$14 million boost to help ACT VET students complete their training and get rewarding jobs

Students in the Australian Capital Territory will get practical support to complete their vocational education and training (VET) qualifications and a careers hub to help them into secure jobs in a $14 million investment under the National Skills Agreement (NSA).

The funding – $7 million from the Albanese Labor Government and $7 million from Barr Labor Government – marks the launch of the ACT’s Improved Completions initiative aimed at strengthening the territory’s skills and training system.

The ACT rollout comprises:

• a completions grants program to support VET providers, employers and community organisations to deliver services to students and apprentices who may be at risk of not finishing their course;
• establishment of a careers hub to provide guidance to students on VET pathways and qualifications and employment and training opportunities, and advice to employers on upskilling workers and engaging apprentices;
• a free text service for new ACT apprentices and trainees to get practical tips and resources as they embark on their training journey; and
• further research into VET completions to identify new strategies and opportunities, improve supports to students, enhance the national evidence base for maximising completions, and share insights and case studies.

Support will focus on students who can face barriers to finishing training, including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, young people, mature-age Australians, those who are experiencing longer-term periods out of work, people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and people with disability.

The Improved Completions initiative will build a more inclusive, responsive and resilient skills system that delivers for learners, employers and communities across the ACT.

Quotes attributable to the Federal Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles:

“We understand that over the course of an apprenticeship or qualification a lot can happen in someone’s life. We want to make sure more people can have the choice to get the skills they want and get the supports they need throughout this.

“The Albanese Government is committed to building a training system that works for everyone. This investment reflects our focus on practical solutions that improve outcomes and create real opportunities for people across the ACT.

“When students complete their training, everyone benefits, from individuals to employers, and the broader community. This funding will help connect people to jobs and ensure industries have the skilled workforce they need for Canberra today and for the future.”

Quotes attributable to ACT Minister for Skills, Training and Industrial Relations, Michael Pettersson:

“This investment is a game-changer for vocational education in the ACT. By focusing on student support and completion, we are committed to equity and excellence in vocational education.”

“We want every student to have the support they need to succeed in their training and take the next step in their career.  

“Whether it’s a young person starting out, a woman returning to study, or an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander learner pursuing their goals, these initiatives will support Canberrans to finish their training and step confidently into the workforce.”

ENDS