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said "The growth of hydrogen and battery technologies are creating exciting opportunities for West Australians training and working in the automotive industry. The new Automotive Innovation Training Centre will provide industry-ready apprentices and upskill current technicians to support the arrival of new vehicles and a range of other industry technologies.“ Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more SHANNIEKA RECOGNISED WITH TWO GREAT ACHIEVEMENTS! 16th November, 2021 The future looks bright for this future Aboriginal leader As a Department, we are committed to growing and strengthening the voice of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees in shaping the strategies and initiatives that influence their working environment, and to providing opportunities for their professional growth. We also love to celebrate their successes! We would like to congratulate Public Sector Commission trainee Shannieka Martino on her recent achievements. Shannieka is currently part of our Aboriginal Policy, Planning and Reconciliation (APPR) team, where she has worked on projects such as the launch of our new Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) and is currently working on a Dual Naming project as well as supporting other programs and initiatives in the Aboriginal policy space. In recognition of her leadership potential, Shannieka has been accepted to complete the four-month Emerging Aboriginal Leaders Program through the WA Aboriginal Leadership Institute (WAALI). This 10-week program is designed to strengthen cultural cultural and self identity, and connection to culture and community, with a focus on leadership decelopment goals. Find out more out the program here Shannieka has also been selected to participate in Oxfam Australia’s Straight Talk National Summit 2021, which empowers First Nations women to make positive change through political and public engagement and connects them with Australia’s political system, building their capacity as change makers. Since its inception in 2009, the Straight Talk program has brought together more than 850 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women from across Australia. This year’s National Summit will be held online as a three-part mini-series across six months. Find out more out Straight Talk here Congratulations, Shannieka! Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more REGIONAL SKILLS SUMMIT UNDERWAY TODAY IN BROOME 11th November, 2021 Second summit for the Kimberley region for local action plans The WA State Government is in Broome today, hosting the second Regional Skills Summit for the Kimberley region. Building on the success of the Kununurra—Kimberley Regional Skills Summit in October, the Broome—Kimberley Regional Skills Summit will generate further practical actions and innovative ideas to grow the local skilled workforce. Insights from the two Kimberley Summits will form the basis of local action plans to meet the region’s unique workforce needs. Around 40 government and regional business leaders from a range of sectors are attending the Broome summit, including the region’s biggest employing industries of healthcare and social assistance, education and training, accommodation and food services, public administration and safety, construction, and retail. Recognising the importance of training to build a skilled workforce and retain people in regional areas, the State Government has been working to ensure its investment in training initiatives reaches all corners of WA. * Kimberley locals are snapping up affordable training opportunities offered through the Lower fees, local skills (LFLS) initiative, with a 21 per cent increase in LFLS enrolments in the region this year. The LFLS program was recently increased by a further 30 qualifications available from 2022, to include a total of 210 courses with heavily reduced course fees in priority industry areas including hospitality, healthcare, construction and retail. * Employers have responded by taking on more apprentices and trainees in the Kimberley region in 2021, with commencements up by more than 72 per cent in the 12 months to 31 August 2021. * Workers in industries which have a critical need to upskill workers – including childcare, aged and disability care, and civil construction – will be able to access low fee existing worker traineeship places to help meet the skills needs of these sectors. These new initiatives respond to workforce issues raised by industry leaders at the Perth and regional skills summits held to date, and are jointly funded through a $103.5 million agreement between the State and Commonwealth governments under the expanded JobTrainer Fund agreement. Other initiatives progressing from the Perth Skills Summit include: * attracting onshore skilled migrants to fill jobs in demand in WA; * supporting mature age apprentices; * promoting the tourism and hospitality industry to school students to grow the workforce; * extending the Apprenticeship and Traineeship Reengagement Incentive; * freezing regional Government rental accommodation to attract public sector workers to the regions; and * boosting Aboriginal youth employment opportunities. The State Government is also providing support for jobseekers experiencing disadvantage to obtain a driver’s licence; progressing targeted advertising campaigns to attract interstate workers and increase participation of under-represented groups in WA. It has also smoothed the pipeline of construction work, and is running a series of 10 Regional Skills Summits, including the two held in the Kimberley. Fostering strong links between regional TAFE colleges and government, industry and the education sector, the VET Regional Partnerships Program also continues to grow. With a focus on creating more apprenticeships and traineeships in regional WA, the program supports the Government’s plan to increase the number of jobs in regional WA by 30,000. “Regional Western Australia is vital to our State’s economic prosperity and today’s Skills Summit, along with the previous one held in Kununurra, will help provide a current picture of the Kimberley’s unique workforce and training needs.” said Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery MLC. “Our Government is keen to hear from business leaders about practical actions that can be taken in the Kimberley to help fill local jobs." Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more WA'S PILBARA REGION TO HOST TWO REGIONAL SKILLS SUMMITS THIS WEEK! 3rd November, 2021 Supporting the development of the local workforce The WA State Government is meeting with the Pilbara’s key business leaders to discuss opportunities to grow the local skilled workforce, in back-to-back Regional Skills Summits being held in Karratha and Port Hedland this week. In Karratha today and Port Hedland tomorrow, the Regional Skills Summits will generate practical actions and new and innovative ideas that will form the basis of a local action plan to meet the region’s unique workforce needs. More than 60 government and regional business leaders from a range of sectors are attending the Pilbara skills summits, including the region’s biggest employing industries of mining; construction; transport, postal and warehousing; accommodation and food services; professional, scientific and technical services; and administrative and support services. Recognising the importance of training to build a skilled workforce and retain people in regional areas, the McGowan Government has been working to ensure its investment in training initiatives reaches all corners of the State. Pilbara locals are snapping up affordable training opportunities offered through the State Government’s Lower fees, local skills (LFLS) initiative, with a 31 per cent increase in LFLS enrolments in the region this year. Employers have responded by taking on more apprentices and trainees in the Pilbara region in 2021, with commencements up by more than 79 per cent in the 12 months to 31 August 2021. The State Government recently expanded the LFLS program by a further 30 courses, to now include a total of 210 courses with heavily reduced course fees in priority industry areas including train driving, veterinary nursing, crane operations, surveying, laboratory technology, wool classing, hospitality management and others. Additionally, workers in industries which have a critical need to upskill workers – including childcare, aged and disability care, and civil construction – will be able to access low-fee existing worker traineeship places to help meet the skills needs of these sectors. The new initiatives respond to workforce issues raised by industry leaders at the Perth and regional skills summits held to date, and are jointly funded through a $103.5 million agreement between the State and Commonwealth governments under the expanded JobTrainer Fund agreement. Other initiatives progressing from the Perth Skills Summit include: * attracting onshore skilled migrants to fill jobs in demand in WA; * supporting mature age apprentices; * promoting the tourism and hospitality industry to school students to grow the workforce; * extending the Apprenticeship and Traineeship Reengagement Incentive; * freezing regional Government rental accommodation to attract public sector workers to the regions; and * boosting Aboriginal youth employment opportunities. The State Government is also providing support for jobseekers experiencing disadvantage to obtain a driver’s licence; progressing targeted advertising campaigns to attract interstate workers and increase participation of under-represented groups in WA; has smoothed the pipeline of construction work; and is running a series of 10 Regional Skills Summits, including the two being held in the Pilbara. Fostering strong links between regional TAFE colleges and government, industry and the education sector, the VET Regional Partnerships Program also continues to grow. With a focus on creating more apprenticeships and traineeships in regional WA, the Program supports the Government’s plan to increase the number of jobs in regional WA by 30,000. “As the engine room of the Australian economy, maintaining a strong and sustainable workforce in the Pilbara is pivotal to our State’s continuing recovery and success. “ said Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery today. "Insights will inform a local action plan to address changing workforce needs in the Pilbara with a focus on local solutions for local issues. “. Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON $6M TRAINING CENTRE FOR KUNUNURRA 2nd November, 2021 Specialist new facilities for healthcare, hospitality, and more! A major milestone for a new dedicated health and hospitality training centre in the Kimberley region has been reached, with a local construction company appointed and works starting on the $6 million project. Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery was in Kununurra today, to mark the commencement of construction at North Regional TAFE by Kimberley Green Constructions. Local businesses will be engaged throughout the project to maximise local employment opportunities, with plumbing, electrical and carpentry apprentices expected to be employed through the project. The new facility will provide specialist training spaces for hospitality and tourism, nursing and aged and disability care; allowing NR TAFE to deliver National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) training in Kununurra to meet demand in the region. Among the many amenities, there will be a training kitchen with adjacent classroom that can be converted to a dining room for hands on event training, and NDIS simulated facilities for both home and residential care. The tourism space will include an art workshop and gallery space to provide training for tourism and cultural activities unique to the East Kimberley. Construction at the Kununurra TAFE campus is expected to be completed in October 2022. The new training centre is part of the State Government’s $184.3 million record investment for essential infrastructure upgrades of WA's TAFE colleges, creating world class learning opportunities for students while generating a pipeline of jobs for Western Australians. In a further boost for the region’s workforce, Kimberley locals are also taking up affordable training opportunities offered through the State Government's Lower fees, local skills initiative, with a 34 per cent increase in enrolments in the region this year. Western Australian employers have also responded by taking on more apprentices and trainees in the Kimberley in 2021, with commencements up by 51 per cent in the 12 months to July 31 2021. Following discussions with local business leaders at last month’s Kununurra–Kimberley Skills Summit, a local action will be developed and implemented. Business leaders identified increased promotion of local employment opportunities and more upskilling opportunities to help people improve their employability and boost the local workforce as regional priorities. "The McGowan Government is committed to delivering local training in regional areas." said Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery. "The modern facilities will train students from the Kimberley region to be job ready in essential services. The $6 million project will also employ local workers during construction, boosting the local economy." Kimberley MLA Divina D'Anna said, "The modern facilities will train students from the Kimberley region to be job ready in areas such as hospitality, tourism and nursing. These are industries that are all critical to our region and I look forward to seeing locals take the opportunity to gain a qualification in this outstanding new facility." Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more TEAMWA CELEBRATES HUGE MEDALS HAUL AT WORLDSKILLS! 29th October, 2021 WA's VET skills and talent is best in the nation The talent and skill of TeamWA was proven to be the best in the nation, after being awarded with more than 50 medals and two prestigious shields in an unforgettable display of Western Australia’s vocational education and training skills excellence from the 2021 WorldSkills Australia National Championships, in which a total of 239 talented apprentices, trainees and students from across the country competed in 55 different skills events. Competitions were held in Perth and several satellite locations across Australia. New skills on display this year were cyber security and cloud computing, which TeamWA competed in for the first time along with the mechatronics, visual merchandising and VETiS primary industries categories. Almost 10,500 visitors watched TeamWA and Team Tasmania compete live at the Perth national championships, and around 10,000 people tuned into the national events via live stream. Of the 150 medals awarded, TeamWA competitors won 54 medals – 19 gold, 22 silver and 13 bronze – and seven awards for excellence. TeamWA also won the Vocational Education and Training in Schools (VETiS) Shield for the second time running. Sixteen medals were won by Perth South competitors, earning them the Evatt Shield for best performing region. This year’s national championships were proudly supported by the State Government. Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery presented the shield and medals to WA winners at a closing ceremony held at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre on Wednesday 27 October. TeamWA’s 82 competitors included 23 Year 12 students undertaking VET studies at 16 secondary schools across the State who won the VETiS Shield, which is awarded every two years for outstanding performance by secondary school students at the national championships. Having won the VETiS Shield in 2018, TeamWA remains the first and only State to take the shield from New South Wales in its 17-year history. A full list of winners is available on the WorldSkills Australia website Comments attributed to Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery: “The WorldSkills closing ceremony is the culmination of a tremendous amount of work by many people who showcased the best that Australian training has to offer. We are proud of TeamWA’s amazing achievements, which show that our country’s best talents are training right here in Western Australia. The past 18 months have demonstrated how vital skills and training are for building a sustainable workforce that can meet immediate and long term skills needs. TeamWA’s achievements will inspire a new generation of talent to follow a VET pathway into our State’s skilled workforce.” Congratulations TeamWA! Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW IDEAS TO GROW THE GOLDFIELDS—ESPERANCE WORKFORCE 25th October, 2021 Kalgoorlie hosting a Regional Skills Summit today The WA State Government is hearing from Goldfields-Esperance business leaders today about new ideas and opportunities to grow the local skilled workforce, at a regional skills summit in Kalgoorlie. Insights from the Kalgoorlie Goldfields—Esperance Regional Skills Summit will form the basis of a local action plan to address changing workforce needs in the region, with a focus on local solutions for local issues. More than 40 government and regional business leaders from a range of sectors including healthcare and social assistance, education and training, accommodation and food services, public administration and safety, construction and retail are attending. Recognising the importance of training to build a skilled workforce and retain people in regional areas, the State Government has been working to ensure its investment in training initiatives reaches all corners of the State. Goldfields—Esperance locals are snapping up affordable training opportunities offered through the Lower fees, local skills (LFLS) initiative, with a 26 per cent increase in LFLS enrolments in the region this year. Employers have responded by taking on more apprentices and trainees in the Goldfields—Esperance region in 2021, with commencements up by more than 80 per cent in the 12 months to 31 July 2021. The LFLS program was recently expanded by a further 30 qualifications, to now include a total of 210 courses with heavily reduced course fees in priority industry areas including train driving, veterinary nursing, crane operations, surveying, laboratory technology, wool classing, hospitality management and others. Workers in industries which have a critical need to upskill workers – including childcare, aged and disability care, and civil construction – will be able to access low fee existing worker traineeship places to help meet the skills needs of these sectors. The new initiatives respond to workforce issues raised by industry leaders at the Perth and regional skills summits held to date, and are jointly funded through a $103.5 million agreement between the State and Commonwealth governments under the expanded JobTrainer Fund agreement. Other initiatives progressing from the Perth Skills Summit include: * attracting onshore skilled migrants to fill jobs in demand in WA; * supporting mature age apprentices; * promoting the tourism and hospitality industry to school students to grow the workforce; * extending the Apprenticeship and Traineeship Re-engagement Incentive; * freezing regional Government rental accommodation to attract public sector workers to the regions; and * boosting Aboriginal youth employment opportunities. The State Government is also providing support for jobseekers experiencing disadvantage to obtain a driver’s licence; progressing targeted advertising campaigns to attract interstate workers and increase participation of under-represented groups in WA; has smoothed the pipeline of construction work; and is running a series of 10 Regional Skills Summits, including the one being held today. Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery today said: “Training Western Australians to fill jobs in demand is the centrepiece of our State’s economic recovery and maintaining a strong and sustainable workforce in the Goldfields—Esperance region is pivotal to our continuing success. The Kalgoorlie Goldfields—Esperance Regional Skills Summit is an opportunity for regional business leaders to work in partnership with government to progress new or innovative ideas to meet the region’s unique skills needs. “. Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more DISABILITY ACCESS AND INCLUSION PLAN – HAVE YOUR SAY 25th October, 2021 Consultation period for feedback now open The Department of Training and Workforce Development is currently developing a Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (DAIP) for 2022—2026. The plan formalises our commitment and requirement under the Western Australian Disability Services Act 1993 to provide all members of the community with accessible and inclusive: * services; * events; * buildings and facilities; * information; * complaint mechanisms; * consultations; and * employment. The draft DAIP is now available. It outlines strategies to identify and overcome access and inclusion barriers in training and workforce development; and is being developed in consultation with staff, vocational education and training stakeholders and the broader community. Organisations and members of the community are invited to provide written feedback by downloading the draft action plan* and emailing feedback to daip@dtwd.wa.gov.au. The closing date for feedback is 21 November 2021. View/download the draft Disability Access Inclusion Plan 2022—26 [PDF 548KB] For further information, please call us on 08 6551 5090 or email daip@dtwd.wa.gov.au. * The draft DAIP is available in appropriate alternative formats upon request. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more WA DEFENCE INDUSTRY FORUM A BIG SUCCESS! 21st October, 2021 Identifying skill priorities for workforce development The WA Defence Industry Workforce Development Forum (air, land, space, information and cybersecurity defence capability domains) was held on Thursday September 23rd 2021. Hosted by the WA Defence Industry Workforce Office (WADIWO), together with the Department of Training and Workforce Development, the forum provided the opportunity for industry — in consultation with other stakeholders including Defence, Defence West, defence industry peak bodies, universities and TAFEs — to provide input for the formulation of a strategic workforce development plan. The workforce development plan is a committed deliverable under the WA Defence and Defence Industries Strategic Plan. Key industry stakeholders including defence industry prime contractors, supply chain, and small to medium employers enjoyed an opening address from Karen Ho, Acting Director General of the Department, then worked together to generate ideas for practical actions beyond ‘business as usual’, to grow WA’s skilled workforce for the defence industry. A/Director General, Karen Ho, leading discussion at the forum. Forum facilitator Andrew Huffer The WADIWO’s work to grow a skilled workforce for the needs of the WA’s maritime defence industry to date has already been translated into the WA Government’s $18.34 million package announced last September, including: * an incentive of $20,000 for defence industry employers to take on apprentices in key trades; * a Defence Industry Veterans Employment Scheme providing scholarships to support and train veterans for the defence industry; * a targeted advertising campaign ‘The Other Force’ to promote careers in the defence industry to school leavers, career changers and jobseekers. In addition, South Metropolitan TAFE is delivering a range of initiatives under the package including: * a specialist defence industry career guidance team at the Rockingham Jobs and Skills Centre to promote defence industry careers; * seven skill sets to upskill qualified trade workers to work in the defence industry; * new Computer Numeric Controlled (CNC) machines to train and upskill fitters and machinists, available in Semester 1, 2022; and * a Women in the Defence Industry scholarship program which has already seen the first cohort of graduates securing jobs in the industry and continuing to further study. A second intake has already commenced. For more information on defence training, jobs and careers please visit jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/defence. CONTACT INFORMATION Western Australian Defence Industry Workforce Office State Workforce Planning Department of Training and Workforce Development P: 08 6551 5145 E: wadiwo@dtwd.wa.gov.au Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more $10M TRADES TRAINING REVAMP STARTS AT KALGOORLIE TAFE CAMPUS! 18th October, 2021 Boosting skills for the Goldfields region The State Government's $10 million upgrade of Central Regional TAFE's Kalgoorlie campus is underway, with construction starting on a new trades workshop. The new $7 million workshop will expand training for plant mechanic and engineering trades, training locals to support the workforce needs of the Goldfields' resources industry. Existing workshops at the Kalgoorlie campus will undergo a $1 million refurbishment; with a further $2 million worth of industry-standard trades equipment being installed, with input from resource sector companies to ensure training meets their requirements. Once complete, the state of the art facility will provide training space for the plant mechanics, heavy auto and auto electrical trade disciplines; with a dedicated workshop, classrooms and laboratory spaces. Construction is expected to be completed in November 2022, with training to commence in Semester 1, 2023. Western Australian builder FIRM Constructions has been awarded the tender, which will employ 118 workers throughout the project — including apprentices. Local and Aboriginal businesses have been engaged throughout the project to maximise local employment opportunities. The $10 million project at the Kalgoorlie campus is part of the State Government's $184.3 million investment to fund essential infrastructure upgrades across the TAFE network, as part of the WA Recovery Plan. "The major upgrades to Central Regional TAFE's Kalgoorlie campus will establish facilities to deliver practical, industry focused training, training job ready and highly skilled workers for the Goldfields region." said Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery. Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more 30 MORE QUALIFICATIONS HALF PRICE FOR 2022, AND NEW EWTS! 12th October, 2021 Childcare the centrepiece of $103M training expansion The State Government's Lower fees, local skills program has been extended again, with another 30 qualifications discounted along with the introduction of reduced fees for workers in critical industries needing to upskill. The 30 new qualifications will have course fees discounted by up to 72 per cent, from 1 January 2022. This will bring the total number of reduced-fee qualifications to 210, offering great opportunities for Western Australians to get into training. The 30 additional Lower fees, local skills courses cover a range of industries including train driving, veterinary nursing, crane operations, surveying, laboratory technology, childcare, hospitality management, healthcare and retail. The Lower fees, local skills initiative has so far trained more than 72,600 Western Australians in 2021. Applications are now open for 2022 through TAFEs and training providers. Find out more at jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/skillsready You can also contact your local Jobs and Skills Centre on 13 64 64, or your local TAFE college or training provider, for more information. Workers in industries which have a critical need to upskill workers – including childcare, aged and disability care, and civil construction – will be able to access low fee existing worker traineeships. The childcare industry has an urgent need to upskill existing workers, to meet the sector's mandatory accreditation requirements for a qualified workforce. This new initiative will see thousands of dollars of savings for workers looking to upskill – for example; childcare workers will be able to benefit from massive discounts to the Diploma of Early Childhood and Care (a $7,256 non-concession saving). The low fee places for childcare commenced this month, to address the immediate need. Pictured: Premier Mark McGowan, Minister for Education and Training Sue Ellery, and Minister for Community Services Simone McGurk at the Warriapendi Early Learning Centre in Balga, announcing the new initiatives today. Workers looking to upskill in aged and disability care, and civil construction, will also be able to access savings in the thousands when the low fees for existing worker traineeships in these sectors come into effect from 1 January 2022. For more information, visit jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/ewt You can also contact your local Jobs and Skills Centre on 13 64 64, or your local TAFE college or training provider, for more information. “Through our Skills Summits, we have listened and are implementing initiatives that address industry needs. The low fee existing worker traineeships will target specific qualifications in the key sectors of childcare, aged and disability care, and civil construction which have a critical need to upskill workers. “ said Premier Mark McGowan. “Training is vital in creating skilled workers to support our local businesses and communities.“ added Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery. "We will continue to invest in training to ensure the Western Australian economy has access to a pool of highly skilled workers to support key WA industries. We are skilling West Aussies for jobs in demand and this will provide a significant boost to industries including hospitality and healthcare, which will benefit from a highly skilled and locally available workforce.” Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more KUNUNURRA FIRST OF TWO REGIONAL SKILLS SUMMITS IN THE KIMBERLEY 11th October, 2021 Bringing local business and industry leaders together The WA State Government’s series of Regional Skills Summits reached Kununurra today, with local business and government leaders meeting to discuss opportunities to grow the skilled workforce in the Kimberley. More than 25 government and regional business leaders from a range of sectors including the healthcare and social assistance, education and training, accommodation and food services, public administration and safety, construction and retail industries are attending. The first of two Regional Skills Summits to be held in the region, the Kununurra-Kimberley Regional Skills Summit will generate further practical actions and new and innovative ideas to address the region’s unique skills needs. A second Kimberley Regional Skills Summit is scheduled for Broome on Monday, 15 November. Recognising the importance of access to training to build a skilled workforce and retain people in regional areas, the State Government has been working to ensure its investment in training initiatives reaches all corners of the State. Kimberley locals are snapping up affordable training opportunities offered through the State Government’s Lower fees, local skills initiative, with a 34 per cent increase in enrolments in the region this year. The State Government is also progressing targeted advertising campaigns to attract interstate workers and increase participation of under-represented groups in WA; has smoothed the pipeline of construction work; and is running a series of 10 Regional Skills Summits, including the one being held today. WA employers have responded by taking on more apprentices and trainees in the Kimberley in 2021, with commencements up by 51 per cent in the 12 months to 31 July 2021. A range of initiatives are already progressing from the Perth Skills Summit, to attract and retain skilled workers and continue our State’s strong economic growth. These initiatives include: * attracting onshore skilled migrants to fill jobs in demand in WA; * supporting mature age apprentices; * promoting the tourism and hospitality industry to school students to grow the workforce; * extending the Apprenticeship and Traineeship Reengagement Incentive; * freezing regional Government rental accommodation to attract public sector workers to the regions; * boosting Aboriginal youth employment opportunities; and * providing support for jobseekers to obtain a driver’s licence. Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery says “Regional Western Australia is vital to our State’s economic prosperity and today’s skills summit, along with another planned for Broome, will help provide a current picture of the Kimberley’s unique workforce and training needs. Our Government is keen to hear from business leaders about practical actions that can be taken in the Kimberley to help fill local jobs. Ideas and discussions captured at the Summit will inform a local action plan to address the Kimberley’s changing workforce needs, with a focus on local solutions to local issues.”. Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more REGIONAL SKILLS SUMMIT UNDERWAY IN GERALDTON 28th September, 2021 Supporting the workforce needs of WA's Mid West region The WA State Government is holding a Regional Skills Summit in Geraldton today – the third of 10 skills summits to be held in Western Australian regional centres this year. Hosted by Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Education and Training Terry Healy, more than 30 government and regional business leaders from a range of sectors including the agriculture, construction, education and training, healthcare, hospitality and tourism, mining and retail industries are attending. The Geraldton-Mid West Regional Skills Summit will generate practical actions and new and innovative ideas that will form the basis of a local action plan to meet the region’s unique workforce needs. Recognising the importance of access to training to build a skilled workforce and retain people in regional areas, the State Government has been working to ensure its investment in training initiatives reaches all corners of WA. Student course enrolments in the Mid West have increased by 23 per cent in the past year, driven by affordable training opportunities through the Lower fees, local skills program and strong growth in employment-based training. Mid West employers have responded by taking on more apprentices and trainees in 2021, with commencements up by more than 86 per cent in the year to 31 July 2021. A range of initiatives are already progressing from the Perth Skills Summit, to attract and retain skilled workers and continue our State’s strong economic growth. These initiatives include: * attracting onshore skilled migrants to fill jobs in demand in WA; * supporting mature age apprentices; * promoting the tourism and hospitality industry to school students to grow the workforce; * extending the Apprenticeship and Traineeship Reengagement Incentive; * freezing regional Government rental accommodation to attract public sector workers to the regions; * boosting Aboriginal youth employment opportunities; and * providing support for jobseekers experiencing disadvantage to obtain a driver’s licence. The State Government is also progressing targeted advertising campaigns to attract interstate workers, and increase participation of under-represented groups in WA. “Building a sustainable Mid West workforce that can support the region’s pipeline of economic activity requires industry and government to work together.“ said Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery. "Today’s summit is an opportunity for the region’s business leaders and government to identify and progress practical actions to meet the immediate and long term skills needs of the Mid West region. Insights from the summit will inform a local action plan to address changing workforce needs in the Mid West, with a focus on local solutions to local issues.”. Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton said "I was thrilled to recently join the Premier in marking the start of construction for the upgrade at Geraldton TAFE. We have also seen a huge increase in TAFE enrolments in the Mid-West. There has been a big investment by the McGowan Government into training in the Mid-West, and this summit will help develop further ideas to assist the skills needs of the local workforce.". Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more ANNUAL REPORT 2020—21 NOW AVAILABLE 21st September, 2021 Training Western Australians for jobs and supporting the State’s economy We are very pleased to announce that our Annual Report 2020—21 for the Department and our key VET partners were tabled by the Western Australian Parliament and is is now available. The report provides the Western Australian Parliament and the community with an overview of our performance, as well as budget papers and other strategic documents. It offers transparency, accountability, and compliance with legislative and government policy requirements, focuses on key areas of achievement and describes the functions, operations and performance highlights of the Department over the period. A key theme of this report iis our journey to recovery, highlighting our core focus to train Western Australians for jobs and support the State’s economy through fast-changing and uncertain times. As written by our A/Director General Karen Ho, last financial year saw mass job losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. As we entered this financial year we envisioned and prepared for a long recovery, but instead — with the State’s economy recovering strongly from the COVID-19 pandemic — we are now seeing some of the most promising economic conditions in recent times. Some of the highlifhts include: * VET student numbers increase by 25 per cent to almost 86,000; * apprenticeship and traineeship commencements up by 79.3 per cent; * a 25 per cent increase in enrolments for Aboriginal students; * Jobs and Skills Centres across WA assisted 22,700 individual clients; and * over $24 million paid to WA employers through financial incentives. The report is a celebration of skills and training, highlighting some of the many success stories that were a result of our engagement and collaboration with industry. We invite you to take a look! View the Annual Report 2020—21 Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more CELEBRATING THE BRIGHTEST STARS IN WA TRAINING! 21st September, 2021 WA Training Awards 2021 winners announced Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery celebrated the training sector’s brightest stars at the 2021 WA Training Awards at Crown Perth last Friday evening, announcing eight individuals and four organisations as winners. Now in its 27th year; the WA Training Awards recognise the outstanding achievements of apprentices, trainees, employers and training organisations, with individual winners receiving $3,000 which they may use to further their training or kick-start their career. The four organisation winners, including North Metropolitan TAFE named as WA Large Training Provider of the Year 2021, will be recognised as industry leaders. “The WA Training Awards are the State’s premier training awards, showcasing excellence in the VET sector. " the Minister said. “I congratulate all of the 2021 winners for their incredible dedication to their respective fields, and for being remarkable ambassadors for the Western Australian training sector. “ The 2021 WA Training Awards are made possible thanks to continuing support from the State Training Board, MEGT, Apprenticeship Support Australia powered by CCIWA, the Electrical and Communications Association of Western Australia, Polly Farmer Foundation, Roy Hill, StudyPerth and the Training Accreditation Council WA. Winners may go on to represent Western Australia at the Australian Training Awards in November. You can find out more about the WA Training Awards on their website. Visit the WATA website MEET THE 2021 AWARD WINNERS WA Apprentice of the Year: Christian Ferrone A curiosity for how things work and a love of aeroplanes led Christian to pursue a career as a licensed aircraft maintenance engineer. Now employed by ExecuJet MRO Services Australia – where he completed his apprenticeship – the course taught him how to safely maintain gas turbine and propeller driven fixed wing aircraft. Christian completed the Diploma in Aeroskills (Mechanical) with a 95 per cent course average, and was in the first cohort of WA apprentices through registered training organisation Aviation Australia. Now a mentor for other apprentices coming through, Christian knows teamwork is an essential part of the aviation industry. WA Trainee of the Year: Amber Ugle-Hayward Wanting to pursue a career that was meaningful, challenging and would make a positive impact on the lives of many Western Australians; Amber applied for the Public Sector Commission’s Aboriginal Traineeship Program, knowing it would give her a ‘foot in the door’ to government. Amber has made the most of her placement with the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage; gaining practical knowledge while completing a Certificate III in Government through Aspire Performance Training. Throughout the traineeship, Amber has proactively sought opportunities to further her career and expand networks, establishing a reputation as a highly competent team member who consistently displays leadership, collaboration, respect and integrity. Amber says the experience has allowed her to develop her confidence and communication skills to raise awareness of Aboriginal culture within the State Government, and directly influence the Department’s internal policies. WA Vocational Student of the Year: Zoe Tucker Twenty years after leaving school, Zoe finally feels like she has found her pathway. Finding traditional work roles not conducive to family life, the single mother of three took the plunge towards a new career and followed her passion; studying a Certificate IV in Landscape Design – a perfect fit for a creative person with a love of plants and nature and background in architecture. Zoe hasn’t looked back, winning South Metropolitan TAFE’s Vocational Student of the Year 2020 and relishing the opportunity to create greener spaces. WA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander of the Year: Kevin Wilson Growing up as a Wongai man from the Goldfields region, Kevin has had an interest in art for as long as he can remember. As an adult he decided to follow that path so he signed up for an apprenticeship in print finishing at North Metropolitan TAFE, which was just the beginning of his TAFE journey. After completing his Diploma in Graphic Design, he continued on to the Advanced Diploma — becoming more confident in himself, his work and how he speaks about it. Kevin says he feels like he has found his calling in life, and since finishing has gone on to co-found Nani Creative, a graphic design company specialising in design for projects promoting Aboriginal tourism. WA School-based Apprentice of the Year: Courtney Short Preparing meals with and for her family has always brought great joy to Courtney, so it seemed a natural fit to pursue her love of cooking at the age of 15 — commencing a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery. Successfully juggling her schoolwork at Mercy College with an apprenticeship through North Metropolitan TAFE, Courtney says the knowledge and skills she has already developed by working alongside chefs at Pan Pacific Hotel (through Hospitality Group Training) are essential for working in the industry. Now aged 17, Courtney is well on her way to achieving her dream of becoming a chef and is so pleased she followed a VET pathway. WA Cultural Diversity Training Award: Agnes Toluwade Migrating from Nigeria in 2015, the first time Agnes heard about the suicide of a teenager on the news, she was jolted. Determined to take action and contribute to her new home country, Agnes decided to study a Certificate IV in Mental Health, and be part of the solution for a mentally healthy Australia. The course at North Metropolitan TAFE has helped her understand the many issues that impact on mental health, and the ways to support people’s recovery. Agnes has crossed several barriers to pursue her study, and hopes that others in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities will see that studying at TAFE offers many opportunities. WA International Student of the Year: Johanna Faber Johanna has always been passionate about travelling, so when she came to Australia from Germany in 2017 and fell in love with the country, she decided she wanted a career in travel and tourism. By studying in a different country, Johanna felt it would offer her the opportunity of experiencing travel and tourism first-hand, taking part in a different culture and learning a new language while completing her course — a Diploma of Travel and Tourism Management at North Metropolitan TAFE. Studying allowed Johanna to gain confidence in communicating in English while learning the many facets of the industry, and was able to land a job as a travel consultant. While COVID-19 forced the closure of the office, it hasn’t deterred Johanna from working in the industry. WA Trainer of the Year: Maryke Gray Maryke is passionate about ensuring students have the same opportunities to receive quality training and assessment, no matter where they live. A trainer in Conservation and Land Management, Horticulture and Aboriginal Ranger Programs at Central Regional TAFE, Maryke delivers the full range of qualifications from Certificate I to Diploma, utilising live work projects, some of which involve working at the Abrolhos islands and remote Aboriginal Communities throughout the Mid-West and Gascoyne. Maryke uses various methods to connect students from remote locations to live class sessions with students in Geraldton, and recognises that classroom-based training is not for all, delivering the Aboriginal Ranger training programs entirely on country. With more than 20 years of experience in managing conservation projects, Maryke is committed to education for all to conserve our environment for the future. WA Large Training Provider of the Year 2021: North Metropolitan TAFE North Metropolitan TAFE (NM TAFE), Western Australia’s largest publicly funded TAFE college, has ten campuses across the central, greater north and north eastern metropolitan regions of Perth. The college offers more than 400 training products ranging from Certificate I to Advanced Diploma qualifications, including skill sets and short courses. NM TAFE focuses on delivering quality training and assessment services to students, industry and community; while streamlining business practices to ensure sustainability. A focus on accessible, flexible, contemporary, industry relevant training provides students with a variety of learning pathways and skills to secure the jobs of the future. WA Small Training Provider of the Year 2021: Niche Education Group Niche Education, formally known as the Australasian Academy of Cosmetic Dermal Science (AACDS), was established in 2003 to meet the education and training needs of the cosmetic medical and dermal therapy professions. The college has developed new and innovative accredited qualifications to address the absence of formal training in the cosmetic medical/aesthetics field and to bridge the gap between traditional beauty services and advanced dermal therapy techniques. Niche delivers the first and only accredited course in Cosmetic Nursing in the country, a testament to the contribution the organisation has made to innovative training on a national scale. WA Large Employer of the Year: McDonald’s Australia WA McDonald’s is one of Australia’s largest employers and trainers across regional and metropolitan areas. Employing over 100,000 people in Australia, McDonald’s invest over $40 million every year in employee training and development; equating to approximately $8 million in Western Australia. The company views training and development as an investment, not a cost. As a registered training organisation, McDonald’s recognises and rewards employees by offering a range of nationally recognised qualifications at no cost to the students. McDonald’s currently have over 580 students actively enrolled in a traineeship in WA, with 296 completions in 2020. WA Medium Employer of the Year 2021: Consolidated Group Consolidated Group is a civil earth works and plant hire services company that has been resourcing the mining, government, transport, and construction sectors since 2013. The company’s focus on training, upskilling and ongoing mentoring of staff has enabled it to reach new goals and extend the bar on what it can achieve. Continued success and growth has lead the company to partner with a local registered training organisation to establish its own training department to skill its entire workforce in-house. The company is committed to constantly improving the capability of its employees, many of whom are from under-represented groups. Consolidated Group prefer to develop skills from within, and seek to find people with the right attitude, work ethic, resilience, and personal skills to succeed. View the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more IT SCHOLARSHIPS FOR PEOPLE ON THE AUTISM SPECTRUM NOW OPEN! 21st September, 2021 Up to $5,000 available for VET study in 2022 The Autism Academy for Software Quality Assurance (AASQA) at Curtin University is an Australian social innovation initiative with the vision of harnessing the special talents of people on the Autism Spectrum. The mission of the Academy is to enable individuals on the Autism Spectrum to leverage their awesome talents and skillsets. Their natural ability for extreme attention to detail, appreciation of predictability and capacity to focus, will augment their training in addressing business needs of the ICT industry. In particular, ICT is facing challenges in attracting and retaining talents in areas like software development and testing, and cyber security. AASQA, the Autism Association of Western Australia and the Department of Training and Workforce Development have provided five scholarships for 2022, to a value of up to $5,000 each funded by the Department. This scholarship is for students on the autism spectrum to study in the field of information technology. Software testing needs high levels of attention over prolonged periods of time, and this plays to the strengths of many individuals who are on the autism spectrum. Cyber security is another area of focus for this scholarship, along with programming and software development. Scholarships will cover the cost of student fees for courses at Certificate IV and Diploma levels. Applications close on 3 December 2021. For more information, and how to apply, visit our Scholarships section Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more REGIONAL SKILLS SUMMIT GOES TO NORTHAM TODAY 13th September, 2021 Growing a skilled and sustainable workforce for WA’s Wheatbelt The State Government is hosting a Regional Skills Summit in Northam today to discuss opportunities to grow and sustain a skilled workforce in Western Australia’s Wheatbelt, with more than 30 regional business leaders from a range of sectors including the agriculture, construction, education, hospitality and healthcare industries along with peak bodies, unions, government agencies and training representatives attending. Following the successful Skills Summits held recently in Perth and Bunbury, the Northam Regional Skills Summit will generate further practical actions and new and innovative ideas that will form the basis of a local action plan to meet the region’s unique workforce needs. Recognising the importance of access to training for building a skilled workforce and retaining people in regional areas, the WA Government has been working to ensure its investment in training initiatives reaches all corners of the State. In the past year, student course enrolments in the Wheatbelt have increased by 18 per cent — driven by affordable training opportunities through the Lower fees, local skills program and strong growth in employment-based training. Employers have responded by taking on more apprentices and trainees in the Wheatbelt in 2021, with more than 650 commencements in the year to 30 June 2021. A range of initiatives are already progressing from the Perth Skills Summit, to attract and retain skilled workers and continue our State’s strong economic growth. These initiatives include: * attracting onshore skilled migrants to fill jobs in demand in WA; * supporting mature age apprentices; * promoting the tourism and hospitality industry to school students to grow the workforce; * extending the Apprenticeship and Traineeship Reengagement Incentive; * freezing regional Government rental accommodation to attract public sector workers to the regions; * boosting Aboriginal youth employment opportunities; and * providing support for jobseekers experiencing disadvantage to obtain a driver’s licence. The State Government is also progressing targeted advertising campaigns to attract interstate workers and increase participation of underrepresented groups in WA; smoothing the pipeline of construction work; and a series of 10 Regional Skills Summits, including the one being held today. “As a primary Western Australian agricultural region, maintaining a strong and sustainable Wheatbelt workforce is pivotal to the continuing success of our State’s economy. “ said Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery. "Today’s Regional Skills Summit will address the demand for workers and changing skills needs in the region, with a focus on finding immediate and medium term solutions to local issues. Making local training available is an important part of retaining workers and building a skilled workforce in Western Australia’s regional communities. Insights gathered today will be considered by the State Government to inform a local action plan to address the Wheatbelt region’s skills needs.” Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW PILOT TRAINING INCREASING DIVERSITY IN THE PILBARA 13th September, 2021 South Metro TAFE partners with BHP for unique program South Metropolitan TAFE has partnered with Australian resources company BHP to design a unique pilot training program to increase diversity in its Pilbara workforce. This tailored work-ready program will help BHP meet its need for maintenance associate workers, who perform general maintenance duties alongside trade professionals, and progress towards its goal of achieving gender balance in its workforce by 2025. Aimed at boosting the number of Aboriginal people and the number of women in maintenance associate roles, the Maintenance Associate Diversity Pathway Program trains participants for a Certificate II in Construction Pathways – Building Maintenance and an additional skill set in electrical test and tag statutory compliance. Construction of a simulated transportable dwelling at the Rockingham TAFE campus and a visit to a BHP mining camp in the Pilbara will acquaint students with their potential working environment. Participants also receive support from SM TAFE’s Student Services and engagement officers from the Rockingham Jobs and Skills Centre, which managed applications and enquiries for the pilot program and is a one-stop-shop for careers, training and employment advice and assistance. The first cohort of 15 students, funded by BHP, started training in July this year at the specialist construction facility at SMTAFE’s Rockingham campus. Upon completion of the six-month pilot program; the students will take part in a recruitment process conducted by BHP, with successful applicants offered employment starting in 2022. KATE AND TYLER ON A POSITIVE PATHWAY Kate Broadbent from Baldivis is a single parent with two young children, and she has long been interested in finding hands on work on the mines. A visit to the Rockingham Jobs and Skills Centre introduced her to the Maintenance Associate Diversity Pathway Program and after attending the information session, she applied. Kate says by introducing participants to a range of skills areas, the program is a great starting point for anyone wanting to get work in the resources sector. She intends to apply for a maintenance job with BHP after the program. Tyler Bennell from Warnbro didn't know what career he wanted to pursue when he left high school six years ago, so he started a painting apprenticeship working for family. Now keen on working away from the city, Tyler is combining skills he enjoyed most from his apprenticeship, like plastering, with learning new skills including carpentry and tiling through the Maintenance Associate Diversity Pathway Program. Tyler is hoping to secure a job on the mines and would eventually like to transition into a welding or engineering role building or fixing mine site equipment. On completion of the pilot program, BHP will consider an annual intake of students and the development of similar programs for other areas of its operations. To find out more about the program, contact the Rockingham Jobs and Skills Centre on 9599 8655 or visit the Jobs and Skills WA website jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/jobs-and-skills-centre. Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery: “The pilot Maintenance Associate Diversity Pathway Program is a wonderful example of TAFE and industry working together to trial an innovative training solution to meet skills needs in today’s workforce environment. “ said Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery. "This is a great program, supporting Western Australians to fill roles required in WA's resources sector. By encouraging more Aboriginal people and women into its workforce, BHP is making a positive investment in its future workforce. “ Read the Minister's full media statement here Main picture: Kate and Tyler, participants in the Maintenance Associate Diversity Pathway Program. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more $121M INVESTMENT IN TAFE AND TRAINING 10th September, 2021 WA State Budget delivers boost for training and jobs Quality local jobs continue to be more accessible to Western Australians, as the WA State Government builds on its work to boost jobs and skills in WA, with a $121.4 million investment in skills and training in the 2021-22 State Budget. This investment will deliver on election commitments to ensure TAFE and training continues to be more affordable and accessible, enabling local people to find work in local jobs throughout the State. Some of the key points announced are as follows. BOOST FOR VET IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS More WA students will be encouraged into vocational education and training (VET), with a $29.8 million boost to VET in school places for Year 11 and 12 students. * Training places for school students will be increased by 8,000 to engage students in quality, industry relevant training, with options to attain their Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE), while enhancing their post-school employment, education and training. * A $19.2 million VET Career Taster Program will also be rolled out to Year 9 students from 2022. The State Government is already engaging with industry, schools and other key stakeholders to inform the program's development, with regional consultation about to commence. BOOST FOR APPRENTICESHIPS AND TRAINEESHIPS There will be $32.4 million allocated to create 300 new jobs for apprentices and trainees. The funding will provide small and medium enterprises with access to 150 additional and highly subsidised apprentices and trainees in 2022, and again in 2023, to work on State Government projects. BOOST FOR TAFES WA's TAFE colleges will receive $25 million of modern equipment as part of a four-year program to upgrade and modernise TAFE facilities to contemporary industry standards — helping students, apprentices and trainees become more job-ready. A $9.9 million investment over four years will support TAFE college lecturers to undertake industry placements to keep them at the forefront of innovation and quality education, and enable them to upskill and maintain industry standards, practices, qualifications and skills. For more information, visit ourstatebudget.wa.gov.au Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more READY TO START YOUR CAREER IN MENTAL HEALTH? 9th September, 2021 We have industry information, career resources and free training! Would you like to work in a rewarding job where you're helping people to reach their full potential and enjoy a healthy and fulfilling life? A career in mental health can offer you that, and so much more! From those who are living with anxiety or depression, to people of all ages and stages of life with mental health conditions that affect their ability to function day to day in a positive way and those who need support to cope with loss or grief or are struggling to overcome addiction or a difficult or challenging situation, there's a wide range of support needed and many opportunities for you to make a difference. You could be working directly with individuals or families, providing support services in the community, be part of a team in a mental healthcare setting, providing counselling or social work services, or supporting recovery — to name just a few. Whether you're looking for an entry-level job or making a career change, you're entering a field with fantastic opportunities that can offer you a highly rewarding and stable career. We have all the information you need to know — what jobs are available in the mental health sector, what type of work you could be doing, what training you'll need, and how to get the jobs! It's all here on the new Mental health page of the Jobs and Skills website Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS ON WORK PLACEMENTS 2nd September, 2021 COVID-19 vaccination mandatory for aged care work placements The Commonwealth Department of Health and the Western Australian Department of Health have advised that it will be mandatory for residential aged care workers to have a COVID-19 vaccination from 17 September 2021. This includes students undertaking work placements. If you are a student undertaking an aged care work placement, you must make preparations now to receive a minimum first dose of your COVID-19 vaccine by 17 September. Further information about COVID-19 vaccination is available at wa.gov.au/government/publications/residential-aged-care-facility-worker-access-directions If you have not received your first dose by 17 September 2021, you will be unable to attend an aged care placement arranged by your TAFE or training provider. This means you may not be able to complete some units of competency, and you may not be able to complete your qualification. STEP 1 — BOOK YOUR VACCINE Healthcare students preparing for work placement are eligible to access vaccinations under Phase 1b of the vaccination program. * Go to VaccinateWA and complete the registration and consent process. * When you come to the eligibility questions, you should choose the following: * Do you work in a critical or high risk industry > Yes * Priority population > Non-WA Health healthcare worker Once you have chosen these options (and any other eligibility criteria that might apply to you), the system will advise you are eligible and will give you the option to book in for an appointment. GP clinics are now providing some vaccines, and appointments for these can also be booked through the Commonwealth eligibility checker. STEP 2 – MONITOR YOUR EMAILS, SONIA AND BLACKBOARD FOR UPDATES VaccinateWA will keep you updated with any changes or advice via Sonia, our Clinical Placement Office, and teaching departments as soon as information becomes available. STEP 3 –QUESTIONS? If you have questions or concerns, please contact your TAFE or training provider for help. A member of the placement office and/or teaching team will also discuss this requirement with you in classes over the next couple of weeks. Advice for trainers and teachers At this stage, the Department of Health has advised that academic staff who undertake supervision of work placement in aged care are exempt from the mandatory vaccine requirement. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more FIRST OF TEN REGIONAL SKILLS SUMMITS HAPPENING TODAY IN BUNBURY! 30th August, 2021 Meeting the workforce needs of South West WA The first of 10 Regional Skills Summits the WA State Government is hosting across regional WA is being held in Bunbury today, to ensure sustainable local workforces continue to grow and meet skills needs across the state. Building on the success of the Perth Skills Summit in July, the Bunbury Skills Summit will generate further practical actions and new and innovative ideas to meet the unique workforce needs of the South West region. More than 40 government and regional business leaders from a range of sectors including resources, construction, agriculture, and healthcare industries are attending. Outcomes from the Bunbury Skills Summit will help the State Government inform a local action plan to address the South West region's skills needs. Recognising the importance of access to training for building a skilled workforce and retaining people in regional areas, the McGowan Government has been working to ensure its investment in training initiatives reaches all corners of the State. GREAT OUTCOMES TO DATE * Student course enrolments in the South West have increased by 14 per cent in the past year, the increase driven by affordable training opportunities through the Lower fees, local skills program and strong growth in employment-based training. * WA employers have responded by taking on more South West apprentices and trainees in 2021, with more than 2,300 commencements in the year to 30 June 2021. A range of initiatives are already progressing from the Perth Skills Summit, to attract and retain skilled workers and continue our State’s strong economic growth. These include: * supporting mature age apprentices; * attracting onshore skilled migrants to fill jobs in demand in WA; * promoting the tourism and hospitality industry to school students to grow the workforce; * extending the Apprenticeship and Traineeship Reengagement Incentive; * freezing regional Government rental accommodation to attract public sector workers to the regions; * boosting Aboriginal youth employment opportunities; and * providing support for jobseekers to obtain a driver’s licence. The State Government is also progressing targeted advertising campaigns to attract interstate and New Zealand workers and increase participation of under-represented groups in WA, and smoothing the pipeline of construction work. “As our Government and industry leaders continue to work together to build a strong Western Australian workforce, it is critical to recognise that the skills and training needs of each region are unique. " said Mr McGowan. "Today’s Regional Skills Summit, along with a series of others to be held across WA in coming months, will provide a complete picture of the opportunities and challenges being experienced across industries and the State. The information and insights gathered today will be considered by State Government to inform a local action plan to address the South West region's skill needs. “Making local training available is an important part of retaining workers and building a skilled workforce in WA's regional communities.“ added Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery. "The South West’s workforce is experiencing a high demand for services and workers across a range of industries, as well as increased consumer demand for quality local products. Our Government is focused on finding local solutions to local issues. The Regional Skills Summit will help to ensure the South West region continues to benefit from the State’s economic prosperity and investment in training initiatives and that the region’s workforce remains adaptable to changing needs as it navigates through the pandemic.” Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more $11.6 UPGRADE FOR BROOME TAFE CAMPUS BEGINS CONSTRUCTION! 30th August, 2021 New hospitality, tourism, hair and beauty training facilities Premier Mark McGowan visited North Regional TAFE’s Broome campus on Sunday to turn the first sod on the new $11.6 million Hospitality and Student Services Centre. Construction will be carried out by local Broome building company H&M Tracey, with the project consisting of two state of the art buildings; one for hospitality and tourism, the second for hair and beauty training. Designed locally by Engawa Architects, the buildings will be linked by an outdoor meeting place. Among the many highlights will be a live works training restaurant and alfresco café, providing a welcome boost to hospitality and tourism training. The redevelopment will also facilitate industry standard practice in hair and beauty with dedicated spaces for simulated training, as well as additional space for student and corporate services. Both the hospitality and hair and beauty industries are vital to the region’s peak tourism season, and these new facilities will help deliver more skilled workers for Broome and the Kimberley. Construction is expected to be completed in July 2022, and the project will support 141 jobs for local workers including apprentices and trainees during construction “The new state of the art facilities at TAFE colleges across the State are a key component of the WA Recovery Plan, creating world class learning opportunities for students and boosting the WA economy. " the Premier said. "The major upgrades at the Broome campus will provide the Kimberley region with the skilled workers it needs, especially during the peak tourism season." View the full media statement from the Premier and Minister here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW $18M ESPERANCE TAFE CAMPUS OFFICIALLY OPENED! 26th August, 2021 South Regional TAFE's new campus to boost training in the region Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery visited South Regional TAFE in Esperance today to officially open the new $18.69 million campus. The new facilities will be a major boost for the region, offering industry-ready training to the Esperance community. The new buildings include three trade workshops for training in construction, metal engineering and auto/machinery industries, as well as specialist facilities for childcare and aged and disability care. Strategically located adjacent to Esperance Senior High School, the new campus will provide easy access for secondary students completing vocational education and training (VET) in school programs. Take a look at this timelapse video of the campus, from sand to completion! In the replacement of the 35-year-old former campus, approximately 200 full time jobs were created during construction, which was completed by Western Australia's EMCO Building. Local Aboriginal organisation Tjaltjraak was consulted throughout the design process and was instrumental in identifying training needs, areas of cultural significance and landscape design, as well as being involved in providing public art. The project was supported by a $10 million Royalties for Regions contribution. Speaking at today's opening, Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said "South Regional TAFE's new Esperance campus will offer a wider range of high quality training opportunities and encourage more people into VET. It is vital that people living in our regions can train locally, and now Esperance locals will be able to hone their skills in modern, first-class facilities." Read the full media statement here Thank you to www.sitevisuals.com for the video production. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more ULTIMATE SHOWCASE OF SKILLS, TRAINING AND JOBS IN PERTH 26th August, 2021 WorldSkills Australia National Championships and Skills Show and SkillsWest Employment and Careers Expo underway today in Perth! The biggest skills and training competition in Australia and careers and employment expo in Western Australia have combined to bring the ultimate showcase of skills, training and jobs to Perth. The WorldSkills Australia National Championships and Skills Show and SkillsWest Careers and Employment Expo are at Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre from 26–28 August. Entry is free for both events. More than 400 talented apprentices, trainees and students, including more than 80 from TeamWA, are competing in the national championships, across 45 skills and trades. The national championships format has been adapted to accommodate travel restrictions, with TeamWA and Team Tasmania competing in Perth and satellite competitions held in several other states. TAFEs and Jobs and Skills Centres will be exhibiting at the SkillsWest Expo and are a great place to get free professional and practical advice on the apprenticeship, training and career opportunities available in WA. If you are unable to attend the event, a live streaming and video-on-demand experience can be accessed through the WorldSkills Australia website www.worldskills.org.au. “We are pleased to hold this major event here in WA, at a time when skills and workforce development is more critical than ever to support our strong economy," said Premier Mark McGowan. "There has never been a better time for Western Australians of all ages to upskill and find a quality job in a whole range of industries." Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said “The WorldSkills competition and the SkillsWest Expo provide Western Australians with training and careers inspiration to help them find a pathway to their dream careers. With low cost training options and low unemployment, Western Australians are in the box seat to take advantage of the life changing opportunities on show. TeamWA’s competitors are shining examples of how investment in skills can change your life and I wish them all a successful championships.” View the full media statement from the Premier and Minister here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more IT’S NATIONAL SKILLS WEEK! AUGUST 23—29 25th August, 2021 It is the 11th year for National Skills Week 2021 which is taking place from Monday 23 August to Sunday 29 August 2021. This year you’re invited to rethink ideas of what vocational education and training (VET) is all about, and to discover, challenge, and explore what is on offer. You can also explore the role VET can have in preparing people for the future of work, and the diversity of careers that can be realised through VET. The focus for 2021 will be on challenging perceptions of VET, reimagining bold and innovative ideas for Australians to take on their career goals and to see what VET can offer! National Skills Week is dedicated to promoting VET, bringing positive messages to life and sharing them with a national audience. The week will be highlighting talents and skills, exploring career pathways, looking at the value of apprentices and trainees and sharing many great success stories and innovative ideas from across Australia. How to get involved Do you have a story to share? Would you like to showcase what you’re doing in VET? Go to nationalskillsweek.com.au/about and follow the links to find out more. Want to listen in, and participate? Check the list of over 500 events happening through the week — most of them available online at nationalskillsweek.com.au/events. Please note that the line-up for the week is updated regularly, so be sure to check daily and see what’s available. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST VET SKILLS COMPETITION AND CAREERS EXPO IS ALMOST HERE! 25th August, 2021 WorldSkills Australia national championships August 26—28. Get ready to witness greatness, discover potential, and explore skills excellence at Australia’s largest trades and skills competition — the 2021 WorldSkills Australia National Championships! This year’s competitions will give regional winners from across Australia an opportunity to put their talent to the test, with over 500 competitors showcasing their skills on a national stage as they compete for gold and a chance to represent Australia at the WorldSkills International Competition in Shanghai 2022. In addition to competing for Gold, Silver and Bronze medals in their chosen skill area, with the top achievers potentially going on to compete internationally in the world championships as a member of the Skillaroos – the WorldSkills Australia International Team – there are leadership programs and scholarships to enable young people to become the very best versions of themselves. Over three action-packed days, you’ll have access to an exciting array of interactive events, workshops and activities. Witness over 50 exhilarating skills and trade competitions, get immersed in cutting edge VR and tech at the new STEMhub, or Try’aSkill out for yourself at one of the demo areas. Due to the evolving Covid-19 situation across the country, the format of the 2021 WorldSkills Australia National Championships has shifted to accommodate border control measures Australia-wide. Many competitions will still take place at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre and are open to the public with free tickets. Register your school Register for your free tickets Other competitions will be taking place at other venues across Australia, and closed to the public, but will be available for viewing on WSA Live — the WorldSkills Australia dedicated livestream site. And to make the event even more action-packed, the SkillsWest Careers and Employment Expo is also happening over the same three days at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre! This year’s expo will host over 100 organisations and employers with career opportunities for all ages. The event is for school students, parents, graduates, jobseekers, people looking for training options, and workers seeking new training options. Be sure to stop by the Jobs and Skills Centre stand and get some free information and advice on jobs, careers and training! This event is free, but you must register for tickets here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more TRUCKIES TO BENEFIT FROM REGIONAL ROLLOUT IN SOUTH WEST 24th August, 2021 Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery launched the expansion of the innovative Heavy Vehicle Driving Operations Skill Set in Bunbury today. After four months of delivery in the metropolitan area, the program will now be delivered through South Regional TAFE to address the shortage of truck drivers in the region. Since the pilot program began in April 2021, there have been more than 100 commencements in the metropolitan program. Of the first cohort, 33 people now have jobs in the industry, adding to the pipeline of skilled workers needed for this essential service. Employment numbers are expected to grow as students complete licensing requirements. Stakeholder consultation has been essential to the design and expansion of the program to ensure that the key program outcomes, including licencing and employment, are achieved. Commencing in Term 4 2021, the course coincides with increased workforce demand created by local infrastructure projects including the southern section of the Bunbury Outer Ring Road. As key employers, discussions with Bunbury Outer Ring Road contractors are already underway. The program, an Australian first, is increasing skilled workers in this essential service and giving existing workers the opportunity to upskill to more complex combination heavy vehicle driving, increasing industry productivity and safety. The 10-week driver trainer program helps participants become job ready to join the transport and logistics industry and was developed in response to industry need. Local Bunbury company Keens Truck Driver Training is working with the college to deliver the practical elements of the training. The program will train up to 1,000 workers for the transport industry to avoid skills shortages. On successful completion, participants obtain a Heavy Rigid (HR); Heavy Combination (HC); or Multi Combination (MC) class vehicle licence, and may apply for a forklift (LF) licence. Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said "We have worked collaboratively with industry to make sure the program provides industry-focused solutions while also helping jobseekers increase their employability. Students learn relevant skills in all aspects of truck driving and the unique Driver Mentor Program will help guide new drivers through the early stages of their career.” The course is free for eligible students and the Practical Driving Instruction Training and Assessment and licencing costs are $500 for concession students and up to $1,250 for non-concession students. Visit www.southregionaltafe.wa.edu.au/courses and complete the expression of interest form on the course page. You can also contact the South Regional TAFE team on 1800 621 445 or email collie@srtafe.wa.edu.au. Alternatively, visit www.jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/skillsready or contact your local Jobs and Skills Centre on 13 64 64 for more information. Read the Minister's full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW "CARING FOR COUNTRY—CARING FOR SELF" FOR ABORIGINAL YOUTH 17th August, 2021 Holistic support program to pilot in WA A pilot program supporting the development of self esteem, pride and confidence in Aboriginal youth is set to begin, leading to increased employability and job opportunities. The program, an election commitment on employment and training opportunities for Aboriginal people, is a recommendation from the Report on the Review of Skills, Training and Workforce Development released in July 2020. Community-based Aboriginal organisation As One Nyitting has been engaged to help deliver the Caring for country—Caring for self program, with a cohort of Aboriginal youth aged between 15 and 24 set to take part; further developing their cultural identity and knowledge. The program is aimed at youths who are disengaged or at risk of disengaging from education, training and/or employment, with numbers limited to 15 to provide intensive and individual support over the course of the year. As One Nyitting’s programs are holistic and recognise the valuable role of Elders in supporting young people to learn these skills, 15 Elders will also take part in the program leading through action, providing cultural guidance and assisting in training and mentoring. By learning the skills to care for country and self, and developing cultural identity, the knowledge and confidence gained from the program will support participants to engage in training and employment. Each person will identify training aligned to their interests and strengths, and map out future opportunities and goals for employment. Participants will also be able to access funded support to address any barriers to employment such as training fees, purchase of personal protective equipment and tools, and costs associated with transport or obtaining licences. “The McGowan Government is committed to increasing training and job opportunities for Aboriginal people and ensuring positive outcomes for their communities.“ said Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery today. "This program will develop self esteem, pride and confidence that will lead to meaningful job opportunities.”. Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Stephen Dawson added “Connecting to country is a fantastic way to deliver benefits for Aboriginal communities - particularly young Aboriginal people – right across Western Australia. As we saw through this year’s NAIDOC theme, strengthening the connections Aboriginal people have to their country can be really important for healing and these connections are also crucial to Aboriginal social and emotional wellbeing. This pilot program will strengthen the sense of belonging, identity and responsibility for Aboriginal youth, and support a foundation of empowerment and meaningful training that will hopefully lead to sustainable employment.”. Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more READY TO KICKSTART YOUR CAREER IN TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY? 13th August, 2021 Information, resources and free training to get that job! How would you like a career that can take you anywhere in the world, in a service industry that employs almost one million people in Australia — in over 300,000 businesses? Tourism and hospitality can offer you that, and so much more! From working as a tour guide or travel agent, through to being a barista or qualified chef mixing cocktails at a holiday resort, to running tours from a cruise ship or working in hotel operations, through to managing events — there's a wide range of occupations in tourism and hospitality, and fantastic opportunities to grow your career. And the good news is, tourism and hospitality offers a huge range of entry level jobs if you're just getting started, but also many opportunities to progress your career through to management roles. And all of this can happen anywhere across Australia, and all over the world! Plus we have a list of all the subsidised training courses available in WA — including free job ready skill sets and half-price qualifications, options for traineeships and apprenticeships, information for school students looking for training options in Years 11 and 12, and for growing areas of the sector such as eco-tourism, sustainable food and beverages, and Indigenous tourism. We have all the information you need to know — what jobs hospitality and tourism offer, what training you'll need, and how to get the jobs! It's all on the new Tourism and hospitality page of the Jobs and Skills website. Take a look! Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more SKILLS INVESTMENT ON TRACK WITH CONSTRUCTION STARTING AT MANDURAH TAFE 11th August, 2021 The significant investment in essential infrastructure upgrades across the State’s TAFE colleges is underway, with construction starting on the new training centre at South Metropolitan TAFE’s Mandurah campus. Premier Mark McGowan and Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery visited the college today to turn the first sod on the $16.87 million facility. The state-of-the-art Hospitality and Tourism Training Centre will deliver practical, on-the-job training in commercial cookery, tourism and event management, providing career pathways for aspiring chefs, event managers, baristas and front-of-house staff. Hair and beauty training facilities will also be incorporated into the new centre, skilling the next cohort of hairdressers, massage therapists and beauty therapists. The facilities will include a student hub, two training kitchens, a production kitchen and a live works restaurant, as well as a new hair salon and dedicated training spaces for beauty therapy and massage. Construction is expected to be completed in late 2022 and the first students using the facilities in Semester 1, 2023. The project was announced in July 2020 as part of the WA Recovery Plan, to fund upgrades to essential infrastructure across the State’s TAFE colleges. In addition, the State is investing heavily into training through the Lower Fees Local Skills initiative, which has slashed course fees for 180 Vocational Education and Training qualifications by up to 72 per cent. “We are investing in a range of immediate initiatives to support the State’s skills needs - while continuing our strong focus on revitalising the State’s TAFEs," said Mr McGowan. “The $16.87 million training centre will deliver practical on-the-job training, leading to highly skilled workers for the Peel region’s growing hospitality and tourism industry. This project is part of the largest TAFE capital works program in Western Australia’s history, with 14 projects creating more than 1,000 local jobs.” Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said “We have made it easier than ever before for Western Australians to gain a qualification. The major upgrade to South Metropolitan TAFE’s Mandurah campus will give approximately 500 students from the Peel region access to the very best learning environment. The new training centre will be a one-stop-shop for simulated training, allowing job-ready workers to step straight into the workforce.” View the full media statement from the Premier and Minister here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more WA TRAINING AWARDS 2021 FINALISTS ANNOUNCED! 10th August, 2021 Our brightest VET stars step into the spotlight Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery today announced the 37 finalists for the 2021 WA Training Awards. Twenty seven exceptional individuals and 10 organisations have been named as finalists for 2021, showcasing excellence in the vocational education and training (VET) sector. Winners will be announced at a presentation ceremony on 17 September, and may go on to represent the state at the Australian Training Awards in November. CONGRATULATIONS TO THIS YEAR'S FINALISTS! WA Apprentice of the Year 2021 finalists Hayden Carvell (Mundaring), Joann Knight (Brabham), Stacey-Lee Boothman (Cooloongup), Christine Ferrone (Bayswater) WA Trainee of the Year 2021 finalists Bonnie Barber (Bridgetown), Amber Ugle-Hayward (Karrinyup), Vikki Doecke (Kelmscott) WA Vocational Student of the Year 2021 finalists Maxine Turner (Fremantle), Nerine Boulter (White Gum Valley), Meg Maroni (Albany), Zoe Tucker (Bayswater) WA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year 2021 finalists Kevin Wilson (Victoria Park), Grant Syron (Como), Keira Gentle (Ridgewood), Sterling Winmar (Orelia) WA School-based Apprentice of the Year 2021 finalists Courtney Short (Ellenbrook), Taj Morris (Glenfield), Samantha Winter (Lower Chittering) WA Cultural Diversity Training Award 2021 finalists Marli Nicholls (Carlisle), Agnes Toluwade (Leeming) WA International Student of the Year 2021 finalists Johanna Faber (Yokine), Shalynn Buss (Lathlain), Aurelie Jammes (Scarborough) WA Trainer of the Year 2021 finalists Brendan Hibbert (North Metropolitan TAFE), Maryke Gray (Central Regional TAFE), Tarryn Drage (WiseClick Training), Robert Carter (South Regional TAFE) WA Large Training Provider of the Year 2021 finalists North Metropolitan TAFE, North Regional TAFE, South Metropolitan TAFE WA Small Training Provider of the Year 2021 finalists Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services RTO, Niche Education Group, Auswest Specialist Education and Training Services WA Large Employer of the Year 2021 finalists McDonald's Australia (WA), Byrnecut Australia WA Medium Employer of the Year 2021 finalists Ranger Drilling, Consolidated Group Now in its 27th year, the Awards recognise the outstanding achievements of apprentices, trainees, employers and training organisations. As well as the recognition these respected awards bring, individual winners will receive $3,000 which they may use to further their training or kickstart their career, while organisation winners will be recognised as industry leaders. The 2021 WA Training Awards are made possible thanks to continuing support from the WA State Training Board, MEGT, Apprenticeship Support Australia powered by CCIWA, the Electrical and Communications Association of Western Australia, Polly Farmer Foundation, Roy Hill, StudyPerth, and the Training Accreditation Council (TAC) WA. Announcing the finalists today, Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said "The WA Training Awards are the State’s premier training award program, showcasing excellence and putting our best talent in the spotlight. With WA’s economy thriving and the strongest in the nation, our State is experiencing training and employment opportunities like never before. High demand for skilled workers is providing new and exciting pathways for job seekers and career changers. I congratulate this year’s fine calibre of finalists, they are great ambassadors for Western Australia’s training system.” To find out more about this year's finalists, go to dtwd.wa.gov.au/watrainingawards Read the Minister's full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more SWIFT ACTION ON SKILLS SUMMIT STRATEGIES TO SKILL WA 5th August, 2021 Exciting new initiatives and programs announced today The McGowan Government is taking swift action to progress strategies identified in partnership with Western Australian industry leaders at last Friday’s WA Skills Summit, announcing more priority initiatives to attract and retain skilled workers in WA. More than 130 people attended the Skills Summit on 30 July, including Premier Mark McGowan, Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery, other members of Cabinet and business leaders across a number of sectors including the resources, defence, construction and healthcare industries. The following initiatives announced by Premier Mark McGowan and Minister for Education and Training Sue Ellery today align with strategies discussed at the Skills Summit. The WA State Government will continue working with industry to identify priority areas and target market opportunities. These key initiatives are immediate actions the State Government will take to bolster the State’s workforce, while work is undertaken to convert concepts from the Summit into additional initiatives. We will bring you further updates on these and other initiatives and programs, as information becomes available. ADULT APPRENTICE EMPLOYER INCENTIVE Following the huge success of the $5.2 million Jobs and Skills WA Adult Apprentice Employer Incentive (AAEI), which has seen it reach its 100 place cap for 2021—22 in just over two weeks, the State Government has brought forward the next 100 places from 2022—23. This ensures employers will immediately be eligible for the adult apprentice financial incentive – up to $26,800. * Find out more about AAEI here ADDITIONAL PLACES IN STATE NOMINATED MIGRATION PROGRAM With onshore visa holders also showing strong interest in filling skilled jobs in WA, the State Government is requesting an additional 5,000 onshore places from the Commonwealth Government under the State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP). The addition of 134 skill shortage occupations to the program last month prompted thousands of expressions of interest from skilled onshore migrants who are living interstate, to secure work in WA. * Find out more about SNMP here TARGETED ASSISTANCE FOR ABORIGINAL JOBSEEKERS To help Aboriginal youth overcome barriers to employment, a new partnership with the Wirrpanda Foundation will provide Aboriginal jobseekers aged 15–24 years with targeted assistance to address specific barriers to employment. REDUCING BARRIERS TO DRIVER'S LICENCE FOR JOBSEEKERS The State Government will introduce initiatives to help disadvantaged learner drivers obtain a driver’s licence — a significant barrier to employment for many. INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS BROUGHT FORWARD Following detailed consultation with industry, the State Government’s multibillion dollar infrastructure program will be reviewed with a view to smoothing the pipeline of work to ease workforce pressures across the economy. This will include a review of the McGowan Government’s Asset Investment Program as part of the 2021–22 State Budget. TARGETED CAMPAIGN TO ATTRACT WORKERS A targeted advertising campaign will also be developed to attract interstate and New Zealand workers, and increase participation of underrepresented groups in WA. The State Government will continue working with industry to identify priority areas and target market opportunities. REGIONAL SKILLS SUMMITS ACROSS WA With regional WA having its own unique challenges, the State Government will hold a series of targeted Regional Skills Summits across WA in the next five months. “The Skills Summit was a valuable opportunity for government and industry to work together to address immediate workforce challenges to support our thriving economy – while enhancing our ongoing commitment to local training and local jobs. We have come away from the Skills Summit with a range of tangible solutions and we are getting straight to work implementing them." said Mr McGowan. “Our economy is strong and together we have defied the economic turmoil seen throughout much of the world. We will continue to be agile and responsive to industry’s needs as we address our workforce challenges and deliver continued strong results for the WA economy.” Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said “With low unemployment and international border restrictions, we are experiencing growing demand for skilled workers to fill local jobs and support our businesses. As well as these immediate actions, the concepts that came from the Skills Summit will shape further planning, strategy and decisions to assist WA’s workforce needs. I am thrilled to also announce the Skills Summit initiative will be expanded to our regional communities.” Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more INDUSTRY LEADERS GATHER TODAY FOR WA SKILLS SUMMIT 30th July, 2021 Developing immediate and longer term strategies to address skills needs The McGowan Government's rescheduled Skills Summit is being held today in Perth, as early positive results from a number of immediate skills measures put in place earlier this month can be revealed. The Summit is an opportunity for business leaders and other industry players to work collaboratively to develop immediate and longer term strategies to address skills needs impacting the Western Australian economy, with Premier Mark McGowan, Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery and other Cabinet members joining industry leaders from a range of sectors including the resources, construction, agriculture, defence and healthcare industries. After the Skills Summit was postponed late last month due to the COVID-19 lockdown, a number of immediate initiatives were put in place to begin addressing workforce needs, with positive early results achieved. * The new $5.2 million Jobs and Skills WA Adult Apprentice Employer Incentive to provide eligible businesses with up to $26,800 when they hire a mature age apprentice has also been fully subscribed, with all 100 places available this financial year now filled. * The extension to the Apprentice and Traineeship Reengagement Incentive has also seen a marked increase in enquiries from employers and trainees. * The expansion of the State Nominated Migration Program, which enables temporary visa holders already in Australia to fill positions not being met by local workers, has seen thousands of expressions of interest from workers around the country. * The partnership between Tourism WA and training council FutureNow has been formalised, with a number of programs to encourage young people to pursue careers in tourism and hospitality. The State Government expects additional initiatives to address WA's skills needs will be announced following the Skills Summit. These measures are in addition to the McGowan Government's major investments over the past four years towards restoring and revitalising the State's training sector - including slashing TAFE fees, introducing free short courses and delivering the biggest TAFE infrastructure build in WA history. There are more than 86,000 students in vocational education and training courses in WA; a 25 per cent increase compared to last year. WA employers have also responded by taking on more apprentices and trainees in 2021, with apprenticeship and traineeship commencements up by 72 per cent in the past 12 months. "Today's Skills Summit is about generating new ideas on how industry and government can work together to address the current workforce challenges we are experiencing." said Premier Mark McGowan. "Western Australia is in an enviable position, with a thriving economy and a low unemployment rate, amid a global pandemic. It is very encouraging to see the initiatives we implemented last month are already having a positive impact in addressing skills needs. I look forward to hearing directly from industry leaders on how we can continue to collaborate to address these challenges and enable the WA economy to continue on its strong trajectory.". Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said "Due to significant investment by the McGowan Government, we are training like never before. In our first term a key commitment was to make training more affordable for all Western Australians and we have built on that coming back into government. But as we continue to deal with the impact of pandemic we need to remain agile and look at new ways to keep the economy moving which is what today is all about.". Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more IMMEDIATE BOOSTS TO WA WORKFORCE 5th July, 2021 New date set for Skills Summit 2021 Premier Mark McGowan today announced a range of immediate initiatives to support Western Australia’s skilled worker needs and confirmed the rescheduled Skills Summit will take place on Friday, July 30. The event was postponed late last month due to WA's four-day circuit breaker COVD-19 lockdown. In order to begin addressing the immediate needs of Western Australian businesses, a number of key measures will be implemented now. NEW! ADULT APPRENTICESHIP EMPLOYER INCENTIVE The new $5.2 million Jobs and Skills WA Adult Apprenticeship Employer Incentive will help businesses maximise job opportunities for adult apprentices who bring the benefit of skills, experience and maturity to businesses. WA businesses eligible for the new incentive may receive up to $26,800 when they hire an adult apprentice. This will assist with growing WA’s skilled workforce and maximise opportunities for mature age apprentices, who are often overlooked by employers due to the higher cost of adult wages. * For more information about AAEI, visit jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/aaei EXTENSION OF APPRENTICESHIP AND TRAINEESHIP REENGAGEMENT INCENTIVE The successful Apprenticeship and Traineeship Re-engagement Incentive (ATRI) will be extended for a further 12 months, with an additional $4 million investment. Since its commencement in July 2020, more than 1,600 apprentices and trainees have been re-engaged and given the opportunity to complete their training. There are currently around 300 out of contract apprentices and trainees seeking a new employer across a range of industries. * For more information about ATRI, visit jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/atri EXPANSION OF SKILLED MIGRATION PROGRAM The State Government has expanded the State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP) to provide a skilled migration pathway for temporary visa holders already in Australia. The SNMP is a Commonwealth skilled migration program that allows States and Territories to attract temporary visa holders into occupations where there are vacancies not being met by local workers. An additional 134 occupations have been added to the WA Skilled Migration Occupation List from high demand industries. With thousands of skilled temporary visa holders already in Australia, the changes to the SNMP will focus on attracting these skilled migrants to WA and assist businesses to retain visa holders already residing in WA. For more information about SNMP, visit migration.wa.gov.au PROMOTION OF TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY CAREERS A new partnership between Tourism WA and training council FutureNow will develop career programs for high-school students to highlight the vibrant career opportunities in tourism and hospitality. It will include interactive demonstrations at the Skills West Careers Expo and a ‘chef ambassador’ program targeting students and teachers looking to upskill. REGIONAL RENT INCREASES FOR GOVERNMENT REGIONAL OFFICER HOUSING (GROH) FROZEN The State Government has frozen rent increases for Government Regional Officer Housing (GROH) in 2021—22, assisting regional towns to continue to attract and retain public sector workers such as police and teachers. These measures are based on consultation with peak bodies, industry associations, industry training councils, WA unions and government agencies. They will deliver immediate solutions for WA businesses’ skilled worker needs - with further short and long term actions to be identified at the rescheduled Skills Summit. View the full media statement from the Premier and Minister here. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more PRE-APPRENTICESHIPS UPDATE FOR EMPLOYERS, RTOS, AND STUDENTS 1st July, 2021 Updated business rules, new guide, and fact sheet Pre-apprenticeships are a valuable pathway into an apprenticeship program. Vocational education and training (VET) students are able to get hands on work experience in their intended field of study by undertaking a Certificate II level pre-apprenticeship, which offers a pathway to a full apprenticeship, or to employment, through a combination of training and work practice. In a pre-apprenticeship, the registered training organisation (RTO) works with an employer to ensure the student is able to undertake meaningful tasks that contribute to their workplace skills. In circumstances where a real work placement is not possible, such as due to COVID-19 pandemic closures or where there are safety concerns, the RTO may organise simulated work practice for the pre-apprentice. The WA Pre-apprenticeship Program Business Rules were recently updated following an extensive consultation with key stakeholders. The updated business rules encourage the use of real work placements with an employer, but also offer flexibility in the work practice component. The new work practice requirements are: * a minimum of 150 hours of work practice (previously 50% of the nominal contact hours); and * the work practice can be undertaken through work placements, simulated work practice or a combination of both (previously a minimum of 50% of the work practice had to be undertaken in a real workplace). The new business rules and lists of current pre-apprenticeships are available from our website at dtwd.wa.gov.au/pa-guide. NEW GUIDE FOR INDUSTRY AND RTOS The Department has produced a new guide for industry and RTOs on how to seek approval to establish a new pre-apprenticeship program. View the new Guide to establishing a pre-apprenticeship pathway at dtwd.wa.gov.au/pa-guide If you are looking for more information on pre-apprenticeships, please contact the Department’s Apprenticeship and Traineeship Policy team by email at apprenticeshippolicy@dtwd.wa.gov.au. FOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS A fact sheet explaining the benefits of the pre-apprenticeships in schools program, and a list of pre-apprenticeships in schools courses, are available on the Jobs and Skills WA website at jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/training/schools-and-school-students. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more $2 MILLION GERALDTON TAFE REFURBISHMENT 23rd June, 2021 Plans are progressing for the project which will see the old I Block trades workshop extended and transformed into six learning spaces for creative industries training. The ageing workshop will be refurbished to include three traditional art studios and three classrooms, where Geraldton's next generation of artists, fashion designers and media specialists will learn the tools of their trade. Modern amenities for students and lecturers will also take shape as part of the workshop’s transformation into a digital media and technologies hub that specialises in new and emerging technologies. Local architectural firm Eastman Poletti Sherwood Architects were appointed for the design of the project, which forms part of the McGowan Government’s WA Recovery Plan. Currently, the Geraldton campus delivers one of the State’s most successful creative industries, visual arts and multi-media training programs, with around 200 students participating in these programs each year. Construction of the new creative industries training hub will unlock jobs in the Mid-West, and when the new spaces are opened, increased student capacity will have positive flow on benefits for local small businesses. Tenders will close 23 June 2021, with construction to start in August 2021. Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said “We announced this project as part of our WA Recovery Plan and this Government is on target to deliver a world-class creative industries training hub for the Mid-West. "By investing in infrastructure and equipment and cutting fees we are making TAFE better and more accessible for everyone." Read the Minister's full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more RESOURCES, DEFENCE AND SPACE INDUSTRY TECHNOLOGIES ON SHOW! 21st June, 2021 FREE Resources Technology Showcase June 21—22 Some of the State's new, groundbreaking resources, defence and space industry technologies will be unveiled at the Resources Technology Showcase at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, on June 21 and 22. Supported by the McGowan Government, North Metropolitan TAFE and South Metropolitan TAFE have teamed up to provide an interactive experience of some of the high-tech equipment in their training arsenal, including one of 16 new augmented reality welding simulators. The new simulators support the delivery of fabrication apprenticeships at South Metropolitan TAFE's Naval Base campus, by enabling students to learn welding skills in a controlled and safe environment. With the State Government's $18 million package of initiatives to support upcoming defence projects and enhance Western Australia's capacity to secure defence work, the investment in welding simulators will help to equip the future welding workforce for the rapid scale-up of defence and shipbuilding projects in WA. The Mobile CUT Mine is also on display, which is a mini replica of the unique simulated underground CUT Mine located at North Metropolitan TAFE's Perth campus. It is used to expose students to a real underground mine environment prior to gaining employment. Other technology featured at 'The TAFE experience' includes programmable mobile robot trucks called mBots, drones used for site inspections, surveillance and thermal imaging for asset maintenance and stockpile analysis, and a Robot Arm and Smart Factory simulating the robotic technology used in factories. The Resources Technology Showcase is free to attend, and is taking place on June 21 and 22. Find out more, and register here Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery says "It is quite remarkable seeing firsthand our State's technological capabilities and the innovation keeping the WA training system at the forefront of industry innovation. With automation in the defence and resources industries increasing, the McGowan Government's support for TAFE provides students with the best training you can get." Read the full media statement from the Minister here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW SUPPORT FOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS, PARENTS AND SCHOOLS 18th June, 2021 Information and resources to help with career planning With the world around us constantly changing, planning for the future is more important than ever! The Jobs and Skills WA website now has a new section specifically for secondary school students in WA — and their parents, and for career practitioners and schools. The information, advice and resources will assist and support students with decision making around future plans — including options for VET both at school and after school, and other pathways — as well as getting students started with career planning. There’s also information for parents, and for schools, to help with supporting career planning activities for younger people and school students. Visit the new Schools section of the Jobs and Skills WA website > The new website content will also be used by Jobs and Skills Centres to guide students through the career planning process and help them to make decisions about study pathways. Career planning services are free at all Jobs and Skills Centres — call your local centre on 13 64 64 to find out more. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW $10M PROGRAM TO BOOST DEFENCE INDUSTRY JOBS 17th June, 2021 Defence Industry Pathways Program starting up in July! The Commonwealth Government has launched a $10 million program that will provide West Australian high school graduates with a fully funded, 12-month traineeship to help grow WA’s defence industry workforce. The Defence Industry Pathways Program, developed in partnership with South Metropolitan TAFE and WA's maritime defence industry, is a taster course designed to set participants on a path to an exciting defence industry career. The pilot program will support 120 students by mid-2022, with the first cohort of 20 set to begin in July. The Defence Industry Pathways Program is open to WA school leavers who have completed Year 12. While the pilot will take place in and around the Australian Marine Complex in Henderson, it could be adapted for implementation in other Defence industry sites across Australia. Defence industry partners will provide supervision, mentoring and on the job training as part of the program, and South Metropolitan TAFE is providing trainees with on-campus study to undertake the academic modules of the traineeship. The Commonwealth Government will contribute almost $45,000 per trainee to fund their wages, on-costs and uniform including safety footwear. For full details and how to apply, please visit the South Metropolitan TAFE website Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said the Government’s unprecedented investments in Defence projects, would create another 1,000 jobs across the nation in the naval shipbuilding industry by 2023. “This program is designed to build a pipeline of talent that is ready to be part of Australia’s booming shipbuilding industry,” Minister Price said. “We are investing $75 billion in the maritime domain, focused on the construction, upgrade and sustainment of new and existing classes of naval vessels. With the increasing demand for workers in the shipbuilding industry in Western Australia, the maritime defence industry needs to grow its workforce. We must attract and retain the next generation of designers, engineers, scientists and technical tradespeople to our industry. Read the Minister's full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more $10 MILLION INVESTMENT FOR KALGOORLIE TAFE UPGRADES 17th June, 2021 Tenders are now open! Tenders are now open for upgrades to Central Regional TAFE’s Kalgoorlie campus. The new trades workshop at Central Regional TAFE’s Kalgoorlie campus is on track to begin construction in August, with the project now out for tender. The $7 million workshop will expand training for plant mechanic and engineering trades, supporting the workforce needs of the Goldfields’ resources industry. In addition to the new workshop construction, existing workshops at the Kalgoorlie campus will undergo a $1 million refurbishment, with a further $2 million worth of industry standard training equipment also set to be installed, bringing the total investment to $10 million. Construction of the new state of the art workshop will expand the capacity at Central Regional TAFE’s Kalgoorlie campus, to train more skilled workers for local jobs. Designed by Zuideveld Marchant Hur Architects, the building will provide much needed training space for the plant mechanics, heavy auto and auto electrical trade disciplines with a dedicated workshop, classrooms and laboratory spaces. Construction is expected to be completed in November 2022 with training to commence in Semester I, 2023. The project is part of the WA State Government’s $167.4 million upgrade to TAFE colleges across the state, as part of the WA Recovery Plan. Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery today said “The mining and resources sector in Kalgoorlie and the wider Goldfields region is an integral part of Western Australia’s economy. We are investing $10 million to carry out these major upgrades, creating facilities to increase student capacity in industries that will unlock future jobs. “The McGowan Government is injecting a record amount of money to upgrade the five TAFE colleges across the state, setting up world-class learning opportunities.” Read the Minister's full media statement here Main image: Artist rendering of the new Kalgoorlie TAFE trades workshop. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more FEES ARE DOWN, ENROLMENTS ARE UP! 17th June, 2021 Lower fees, local skills and fee freeze extended to 2025 The Lower fees, local skills initiative has delivered a huge increase in Western Australians taking up vocational education and training courses at the State’s TAFE colleges, with courses in the electrical trade, aged care and early childhood attracting the most enrolments.. The initiative is designed to support Western Australians to gain affordable and valuable qualifications in areas local industry needs. Introduced from 1 January 2020, Lower fees, local skills has seen 52,300 enrolments in eligible courses so far this year — an increase of 27 per cent compared to the same period last year — equipping Western Australians with the skills needed to fill jobs now and into the future. And the good news is the WA State Government has extended the course fee reductions and fee freeze on targeted courses until 31 December 2025! Rolled out to make training more affordable, Lower fees, local skills has slashed course fees for 180 VET qualifications by up to 72 per cent in priority areas including construction, engineering, defence, METRONET, information technology, hospitality and tourism, agriculture and community services. While some of the courses have been offered at a reduced cost longer than others, across the State the most popular reduced fees courses to date include: * Certificate III in Individual Support (3,660 enrolments) * Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (3,150 enrolments) * Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (2,380 enrolments) * Diploma of Nursing (1,680 enrolments) * Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (1,280 enrolments) * Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start) [Electrotechnology Pre-Apprenticeship] (890 enrolments) * Certificate III in Education Support (1,080 enrolments) * Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (840 enrolments) * Certificate III in Surface Extraction Operations (490 enrolments) Premier Mark McGowan and Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery visited North Metropolitan TAFE’s Balga campus today, where there has been an increase in electrical trade enrolments — up almost 15 per cent per cent from about 2,700 at this time in 2020 to 3,100 so far this year. * Enrolments in electrical trades courses at Balga TAFE are up by 4 per cent from 408 this time last year to 424 so far in 2021, with particularly strong growth reported for younger students aged 15 to 19 (up 24 per cent). * The most popular electrical trades course at the Balga campus is the Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician, attracting 382 enrolments so far this year. * Across the State as a whole, there has been 3,150 enrolments in the Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician this year, with a further 890 enrolments recorded in the Certificate II in Electrotechnology Career Start [Electrotechnology Pre-Apprenticeship], a 10 per cent rise for both courses from last year. To find out more about Lower fees, local skills and see the full list of reduced fee courses, please visit jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/skillsready “Western Australia’s economy is booming, with growing demand across a whole range of sectors for skilled workers to fill local jobs and support our businesses, big and small." said Mr McGowan. “Our success in managing COVID-19 has seen WA’s economy perform better than almost anywhere in the world through this crisis — but this is having an impact on supply chains, including significant demand for labour. My Government has had a keen focus on revitalising the State’s TAFE sector over the last four years — with a range of measures put in place — and these results show that investment is working. There is still more to do to manage these significant pressures and the Skills Summit we are hosting later this month will continue our efforts in conjunction with the business sector to address these issues. There has never been a better time for Western Australians of all ages to upskill at one of the State’s TAFEs so they can take advantage of the raft of job opportunities available now and into the future.” Minister Ellery said “We have recently extended our TAFE fee freeze through to 2025. Keeping training fees low will ensure all Western Australians can continue to upskill or transfer their skills for a new beginning and is essential to engage young people in training that leads to jobs. It is really pleasing to see people taking up these opportunities and I encourage anyone who is looking for a career change or needs alternative employment to consider TAFE as a way forward" View the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW FREE PLATFORM HELPING SKILLED UP WORKERS FIND JOBS 10th June, 2021 Job Ready Connect launches online today Minister for Education and Training Sue Ellery has today launched a new free online platform to connect job ready workers with the growing list of job opportunities available with Western Australian employers. The new platform — Job Ready Connect — will connect jobseekers with employers. The platform guides graduates through the creation of an online profile highlighting their skills, experience, qualifications and accreditations; without the need for a resume. Employers are able to register for free on Job Ready Connect, to easily and securely search for and connect with candidates who have the skills and experience they require. Job Ready Connect is exclusively available to Job Ready program graduates and participating WA employers. Job Ready Connect is now available at jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/jobreadyconnect Job Ready programs were introduced by the WA State Government as part of a suite of training initiatives through Jobs and Skills WA, designed to support stimulus measures and WA’s economic recovery following COVID-19. The programs are designed to provide participants with the entry level skills and the industry experience employers are looking for in key industry areas. With Job Ready programs currently offered in Ageing and Disability, Bricklaying, and Civil Construction (Infrastructure), graduates of these programs will be the first users of the new Job Ready Connect platform. Employers in these sectors are encouraged to register their details to start connecting with job ready candidates who are motivated to gain work and further skills in these areas. Find out more about Job Ready programs here “The McGowan Government’s investment in infrastructure projects is supporting the State’s economic recovery and creating a pipeline of work and jobs for Western Australians.“ said the Minister today. "Job Ready Connect will take the new training pathways to employment provided by the Job Ready program a step further, helping graduates find jobs with employers. With opportunities to work in key sectors growing across metropolitan and regional WA, it’s a great time for Job Ready graduates to connect with employers and get to work.” Read the Minister's full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more TOP WA UNIVERSITIES TEAM UP FOR DEFENCE INDUSTRY TRAINING 8th June, 2021 "Team WA" offering specialist programs and research WA's four top-ranked universities — Edith Cowan University, Curtin University, Murdoch University and The University of WA — are collaborating together as "Team WA" to offer specialised research and education programs to support the current and future needs of our defence sector. All four universities have programs in areas such as engineering that relate directly to defence, but each one also offers highly specialised research and education programs in a range of areas including drone technology and artificial intelligence, maritime and undersea operations, super computing, remote and autonomous operations, and planetary science. The Team WA approach is unique in Australia, with our universities working together to share skills, experience and resources to achieve shared outcomes for excellence in defence education and research. * Read the full story by Kristian Constantinides (source: Business News-) WA's defence industry offers fantastic job opportunities in a range of areas, including apprenticeships and traineeships. Find out more on the Jobs and Skills website: jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/defence Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more TEAMWA IN TRAINING FOR 2021 1st June, 2021 WorldSkills National Championships and Skills Show coming to Perth! The countdown is on to August when Perth will host the 2021 WorldSkills Australia (WSA) National Championships and Skills Show, the nation’s biggest skills competition. Held at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, the event will shine the national spotlight on 100 of WA’s most talented apprentices and trainees when they compete in skills competitions against 400 interstate competitors. Our local TeamWA has been training hard with all competitors vying to compete internationally as part of Australia's Skillaroos squad in Shanghai in 2022. The talented team attended an orientation day at HBF Stadium in May. National judges and former competitors shared their competition experience with the group and the team practised essential skills such as team work and problem solving to help mentally prepare them for the competition. You can watch TeamWA in action preparing for competition in this great video of the orientation day. The WorldSkills Australia National Championships is open to the public, so make sure to mark 26–28 August in your diary. Come along to this free event to show your support for TeamWA and witness their amazing skills talents over three days of exciting competition. While you’re there, you can see firsthand the enormous array of careers available in the VET sector at the co-located Perth SkillsWest Careers and Employment Expo. You can even participate in Try’aSkill demonstrations. With 50 trades and skills being showcased and a total of 15,000 visitors expected, the excitement is building around this year’s national championships and skills show. Don’t miss this great event, visit the WorldSkills Australia website to find out more. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more CONSTRUCTION ACCELERATED APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM LAUNCHES! 20th May, 2021 Fast lane to trades qualification for WA construction workers A new pilot program offering accelerated apprenticeship pathways for WA construction workers has been launched today by Premier Mark McGowan and Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery. The new Construction Accelerated Apprenticeship Program (CAAP) offers free skills assessment for construction industry workers with skills and experience, but without formal qualifications. * To support WA's thriving construction industry, CAAP offers construction workers without formal qualifications the opportunity to have their existing skills recognised as a pathway into an apprenticeship, so that they can become trade qualified. * Employers of apprentices will be able to access State and Australian Government incentives and wage subsidies. The program is available for the non-licensed construction trades of carpentry and joinery, painting and decorating, bricklaying, tile laying, wall and ceiling fixing, plastering, sprinkler fitting, concreting, signwriting and stonemasonry. CAAP was developed in consultation with key industry bodies and employers; including the Construction Training Fund, Housing Industry Association, Australian Brick and Blocklaying Training Foundation, BGC Housing Group, ABN Group, Master Builders WA and the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union. The program is being run in partnership with WA metropolitan and regional TAFEs, who will conduct the free skills assessment component for participants. Further information about the Construction Accelerated Apprenticeship Program is available on the Jobs and Skills WA website. * CAAP for WA construction workers * CAAP for WA construction industry employers Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW WA SKILLS SUMMIT COMING UP ON 30 JUNE 20th May, 2021 Skills priorities and new strategies to strengthen WA's workforce The McGowan Labor Government has today announced new initiatives to maintain Western Australia’s strong economic growth and strengthen its local workforce. Premier Mark McGowan and Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery have today announced a Western Australia 2021 Skills Summit for June 30, to meet with leaders across a number of sectors including the resources, defence, construction and healthcare industries. The aim of the summit is to hear from some of WA’s business leaders on what more can be done collaboratively, and more immediately, to address existing skills needs across sectors to ensure the WA workforce can continue to advance the State and keep WA globally competitive in the coming years. The WA State Government has already invested heavily into training, including cutting TAFE fees to make re-skilling more affordable, and is delivering the biggest TAFE infrastructure build in WA history. “Our management of COVID-19 has provided confidence throughout our economy, which now presents short-term challenges associated with workforce pressures.“ says Premier Mark McGowan. "Building a sustainable local workforce that can meet our immediate and long term skills needs, and support our big pipeline of economic activity, is a key issue that required industry and government to work together. Creating high quality jobs and training Western Australians to do them is the centrepiece of our State’s strong economic recovery and I am looking forward to sitting down with leaders from a range of areas to make sure we can continue to do this.” Also announced today is a new program offering a fast track to an apprenticeship for local construction workers. The pilot Construction Accelerated Apprenticeship Program (CAAP) offers construction workers without formal qualifications the opportunity to have their existing skills recognised, cutting the time required to get an apprenticeship. It is the latest in a number of McGowan Government measures ensuring WA has a pipeline of skilled workers, including: * Lower fees, local skills – slashed TAFE fees by up to 72 per cent on 180 courses; * a record $167.4 million investment in upgrades to TAFE infrastructure across the five WA TAFE colleges as part of the WA Recovery Plan; * free skill set short courses to upskill thousands of Western Australians; and * $4.8 million for the Apprenticeship and Traineeship Re-engagement Incentive, providing financial support to employers who take on a displaced apprentice or trainee. For more information about CAAP and other initiatives, visit the Jobs and Skills WA website Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW SPECIALIST TRAINING FACILITY TO SUPPORT JOBS IN RESOURCES SECTOR 12th May, 2021 Construction of a new specialist training facility at North Metropolitan TAFE's Midland campus has begun, which will see a dedicated space to train industrial conveyor belt technicians. The $2 million Belt Splicing Workshop will meet industry demand in Western Australia's thriving resources sector, addressing skill gaps and increasing the supply of a locally skilled workforce. Industrial conveyor belt technicians repair, maintain and install conveyor belts used in many industries including mining, particularly for the transportation and loading of iron ore. Construction of a new specialist training facility at North Metropolitan TAFE's Midland campus has begun, which will see a dedicated space to train industrial conveyor belt technicians. The $2 million Belt Splicing Workshop will meet industry demand in Western Australia's thriving resources sector, addressing skill gaps and increasing the supply of a locally skilled workforce. Industrial conveyor belt technicians repair, maintain and install conveyor belts used in many industries including mining, particularly for the transportation and loading of iron ore. The shed-style workshop was designed with industry input, and will be fitted out with specialist equipment including conveyor belt, splicing tables and reels, ensuring students receive hands-on training. Armstrong Parkin Architects designed the new facility, with construction undertaken by Perth-based LKS Constructions. The specialist training facility will support the delivery of a Certificate III in Polymer Processing (Conveyor Belt Maintenance and Repair) - a new course to North Metropolitan TAFE. Construction is expected to be completed by October 2021, with training commencing in Semester 1, 2022. The Midland area was identified in the McGowan Government's Review of Skills, Training and Workforce Development, undertaken in response to COVID-19, as being a key area for skills, training and employment investment. Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery commented: "The Midland workshop will be used to train apprentices in the operation and maintenance of large industrial conveyor belts - a critical skill in industries such as mining and logistics. "It is vital that we support training for Western Australia's resources sector, an industry that delivers significant benefits to our local economy and has the potential to employ even more locally skilled workers. "The $2 million project is in addition to the McGowan Government's record $167.4 million commitment to upgrade TAFE colleges as part of the WA Recovery Plan." Read the Minister's full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW! FREE SKILL SETS AND REDUCED FEE QUALIFICATION FOR PATHOLOGY 11th May, 2021 Get skills ready for jobs in pathology collection Two new free skill sets to support the health and pathology sector are now available, to help meet the urgent demand in Western Australia for pathology and COVID-19 collectors. Additionally, the Certificate III in Pathology Collection qualification will now have course fees reduced by 67 per cent under Lower fees, local skills. Minister for Education and Training Sue Ellery announced the new initiatives today, saying “Developed in consultation with industry, the pathology skill sets are designed to attract more skilled workers to WA’s health sector as it works to help keep our community safe.“ The State Government has continued to keep training fees low to help Western Australians gain the skills needed for jobs in areas of high demand such as frontline pathology workers and COVID-19 specimen collectors. Pathology workers are playing a frontline and crucial role in Western Australia’s COVID-19 response. Two new skill sets Free for everyone, the two new skill set short courses have been developed in consultation with industry and will deliver highly transferable skills to prepare participants for work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, GP clinics and a range of other healthcare settings. * The Pathology Collection skill set is completed under the supervision of a trained phlebotomist, and covers the skills to obtain blood samples from a patient for laboratory testing * The COVID-19 Collection skill set covers the skills required to collect, prepare and dispatch a pathology specimen for Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing — a technique used to copy small segments of DNA to diagnose and infections such as COVID-19 In addition to the pathology collection skills, these new courses will teach compliance with infection prevention and control policies and procedures, for working in hospital wards or outpatient clinics, GP clinics and specialist rooms, home collection services and other public and private healthcare settings. The skill sets will also provide credit towards the Certificate III in Pathology Collection qualification, which is now reduced by 67 per cent under the Local fees, local skills initiative. People under 25 or eligible people of all ages looking for work will pay no more than $400 in course fees for this qualification, which equates to an almost $3,500 saving. Course fees are capped at $1,200 for non-concession eligible students. The Certificate III in Pathology Collection is available at North Metropolitan TAFE, South Regional TAFE, LTT Group Pty Ltd, Marr Mooditj and PathWest. For more information on free and half price training options, visit jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/skillsready or contact your local Jobs and Skills Centre on 13 64 64, or a TAFE college or training provider. Read the Minister's full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more $10M STATE OF THE ART TRAINING CENTRE A STEP CLOSER FOR BROOME 7th May, 2021 New facilities for hospitality and tourism training in the Kimberley Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery has today announced that the new $10 million Broome training centre is a step closer, with the design now finalised. North Regional TAFE’s new Broome Hospitality and Student Services Centre will feature state of the art facilities, that will offer speciality training in hospitality, tourism, hair and beauty for the Kimberley region. Local firm Engawa Architects has finalised the design for the development of two new buildings at the Broome TAFE campus; one for hospitality and tourism and the second for hair and beauty training, which will be linked by an outdoor meeting place. The project also includes an extension to the administration building to provide additional space for student and corporate services. The redevelopment will provide a welcome boost to hospitality and tourism training in the Kimberley region, and facilitate industry-standard practice in hair and beauty. The major upgrades will add vitality to campus life for all students and visitors, and create jobs for local construction workers. The new training centre for Broome was announced in July 2020 as part of the WA State Government's $5.5 billion WA Recovery Plan and largest TAFE capital works program in Western Australia's history, which will see a record $167.4 million invested in upgrades to essential infrastructure across Western Australia's five TAFE colleges and create more than 1,000 jobs. Tenders for the construction of the new centre are now open. Construction is anticipated to start in July 2021 with estimated completion in July 2022. “This major campus upgrade will support Broome and the wider Kimberley region’s vital hospitality and tourism industry by offering hands-on training in a world-class training facility.“ the Minister says. "We're committed to providing outstanding learning opportunities for students and generating a pipeline of local jobs to strengthen regional Western Australia’s economy.”. Read the full media statement here Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more STATE OF THE ART NEW TRAINING CENTRE FOR MANDURAH MOVES FORWARD 4th May, 2021 World class training for hospitality, tourism, hair and beauty Minister for Education and Training Sue Ellery has today announced that tenders for a new $14.67 million training centre at South Metropolitan TAFE’s Mandurah campus are now open. These new world class facilities will give the Peel region greater access to specialty training in hospitality and tourism, as well as hair and beauty. The new Hospitality and Tourism Training Centre will be used to deliver training in commercial cookery, tourism and event management, providing career pathways for aspiring chefs, event managers, baristas and front of house staff. Hair and beauty training facilities will also be incorporated into the new centre, opening up the amount of students it will cater for. The centre will also be a one-stop-shop for simulated training at the Mandurah TAFE campus, with construction sets to include two training kitchens, a production kitchen and a live works restaurant, as well as a new hair salon and dedicated training spaces for beauty therapy and massage. This project, part of the State Government's WA Recovery Plan with $167.4 million invested in essential infrastructure upgrades across WA's s five TAFE colleges, was announced in July 2020 as part of the WA Recovery Plan. Construction is estimated to begin in July. “Mandurah’s new training centre will deliver industry relevant training and produce job ready and highly skilled workers for the Peel region’s growing hospitality and tourism industry. " said Minister Ellery. “The state of the art facility will allow students to take part in practical, on the job training in key areas of employment for youth in the region. The $14.67 million project is part of the WA Recovery Plan as part of the McGowan government’s commitment to economic recovery.” Read the full media statement here Images are renders of the design for the new centre. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW JOB READY PROGRAM FOR AGED CARE AND DISABILITY SUPPORT 13th April, 2021 Applications now open! Places available! The WA State Government has launched a new short course to create a pipeline of workers in the social assistance and allied health industry, as part of their $5.5 billion investment in WA Recovery Plan initiatives to upskill the WA workforce and enhance employment and training opportunities following COVID-19. Developed in partnership with industry to meet its workforce needs, the new Ageing and Disability Job Ready program is free for all jobseekers, young people, and concession-eligible students. It includes a training component; the Introduction to Direct Support skill set, and a work placement component where participants will gain hands on industry experience in an aged care and/or disability support workplace. The training covers key skills needed for entry level work, such as how to comply with infection prevention and control; conduct manual tasks safely; meet personal support needs; and communicate and work in health and community services. On completion of the course, students will be connected with opportunities to transition into employment, undertake a traineeship with a participating employer or further their training to gain a disability or aged care qualification. The program, which was developed in consultation with Community Skills Western Australia and key industry partners. will be available initially through North Metropolitan and South Metropolitan TAFEs and private training providers Activ Foundation, Amana Living Incorporated, Insight Training Group Australia and Centacare Employment and Training. It will be expanded to the Goldfields and Wheatbelt regions in May 2021. Employers have the opportunity to host a work placement student and, if the student transitions into a traineeship, will be able to access State and Australian Government incentives or wage subsides. Applications for the program are now open with the first intake of students scheduled to start on 23 April, 2021. To find out more, and register your interest in the program visit jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/pathways Announcing the new program today, Minister for Education and Training Sue Ellery said “There is growing demand for disability and aged care workers around the State, and the new Job Ready program provides pathways to full qualifications and employment. This program will help more Western Australians to join the disability and aged care workforce by providing real, hands-on experience in the industry. ” “With the continued growth of the National Disability Insurance Scheme there has never been a better time to pursue a job in the disability and aged care industry. “Disability and aged care offers rewarding careers that make a positive difference to the lives of others.” said Disability Services; Seniors and Ageing Minister Don Punch. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more APPLIANCE SERVICE INDUSTRY CELEBRATES NEW APPRENTICESHIPS 9th April, 2021 WA’s first locally-trained appliance service apprentices graduate Western Australia’s appliance servicing industry recently celebrated an important milestone, with the graduation of its first cohort of locally-trained apprentices. Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery congratulated the nine inaugural graduates of the Certificate III in Appliance Service, whose achievements of the first WA trade certificates ever issued for the qualification hold a special significance. When these graduates embarked on their apprenticeship journey in October 2017m the qualification had only just become available in WA. Having worked closely with industry to establish a trade apprenticeship, the WA Government responded to industry demand by funding Perth-based registered training organisation, Energy Skills Solutions, to develop and deliver it in WA. The qualification, which trains apprentices to set up, service and repair electrical and refrigerated appliances, was previously only delivered on the east coast. As well as breaking down a significant distance barrier to training, the delivery of the apprenticeship in WA is providing the industry with new opportunities to meet the growing demand for skilled workers. Apprentices Nicholas Chambers, 52, and Peta Tournay, 30, are two graduates who wasted no time enrolling in the training when it became available. Nicholas has worked with the Metropolitan Appliance Service in Myaree for almost a decade, and for him the opportunity to undertake formal training is all about ensuring safe practices and setting benchmarks for the industry. Nicholas transitioned into appliance servicing from another trade at age 43, and now enjoys training others in his workplace and hopes having the formal training available in WA will attract new people to work with him to service this growing industry. Peta began working at her family’s Bunbury Appliance Service business a few years ago, initially helping out in an office-based role. When a position in the workshop became vacant, Peta – who had worked in other trades – transitioned to the tools, signed up for the Certificate III in Appliance Service qualification, and has never looked back. Getting her appliance service qualification was a positive experience for Peta, who enjoyed working alongside likeminded peers and sharing insights into the various aspects of the job. Peta plans to add more training to her growing list of achievements. More information about the Certificate III in Appliance Service qualification is available on the Jobs and Skills WA website “Our Government’s investment in local training opportunities is helping overcome significant barriers to training and securing pathways to rewarding careers.”, says Minister for Education and Training Sue Ellery. “Having a pipeline of skilled workers is crucial for the success of our local industries and for our State’s continuing economic recovery post COVID-19. Access to highly-trained apprentices will be key in meeting a high demand for workers across a range of occupations and industries.” Read the full media statement here Main picture: Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Education and Training, Mr Terry Healy (at left), with graduating apprentices including Nicholas Chambers (second from right) and Peta Tournay (fourth from left). Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more SHINING THE SPOTLIGHT ON EXCELLENCE IN WA'S VET SECTOR 4th April, 2021 Minister encourages individuals and organisations to apply for WA Training Awards Applications are now open for this year's WA Training Awards, which recognise the outstanding achievements of apprentices, trainees, employers and training organisations. Now in its 27th year, the Awards provide an opportunity for the training sector to showcase excellence, reward best practice and put WA's best VET achievers in the spotlight. Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery is encouraging eligible individuals and organisations to apply, with applications closing Friday, April 23. "The WA Training Awards are the State's premier training award program, showcasing excellence and putting our best talent in the spotlight. With vocational education and training playing a vital role in the rebuilding of Western Australia's economy, there is no better time to recognise our best students. Western Australia's training system is one of the best in the world and success stories such as last year's Trainee of the Year Cheyne Pearce and Vocational Student of the Year Trent Caldwell highlight that a vocational training pathway leads directly to jobs." After a slightly revised program in 2020, this year all award categories are back, with eight individual and four organisational categories. Individual categories * WA 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 School-based Apprentice of the Year * WA Trainer of the Year * WA Cultural Diversity Training Award * WA International Student of the Year Organisational categories * WA Medium Employer of the Year * WA Large Employer of the Year * WA Small Training Provider of the Year * WA Large Training Provider of the Year As well as the recognition these respected Awards bring, individual winners will receive $3,000 which they may use to further their training or kick-start their career, while organisation winners will be recognised as industry leaders. Winners will be announced at a presentation ceremony in September. Winners of the WA awards may go on to represent WA at the Australian Training Awards in November, just like last year's Trainee of the Year Cheyne Pearce and Vocational Student of the Year Trent Caldwell. Both Cheyne and Trent were named as runner-up in their respective categories at the peak national awards, after securing jobs they were passionate about following successful stints at TAFE. Cheyne completed a Certificate IV in Horticulture in order to fulfil his passion to make a positive difference to the environment. His hard work and resolve eventually paid off with the offer of a traineeship at Kings Park and Botanic Gardens, and has since secured full time employment as a local government park operator. Trent wanted to blend the skills learnt from his background in community services, advertising and art, embarking on a journey to land his long-held ambition of a role in marketing. After successfully completing a Diploma of Marketing and Communication he reached his goal, and is now employed as marketing co-ordinator for an assistive technology company. Cheyne and Trent are also WA Training Awards Ambassadors and encourage people of all ages to celebrate their success by applying for the Awards. For more information about the WA Training Awards and to apply, visit the WA Training Awards website Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW HEAVY VEHICLE DRIVING SKILL SET 31st March, 2021 The new recently launched job ready Heavy Vehicle Driving Operations skill set will train an estimated 1,000 skilled workers needed by the transport industry to avoid skill shortages. The six-week program will remove barriers to entry in Heavy Rigid (HR), Heavy Combination (HC) or Multi-Combination (MC) heavy vehicle driving through both theoretical and hands-on practical truck driver training. Targeted funding for the delivery of industry mentoring for program graduates, will be co-ordinated by Western Roads Federation, and will be crucial for smaller transport companies without the capacity to provide on-the-job training. The Heavy Vehicle Driving Operations skill set will be delivered in Perth's north-eastern suburbs by Central Regional TAFE and is an expansion of the Heavy Haulage Driving Operations skill set being delivered in Collie, which will transition to this new program. The new program has been modified to provide students with more of the practical skills needed by industry, including on-road experience. To be responsive to industry need, the short course has been developed to have a strong focus on practical skills and will be an Australian first. The aim of the pilot is to increase skilled workers in this essential service but also give existing workers the opportunity to upskill to more complex combination heavy vehicle driving, increasing industry productivity and safety. Course participants will get a credit toward the Certificate III in Driving Operations traineeship and a leg up to complete the full qualification. The course will run for just over six weeks, with the formal training component of the course will be free for job seekers and people under 25*. *A small contribution will be required for participation in separate practical driving lessons, which will accompany the training. For more information, visit centralregionaltafe.wa.edu.au/courses or call Central Regional TAFE 1800 672 700. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more 2020 STUDENT SATISFACTION SURVEY NOW AVAILABLE 25th March, 2021 The full report from the Student Satisfaction Survey 2020 is now available. The survey is conducted annually to gather information about the satisfaction levels amongst students at Western Australia's five TAFE colleges and the WA Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA). The 2020 Student Satisfaction Survey fieldwork was conducted over approximately 8 weeks, from September 21, 2020 to November 13, 2020 and over 14,500 students were surveyed. The results inform the development and improvement of policy, planning and resources, and enable the colleges to gain a better understanding of their customers and their needs. The survey is also a critical component of statutory reporting for State Parliament. Highlights of the 2020 report for TAFE colleges include an increase in: * overall student satisfaction (87.6%); * quality of lecturers (89.2%); and * how likely the training will lead to a job/career (83.7%). The full Student Satisfaction Survey 2020 report is available here on our website. View the Student Satisfaction Survey 2020 Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more VETDSS QUALIFICATIONS REGISTER NOW AVAILABLE FOR 2022 22nd March, 2021 Register of VET qualifications available to secondary school students The VET qualifications register for secondary students (the register) is produced annually by the Department. The new edition for the 2022 school year is now available. The register provides industry advice for schools and RTOs on the suitability of qualifications for secondary students and delivery requirements to meet industry standards. The register aims to assist schools and RTOs to select qualifications that are more likely to be completed by secondary students or help them to transition effectively to further training or employment. The register is also an excellent resource to assist students and parents to help with career planning for Years 11 and 12. Find out more and download the register here The Guide to WA school-based apprenticeships and traineeships is also an excellent resource with detailed information about these programs for secondary students. View or download the SBAT guide here [PDF 4.24MB] Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR THE WAFARMERS BOOTCAMP TO EMPLOYMENT! 4th March, 2021 Are you a young person* interested in agricultural technology? Are you willing to live and work in a regional town? The farm mechanisation industry is calling out for enthusiastic, driven individuals to skill up and join the workforce. The WAFarmers Bootcamp to Employment provides the perfect opportunity to kick start your career in the Ag-tech machinery industry. Are you a young person* interested in agricultural technology? Are you willing to live and work in a regional town? The farm mechanisation industry is calling out for enthusiastic, driven individuals to skill up and join the workforce. The WAFarmers Bootcamp to Employment provides the perfect opportunity to kick start your career in the Ag-tech machinery industry. Developed in partnership between WAFarmers, Farm Machinery and Industry Association of WA (FMIA), and Muresk Institute, the Bootcamp is a three-day program providing an opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge of and/or aptitude for precision control technology, drones, data management, and other aspects of the industry. Bootcamp also includes practical learning sessions with industry experts and builds vital employability skills such as workplace communication, teamwork, problem-solving, initiative, and preparing a professional CV. Kicking off at the Muresk Institute in Northam on 13 July 2021, the Bootcamp will conclude on 15 July and provide you with the opportunity to meet with and pitch yourself to prospective employers who may be looking for apprentices and trainees. You will be given guidance on presentation and confidence to assist in this process. Places in the Bootcamp are limited, so download an application and return it as soon as possible. The farm mechanisation industry needs you! Visit the Muresk website to find out more, and get your application in *You must be at least 16 years of age to apply. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more FREE ACCESS TO MYFUTURE 21st December, 2020 myfuture is a national career information service that has FREE access for all Western Australians. The myfuture.edu.au website (myfuture) is a national career information service, managed by Education Services Australia (ESA) aimed primarily at school students, school leavers, and those assisting young people. It is designed for use by students, teachers, career practitioners, parents and carers, and offers a variety of tools, information and resources to assist with career planning and development. Access to myfuture is now free for all Western Australians. Jobs and Skills Centres (JSC) Career Engagement officers (CEOs) use a suite of online resources and tools to tailor their support and guidance to the needs, age and career development stage of each client. This ensures that career changers, upskillers and reskillers, jobseekers, school students and school leavers receive personalised support and can gain the most benefit from the JSC’s. The myfuture website will now be added to this suite of online resources. Jobs and Skills Centres can also provide support to students wishing to use the myfuture website tools and resources for career planning, as well as free information and assistance with training options and jobseeking. There’s 15 JSCs across Perth and regional WA — call your local centre on 13 64 64 or find out more here. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more TAFE GRADUATES GO STRAIGHT TO WORK ON METRONET PROJECTS 17th December, 2020 Infrastructure Ready program delivers job ready workers! Twenty one graduates from the first Infrastructure Ready Pathways to Employment program are now employed across major infrastructure projects including the METRONET Yanchep Rail Extension, METRONET Thornlie-Cockburn Link and High Wycombe Train Station. A further 35 students are currently enrolled in the Infrastructure Ready course, with almost half of this group women. The Infrastructure Ready Pathways to Employment program was developed in consultation with industry, to ensure students gain the skills needed for entry level civil construction jobs. It's designed to provide a pathway into entry level jobs in civil construction, and options for further study or apprenticeships. It is anticipated the Infrastructure program will extend to regional Western Australia in 2021 as projects such as the Bunbury Outer Ring Road get underway. Find out more about the Infrastructure Ready program on the Jobs and Skills WA website Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW SPECIALIST TRAINING FACILITY FOR WA’S RESOURCES SECTOR 15th December, 2020 Exciting news for North Metropolitan TAFE's Midland campus! A tender for the construction of a dedicated industrial conveyor belt trade training facility at the Midland campus of North Metropolitan TAFE has been issued today, with the design development stage now complete. Armstrong Parkin Architects designed the facility, which will be used to deliver a qualification in the repair, maintenance and installation of the conveyor belts used in industries such as mining and logistics. The shed-style workshop will house a conveyor area, splicing table area, workshop benches, tool storage, an external undercover area and a 'chalk and talk' area for theory-based learning. Specialist industry-standard equipment will support the delivery of a Certificate III in Polymer Processing. It is anticipated construction will be completed in October 2021 with training commencing in Semester 1, 2022. For information about jobs, careers and training in WA's resources sector, please visit jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/resources The Midland area was identified as being a key area for skills, training and employment investment. In response to the review, Western Australia's network of Jobs and Skills Centres was expanded to include a new location at North Metropolitan TAFE's Midland campus. Stage one of the METRONET Trade Training Centre at Midland project is now complete. The centre will be used to deliver a qualification in electrical rail signalling from Semester 1, 2021, and is critical to ensuring local content of at least 50 per cent on METRONET projects, including railcars. For more information about local training opportunities, contact the Midland Jobs and Skills Centre on 13 64 64 or 08 9374 6321 Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more BUILDING WA'S DEFENCE INDUSTRY WORKFORCE 13th December, 2020 Exciting job opportunities and new training programs ‘The other force’ — a new campaign to raise awareness of the job opportunities and career pathways available in Western Australia’s defence industry — was launched today. The campaign aims to inspire women, veterans, young people, jobseekers and career changers to take advantage of job opportunities available. Promoting the diverse, exciting and secure jobs offered by the defence industry is an important part of building the skilled workforce needed to support upcoming defence projects and secure future defence work, expected to be valued at up to $75 billion nationally over the next decade. The campaign is complemented by the establishment of five new defence industry skill sets, which will contribute to a 'defence ready' workforce to bolster WA’s defence industry and support maritime defence contracts. The new $3.3 million package was developed in consultation with industry to meet industry skill demand, and courses are available through South Metropolitan TAFE. The campaign and new skill sets were presented to an industry forum held with key employers and stakeholders including Austal, Civmec, ASC West, Defence Primes, BAE Systems, Henderson Alliance, Naval Ship Management and the Naval Shipbuilding College. Matilda Hobbins, third year South Metropolitan TAFE marine fabrication apprentice, stars in the advertising campaign and encourages others to embark on a rewarding career in defence manufacturing. Employed as a marine fabricator at Austal, the 25 year old says she has been well supported as a woman in a male-dominated industry and there is nothing like working with your hands and seeing your individual contribution come together to build a ship. In addition to the five new skill sets, the campaign will also highlight several other initiatives including: * $8.5 million for incentives of $20,000 for defence manufacturing industry employers to train apprentices in key trades; * $2.85 million to train an additional 335 apprenticeships in nominated trades; * investment in training scholarships for women and defence veterans; and * defence industry training facilities upgrades at South Metropolitan TAFE. For further information about the defence initiatives, please visit the Jobs and Skills WA website at jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/defence Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more VOLUNTEERING: A PATHWAY TO JOB READINESS 7th December, 2020 New program providing employment pathways for young people Young Western Australians are being urged to consider volunteering as a way of improving their employment prospects. Funding of $440,000 will be available to Volunteering WA over three years, to deliver the Volunteering: A Pathway to Job Readiness program. The funding will enable Volunteering WA to develop and deliver face-to-face training, materials and online tools for the program. A lack of workplace skills and experience are key factors in youth unemployment. The program will help address this by supporting young people aged between 15 and 24 years to engage in volunteering as a way to build the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to become workplace ready. The Volunteering: A Pathway to Job Readiness program will also support volunteer involving organisations to attract, engage and support young people to volunteer, while helping them to develop the skills and experience to improve their job readiness and employability. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more TRAINING IN MANDURAH JUST GOT ANOTHER BOOST! 3rd December, 2020 $5.5 million for new hair and beauty facilities. $5.5 million for new hair and beauty training facilities at Mandurah TAFE has been announced today. The new hair and beauty training facilities will be incorporated into the $9.17 million hospitality and tourism training centre project for Mandurah TAFE, to fast-track delivery and be more cost effective. Co-locating the training areas will deliver significant community benefit as locals will be able to enjoy an affordable meal at the training restaurant and then treat themselves to a low-cost massage or manicure while supporting student learning. The new state of the art training facilities at Mandurah TAFE will meet demand for more skilled workers and greater youth engagement in the region, by expanding training options and the number of half price courses available as part of the Lower fees, local skills initiative. Under this initiative, fees have been slashed by up to 72 per cent for a total of 180 courses to make training more affordable for Western Australians. People under 25, and eligible people of all ages looking for work, will pay no more than $400 in annual course fees. Visit the Jobs and Skills WA website for more information The new project will also create more jobs and further stimulate the local economy. Planning and design at Mandurah campus is well underway with construction anticipated to start in July 2021 and the project expected to be completed for Semester 2, 2022. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW COVID-19 CONTACT REGISTER FROM 5 DECEMBER 1st December, 2020 Important information for businesses and venues Mandatory contact registers at relevant businesses and venues will be introduced from Saturday 5 December 2020. Maintaining a contact register is an extra safety measure and one of the most effective ways to control the spread of COVID-19. Businesses and venues will need to record the name, telephone number, location, date and arrival time of all patrons, staff, volunteers and contractors and keep that information for 28 days. These businesses or venues include: * food and licenced venues (restaurants, cafés, bars, pubs, taverns, nightclubs); * gyms, indoor sporting centres and pools; * places of worship and funeral parlours; * beauty and personal care services including hairdressers and barbers; * galleries and museums; * cinemas, theatres and other entertainment venues; * auction houses and real estate inspections; * community facilities, libraries and halls ; * zoos and amusement parks; * function centres; and * accommodation facilities that already have check in arrangements in place (eg; hostels, hotels, large camp grounds). New app available To assist businesses and venues in collecting the information required, and make it easier for individuals to provide their contact details; a free, safe and secure app called SafeWA is now available. Endorsed by the Department of Health, the app provides businesses and venues a unique QR code that enables patrons to quick scan their contact details into the register. Data collected via the SafeWA app will be encrypted at the point of capture, stored securely, and only be accessible by authorised Department of Health contact tracing personnel should COVID-19 tracing be needed. This means tracing can be performed quicker to keep people safe. The use of SafeWA is not mandatory, but is encouraged. The free app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play, giving businesses and venues time to implement the digital contact register system in time for 5 December. An information pack will be emailed to each business that downloads SafeWA. Businesses may also use alternative formats for registration — including other electronic or paper-based systems depending on what is suitable for the business, venue or individual — however all information collected must be saved and stored securely and retained for 28 days. Further information Full details about the contact register requirements including frequently asked questions, ‘how to’ guides and information sheets for businesses and for individuals, is available on the WA Government website. Contact register templates, for those not using the SafeWA app, are also available. Find out more at wa.gov.au/organisation/covid-communications/covid-19-coronavirus-contact-registers Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW SHORT COURSES TO SUPPORT GREEN JOBS 25th November, 2020 Three new ‘job ready’ skill sets announced today to get Western Australians into conservation jobs. Three new job ready skill sets announced today give Western Australians industry-relevant skills to meet the needs of WA’s job creating conservation sector. The short courses, which will deliver the skills needed for entry level jobs, are part of the Lower fees, local skills initiative and are free for young people and jobseekers of all ages. The training will provide employment opportunities including fencing, seeding, planting, managing threats, and improving native vegetation and habitat for fauna such as the Carnaby's Cockatoo. Developed in consultation with industry, the Department of Water and Environment Regulation, and Muresk Institute the skill sets include: * Green Jobs – Safety skill set; * Green Jobs – Seed Collection skill set; and * Green Jobs – Weed Control and Plan Propagation skill set. Course participants will gain skills needed by industry, including working safely in the industry to recognising commonly encountered plants, and how to collect, treat and store seeds for native revegetation projects. The skill sets can be used as a pathway to obtain a full qualification such as the Certificate II in Conservation and Land Management, Certificate II in Rural Operations or the Certificate II in Horticulture which all have course fees slashed by half. Visit jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/skillsready for a list of training providers approved to deliver this skill set, or alternatively visit your local Jobs and Skills Centre or contact them on 13 64 64. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more JOBS AND SKILLS CENTRES NOW OPEN IN ARMADALE AND MIDLAND! 12th November, 2020 Free jobs, career and training advice and support Following the review of skills, training and workforce development earlier this year, in response to COVID-19, Western Australia’s statewide network of Jobs and Skills Centres (JSCs) has been expanded to include new locations in Armadale and Midland. The review recommended that capacity and coverage of the JSC network increase to provide support to job seekers, career changers and young people in unemployment hot spots. Midland and Armadale were identified as key areas, and the new JSCs are now open, with free guidance, advice and information on careers, training and employment to help people get back into jobs. The two new centres will also provide businesses with free assistance to develop their workforce; including recruiting new workers, apprentices and trainees, and developing the skills of their existing workers. Both JSCs will work to meet local needs, including high youth unemployment and low workforce engagement. Their highly experienced staff will focus on getting young people, women, displaced workers, and career changers into training and jobs to meet immediate and emerging skill requirements. WA’s Jobs and Skills Centres are complemented by a comprehensive website that includes a jobs notice board, qualification lists, a course search feature and Career Connect, a Facebook group established by JSC staff to connect jobseekers, employers, industry groups, vocational education and training practitioners and career practitioners. Aboriginal people are a key priority client group for the new centres, with the Midland JSC working closely with Koolark — a support centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, and the Armadale JSC working with the Wungening Aboriginal Corporation. Working with local industries to identify job opportunities, the JSCs will also collaborate with the METRONET Trade Training Centre, City of Swan and Midland Chamber of Commerce, and City of Armadale and community services including Job Active, Headspace Armadale and the Harry Hunter Rehabilitation Centre in nearby Gosnells. The new centres are supported by infrastructure investments which include a new $22.6 million TAFE campus for Armadale, a $2.5 million upgrade for the new METRONET Trade Training Centre at Midland and the expansion of the popular Lower fees, local skills program. The METRONET Trade Training Centre will be used to deliver a qualification in electrical rail signalling from Semester 1, 2021 and is critical to ensuring local content of at least 50 per cent on METRONET projects, including railcars, creating opportunities for local workers, pre-apprentices and apprentices. South Metropolitan TAFE's replacement Armadale campus will be a purpose-built, multi-storey facility to accommodate more students and enhance training delivery so locals can learn the skills they need for growing industries. For more information, visit jobsandskills.wa.gov.au or contact your local Jobs and Skills Centre on 13 64 64. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more FAST LANE OPENS FOR LIFEGUARD AND SWIM INSTRUCTOR JOBS! 5th November, 2020 Two new FREE aquatic industry job ready skill sets released We're getting Western Australia summer ready to meet the statewide demand for pool lifeguards and swimming instructor jobs. Two nationally recognised short courses — the Pool Lifeguard Skill Set and the Swimming and Water Safety Teacher Skill Set —will fast track participants into entry level pool lifeguarding and swimming instructor roles in time for the aquatic industry's busy summer period. The two new courses — which are free for eligible students including unemployed and people aged 15—24*— were developed after consultation with Royal Life Saving WA (RLSWA) who identified a statewide need for additional pool lifeguards and swimming teachers to meet the demand. RLSWA will deliver the new job ready short courses. Each course can be used as credit toward further qualifications including the Certificate III in Aquatics and Community Recreation, which is a pathway to a wider range of employment opportunities across the leisure and aquatic recreation industry, or further study. To find out more about these two new skill sets, visit the Jobs and Skills WA website In an additional initiative, school students now have the opportunity to receive fully-funded training to become qualified swimming instructors for the Department of Education's VacSwim program. Eligible Year 11 and 12 students can register now to take part in the training and gain paid employment over the summer holidays during VacSwim. To be eligible, students must be at least 17 years of age at the start of Term 4. The training will be available across the metropolitan area and in specific regional centres. Participants will also receive ongoing support and mentoring. At the end of the training, students can then apply for swimming instructor positions across the State in time for VacSwim lessons with opportunities for further employment after VacSwim. Upon completion, trainees will obtain an accredited swimming teacher qualification, Swim Australia Teacher (SAT), and CPR qualification. Visit education.wa.edu.au/swimming for further information. * Course fees will apply to non-concession eligible students. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more BUILDING PATHWAYS FOR NEW APPRENTICESHIPS 3rd November, 2020 New free program offering 50 bricklaying apprenticeships A new short course is now available: the Bricklaying Job Ready program. It was developed in consultation with the Construction Training Fund and key industry partners including HIA, MBA and ABN Group, will create a pipeline of qualified bricklayers to meet the needs of WA’s building industry. Students will complete the Work Safely in Construction short course skill set, which teaches work safety practices, basic measuring and calculation skills, and how to operate small plant and equipment used on building and construction projects — through a mix of on-campus training and work placement with industry employers. The program is free for concession-eligible students including jobseekers and people aged 15—24. Non-eligible participants will need to pay a fee. On completion of the course, students will have the opportunity to start a bricklaying apprenticeship with a participating employer. The pilot program will be delivered by North Metropolitan TAFE, South Metropolitan TAFE, and private training provider Skill Hire. The program will be reviewed at the completion of the first course with a view to it being expanded to regional WA. Employers who sign up to the program will be able to access State and Australian Government incentives and wage subsidies. Applications for the course are now open — with 50 places available for the first intake scheduled to start on November 9, 2020. Register your interest by emailing BricklayingJobReady@dtwd.wa.gov.au. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more $5M MAKEOVER WILL RECONNECT ROEBOURNE TAFE WITH COMMUNITY 2nd November, 2020 Architect appointed for rebuild of Minurmarghali Mia campus Iredale Pedersen Hook Architects Pty Ltd has been appointed to design the major redevelopment of Roebourne District High School and upgrades to the adjacent Minurmarghali Mia (Roebourne)TAFE campus. Local business Hurley Architecture and Planning will be appointed to work as a consultant for the project. The $5 million TAFE rebuild will see a new classroom block built, a general modernisation of campus amenities and the demolition of several 40-year-old demountable buildings. The Minurmarghali Mia campus plays a key role in connecting the local Aboriginal community to vocational education and training, and the architects have been briefed to design world-class facilities that are culturally appropriate. The Roebourne community will collaborate with the State Government on the planning of the new designs with the voices of students and parents reflected in every stage of the development. It is intended that the new designs will provide greater opportunities for all staff and students to understand and respect Aboriginal history, culture and language and create meaningful local jobs in the process. Construction is expected to create jobs for more than 150 workers. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more COURSE FEES SLASHED FOR ANOTHER 107 COURSES! 22nd October, 2020 $103.4M JobTrainer agreement boosts skills for WA An additional 107 new courses will have their fees slashed by half or more, as part of the new $103.4 million JobTrainer Agreement with the Australian Government. This further investment in WA’s training sector builds on the $57 million investment into training programs to create a pipeline of skilled workers to help with WA’s economic recovery. Reduced course fees for these additional 107 courses will apply to study that commences from 1 January 2021; and applications and enrolments are open now. Under the highly successful Lower fees, local skills* initiative, course fees are slashed by up to 72 per cent for a total of 180 courses to make training more affordable for Western Australians. The initiative has already seen enrolments in eligible priority vocational education and training (VET) courses increase by 20 per cent. The list of available courses has been expanded in consultation with industry to engage jobseekers, women and young people, to meet immediate and emerging skill requirements. People under 25, and eligible people of all ages looking for work, will pay no more than $400 in annual course fees. The 107 additional reduced-fee courses will deliver training in sectors including building and construction, manufacturing, information technology, mining, engineering, aquaculture, agriculture, horticulture and logistics. More free short courses will also be added to meet emerging skills needs. These skill sets are completely free for those looking for work or people under 25 to help get them into jobs. For more information, visit jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/skillsready * This program is funded by JobTrainer — a joint initiative of the Western Australian and Australian governments. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more READY TO EXPLORE A CAREER IN WA'S BOOMING RESOURCES SECTOR? 22nd October, 2020 New webpage launched for jobseekers and career changers A roadmap of training options that lead to jobs in Western Australia’s booming resources sector is now just a click away, with a new webpage for jobseekers, career changers and young people. The new Working in WA’s Resources Sector page on the Jobs and Skills WA website has a useful overview of the sector and the career opportunities it offers, information on training options, how to get an apprenticeship or traineeship, where the jobs are now and what future jobs will look like. There's also a list of over 160 courses aligned with occupations in the resources sector — many of which have their course fees slashed by up to 72 per cent under the Lower fees, local skills program*, as well as information on opportunities for Aboriginal people and women who are interested in working in the sector. The comprehensive resource is supported by the WA Chamber of Minerals and Energy (CME) and Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (APPEA), who also provided advice on areas of training need. Check out Working in WA’s Resources Sector at jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/resources The Lower fees, local skills program was recently expanded by an additional 107 courses, bringing the total now to 180, to support local workforce training and address skills shortages. Training Western Australians for local jobs is critical to the resources sector, which employed 135,000 people last financial year. It also experienced record sales of $172 billion in the 2019—20 financial year, according to statistics released by the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more TAFE WORKSHOP $2M TRANSFORMATION INTO CREATIVE TRAINING SPACE! 15th October, 2020 Architect appointed, local jobs to be created Architectural firm Eastman Poletti Sherwood Architects has been appointed to design a major refurbishment project at Central Regional TAFE's Geraldton campus. The $2 million upgrade will see a 50-year-old trades workshop extended and transformed into six learning spaces for creative industries, and will create local jobs during construction. The ageing workshop, known as I Block, will be refurbished to include three traditional art studios and three classrooms where Geraldton's next generation of artists, fashion designers and media specialists will learn the tools of their trade. Modern amenities for students and lecturers will also take shape as part of the transformation of the I Block workshop. Construction of the new creative industries training facilities, which is anticipated to start in July 2021, will unlock jobs in the Mid West, and when the new spaces are opened, increased student capacity will have positive flow on benefits for local small businesses. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW FREE TRAINING FOR THE BLOOMING HORTICULTURE INDUSTRY! 6th October, 2020 New skill set kickstarting careers in jobs growth areas As part of the Skills Ready program, a new fee-free short course is now available to build a pipeline of skilled workers and support the State's economic recovery. The new Introduction to Production Horticulture skill set will prepare workers for entry level roles in horticulture. WA grows a diverse range of top-quality horticultural crops including tropical and temperate fruits, delicious vegetables and outstanding table wines. This new skill set covers safe work practice in the horticultural industry; and the skills and knowledge to either plant or harvest horticultural crops, depending on the season and location. The Western Australian horticulture industry is a significant employer in regional and remote communities and the new short course will provide relevant skills for those looking to work in the billion dollar industry. It is fee-free for people aged 15 to 24, concession students and displaced workers. Several job ready and infection control short courses were rolled out in July. There have been more than 2,350 enrolments in those skill sets, highlighting the demand for free short courses to help displaced workers and young people get into jobs. For more information, please visit the Skills Ready page on the Jobs and Skills WA website Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more NEW GUIDE FOR SCHOOL-BASED APPRENTICESHIPS AND TRAINEESHIPS NOW AVAILABLE 23rd January, 2020 Helpful information for all WA SBAT users The Department has released a new guide to Western Australian school-based apprenticeships and traineeships. The guide was developed collaboratively with stakeholders and is now available on our website. The new guide provides detailed information on the important aspects involved in a school-based apprenticeships and traineeships (SBAT) arrangement. It provides help and support for schools, registered training organisations (RTOs), employers, students, parents and other stakeholders operating in Western Australia’s apprenticeship and traineeship system. It includes: * a quick guide which highlights the key steps involved in an SBAT from starting out through to completion; * real life examples to make it easier to understand how SBATs actually work in practice; * information on the different roles and responsibilities of each of the stakeholders, including the importance of effective communication and collaboration; and * website links for easy access to fact sheets, forms and other relevant information. The guide is available as an online resource and can also be downloaded and printed. View the SBAT guide Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more CONNECT WITH THE DEPARTMENT! 13th January, 2020 Follow us on social media for all the latest news. Western Australia’s vocational education and training (VET) sector is dynamic and exciting, with many important initiatives and programs already happening – and coming up – to support the growth of jobs and the development of our WA workforce. We think it’s important that our clients and stakeholders are kept up to date with all the latest news and information. We will continue to publish news stories here on the Department’s website, and in our free monthly VETinfoNews email newsletter, but now you can follow us on your social media feed and be the first to know when we share information and updates. And through social media you have a direct communications channel with us – we encourage you to like, share and comment on our posts. Please take a moment to visit our pages, and follow us today. FOLLOW US ON TWITTER — TWITTER.COM/DTWDWA FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK — FACEBOOK.COM/DTWDWA Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share via Email Read more View our previous news Top QUICK CLICKS * Review of Skills, Training and Workforce Development * Jobs and Skills WA * Glossary of terms and acronyms * VET practitioners, teachers and schools * Apprenticeship Office fact sheets and forms * WA State priority occupation list (SPOL) ENQUIRIES AND FEEDBACK We welcome your enquiries and feedback. Please use our online form For feedback or enquiries about this website: website@dtwd.wa.gov.au STAY UP TO DATE Subscribe to our free monthly VETinfoNews email to stay up to date with all the latest news and information for our vocational education and training (VET) sector and VET providers. KEEP IN TOUCH Follow us on social media for regular news, information and updates. * Follow us on Facebook * Follow us on Twitter CONTACT US Contact details for our specialist services and branches are available here To contact the Department directly: 08 6551 5000 Locked Bag 16 Osborne Park DC 6916 Optima Building Levels 2 and 3 16 Parkland Road Osborne Park WA 6017 The Department of Training and Workforce Development acknowledges the Aboriginal peoples of Western Australia as traditional custodians of the lands and waters. It honours their wisdom, cultures, languages, and communities and pays respect to the Elders past, present and emerging. wa.gov.au * Home * Privacy * Disclaimer * Copyright All contents © Government of Western Australia 2021. All rights reserved.