VICTORIAN APPRENTICES TO RECEIVE PROPER RECOGNITION

The Victorian Labor Government’s re-introduction of Trade Papers for apprentices who successfully complete their formal training is a positive step toward rebuilding our trade training system.

 

As well as reintroducing Trades Papers, new independent assessments and updating learning materials will help to modernise Victorian apprenticeships.

 

The changes are part Andrews Government’s new $220 million Building Better TAFEs Fund that includes upgrades to TAFE campuses in Bendigo, Sale and Morwell.

 

Trade Papers show employers that a worker has the technical skills, knowledge and experience to get the job done.

 

Despite calls by industry for them to be retained, the former Victorian Liberal government scrapped Trade Papers as part of its attacks on vocational education and training.

 

Shadow Skills, TAFE and Apprenticeships Minister Doug Cameron said rebuilding TAFE campuses and revitalising courses ensures working class Victorian’s have better access to meaningful vocational education.

 

He said a recent KPMG report showed 40 per cent of Victorian TAFE students come from low socio-economic backgrounds, compared with just 14 per cent that attend universities.

 

“This investment by the Labor Government will support Victorians on low-income who heavily rely on TAFE,” Senator Cameron said.

 

“The reintroduction of Trade Papers, new independent assessments and updated learning materials will all help to restore TAFE and trade training in Victoria.”

 

Senator Cameron said Victorian Training and Skills Minister Gayle Tierney has put together a positive plan for Victorian students.

 

The Andrews Government is also spending $50 million supports students to stay at school to finish their VCAL, VCE or apprenticeship.

 

“The Liberals just don’t value trades or apprentices,” Senator Cameron said.

 

“That is why the Abbott-Turnbull-Morrison Government has cut $3 billion from vocational education since coming to power.

 

“The Liberals have failed to improve the quality of courses, reduce costs and increase access to education and training.

 

“Only Labor properly funds vocational education for all Australians.”

 

A Shorten Labor government will also waive upfront fees for 100,000 students to attend TAFE and conduct a once in a generation inquiry into the post-secondary education system within the first 100 days of being elected.”