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Equipping Australia for the World of Work: A Critical Analysis of Vocational Education and Training (VET) Reform in Australia

Abstract:

Equipping Australia for the World of Work: a critical analysis of Vocational Education and Training (VET) reform in Australia.

Australia’s National strategy for VET 1998 -2003 identified 5 objectives:
• Equipping Australia for the world of work
• Enhancing mobility in the labour market
• Achieving equitable outcomes in VET
• Increasing investment in training: and
• Maximising the value of public expenditure

Focussing on workforce development, apprenticeships, and access and equity, the inherent contradictions and restraints of Australian policy are explored, as well as often undervalued achievements. The parties to the process will be examined: Who has been included? Who has been excluded? How accountable have the strategic partners of Government been? Some international comparisons are made to illustrate the complexity of national skill development in an increasingly global environment. Finally, what remains to be done? What are the issues for the future?

Author:

Jill Gientzotis

Jill Gientzotis is an independent consultant who works nationally in Australia, as well as overseas. She was the former Commissioner for Vocational Training in NSW, General Manager of the NSW Vocational Education and Training Accreditation Board, and the Director of Recognition Services in the NSW Department of Education and Training. She was the inaugural Executive Director of the NSW Community Services and Health Industry Training Board and has ten years experience in industrial relations. She has published internationally on skills based restructuring, and Indigenous employment, education and training.

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