Gillard Government Investing In Tomorrow’s Workforce
Chris Evans
posted Friday, 30 September 2011
The Australian Government’s investment in Vocational Education and Training (VET) increased by almost 47 per cent more between 2007 and 2010, a report released today confirms.
The Financial information 2010 report by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) shows a 46.9 per cent increase in Australian Government funding and a 14.5 per cent increase by State and Territory governments.
Minister for Skills and Jobs, Senator Chris Evans, said the report was clear evidence of the Australian Government’s commitment to the sector.
“There are profound changes taking place in the Australian economy, and much of the responsibility for responding to these changes will rest with the national training system”, Senator Evans said.
“This is why the Australian Government announced a $3 billion investment in new skills measures as part of this year’s Budget.
“We need to make sure our training system is positioned to deliver the skilled workers we need now and into the future.
“The Gillard Government is committed to equipping Australians with skills to seize the opportunities available in the 21st century.”
Senator Evans said he was looking forward to Australia’s inaugural National Skills Week from Saturday October 1 to 8.
“Skills and training are key issues for the Australian Government, and recent funding has shown that furthering your vocational study can not only help yourself – but can help our economy,” Senator Evans said.
“In order for Australians to make the most of their working lives, the Australian Government is investing in helping people to up-skill or re-train so they can access jobs in sectors experiencing strong skills demand.
“I encourage all Australians to learn about the training opportunities available to them during National Skills Week.”
The Australian Government will host the Jobs Forum during National Skills Week.
“The Jobs Forum will also identify practical ways in which the Government can work with industry to help create the jobs of the future,” Senator Evans said.
Copies of Financial information 2010 are available from
www.ncver.edu.au/publications/2426.html