On Tuesday 6 December 2011, Senator Chris Evans, Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills, Jobs and Workplace Relations outlined the Australian Government’s intentions for reform of Australian Apprenticeships.
The Minister’s media release and speech are also available.
The Australian Government’s response to the Expert Panel recommendations are now available (PDF 311KB | DOCX 30KB)
The seven member Expert Panel, chaired by Mr Jim McDowell included a Skills Australia board member and individuals from industry, unions and academia. The Expert Panel was appointed by the Australian Government in July 2010, to provide advice on reform options for the Australian Apprenticeships system. The Expert Panel presented its final report to the Australian Government. The report was publicly released on 21 February 2011.
The National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) was commissioned to provide a detailed study of the economic costs and benefits of the Australian Apprenticeships system. This research provided a strong evidence base which the Expert Panel considered in developing their final report and recommendations for reform of the Australian Apprenticeships system.
The Australian Government sought submissions from interested parties on future reform options for the Australian Apprenticeships system, following the release of the Expert Panel report. This was an opportunity for stakeholders and members of the community who have considered the report to provide their feedback and suggestions. Submissions are now closed.
The Government also consulted with stakeholders to consider additional opportunities to align the Australian Apprenticeships system with the needs of the economy, particularly in relation to support services, government financial support and simplifying the system. A discussion paper was released to support consultations:
In line with the shared responsibility theme, the consultations focused on getting input from Australian industry and employers more broadly, key industry sectors, state and territory Governments and those organisations which are involved with the delivery of Australian Apprenticeships.
The Australian Apprenticeships reforms have been guided by and respond to the recommendations of the independent Apprenticeships for the 21st Century Expert Panel. Stakeholder views on directions for reform gained through broad ranging national consultations have provided the Government with valuable advice and informed our reform measures.
The Apprenticeship Reform Package as part of “Building Australia’s Future Workforce” announced in the 2011-2012 Budget is the Australian Government’s initial direction setting response to the recommendations in the Expert Panel’s report.