Improved VET system needed to lift productivity and create jobs

THE Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s recent submission to the Federal Government’s Quality of Assessment in Vocational Education and Training (VET) consultation calls for reforms to the national VET system to drive economic growth and create jobs.

“Restoring Australia’s reputation as a quality provider of VET programs is a priority,” said Victorian Chamber Chief Executive Mark Stone.

“It is crucial to improving workforce skills, lifting productivity and helping to address the recent fall in apprenticeship and traineeship numbers.”

The Victorian Chamber’s submission focuses on measures to reduce the complexity of the VET sector and boost quality standards across the training system.

“Feedback from our members shows that more must be done to ensure student, industry and employer demands are front and centre of the VET system.”

Mr Stone said differences in operating models in various states and territories increased complexity for employers operating across state borders.

“There is a clear need for greater national consistency in course funding, qualification assessment, qualification content and contact hours.”

Mr Stone said practical reforms were needed to lift the quality of training right across the system.

“Businesses need assurance that employees are equipped with the right skills to do their job and need to be able to trust in the quality of training that the VET system provides,” said Mr Stone.

“While many training providers are working hard to deliver high quality training that meets the needs of the labour market, all too often we see instances of providers engaging in inappropriate conduct.”

The Victorian Chamber’s submission supports changes to the regulatory framework that improve the capacity of the Australian Skills Quality Authority to monitor and enforce standards of conduct and assessment.

These include the re-testing of graduates where there have been a high number of complaints, a stronger role for employers in the validation of assessment and better targeting of high risk providers.

“Reforms in these areas will help make the system more responsive to individual and business needs,” said Mr Stone.

“Governments at all levels must commit to overcoming the currently disjointed VET models and their inconsistent and unreliable funding.”

The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, established in 1851, is the most influential business organisation in Victoria, informing and servicing more than 15,000 members, customers and clients around the state.

victorianchamber.com.au

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