AnnualAnnual reportreport 20132013 Contents

01 National Board 2

02 Message from the Chair 3

03 Chief Executive Officer’s report 4

04 Operational highlights 5

05 Board and committees 19

06 TAFE locations 21 Map 21

TAFE Directors Australia Inc.

ABN: 39 070 265 734 TAFE Directors Australia National Secretariat Sydney Institute of TAFE NSW Turner Hall (Building B) — Ultimo College Cnr Mary Ann and Harris Streets Ultimo NSW 2007 Postal Address PO Box 707 Broadway NSW 2007 Contact Telephone: +61 2 9217 3180 Facsimile: +61 2 9281 7335 Email: [email protected] Website: www.tda.edu.au About us

TAFE Directors Australia (TDA) is the peak national body incorporated to represent Australia’s 58 technical and further education providers (TAFE), including five dual sector universities with TAFE divisions, and the Australia‑Pacific Technical College. The public provider (TAFE) network provides a diverse and integral series of technical and further education services for individuals, enterprises and communities in the emerging tertiary education sector in Australia. TAFE operates across a wide footprint in metropolitan, regional and remote locations, providing vocational and higher education programs and services on campus, online, in workplaces and, increasingly, in international markets. The core business of TDA is to support its members with advocacy for the important role of TAFE under state and territory jurisdictions to meet Australia’s need for increased productivity, participation and educational attainment in the workforce. TAFE also has an important role to play in meeting community obligations, particularly across remote and regional Australia. Our purpose is to: • Provide services for members to meet current and emerging priorities; • Position TAFE nationally as the major provider of high quality skills; • Advance technical and further education policy in Australia; • Lead advocacy for improved outcomes for students, both domestic and international; • Facilitate opportunities for growth, collaboration and partnerships in national and international markets.

Vision Mission

TDA will serve the interests of its TDA will promote the development, members by advocating for higher quality resourcing and growth of TAFE outcomes for learners and employers Institutes in all jurisdictions across in vocational education and training, by Australia as the recognised leaders in leading policy development for the TAFE the provision of high quality technical sector and by providing value‑added and further education. products and services.

TAFE Directors Australia Annual Report 2013 1 01 National Board

Executive

Stephen Conway Dianne Murray Kaylene Harth Martin Riordan Chair, Chief Executive Officer, Deputy Chair, Director, Exec Officio, TasTAFE Institute Director, TAFE Reform of Brisbane Chief Executive Officer, TAFE NSW – Illawarra Institute Metropolitan Region, TAFE Directors Australia TAFE Queensland

Members

Adrian Marron* Kevin Harris Nicholas Hunt John Hassed Managing Director, Institute Director, CEO, William Angliss Institute Pro Vice Chancellor (VET), Canberra Institute of Technology North Sydney Institute of TAFE Charles Darwin University

Malcolm White** Trevor Schwenke Neil Fernandes Jeff Gunningham*** CEO, The Skills Institute Institute Director, Managing Director, CEO, TAFE SA South Queensland Institute Central Institute of Technology of TAFE

NOTES: * Adrian Marron was represented on the Board by Jenny Dodd from April to December 2013 ** Malcolm White resigned from the Board in June 2013 *** Jeff Gunningham joined the Board in June 2013

2 TAFE Directors Australia Annual Report 2013 02 Message from the Chair

The year of 2013 was one of significant Throughout 2013 change for TAFE in Australia. In mid 2013, TDA launched an election Change to the Australian VET sector campaign ‘TAFE – Unleashing our arrived under the Gillard Government’s Capability’ providing a strong and 1.75 billion dollar reward plan, which critical voice against the NPA, in involved significant changes to the the lead-up to the 2013 Federal national funding structure of the election. TDA intensified its advocacy VET system. role, lobbying Federal Ministers and A ‘voucher-style’ entitlement funding Senators and released Policy Position model, designed to expand vocational Papers on various issues of concern. education and training, was introduced TDA’s Policy Papers remain a key and adopted by states and territories communication strategy for TDA and during a meeting of the Council of are widely read and referenced. Australian Government (COAG) in April It is pleasing to note that the Coalition 2012. A special National Partnership government has started to take note Agreement for Skills and Workforce We are excited our organisation of TDA’s concerns. Industry Minister, has been strengthened with the Development (NPA) took effect the Hon Ian Macfarlane, is currently nationally from July 2013. The NPA has addition of Theresa Mew, appointed reviewing the NPA and has met with as Accounts Manager, and Jessica already created significant challenges TDA to negotiate how the Government for our members. Davis who was recruited to the role might help TAFE to overcome International Manager. Of particular concern is the challenges, namely through improved inconsistency in subsidies allocated recognition of TAFE as a low risk To the TDA National Board, I pass on to courses, as well as the increase in provider, via a new risk framework for my appreciation for your contribution. costs to small and medium enterprize the VET sector. Deputy Chairs, Dianne Murray (NSW) clients and their students. and Kaylene Harth (Queensland), The long term sustainability of the are highly effective colleagues who I offered a TAFE perspective to the entitlement system is a question the make a real difference across TDA’s dynamic nature of the issue, via the Abbott Government must carefully operations. We welcome Trevor submission of an article to Campus consider. The value of TAFE’s role Schwenke, as a co-opted Board Review magazine. in delivering the comprehensive member with regional representations, range of AQF qualifications, and and pay special tribute to Kevin Harris My article addressed the impending providing essential community changes to the sector and proposed who retired in late 2013 from the TDA services, must not be overlooked Board as Chair of the Finance and five ‘New Year’s’ style resolutions for nor underestimated. consideration. Audit committee. Kevin was one of the TDA is proud to stand for TAFE values. longest-serving members of TDA. My Five New Year’s Resolutions are In 2012, TDA launched our National for an Australian TAFE system that : The TDA Board and Secretariat Charter for TAFE which made a real remains committed to serving our 1. Is acknowledged for the role impact on VET policy throughout the members as a national peak VET it plays in workforce and election year. sector body and continues to look for economic development; further ways to support you. 2. Continues to build its capability Congratulations to the as a vital component of a broad tertiary sector; TDA staff I especially thank our long-term 3. Delivers education and training CEO, Martin Riordan. Martin was services via VET professionals; recognised for his leadership in TAFE 4. Is utilized for delivery and and the VET sector more broadly, Stephen Conway auspicing by Schools for their with his nomination as a Prime Chair VET in Schools programs; Minister’s Postgraduate Asia Scholar for 2014. I wish to also thank our great 5. Takes a leading role in the staff; Pam Caven who produced a evolution of Training Packages memorable Conference in Brisbane, in Australia . Peter Holden who led our international These five resolutions are achievable engagement, Linda Condon for for TAFE in Australia, but require creating the Green Skills Network, and strong and systemic leadership to Janny Tjen for another successful year ensure their fulfilment. delivering essential member services.

TAFE Directors Australia Annual Report 2013 3 03 Chief Executive Officer’s Report

The year 2013 marked the vocational education policy, which is fifteenth anniversary of TAFE being implemented across all states Directors Australia. and territories. Accordingly, TDA has made detailed submissions to Several records were achieved state inquiries into TAFE governance during this important milestone year, in Queensland, Tasmania, South across both our Operations and Australia, New South Wales and Member Services. Western Australia. Firstly, TDA developed a national The Strategic Plan 2013–15, approved advocacy campaign titled ‘Unleashing by the Board in early 2013, is both our Capability’. The campaign exciting in scope, and ambitious communicated TAFE as a leader in in outcomes for our membership. quality for Australia’s technical and This year’s Annual Report shows vocational education sector. encouraging early achievements Our commitment to TAFE as the against each Key Performance Area quality provider was mirrored in our as outlined in the following section Thirdly, we celebrate the first year of Policy Position Papers, published of this report. It also confirms a full operations of the TDA National across the spectrum of issues financial surplus of $161,245 which Scholarships Foundation. The TDA impacting on the VET sector. The is a pleasing result, considering Board approved a donation to meet issues were widespread, ranging the historic level of activity we have the establishment costs for the from core apprenticeship and trade undertaken in 2013 as the national Foundation totalling $126,000, which skills programs; where we advocated peak body for TAFE. allowed all of the proceeds, totalling for a shift away from current funding However, as Commonwealth funding some $300,000, from the Mick for training packages to skill set for technical and vocational education Young Scholarship Trust to be made funding, and students studying higher declines , including foreshadowed available for student scholarships. education at non-university providers; cuts for funding to TDA and other A Prospectus for TDA members to where we called for equity in funding. peak VET agencies, activities for engage with the Foundation was Ten member TAFE Institutes are the National Secretariat in 2014 will launched in late 2013. Student now registered as higher education be challenging. However, we are scholarships will form an increasing providers (HEPs), across 23 Institutes determined to aggressively represent role for TAFEs in marketing to their nationally. Collectively, they are TAFEs through the considerable students. The TDA Foundation will be delivering over 100 higher education downturn in funding opportunities. a key platform to assist members. qualifications from sub-Bachelor to Secondly, TDA has been widely Masters programs. In light of the recognised during 2013 beyond our recent Kemp and Norton review of shores. A number of initiatives were the demand driven system, we remain undertaken throughout the year to hopeful that the Coalition government establish and maintain international will support recommendations to relationships and networks with deregulate the higher education Martin Riordan governments and other TVET and market and open up Commonwealth Chief Executive Officer higher education providers. subsidies for non-university students and sub-Bachelor programs. We established a viable Technical and Vocational Education and Training The ongoing advocacy campaign by (TVET) consulting service to nurture TDA was important in showcasing a bilateral agreements in TVET markets, new determination for the renewal of strategic to Australia’s interests, while TAFE, led by TAFE leadership across also servicing international donor Australia. Our national member survey agencies and countries, seeking new in late 2012 identified that TDA is vocational frameworks, colleges and/ ideally placed to shape not just how or curriculum. TAFEs operate, but how they lead the new market approach to technical and

4 TAFE Directors Australia Annual Report 2013 04 Operational highlights 04

Performance across TDA’s Strategic Plan (2013–2015)

1. Advocacy 1. Direct Federal engagement with Australia’s TAFE Institutes – National Entitlement to Funding Positioning TAFE in competitive training markets 2. Skill set funding – reforms to workplace training. Widening innovation in workforce training delivery Prior to the federal election in early September 2013, TDA stepped 3. Quality in new open market ‘national entitlement’ system up the ‘Unleashing our Capability’ of VET. How can this be achieved? advocacy campaign with the publication of a number of policy 4. Pathways in tertiary education and funding for work ready position papers aimed at building a degrees. Why TAFE pathways are critical for students sustainable framework for Australia’s and industry public provider (TAFE) network. This 5. Educational leadership in the delivery of green skills occurred at a time when all States and Territories were for sustainable development. Why education for implementing competitive training markets through the sustainability in all courses and qualifications is critical introduction of entitlement funding models, which slowly eroded the policy and funding framework for TAFE. TAFE’s 6. Employment and economic benefits of additional share of the training market thus declined. investment in technical and further education The speed at which the shift occurred in some jurisdictions 7. TAFE Leadership in international education: resulted in burgeoning numbers of providers and concerns Enhancing our partnerships across regions. about the quality and reputation of VET nationally and internationally, as regulatory and risk frameworks could not respond adequately. The following policy papers targeted a range of policy issues associated with these changes:

Position Paper Position Paper Position Paper Position Paper

Direct Federal engagement with Australia’s Skill Set funding – Quality in a new open market ‘national entitlement’ Pathways in tertiary education and funding Public Provider (TAFE) Institutes: reforms to workforce training system of vocational education and training for work‑ready degrees: National Entitlement to Training Widening innovation in workplace How can this be achieved? Why TAFE pathways are critical for training delivery students and industry

Objective: A high quality technical and further education Objective: Meeting the skill development needs of industry Objective: Recognition of high performing providers through Objective: Increased participation by students sector in Australia the standards for the regulation of vocational education in higher education in TAFE and training and the regulation of those standards TAFE Directors Australia (TDA) argues that skill set and ‘modular’ vocational educational Direct engagement with Australia’s public provider (TAFE) Institutes is essential for future skills training programs should be funded based on those skill sets which meet occupational Student choice to enrol in undergraduate degrees and higher education courses should be needs and provide capability to articulate and build toward broader industry qualifications. funding agreements, including the National Partnership on Skills and Workforce Participation. Australia’s move to an open market and national entitlement system in vocational education recognised and supported by Commonwealth supported funding. To date, Commonwealth funding is allocated almost exclusively to university students for undergraduate course Currently the Australian Government negotiates Compacts with public universities. Australian governments currently restrict VET course funding to full occupational and training urgently requires a risk-based quality framework. This risk-based quality enrolments and completions. The provision of higher education qualifications by However, in the case of technical and further education, shared funding under $9 billion qualifications. TAFE Institutes, however, demonstrate a wide range of industry training framework is essential to underpin plans to replace Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), 23 TAFE Institutes across Australia is in direct response to increasing industry demands for in annual Commonwealth, State and Territory remains outside formally articulated funding delivery models* to meet industry skill needs. Despite selected industry demands for with a new national Licensed Training Organisation (LTO) system. ‘skill set’ funding, this aspect needlessly holds back TAFE’s role to support challenging work-ready graduates with specialist higher education qualifications. arrangements and strategies for Skilling Australia targets. This includes National Entitlement TAFE Directors Australia (TDA) argues that, while the current Quality Standards must be COAG productivity and access educational targets. to Training, scheduled for introduction 1st July 2014. improved, improvement of the standards in itself will not guarantee consistency in quality of TAFE Directors Australia (TDA) advocates for access for non-university providers including *Refer case studies by Dr John Mitchell delivery nationally. TDA advocates that regulation by the Commonwealth government should TAFE Institutes to Commonwealth Supported Places for students, with preference for areas of focus on quality outcomes through a more consistent risk-based regulatory framework. skills shortages. TDA also advocates that the capability of TAFEs to deliver higher education is Australia’s 61 public provider (TAFE) Institutes have been Meeting as the ‘SCOTESE Ministerial Council’, Australian What is required is transparent, consistent and expert interpretation of the standards by the recognised through a specific category in the Higher Education Provider Standards. This will nominated as being critical to the successful delivery of Education & Training Ministers also specified their Technical and further education has increasingly been With new and more flexible governance arrangements, quality technical and further education under the Council support for the Australian TAFE network, and its unique designed to cater for specialist industry and small business TAFE is building stronger networks with industry, capitalising Regulator (and the auditors) to support a capable and confident VET workforce to make allow wider branding capacity for those TAFE Institutes operating in this area. of Australian Governments scheme, the ‘National and important role in technical and further education. requirements in Australia’s fast-changing economy. on specialisations and regional strengths and leading the judgements to meet the standards and assessment principles required by Training Packages. Entitlement to Training’. A National Entitlement to Public technical and further education providers (TAFE) provision of foundation skills such as language, literacy and operate under State and Territory legislation to assist industry numeracy, core technical and technology skills, qualification Training, part of the demand-led ‘voucher’ system for “… the importance of the key role of public Inconsistent and, in some cases poor quality delivery by some providers, has resulted in Australian school leavers and mature aged students are illustrate acceleration in the number of students providers of vocational education, including to meet a range of targets set by the Council of Australian pathways and higher specialist, environmental and students, was authorised under the National Partnership Government (COAG) for widened workforce participation sustainability skills to meet industry demands. significant reputational damage to the sector in Australia over the past five years. Therefore, increasingly pursuing pathways into higher education seeking pathways into higher education for greater on Skills and Workforce Development (NPA) and will be their delivery of high-cost technical training, and improved productivity. from vocational education and training (VET) courses; employment and career opportunities. This trend follows As demands by industry for technical skills and workplace TDA supports the resolve of the National Skills Standards Council (NSSC) to lift the quality bar a trend that supports the achievement of Council recommendations made by the Bradley Review of phased in during 2013-14 across all state and territory encouraging participation of disadvantaged The core skills courses offered by TAFE are unique as they training increase, new and more flexible models of delivery for vocational education and training providers to counteract the damage and ensure a robust 1 jurisdictions. Premiers and First Ministers signed the students and offering services in regional and are largely funded by industry, are designed for industry and are emerging. Greater flexibility and responsiveness by of Australian Government (COAG) targets aimed Higher Education (2008) for new ways to lift Australia’s NPA along with the then Prime Minister, the Hon. remote areas.” have competency sign-off by industry. TAFE has long been the providers is being driven through the establishment of the sector into the future. at up-skilling the Australian workforce for greater productivity and competitiveness and to strengthen Julia Gillard MP and, by doing so, agreed in principle dominant provider in this area and continues to deliver most National Workforce Development Fund, operated by the productivity and Australia’s future economic success. linkages with industries operating in the Asia-Pacific to ‘transition support to TAFE’ in the new competitive (SCOTESE Communique, November 2011) apprenticeships and traineeships in core skills in Australia. Australian Workforce Productivity Agency, which funds region. Under Chair, Professor Denise Bradley AO, industry directly for workforce development. Research undertaken by Moodie and Fredman (2013) VET environment. However, Commonwealth negotiations with the States recommendations were made to create more seamless for the National Centre for Vocational Education since have been unable to agree on the transition transitions for students from technical and further Research (NCVER) highlights an increase of up to arrangements under the terms of the NPA. education to higher education. The reforms were 20% in enrolments in Diplomas across industry areas endorsed by COAG as ways to meet Australia’s future such as food and hospitality, health, agriculture and need for higher skills and qualifications. environmental studies. These enrolment figures

1. Bradley, D, Noonan, P, Nugent, H, Scales, W, 2008 Review of Australian Higher Education: Final Report, Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations, Canberra

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Position Paper Position Paper Position Paper Position Paper

TAFE Leadership in International Education: Employment and economic benefits Educational leadership in the delivery of Maintaining a commitment to skills funding Enhancing our partnerships across regions of additional investment in green skills for sustainable development & meeting Australia’s skill shortages technical and further education Why education for sustainability in all courses and qualifications is critical

Objective: Objective: Objective: Objective: 1. Removing discriminatory policy and regulation in regard to A new economic modelling report on technical and Australian Government policy should intensify technical 1. Meeting the skill development needs of industry in international student visas and post study work rights vocational education provides evidence on how the sector and vocational education (TAFE and VET) capacity to support critical industries supports employment and productivity. Australian Industry Skills Council progress in establishing 2. Increased support for TAFE to deliver international 2. Maximising opportunities for workforce development in ‘green’ Training Packages for industry and students education services. TDA advocates that the study illustrates opportunities regional Australia for greater balance to tertiary education funding in Australia.

Growth and development in green technologies and innovation are key elements of a The provision of international education services is Australia’s #1 export in the services industry. Economic modelling commissioned on employment Independent Economics (IE) produced the Econometric productive and sustainable economy. Essential to this growth are appropriately educated TAFE Directors Australia (TDA) argues that extensive Federal Budget cuts to employer These services include education and training for international students, capacity building and other economic benefits of the Australian technical Model (2013) under an Australian Government project incentives for the employment of apprentices and trainees have caused considerable concern projects offshore, and partnerships with industry both at home and abroad. and vocational education sector has detailed high contracted to TAFE Directors Australia. Canberra-based technical and vocational education and training (TAFE and VET) teachers and students. rates of return from public investment in technical and Independent Economics created the new Econometric about the future supply of core technical skills in Australia. Steep declines in apprenticeship Australia’s TAFE Institutes rank among the top three international technical, vocational education vocational education. Economic modelling has been Model accessing national data by reviewing courses Currently there are limited professional development opportunities for TAFE teachers commencements and completions indicate an approaching crisis without any clear and training (TVET) providers in the world. TAFE Institute expertise is increasingly in demand available for university public investment for some years, completed and associated economic outcomes. It then and VET professionals to gain the knowledge and skills they require to develop and teach commitment by the Commonwealth to long-term funding across major skill occupations. but detailed modelling analysis of employment and used the model to track the impact of additional funding, from employers, government agencies, education institutions and donor organisations, programs which integrate green skills. productivity contributions of technical and vocational allowing for students who complete individual modules, The Australian Workforce and Productivity Agency (AWPA) has published detailed research particularly in the Asian region. Our expertise is sought to improve technical skills training in the education completed across all Australian jurisdictions ‘skills sets’ or full qualifications. TAFE Directors Australia (TDA) advocates on-going and enhanced support for professional demonstrating chronic skill shortages in community and allied health services, most notably region in order to increase both productivity and workforce participation. has been lacking. Three Australian industry skills councils took part in the development in green technologies and sustainability for all TAFE and approved Registered the ageing and disability sectors, the information, communication and technologies (ICT) analysis; Agri-Foods ISC, Innovation and Business Skills Of equal importance is our role in supporting Australian students and businesses to engage Training Organisation (RTO) professionals. industries, and the traditional trades. These shortages will persist into the future. Australia (IBSA), and Transport and Logistics ISC. with other countries through outbound mobility programs and industry-led training programs. TDA proposes that funding criterion for the National Workforce Development Funds enable Regional Development Australia (RDA) and AWPA have separately identified substantial To enhance these services, TAFE needs a policy and regulatory environment which recognises TAFE and approved RTOs to join with Industry Skill Councils (ISC) in developing the capability underinvestment in regional areas, particularly in technical and vocational education as a key the quality of our provision and actively supports our international engagement efforts. This A Summary extract of the Independent Economics econometric model report (2013) is of VET professionals at the front-line to support high technological green credentials. resource for improving workforce participation. A related issue for regional areas is the ageing includes streamlined student visa processing for our international students, post study work attached to this Policy Position Paper. of communities which will require additional health and disability services into the future. rights, and visa pricing equivalent to those currently offered to university graduates. Currently, industry training is limited under criterion for the specific sustainability training programs. Such an investment National Workforce Development Fund, approved under will increase the capacity of TAFE to deliver nationally Budget 2012 with funding of $700 million over four years. accredited programs, all of which now incorporate green skills. TDA proposes that workforce training for sustainability is The current level of co-investment from ‘industry’ is extremely enhanced through a unique investment for training low in this area, and continues to impact on the further providers to support targeted, innovative and industry development of sustainability practices.

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TAFE Directors Australia Annual Report 2013 5 04 Operational highlights

TDA’s advocacy campaign Australian Skills Quality Authority was informed by The TDA has supported the work of the Australian Skills Quality National Charter for Authority (ASQA) in regulating vocational education and TAFE, endorsed by the National Charter for TAFE OPERATING UNDER A NATIONAL VET ENTITLEMENT SYSTEM training providers by promoting information about the TDA members in 2012. In April 2012, the Council of Australian PRINCIPLE 1 processes and procedures of ASQA, representing the TAFE Governments (COAG) agreed to a national training entitlement as part of the FUNDING MAINTAINS THE VIABILITY The Charter comprises AND RESPONSIVENESS OF National Agreement for Skills and Workforce Development, and a new National Partnership PUBLIC PROVIDERS sector in regular meetings with the ASQA Commissioners. Agreement on Skills Reform. four key principles: The COAG Communiqué provided PRINCIPLE 2 for “Implementation Plans” agreed by States and Territories that would QUALITY CRITERIA ARE “… enable TAFEs to operate in an SUBSTANTIALLY ENHANCED TDA has raised the issue of the ‘churn’ of Training Packages environment of greater competition.” 1. That federal and state The pivotal role of Australia’s public provider PRINCIPLE 3 (TAFE) in vocational education and training (VET) is a key component of the agreements GOVERNANCE ENABLES FLEXIBILTY and its administrative impact as both a resource and a under negotiation between the Commonwealth, AND RESPONSIVENESS governments’ funding States and Territories, with effect from 1 July 2012. PRINCIPLE 4 compliance issue. At the 2012 annual general meeting of TDA, members endorsed four principles of a National RECOGNITION OF THE INNOVATION AND maintain the viability LEADERSHIP ROLES OF TAFE, INCLUDING Charter as the basis for communication with the Prime Minister, the Minister for Tertiary ITS PIVOTAL POSITION IN RURAL AND Education, Skills, Science and Research, and REGIONAL AUSTRALIA and responsiveness of State and Territory Ministers for VET. In a risk based approach to audit TDA has argued that TAFE The National Charter proposes four core principles as the strategic framework for implementation of the national institutes should be recognised as low risk providers and public providers. training entitlement. consequently subject to a less regulatory approach. 2. That the quality criteria of teaching and learning Strategic Engagement are enhanced. Context 3. That governance of TAFEs allows for flexibility and responsiveness. In 2013, TDA continued to operate under a stakeholder engagement contract to support the Department of Industry 4. Recognition by governments of the innovation and (formerly the Department of Department of Industry, leadership roles of TAFE, especially through its operation Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education) to in rural and regional Australia. channel communications on VET policy across our 58 TAFE TDA drew on these principles to inform its comprehensive Institute network, and act as an effective strategic partner response to the House of Representatives review of to enhance policy consultation on emerging issues and VET technical and further education in July 2013. reform in the vocational education and training sector. Collaboration and partnering with members – National VET Quality Framework This collaboration has included where appropriate, The National Skills Standards Council (NSSC) under Chair, engaging in partnerships with members to conduct Hon. John Dawkins AO, commissioned a review of national joint activities, including research to develop a shared regulation of vocational education and training in 2012. position on VET issues. Following a period of wide consultation, the NSSC published Collaboration and partnering with external bodies – a position paper in March 2013. The paper argued for the TDA’s engagement strategies have included engaging introduction of the Australian Vocational Qualifications with important stakeholders across the VET sector and System (AVQS) which was designed to apply stronger, especially industry as it sought advice on corporate clearer and targeted standards to the vocational education expectation on trends toward workplace training. and training system. The AVQS was endorsed by Ministers as a basis for drafting new standards on 7 June 2013. LH Martin Institute, University of Melbourne – TDA has continued its partnership with LH Martin Institute TDA supported the improvement of the current standards, for Leadership in Tertiary Education, based at University especially in raising the bar of entry for new providers; of Melbourne, as we mentor professional development at however TDA argued that the improvement of the standards executive levels for TAFE. alone would not guarantee consistency in quality of delivery and assessment nationally. Moreover TDA argued that Peak VET Providers Representative Bodies – some of the proposed standards would result in more red TDA has been in its regular liaison with peak VET tape and impose an undue administrative burden on TAFE representative bodies including: Institutes, without lifting quality. • Australian Council for Private Education and Training TDA argued for a more transparent, consistent and expert (ACPET). interpretation of the Standards by the Regulator and a more • Enterprise Registered Training Organisation capable and confident VET workforce. Association (ERTOA). • Group Training Australia (GTA). • Victorian TAFE Association, our affiliate partner in TAFE in Victoria.

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Australian Workforce and Productivity Agency – 2. Leadership in policy development TDA worked closely with the Australian Workforce and Productivity Agency (AWPA) to support implementation TDA Publications of the Commonwealth VET Reform Process, and During 2013 TDA continued with an active publications acknowledges the AWPA’s high level policy reports. portfolio under its popular Occasional Papers, while also Victorian TAFE Association (VTA) – developing a number of position papers, policy submissions TDA has collaborated with its affiliate employer agency, the and again busy with targeted media releases. Submissions, Victorian TAFE Association, representing the 14 Victorian publications released and media releases are available on TAFE Institutes, on a number of joint submissions. TDA’s website: www.tda.edu.au

VET Development Centre – TDA Position Papers 2013 TDA along with the VET Development Centre organised a series of joint seminars and forums including Thought Title Date Leaders seminar in which Dr John Mitchell presented on Position Paper – Direct Federal engagement Apr 13 one of his case studies of successful collaboration between within Australia’s Public provider enterprises and TAFE Institutes, Reinventing service delivery (TAFE) Institutes – case studies of TAFE Institutes meeting industry needs and government goals. Position Paper – Pathways in Tertiary Education Apr 13 and funding for work-ready degrees National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) – TDA case studies “Reinventing service Feb 13 TDA recognises NCVER as a critical stakeholder, given delivery – TAFE meeting industry needs and its primacy as the research agency on labour market, government goals” enrolment and quality and outcome trends for vocational Position Paper – Skill set funding – reforms to Apr 13 education – across industry, students and providers. workplace training Regional sub-committee-of the TDA Board – Position Paper – TAFE Leadership in Apr 13 The Regional Advisory Committee met three times via International Education teleconference during 2013 and provided advice to the Position Paper – Educational Leadership Apr 13 Board on a number of issues including: in the delivery of green skills for • The problems faced by small regional TAFE Institutes sustainable development in meeting the cost of flat accreditation fees charged Position Paper – Maintaining a commitment Apr 13 by the Australian Nursery and Midwifery Council to skills funding & meeting Australia’s • The establishment of the Regional Universities skill shortages Network and its potential to improve inter-sectoral Position Paper – Quality in a new open market Apr 13 access and mobility for TAFE students ‘national entitlement’ system of vocational • The excessive drain on resources of regional TAFE education and training providers flowing from constant minor changes to training packages and the concomitant ASQA Position Paper – Employment and economic Aug 13 requirement to alter the scope of registration benefits of additional investment in technical and each time a new change was incorporated into further education a qualification. TDA full report “Cost-benefit analysis and The Board noted the resignation of Elizabeth McGregor as returns from additional investment in Vocational Chair of the Committee and thanked her for her contribution Education and Training” to its work. TDA Board member John Hassed, Pro Vice Occasional Paper – National Conference for Nov 13 Chancellor – VET Charles Darwin University has agreed to TDA 2013: TDA Redefined chair the 2014 meetings. Australian Vocational and Training Research Association (AVETRA) – TDA and AVETRA signed a Memorandum of Understanding in late 2013 to foster innovation and applied research in TAFE. The first initiative under the MOU, the ‘TAFE Innovation Scholarship’ was launched which will provide $6,000 to an individual or group of TAFE practitioners to investigate innovative ways to meet industry or community skill needs.

TAFE Directors Australia Annual Report 2013 7 04 Operational highlights

TDA Submissions 2013 Media Releases 2013 Submission title Date Title Date TDA Submission to Federal Treasury: Feb 13 TAFE Directors Australia (TDA) extends its 2 Feb 13 Budget 2013 congratulations to Senator Chris Evans on his retirement announcement today. Submission to ASQA on Cost Recovery Apr 13 Exposure Draft Industry training new approaches 25 Feb 13 Feedback on NSSC Position Paper Apr 13 International Education Advisory 27 Feb 13 Council advice TDA Submission to the House of May 13 Representatives Inquiry Industry-led Board finds TAFE “Bedrock of 11 Mar 13 national VET system” TDA response to Implementing quality measures Jul 13 in industry training packages Axing of Apprenticeship Employer Completion 2 Aug 13 Payments- Deferral of $2000 cap on TDA Submission to the Assuring Quality while Jul 13 training expenses reducing the Higher Education regulatory burden review ELECTION 2013: TDA Releases two 12 Aug 13 new Position Papers Skills training and TDA Submission to TEQSA: Response to Dec 13 international education TEQSA Risk Framework Coalition Loans Scheme to help lift the 25 Aug 13 TDA Submission to TEQSA: Response to Dec 13 attraction of apprenticeships TEQSA Regulatory Process Labor pledge to support TAFEs with direct 1 Sep 13 TDA Submission to TEQSA Regulation Review: Dec 13 funding- Latest Labor TAFE & Apprenticeship Consolidated Risk Assessment plans to be discussed at TDA 2013 National TDA Submission to TEQSA Regulation Review Dec 13 Conference in Brisbane TDA and VTA combined Submission to Dec 13 New national economic model maps 2 Sep 13 AQF Council re: Development of a VET government investment in skills and technical Graduation Statement education: New balance required across TDA Submission to the Review of the Demand Dec 13 Australia’s tertiary education funding Driven Funding Model TAFE Directors seeks clarification on Prime 4 Sep13 Minister Rudd withdrawal of approved $111 million funds allocated to TAFE under Education Investment Fund Australia’s TAFE and group training peak 12 Sep 13 bodies welcome incoming Coalition government and urge strong focus on skills and training in new Ministry Indonesia Industry Roundtable 30 Sep 13 Communique: National Board Meeting, Perth 25 Nov 13

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Strengthening Industry Partnerships Quality and Innovation Industry Skills Councils – Green Skills Developments in 2013 TDA continued to foster partnerships with the 11 Industry Skills Councils to support improvements identified as most desirable by TAFE lecturers and teachers, as they apply ISC Training Package products. TDA is represented on a wide variety of ISC Industry Reference Groups, and TDA members use a template to submit regular reports for TDA Board consideration at each of its meetings. In 2013 TDA also worked with specific ISCs on a range The International Green Skills Network is now in its second of projects; the establishment of the TDA international year. The Network is designed to encourage and drive local Green Skills Network (Manufacturing Skills Australia on and international cooperation, collaboration and innovation the Steering Committee) and a DIISRTE funded project to in the area of skills for sustainability, and benchmark develop for vocational education an econometric model on learnings across vocational education platforms hopefully the contribution of VET expenditure to national productivity. of benefit to TAFE clients; industry, students, lecturers and The project, ‘Cost-benefit analysis and returns from the community. The Advisory Panel which was established additional investment in vocational education and training’, in 2012 has worked enthusiastically to support the on-going was supported by three ISCs, Agrifood Skills Australia, success of the Network. Innovation & Business Skills Australia and Transport and Membership of the Network is based on a set of criteria. Logistic Industry Skills Council. The report was launched at These criteria are designed to establish the green the TDA conference in 2013. Through economic modelling credentials of members, and support their own efforts to of the Australian Vocational Education and Training Sector deliver excellence in sustainability across TAFE teaching and (VET), the report revealed the very high rate of return (18%) learning operations. The membership is free and open to all on additional government investment in VET. training providers both public and private. Case Studies – TDA commissioned Dr John Mitchell to undertake five case studies of TAFE meeting COAG goals of: Increased productivity/global competitiveness; Flexible workforces; Highly qualified staff/career building; Skills for the new economy; regional growth. Dr Mitchell’s report ‘Re-Inventing service delivery’ demonstrated that Industry understands and values this capability of TAFE – whether attested by Innes Willox of the AIGroup or via the 75 case studies, authored by leading VET researcher Dr John Mitchell, that document TAFE’s capability and successes in new models of delivery – perhaps exploding a myth that rears its head at times that TAFE can be unresponsive and remote from industry needs.

TAFE Directors Australia Annual Report 2013 9 04 Operational highlights

Events for the Network Tertiary policy funding and arrangements • Presentation at the Workforce Development With the growing provision of higher education by the ten Institute Conference in San Diego (Jan 2013) TAFE Higher Education providers (HEP) nationally in 2013, Linda Condon facilitated and presented at a session TDA continued to advocate for: for the Workforce Development Institute on the • The recognition of higher education qualifications in development of the International Green Skills Network TAFE and other non-university providers through the with connections to the Centre for Sustainability provision of access to Commonwealth Supported Education and Economic Development (SEED) based Places (CSP) for students, with preference for areas of in the USA. skill shortages; • Renewable Energy delegation from the USA • An expansion of the demand-driven funding system (Mar 2013) to support pathway qualifications that support the transition from vocational education and training to A delegation of 16 academics and Deans of Faculties higher education; and from America visited Australia to learn about the renewable energy initiatives in the TAFE sector and • A specific category for TAFE HEPs in the Higher industry. The delegation visited a number of TAFE Education Provider Standards of ‘University institutes and range of research facilities (CSIRO – Polytechnic’ or ‘University College’ that clarifies and Energy Research Facility NSW). The delegation, on strengthens TAFE’s role in Australian and international return to the USA, has established a Virtual Learning higher education markets. Community of Community Colleges and TAFE TDA holds that the provision of higher education by non- institutes developing resources for the renewable university providers is critical to lifting Australia’s productivity energy education sector. and competitiveness by increasing educational attainment • Presentation at the American Association of and skill levels of the workforce as well as strengthening Community Colleges annual Conference linkages with industries operating in the Asia-Pacific region. (Mar 2013) The diversity and accessibility of Australia’s tertiary sector is strengthened through accessibility to highly specialised, Mindy Feldbaum (The Collaboratory) , Linda Condon niche and applied higher education qualifications in TAFE and Mark Darby (Counsellor (Education & Research) that meet industry demands for higher competencies Washington) from Australian Education International and qualifications globally. This demand is not being met (AEI) at the Embassy of Australia presented at the by universities alone, particularly in the participation by AACC conference on the work being undertaken disadvantaged groups. by the International Green Skills Network and the Renewable Energy Delegation which had been in More information about TDA’s position on higher education Australia in March 2013. can be found on the TDA website: www.tda.edu.au • Regular newsletters To support the ten TAFE HEPs (23 Institutes) currently Regular newsletters are available for Network delivering over 100 higher education qualifications across members and include the latest developments and Australia, TDA has: research in Education for Sustainability, case studies, • Established the Australian TAFE HEP Network personal stories, news about events and grant • Represented TAFE HEPs in response to reviews opportunities. These newsletters are available via the of higher education and the Higher Education TDA website: www.tda.edu.au Provider Standards • Represented TAFE HEPs at TEQSA consultations and briefings • Strengthened relationships with ACPET and COPHE for collaborative responses to policy reforms impacting on non-university providers and • Established extensive links with higher education College counterparts in the USA, UK, Hong Kong and Canada.

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Australian TAFE Higher Education International Higher Skills Provider Network Qualifications Symposium Prior to the 2013 annual conference, TDA facilitated a ‘Higher Skills Qualifications’ Symposium in Melbourne to bring together representatives from technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges delivering higher education in the UK, USA and Hong Kong with Australian TAFE HEPs, federal and state government officials and business representatives. The aim was to encourage In early 2013, TDA established the Australian TAFE Higher discussion about the issues, challenges and opportunities Education Provider (HEP) Network as a sub-committee arising from respective policy reforms in each country’s of the TDA Board with representation from the ten TAFE higher education system. registered HEPs. The Network represents TAFE in the The conversations over the two days of the Symposium provision of higher education qualifications by non-university highlighted striking similarities and differences across providers in the tertiary education sector. The Network, led the four countries including raising the awareness, by Ili Pelletier from Holmesglen as the inaugural Chair, meets understanding and status of higher education qualifications quarterly to discuss issues and challenges associated in TVET, issues associated with modelling the delivery and with higher education provision in TAFE. Foremost on the administration of HE on university, inconsistencies in policy list of topics for discussion over the past twelve months and funding and dual national regulators in some countries, have been: growing participation by older students and those from low • The implementation of the ‘Higher Education socio-economic, indigenous and other backgrounds and Provider Standards’ building capability of the TVET workforce. • Processes of registration, re-registration and Further discussions took place at the Community College course accreditation Baccalaureate Association (CCBA) conference in Anaheim, • Responses to the TEQSA review of regulatory USA in February 2014 and will take place again in Hong processes for higher education Kong in October 2014, prior to the World Federation of • Workforce development and IR issues Colleges and Polytechnics conference. • Supporting increasingly diverse student cohorts. International Memorandums of Understanding The Network provides an effective and collective voice • Community College Baccalaureate for higher education in TAFE and critical feedback to TDA Association (CCBA) to inform policy responses. It also enables responsive communication from TDA to members and opportunities An MOU between TDA and the CCBA was signed in for collaboration across state and territory borders. More February, 2013 to establish link between Community recently, the Network has formed strategic relationships Colleges in the US and Canada and TAFE HEPs in through TDA with international colleagues delivering higher Australia to foster opportunities for benchmarking and education in VET institutions in the UK and USA with the aim staff and student exchange. of promoting benchmarking and other activities. • Mixed Economy Group (MEG) in the UK Further information about the TAFE HEP Network is TDA’s Deputy Chair, Diane Murray met with John available on the TDA website: www.tda.edu.au Widdowson, Chair of the Mixed Economy Group (MEG) of colleges in England to sign a Memorandum of Understanding at the Association of Colleges conference in London in November, 2013. The MoU invites closer cooperation between MEG and TDA and the TAFE Higher Education Network to promote discussions about the changing tertiary policy environment in both countries and opportunities for staff and student exchange, among other opportunities. As part of the Association of Colleges in the UK, MEG represents 41 Further Education (FE) Colleges with significant provision of higher education (500 higher education students and above).

TAFE Directors Australia Annual Report 2013 11 04 Operational highlights

3. Member services The National Secretariat provides a range of services for its members in addition to its advocacy role. These services have grown to be a key attribute for members being part of TDA, including certification of Tuition Assurance, a requirement for members registered with the Commonwealth to offer FEE-HELP loans to students for vocational and higher education courses.

TDA Annual Conference 2013

2-3 SEPTEMBER 2013 SOFITEL BRISBANE CENTRAL QUEENSLAND TAFE DIRECTORS AUSTRALIA NATIONAL CONFERENCE 2013

The Annual TDA Conference is integral to TDA’s have responded by recreating the skill development communication network for TDA members and landscape in diverse and inventive ways. Our providers their stakeholders. are revisiting assumptions, forging new relationships and reshaping support to students and enterprises, within The 2013 TDA Conference was held at The Brisbane Australia and abroad. Sofitel on 2 & 3 September 2013 with five pre-conference workshops and a Welcome Reception on 1 September. The TAFE Redefined Conference explored a range of topics, including the economics of skills, Australia in the Asian The response to the Conference from delegates has been Century, redefining learning approaches: MOOCs, NBN, overwhelmingly positive with many comments such as, the ‘quality proposition’ what is it?, tertiary connectedness, “Well oiled event which ran seamlessly. “Extremely valuable Indigenous workers and learners. information to take away from key speaker sessions”. “Panel format creates less formality and therefore a more Delegates were inspired and challenged by over 55 national comfortable and engaging environment. Well done” “Well and international speakers from USA, UK, China, Hong organised and well worth attending”. TDA members are Kong and India already proposing ideas for next year’s conference to be The Queensland Minister for Education, Training and held in Sydney in 2014. Employment, The Honourable John-Paul Langbroek The Conference was an outstanding success, supported by delivered the opening address of the Conference. more than 328 member and stakeholder delegates. The Federal Ministerial speech was given by The Hon The title of the 2013 TDA Conference was TAFE Redefined. Brendan O’Connor MP, Minister for Employment and Minister for Skills and Training. TAFE Redefined was chosen as a theme because the Australian Government and COAG are leading the way An address by The Hon Sussan Ley MP was given on behalf in redefining technical and further education in terms of of the Federal Coalition market operations and market competitiveness and industry connectedness. Technical and further education providers

[1] The Hon Sussan Ley MP, Federal Shadow Minister for Employment Participation, with Stephen Conway, Chair, TDA Board and Chief Executive Officer, TasTAFE[2] Martin Riordan, Chief Executive Officer, TAFE Directors Australia [3] Conference participants [4] (From left to right) Professor Nicholas Klomp, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education), University of Canberra. Susan Hartigan, Institute Director, TAFE NSW – Western Sydney Institute. Tim Dodd, Education Editor, The Australian Financial Review [5] Patrice Falantin, Executive Chef, Sofitel Brisbane Central[6] Conference participants [7] Stephen Conway, Chair, TDA Board and Chief Executive Officer, TasTAFE[8] Associate Professor Leesa Wheelahan, Melbourne Graduate School of Education, University of Melbourne [9] George Megalogenis, Award-winning journalist, political commentator and author

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Tuition Assurance Scheme Corporate Affiliates Program The TDA Tuition Assurance Scheme (TAS) provides TDA In 2013, TDA welcomed TechnologyOne as a new member members with a cost effective means of meeting the of our Corporate Affiliates program. TechnologyOne is requirements of the Higher Education Support Act 2003 and promoted as Australia’s largest publicly listed software providing strong assurance to VET and Higher Education company. For years, TechnologyOne has been providing students who register for HECS, Fee Help or VET Fee Help. integrated enterprise software solutions to help education- based institutions address issues such as student retention The TDA TAS is also open to non-TAFE higher education and performance, increase revenue, enhance research and VET providers who are required to meet a strict set of quality and streamline financial management processes. criteria including their ability to accommodate students in the event of a provider default. Growth in the number of TAFE and non-TAFE VET providers seeking registration to offer VET Fee Help and the introduction of a Certificate IV VET Fee Help trial in some States led to growth in the TAS during 2013. This is expected to continue in the medium term. The TAS continued its association with QBE as the TechnologyOne’s solution suite for education provides scheme’s insurers during 2013 and has appointed QBE as integrated software systems which allow institutions to insurers for 2014. adapt to the changing education landscape, and reduce the administrative burden. There were no activations of the TDA TAS during 2013. The Affiliates program continues to offer a unique platform Australian TAFE International Network (ATIN) for businesses to engage with our members as well as The Australian TAFE International Network (ATIN) is a promoting their services through our national conference subcommittee of the TDA Board chaired by Deputy and publications. Chair Ms Di Murray. With representatives from each state and territory, ATIN provides a forum for the exchange 4. International engagement of information and consideration of all issues relating to international education. ATIN held three formal Policy teleconferences in 2013 and members provided feedback and guidance to the TDA Board and Secretariat throughout TDA’s advocacy focused on two main areas: removing the year as we formulated our international policy statement discriminatory policies and regulations in regard to and responded to various enquiries and reviews. ATIN also international student visas and post study work rights, plays a key role in advising TDA prior to quarterly meetings and increased support for TAFE to deliver international of the Education Visa Consultative Committee chaired by education services. the Department of Immigration and Border Protection. This advocacy culminated in the release of TDA’s policy statement on international education prior to the Federal election in September 2013. 2013 saw a 6.5% decline in both offshore and onshore enrolments and commencements for international students studying a VET course and an overall 5.6% decline in the number of international students in a VET course; 64,436 students in VET compared with 144,377 in higher education. We estimate there are now less than 20,000 international students studying at a TAFE college in Australia. The impact of the genuine temporary entrant criteria on VET, with an offshore grant rate more than 14% lower than Higher Education; the 12 month delay in extending streamlined visa processing to non-university providers; and the increases in student visa fees and charges all impacted on our ability to recruit and support international students.

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On the positive side, the Asiabound outbound mobility Taiwan program saw direct involvement from our members, In 2013, TDA continued to provide consultancy services and our offshore partnerships continued to attract over for the introduction of competency based training and 50,000 students studying an Australian qualification in their assessment in Taiwan and the delivery of a pilot program own country. based on the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. TDA continued to build and enhance our international TDA contracted a consultant who worked in Taiwan over networks, particularly with China, Indonesia and India. five scheduled consultancy visits and Kangan Institute completed the first teacher training pilot in September 2013. Projects TDA, with the support and direct involvement of its member institutes, completed a wide range of projects in 2013. Benefits to members include significant financial return, exposure to emerging markets, promotion and marketing of the TAFE brand, and increased opportunities for partnerships, student/teacher exchanges, and on-going commercial activity.

Indonesia Polytechnic Mentoring Program: The first program was successfully concluded in May 2013 with an overall evaluation rating of 8.75 out of 10 from the twenty participants. The six host institutes delivered an excellent program with TDA delivering a series of lectures and workshops on the Australian VET system. Host institutes: Canberra Institute of Technology, TAFE NSW Hunter Photo: Standing: Participants (students) of the program (Certificate IV in Institute, TAFE NSW Illawarra Institute, TAFE NSW Western Training and Assessment) Sitting (Left to Right) Sydney Institute, TAFE NSW Sydney Institute, South West – Ming-Hsin Yu, Deputy Director, Competency Standard Promotion Institute of Technology (WA). Ad hoc Office, Bureau of Employment and Vocational Training, Council of Labor Affairs, Executive Yuan – Martin Walsh, Deputy Representative, Australian Office – Kevin Magee, Representative, Australian Office – San-Quei Lin, Director General, Bureau of Employment and Vocational Training, Council of Labor Affairs, Executive Yuan – Anthony Tyrrel, International Project Director, TAFE Directors Australia – Serina Huang, Executive Deputy Director, Economic and Policy Section, Australian Office – John Duffield, TAE program instructor, Kangan Institute

Photo: 2013 Indonesian Polytechnic Mentoring Group with TDA Staff members

A second mentoring program will take place in 2014. A pre-departure meeting and participant needs analysis was conducted in Jakarta with the second group on 18 September 2013.

TAFE Directors Australia Annual Report 2013 15 04 Operational highlights

Kazakhstan International network In 2013, TDA formed a consortium of nine TAFE institutes and bid for partnerships with colleges in Kazakhstan to develop curricula and support materials for the School of Construction and the School of ICT in two major colleges and several public colleges in Kazakhstan. The first site visit was held in Astana in mid-October.

The Construction and Property Services Industry Skills East Asia TVET Network Council is supporting the development of the Construction TDA developed detailed operational plans for establishment curricula and Challenger Institute in WA is developing the of this network, including a three day workshop in ICT curricula. November 2012 where 15 of the 18 countries reviewed and The second phase of the project will be the piloting of the refined the plans. new programs in early 2015 with direct participation of the Korea hosted the second workshop from 4 – 6 November in nine TAFE institutes. Seoul with TDA participating and presenting at a number of Other projects workshops. TDA is now in negotiations with UNESCO and the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics to align AsiaBound scholarships – workshop program their networks with this East Asia initiative. TDA delivered a series of promotional workshops on the UNESCO AsiaBound scholarship program and other student mobility programs. Workshops were held in Brisbane, Melbourne, TDA was invited by UNESCO to present on their behalf at a Adelaide, Perth and Sydney. World Skills conference in Leipzig in July 2013. Peter Holden delivered a paper prepared by Linda Condon on Green Asian Century Business Engagement Plan Skills initiatives and participated in a three day German TDA was one of the 27 member associations to successfully government sponsored Global Partners Meeting. This bid for funding from a field of 95 and one of only two event was particularly useful in making direct contact with educational associations. German government officials from their Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BiBB) and the European TDA is undertaking a comprehensive analysis of different Union’s European Training Foundation. offshore business models. The project will identify factors assist or inhibit the success of particular models in Asia, TDA also witnessed the formal launch of a Global Skills with particular relevance to India and China. The outcomes Network, championed by Bob Paton and Megan Lilley of the analysis will provide guidance to education exporters from the Manufacturing ISC. This network aims to link on how to respond to market opportunities and suitable industry and sector skills council from around the world market entry strategies. and New Zealand, India, UK and UNESCO UNEVOC were in attendance. In 2013, the project team conducted interviews with TAFE Institute representatives as well as with current and Commonwealth Secretariat (UK) prospective Chinese education partners in Beijing. An analysis of the TVET systems of five Commonwealth countries has now been completed by TDA. This included a presentation of the results of the research at a two day workshop in London in June. Representatives of the five countries were joined by senior officials from UNESCO, UK AID, the International Labour Organisation, the UK Association of Colleges, the British Council and several consultants to the Commonwealth. Outcomes of the workshop include a commitment to align our research with work currently being carried out by various agencies aiming to develop frameworks for benchmarking TVET systems around the world. Additional funding from the UK has now been confirmed for the further development of the research which will include an interactive model for comparing stages of development across six key features of an effective TVET system.

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4. Member communications 2013 TDA Public Presentations TDA communicates regularly with members, partners and Title Date stakeholders using a variety of platforms, including emails, Address by TDA CEO, Martin Riordan, on Feb 13 newsletters, meetings, publications, submissions and “Public, technical and further education press releases. Members are provided with information and providers in the tertiary sector” at the support via the TDA newsletter, and email correspondence Universities Australia Annual Conference from TDA Chief Executive, Martin Riordan. Address by TDA CEO, Martin Riordan, Mar 13 The weekly newsletter is distributed to more than on “Year of Living Dangerously” at MEGT 1,100 member and non-member subscribers, including Board Discussion TAFE and industry leaders, international partners, and Address by TDA CEO, Martin Riordan, on Mar 13 government policymakers. It shares TDA’s national and “Challenges in VET & hoe these may be international ventures, and updates members on the latest addressed” at the Strategic Partnership industry news, government policies, training reviews and Symposium: DIISRTE/ ANU Crawford School upcoming events. for Public Policy Communications materials including TDA newsletters, Address by TDA Director of Policy and Apr 13 media releases, submissions and policy documents can be Stakeholder Engagement, Pam Caven, on “The accessed through the TDA website: www.tda.edu.au implementation of national entitlement across TDA has continued to consult regularly with members to States and Territories – A TDA perspective”, VET shape TDA’s position on a variety of national policy areas, Development Centre webinar through a range of strategies including: Presentation by TDA CEO, Martin Riordan, to Jul 13 TDA Representatives – the Public Hearing for the inquiry into the role of TDA members or their nominated representatives will the Technical and Further Education system and continue to represent TDA on a number of key external its operation, in Brisbane committees and forums, hence providing a TDA voice. Address by TDA International Engagement Jul 13 Regular reports to the TDA Board will support TDA Director, Peter Holden, on “Greening TVET – collaboration with stakeholders and support TDA work a world perspective” at UNESCO – UNEVOC on implementation of the VET Reform Process WorldSkills, Leipzig TDA public presentations – Address by TDA Director of Policy and Jul 13 TDA CEO and Secretariat staff have delivered Stakeholder Engagement, Pam Caven, on presentations to a range of audiences, including, “Improving vocational education and training: AUSTAFE, Informa conferences and VTA seminars; the Australian Vocational Qualifications System” participated on national panels and other forums. at the Victorian TAFE Association, Victoria These engagements add to the VET knowledge and debate and hence contribute to VET policy and Address by TDA Director of Policy and Oct 13 ongoing conversation/discussion regarding the VET Stakeholder Engagement, Pam Caven, Reform Process. on “TAFE in the current political climate: Cresting the waves” at AUSTAFE Conference, The Gold Coast Address by TDA Director of Policy and Oct 13 Stakeholder Engagement, Pam Caven, on “VET Future Directions – Terrific or terrifying?” at the E-Energy Oz Conference, The Gold Coast Address by TDA CEO, Martin Riordan, on Oct 13 “Australian Vocational Education cooperation in China” at Chongqing VET Conference Address by TDA CEO, Martin Riordan, on “Time Nov 13 to seek quality in Australia’s reform of vocational education” at the Delivering Quality Outcomes for VET Conference, Sydney Address by TDA CEO, Martin Riordan, on Nov 13 “Growing TAFE and VET in tough times: evidence before rhetoric” at the 4th National Forum on Capability Analysis and Development

TAFE Directors Australia Annual Report 2013 17 04 Operational highlights

Welfare of TAFE staff, students and graduates TDA National Scholarships Foundation The Foundation acknowledges its sponsors, individual donors and staff at TAFE Institutes who assist in the Chairman’s report administration of scholarships. The TDA National Scholarships Foundation is a public The vision for the Foundation is that it: registered charity established for the purpose of awarding scholarships to prospective and existing students studying • Assists and supports students studying at TAFE at TAFE Institutes. Institutes around the nation • Encourages and grows the level of philanthropy in the In March 2013 the Foundation was launched at a gala VET sector fundraising dinner in Sydney. • Provides a mechanism for fundraising and The attendance at the event of many notable Australians scholarship awards to be available to all TDA member prominent in political, civic and corporate life showed the TAFE Institutes support for both Mick Young Scholarships and the concept of helping students undertaking Vocational Education and The work in setting up the Foundation and putting in place Training at the nation’s TAFE Institutes. governance and compliance policies and procedures was significant and I would like to acknowledge TDA for their During the course of the year a strategy for growth of the contribution of resources, financial and staff, during the scholarship fund and scholarship program based on strong establishment phase. engagement with TAFE Institutes, industry partners and former TAFE students was developed and approved by the The Foundation relies on the cooperation and work of staff TDA Board. in TAFE Institutes. Their enthusiasm and student focus contributes in no small way to the success of the program. Under an agreement with the former Mick Young Scholarship Trust, the Foundation continued to offer Mick Young Scholarships for motivated students experiencing financial hardship. In 2013 the Foundation awarded 102 Mick Young Scholarships to be undertaken at TAFE Institutes in 5 States. Nicholas Hunt In addition to Mick Young Scholarships the Foundation will Chair, TAFE Directors Australia develop a set of TAFE National Achievement Scholarships National Scholarships Foundation with sponsorship from major industry organisations.

Photo: Martin Riordan, TDA CEO; Di Murray, Deputy Chair TDA, Her Photo: TAFE students receieving their Mick Young Scholarship: left to Excellency Marie Bashir AC CVO; Mary Young; Nicholas Hunt, Chair right: College Mitiau, Aneel Ahmed, Caitlin May, Samah Sulaka, Rafael TDA National Scholarships Foundation. Sen Buenaventura.

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National Board of TAFE TDA National Directors Australia Secretariat Staff

Martin Riordan, Executive Chief Executive Officer Stephen Conway, Chair, Chief Executive Officer, TasTAFE Pam Caven, Director, Policy and Stakeholder Engagement Dianne Murray, Deputy Chair, Institute Director, TAFE NSW – Illawarra Institute Linda Condon, Director, International Martin Riordan, Exec Officio, CEO TAFE Directors Australia Green Skills Network Peter Holden, Director, International Members Engagement and Business *Adrian Marron, Managing Director, Canberra Institute of Technology Development Kevin Harris, Institute Director, North Sydney Institute of TAFE Jessica Davis, International Manager Nicholas Hunt, CEO, William Angliss Institute Janny Tjen, Administration Manager Kaylene Harth, Director, TAFE Reform of Brisbane Metropolitan Region, Theresa Mew, Bookkeeper TAFE Queensland Tom Neale, Project Officer – Project John Hassed, Pro Vice Chancellor (VET), Charles Darwin University Support and Communications (resigned July 2013) **Malcolm White, CEO, The Skills Institute Trevor Schwenke, Institute Director, South Queensland Institute of TAFE Neil Fernandes, Managing Director, Central Institute of Technology ***Jeff Gunningham, CEO, TAFE SA

NOTES: *Adrian Marron was represented by Jenny Dodd from April to December 2013) **Malcolm White resigned from the Board in June 2013 ***Jeff Gunningham joined the Board in June 2013

Institute executives representing TDA on policy committees 2013

TDA Committee/ Workshop Representative Representative title/Organisation Sponsor/ Host Committee/ Workshop Name English, Leone Dean of Faculty Health Science Community Australian Health Practitioner 3 Committees – (1 report): Studies & Education Holmesglen Institute Regulation Agency (AHPRA), a) ANMAC – Board Australian Nursing & Midwifery b) ANMAC – Accreditation Advisory Accreditation Council (ANMAC) Committee (ANMACAAC) c) ANMAC – Research, Innovation & Policy Committee d) ANMAC – Enrolled Nurse Accreditation Committee English, Leone Dean of Faculty Health Science Community Health Workforce Australia (HWA) Higher Education and Training Sector Studies & Education Holmesglen Institute Advisory Committee Fernandes, Neil Managing Director Central Institute of Department of Education (AEI) Australia India Education Council Technology (Perth) (AIEC) Fitzgerald, Sheila Acting Director TAFE Swinburne University Department of Industry Green Skills Agenda of Technology Implementation Group Scott, Win Chief Executive Officer Sunraysia Institute National Council for Vocational National VET Research and of TAFE Education Research (National Evaluation Program Selection Panel Council for Vocational Education Research (NCVER)) Foonghar Chong Director Education Health Community & Community Services and Health Joint Training Package Advisory Personal Services and Nepean College Committee (TPAC) Horwood, Gail Education Programs Manager TAFE NSW Community Services and Health Industry Reference Group (IRG) – Industry Skills Council (CS&HISC) Children & Youth Services Field, Vicki Head Teacher, Community Services TAFE Community Services and Health Industry Reference Group (IRG) – NSW – Hunter Institute Industry Skills Council (CS&HISC) Client Services Harwood, Gail Education Programs Manager TAFE NSW Community Services and Health Industry Reference Group (IRG) – Industry Skills Council (CS&HISC) Community Sector Development

TAFE Directors Australia Annual Report 2013 19 05 Board and committees

TDA Committee/ Workshop Representative Representative title/Organisation Sponsor/ Host Committee/ Workshop Name Strand, Scott LVT/Co-ordinator Complimentary Health Community Services and Health Industry Reference Group (IRG) Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFE Industry Skills Council (CS&HISC) – Complementary and Alternative Health Sector Culver, Amanda A/Education Programs Manager TAFE NSW Community Services and Health Industry Reference Group (IRG) – Industry Skills Council (CS&HISC) Nursing Connors, Maggie Assistant Director TAFE NSW – Community Services and Health Industry Reference Group (IRG) – Randwick College Industry Skills Council (CS&HISC) Technicians and Support Services Macphail, Belinda Teacher – certificate III in Dental Assisting Community Services and Health Industry Reference Group (IRG) – Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFE Industry Skills Council (CS&HISC) Dental/Oral Health Care Sector Culver, Amanda A/Education Programs Manager TAFE NSW Community Services and Health Industry Reference Group (IRG) – Industry Skills Council (CS&HISC) Direct Client Care and Support Culver, Amanda A/Education Programs Manager TAFE NSW Community Services and Health Industry Reference Group (IRG) – Industry Skills Council (CS&HISC) Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Health Worker Holden, Peter Director International Engagement Department of Immigration Education Visa and Business Development TAFE & Border Protection Consultative Committee Directors Australia Holden, Peter Director International Engagement Department of Immigration Assessment Level Framework Review and Business Development TAFE & Border Protection Directors Australia Murray, Dianne Institute Director TAFE NSW – VET Reform Division My Skills Advisory Group Illawarra Institute Burrows, General Manager TAFE Strategy and Finance VET Reform Division My Skills Advisory Group Dr Catherine Wesney, Anita Manager – Research and Policy Canberra VET Reform Division My Skills Advisory Group Institute of Technology Coppolillo, Associate Director, Faculty of Further IBSA IBSA National Project Reference Frances Education NMIT Group (NPRG) Palmer, Louise General Manager, People and Organisational IBSA IBSA National Project Reference Development Kangan Institute Group (NPRG) Zwierzynski, Director TAFE Business Analytics and Unique Student Identifier USI External Reference Group Janice Accountability TAFE NSW Pook, Dr Henry Dean, Building, Construction and Master Builders Construction CAMS (Construction Apprenticeship Architectural Design Mentoring Scheme) Schubert, Dr Ruth Director, Strategy and Business TAFE SA Standing Council on Tertiary Access and Participation Principal Education, Skills and Employment Committee (APPC) (SCOTESE) Underwood, Head of School, Life and Physical Sciences Health Workforce Australia Oral Health Workforce Plan Project Cheryl Advisory Group Deschepper, Manager, Tertiary Development and Australian Qualification Implementation of the AQF Anne Accreditation, Chisholm Institute Framework Council Koutoukidis, Head of Strategic & Business Development – Independent Hospital Teaching Training Research Working Gabrielle Health Science Pricing Authority group of the Independent Hospital Pricing Authority Underwood, Head of School, Life and Physical Sciences National Oral Health Plan Workshop of the National Oral Health Cheryl Monitoring Group Plan 2014–23 Zappa, Julie Executive Director, Creative Industrie Central Innovation Business Skills Education Sector TAFE (WA) Australia (IBSA) Advisory Committee Riordan, Martin Chief Executive Officer Martin Riordan is the Vice‑Chair TAFE Directors Australia of WFCP Goulding, Fleur Research and Planning Manager Holmesglen Tertiary Education Quality and Reference Group – Institute of TAFE Standards Agency (TEQSA) Information Collection Jones, Anne Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and Tertiary Education Quality and Reference Group – Regulation and Professor Students) Victoria University Standards Agency (TEQSA) Quality Assestment Peters, Maria Director and Chief Executive Officer Tertiary Education Quality and Reference Group – Regulatory Risk Chisholm Institute of TAFE Standards Agency (TEQSA) Campbell, Mary Institute Director SkillsTech Australia Department of Industry Industry Reference Group – Alternative Pathways to the Trades Elms-Smith, Janet Cluster Director Ultimo West Australian Qualifications Australian Qualifications Framework Council Framework project Zwierzynski, Director TAFE Business Analytics and NCVER Technical reference Janice Accountability TAFE NSW advisory committee Bailey, Keri Director, Strategic Organisational IBSA National Project Reference Group Development Swinburne University for the ‘revamp’ of the TAE10 Training Package

20 TAFE Directors Australia Annual Report 2013 06 TAFE locations 06

TAFE Institute Locations

Charles Darwin University (TAFE Division) Batchelor Institute of Brisbane North Institute of TAFE Indigenous Tertiary Education Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE Southbank Institute of Technology SkillsTech Australia

Tropical North Queensland Institute of TAFE The Bremer Institute of TAFE Kimberley Training Institute Barrier Reef Institute of TAFE Mt. Isa Institute of TAFE

Pilbara Institute

Central Queensland Institute of TAFE FIJI Australia-Pacific Technical College Wide Bay Institute of TAFE Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFE Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE TAFE SA Gold Coast Institute of TAFE

Durack Institute Goldfields Institute of Technology of Technology TAFE NSW – New England Institute

TAFE NSW – North Coast Institute TAFE NSW – Western Institute C. Y. O’Connor Institute TAFE NSW – Hunter Institute Sunraysia Institute of TAFE Canberra Institute South West Institute of Technology of Technology TAFE NSW – Riverina Institute TAFE NSW – GOTAFE Illawarra Institute Great Southern Bendigo TAFE Central Institute Box Hill Institute Wodonga Institute of TAFE of Technology Institute of University of Ballarat Technology Chisholm Institute of TAFE South West Advance TAFE Challenger Institute The of Technology Holmesglen Institute of TAFE Institute GippsTAFE of TAFE Gordon Education and Kangan Institute Training International TAFE NSW – NMIT (Northern Melbourne Northern Sydney Institute Polytechnic West Institute of TAFE) TAFE NSW – West Coast RMIT University South Western Sydney Institute Institute of Training Swinburne University of TasTAFE TAFE NSW – Technology (TAFE Division) Sydney Institute Victoria University TAFE NSW – William Angliss Institute Western Sydney Institute

Pacific NSW TAFE NSW – New England Institute www.newengland.tafensw.edu.au Australia-Pacific Technical College TAFE NSW – www.aptc.edu.au South Western Sydney Institute TAFE NSW – Western Sydney Institute www.swsi.tafensw.edu.au www.wsi.tafensw.edu.au ACT TAFE NSW – North Coast Institute TAFE NSW – Western Institute www.nci.tafensw.edu.au www.wit.tafensw.edu.au Canberra Institute of Technology www.cit.act.edu.au TAFE NSW – Riverina Institute www.rit.tafensw.edu.au Northern Territory TAFE NSW – Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Northern Sydney Institute Tertiary Education www.nsi.tafensw.edu.au www.batchelor.edu.au TAFE NSW – Hunter Institute Charles Darwin University www.hunter.tafensw.edu.au (TAFE Division) www.cdu.edu.au TAFE NSW – Illawarra Institute www.illawarra.tafensw.edu.au TAFE NSW – Sydney Institute www.sydneytafe.edu.au/

TAFE Directors Australia Annual Report 2013 21 06 TAFE locations

Queensland Victoria Western Australia Barrier Reef Institute of TAFE Bendigo Regional Institute of TAFE Central Institute of Technology www.barrierreef.tafe.qld.gov.au www.britafe.vic.edu.au www.central.wa.edu.au Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE Box Hill Institute Challenger Institute of Technology www.msit.tafe.qld.gov.au www.bhtafe.edu.au www.challenger.wa.edu.au Gold Coast Institute of TAFE Gipps TAFE C.Y. O’Connor Institute www.goldcoast.tafe.qld.gov.au www.gippstafe.vic.edu.au www.cyoc.wa.edu.au Mount Isa Institute of TAFE Chisholm Institute of TAFE Durack Institute of Technology www.mtisa.tafe.qld.gov.au www.chisholm.edu.au www.durack.edu.au The Bremer Institute of TAFE Advance TAFE Great Southern Institute of Technology www.bremer.tafe.qld.gov.au www.advancetafe.edu.au www.gsinstitute.wa.edu.au Southbank Institute of Technology The Gordon Kimberley Training Institute www.southbank.edu.au www.thegordon.edu.au www.kimberley.tafe.wa.edu.au Southern Queensland Institute Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE Pilbara Institute of TAFE www.gotafe.vic.edu.au www.pilbaratafe.wa.edu.au www.sqit.tafe.qld.gov.au Holmesglen Institute of TAFE Polytechnic West Tropical North Queensland TAFE www.holmesglen.vic.edu.au www.polytechnic.wa.edu.au www.tnqit.tafe.qld.gov.au Kangan Institute South West Institute of Technology Brisbane North Institute of TAFE www.kangan.edu.au www.swit.wa.edu.au www.bn.tafe.qld.gov.au North Melbourne Institute of TAFE Goldfields Institute of Technology Sunshine Coast TAFE www.nmit.edu.au www.goldfields.wa.edu.au www.sunshinecoast.tafe.qld.gov.au RMIT University West Coast Institute of Training SkillsTech Australia www.rmit.edu.au www.westcoasttafe.wa.edu.au www.skillstech.tafe.qld.gov.au South West TAFE Central Queensland TAFE www.swtafe.vic.edu.au www.cq.tafe.qld.gov.au TAFE Directors Australia Sunraysia Institute of TAFE Wide Bay Institute of TAFE www.sunitafe.edu.au is the peak body for www.widebay.tafe.qld.gov.au Australia’s TAFE Institutes. Swinburne University of Technology Its focus is to: (TAFE Division) www.tafe.swin.edu.au • Represent and act as South Australia the public provider voice TAFE SA Victoria University for TAFE www.vu.edu.au/tafe www.tafesa.edu.au • Provide leadership in the Federation University development of the National www.federation.edu.au Training Framework William Angliss Institute of TAFE • Develop effective industry www.angliss.vic.edu.au and community partnerships • Promote public recognition Wodonga TAFE of the strategic role of TAFE www.wodongatafe.edu.au in Australia For further details visit Tasmania www.tda.edu.au Tas TAFE www.tastafe.tas.edu.au

22 TAFE Directors Australia Annual Report 2013 06

TAFE Directors Australia Annual Report 2013 23 TAFE Directors Australia Inc.

ABN: 39 070 265 734 TAFE Directors Australia National Secretariat Sydney Institute of TAFE NSW Turner Hall (Building B) Ultimo College Cnr Mary Ann and Harris Streets Ultimo NSW 2007 Postal Address PO Box 707 Broadway NSW 2007 Contact Telephone: 02 9217 3180 Facsimile: 02 9281 7335 Email: [email protected] Web: www.tda.edu.au

ISSN 1838-0727 (Print) ISSN 1838-0735 (Online)