Published:
11 February 2015
Category:
Industry News
The National Electrical and Communications Association, the peak industry body for Australia’s electrical contracting sector has welcomed the contribution of the Government’s new Assistant Minister for Education and Training, Senator Simon Birmingham.
Senator Birmingham, a South Australian, has taken over the portfolio responsibilities from the Hon. Sussan Ley following a reshuffle of duties announced in December.
Suresh Manickam, NECA’s Chief Executive Officer welcomed the Senator’s contribution to the VET sector and his ongoing commitment to the process of VET Reform.
“Since meeting with the new Assistant Minister, I am confident that he understands NECA’s strong position on VET sector reform, in particular the need for a system that delivers quality training outcomes for students and employers and one that is focussed on the needs of our industry.”
“Given NECA’s significant role within the Vocational Education and Training Sector, the Senator’s agreement with NECA on the need for highly performing RTO’s to be given greater autonomy whilst action is taken to improve poorly performing operators, is reassuring,” said Mr Manickam.
The Assistant Minister recently delivered a speech to the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry that made the following points:
- Vocational Education and Training overtakes Higher Education in terms of learning for life
- Vocational Education drives growth, employment outcomes, competitiveness and productivity
- Rogue operators tarnish all of the sector
- Qualifications need to be geared towards the needs of industry
- Reforms aim to deliver better outcomes for students and employers