ACPET National Monday Update Edition 581 24 November 2014

Well another exciting week in the amazing world of tertiary education Edition 581, 24 Nov

The ACPET Board met on Friday and discussed the key issues impacting on the sector. Our aspiration and demand for quality, the critical role in informing and supporting the higher education reforms, the need for quality engagement with members and improving our services were all a key feature.

The Board has approved the re-creation of three committees to ensure ACPET remains at the forefront of leadership in our diverse sector. As a key feature of our engagement framework, we will be rapidly establishing committees to oversight our direction in higher education, international education and vocational education and training. These committees will be chaired by current board members Dr George Brown (Higher Education), Mel Koumides (International) and Richard Finlayson (VET).

I would ask members to consider nominating for membership. If you are interested, please forward you nomination to your respective State or Territory executive officer.

In other news our NSW members are still very frustrated and angry about the process used in determining contract allocations in the Smart and Skilled Reforms. While possible to hide behind ‘pre-approved’ processes, members are strongly arguing that it does not make up for a badly designed central procurement model that has actually removed competition and innovation. While for good reason there is a lot of emotion in the debate, ACPET is hosting forums with the intention of obtaining real evidence of process flaws than can be used in demanding a review of the Program. This review is needed now…. Read more

Another opportunity to visit India! ABWI 12-15 January 2015 Edition 581, 24 Nov

Did you miss the ACPET Delegation to India in November? Then this is for you … The Hon. Mr Andrew Robb AO MP, Minister for Trade and Investment, will lead the Australia Business Week in India mission from 12-15 January 2015 and Vibrant Gujarat on 11 January 2015. Register now to be part of a com… Read more

China-Australia FTA to improve market access to Australian Education Edition 581, 24 Nov

Government announcement Prime Minister Abbott and President Xi announced the conclusion of negotiations for the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA) on 17 November. The agreement lays an historic foundation for the next phase of Australia’s economic relationship with China, and inclu… Read more

ACPET Open letter for upcoming Victorian Election Edition 581, 24 Nov

As part of the lead up to the Victorian State Election on 29 November 2014, the Victorian Minister for Higher Education and Skills and the Shadow Minister for Higher Education, Skills and Apprenticeships have responded to an open letter from ACPET CEO Rod Camm. The open letter, sent on behalf of Vic… Read more

Tasmanian ACPET Member Seafood Training wins Small Training Provider of the YearEdition 581, 24 Nov

Congratulations to all winners, runners up and finalists in the National Training Awards, in particular Seafood Training Tasmania, which won Small Training Provider of the Year Award. Well done to Rory Byrne and the team at Seafood Training! Also among the finalists from Tasmania was Carmen Gumley… Read more

Community Services & Health Industry Skills Council Training Package updateEdition 581, 24 Nov

Have your say and make a difference to the future of training and workforce design in your industry. The public consultation of draft components for HLT Health and CHC Community Services Training Packages is now open until 12 December 2014. This will be the final chance to view and provide comment… Read more

Greater say for Industry on training package design – ACPT member feedback soughtEdition 581, 24 Nov

New round consultation – implementation reforms to deliver more industry-relevant and flexible national training packages The Australian Government is opening a new round of consultation with a particular focus on identifying improvements that can lead to better outcomes for students and employer… Read more

Call for input – Streamlined Visa Processing (SVP) discussion paper Edition 581, 24 Nov

Future directions of Streamlined Visa Processing – consultation process The Australian Government recognises the strong economic and cultural contribution of our international education sector, and is committed to supporting its growth by streamlining the visa process for genuine overseas student… Read more

ElNet Masterclass offer for ACPET membersEdition 581, 24 Nov

The eLearning Network of Australia (ElNet) will be running a session Modernising learning – a masterclass in how to future proofing your learning strategy in Melbourne (Wednesday 19 November, 2014) and Sydney (Monday 24 November, 2014). ElNet would like to offer ACPET members ElNet members ra… Read more