Seeking comment on Australian apprenticeship system

ASSISTANT Minister for Vocational Education and Skills, Karen Andrews, has called on Australians to have their say on the future of the Australian Apprenticeship Support Network.

Minister Andrews today released a discussion paper on the Australian Apprenticeship Support Network, following a recent evaluation of the AASN model of delivery.

“The release today of the discussion paper is the start of a process to build on the successes of the AASN model to date,” Ms Andrews said.

“For three years now, AASN providers have been supporting Australian Apprentices and employers to succeed in their apprenticeship arrangements. We’re looking to collect innovative ideas that will further enhance those services.

“Ithaca Group’s evaluation of the AASN model of delivery was completed in February 2018. It found the current model is comprehensive and widely supported by stakeholders, but also identified areas for improvement.”

The Department of Education and Training will tender later this year for the delivery of Australian Apprenticeships Support Services to commence from mid‑2019. The process will be informed by the Ithaca Group evaluation and consultations with interested parties.

Minister Andrews said the Turnbull Government is committed to building a high quality Australian Apprenticeships system to better support apprentices and respond to the needs of employers and the economy.

“The announcement of the government’s $1.5 billion Skilling Australians Fund aims to deliver up to 300,000 more apprenticeships and traineeships, pre- and higher-level apprenticeships and traineeships Australia-wide over the next five years," Ms Andrews said.

“This means that getting the Australian Apprenticeship Support Network model right is more important than ever.

“The discussion paper and consultations sessions are integral in bringing innovative ideas together and ensuring the system delivers for everyone who uses it.”

Consultation sessions will be held in the coming weeks with stakeholders via webcast and in‑person for all states and territories to further explore issues raised in the discussion paper.

Interested parties are invited to respond to the discussion paper by 31 July 2018.

Further information on contributing in writing or by attending a consultation session is available on www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au/AASN-Discussion-Paper

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