ACPET National Monday Update 1 December 2014

Welcome to December! Edition 582, 1 Dec

It takes moments of tragedy to remind us what is precious.

My absolute thoughts and condolences are extended to the family and friends of Phillip Hughes, who passed away on Thursday afternoon. A tremendous talent, and the reputation of just a very likeable young man, who has been taken away far too early. Australian Captain Michael Clarke’s show of respect to Phillip is a true testament to the deep respect held for him.

From this it is quite difficult to focus on anything but our own family and friends.

Christmas is almost upon us so I certainly will ensure my priorities are on the right things over the Christmas period.

Congratulations to Daniel Andrews and the Labor team in winning the Victorian election. A comprehensive victory and ACPET will work hard with the new government in the development and implementation of their election commitments and policies.

This week saw the confirmation of a senate enquiry into private providers of the vocational education and training industry. In view of some of the public debate the outcome is not surprising. Quite possibly, in the end the inquiry is perhaps what is needed for the sector. That is, if the process enables genuine discussion it may provide much needed opportunity to refocus recent debate on what matters, the best outcomes for students. This means high quality education that is driven by a national training sector (both public and private) that provides exemplary outcomes for all participants, be it funded by government, industry or students. The debate must be about how to ensure quality and student support, not why they choose a particular provider.

Yes in contestable markets students are overwhelming choosing private providers. We must ensure that the enquiry hears from the industry and students as to why. It is about quality, innovation and flexibility.

It is in this area that it is time we come together as an industry. As your representative ACPET will advocate strenuously on the industry’s behalf. However, if there is one thing missing in much of the media scrutiny to date it is your voice. That is, individual providers showcasing excellence. While we have and will continue to promote our sector, Ministers, local members, Senators and the media need to hear from you. As an industry let us showcase what we all do best. ACPET will provide mechanisms to enable the constant communication of your great stories. However, providers, small and large alike play critical roles in communities and you will of course have great relationships with key decision makers. It is time they heard from you!

On that note, the same applies to the recent tender in NSW. The furore from NSW providers regarding Smart and Skilled continues. We are all trying to find ways to penetrate the argument. Of course what is needed are real examples of the process flaws. Please engage with in this regard…. Read more

Overseas Student Health Cover Edition 582, 1 Dec

Factsheet: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) The Department of Immigration and Border Protection have issued a Fact Sheet regarding all student visa holders are required to have adequate health insurance while they are in Australia. Insurance must commence from the date the student arrives in…Read more

Minister launches new International Training and Assessment Courses in MumbaiEdition 582, 1 Dec

At the recent India Australia skill conference Minister McFarlane announced that the first pilots of the International Training and Assessment Courses (ITAC). What is ITAC? Across the Asia-Pacific region there is a strong demand for upskilling in the area of training and assessment. For instance,… Read more

Nominations open: Australian Alumni Excellence Awards 2015 Edition 582, 1 Dec

Dhaka Bangladesh Austrade Dhaka invites Australian education and training institutions to put forward nominations for the Australian Alumni Excellence Awards, which will be presented to Bangladeshi alumni who have studied in Australia and have excelled in their field of study or subsequent area of… Read more

Potential opportunities – education and training in Mexico Edition 582, 1 Dec

Austrade outreach visit to San Luis Potosi, Mexico Austrade recently visited the State of San Luis Potosi in Central Mexico to meet with education institutions, research centres, education agents and regional government representatives to expand networks and identify potential opportunities for A…Read more

AFU Education Exhibition Japan – Event Report available Edition 582, 1 Dec

Australian Future Unlimited: Education Exhibition Japan 2014 Event report available The AFUEE Japan 2014 event report is now available. The report includes information on key outcomes, exhibitor and student feedback, and student profiles. Comparisons are also made with student feedback collected…Read more