Bass Coast Shire Council Education Plan 2008-2012 December 2007 Council Education Plan 2008-2012 December 2007 Table of Contents Executive Summary 06 1. Introduction 10 2. Strategic Context 2.1 Australian Government 11 2.2 Victorian Government 12 2.3 Local Government 13 2.4 Bass Coast Shire Council 14 3. Relationship to BCSC’s Community and Council Plans 15 Bass Coast is a vibrant community 4. Education Plan Framework 16 4.1 Education Round Table 16 4.2 Bcsc Education Policy 16 engaged in continual learning 4.3 Education Forum 16 4.4 Literature Review 17 4.5 Site Visits 17 and captures the value of this in 4.6 Secondary Student Survey 17 4.7 Partnerships 18 5. Bass Coast Shire Profile 19 strengthening health, wellbeing and 5.1 Socio-Economic 19 5.2 Impact Of Age Structure On The Economic Viability Of Bass Coast Shire 20 prosperity by connecting with the world 6. Education Issues For Bass Coast Shire 22 7. Monitoring And Evaluation 23 7.1 Monitoring 23 7.2 Evaluation 23 8. Appendices 24 8.1 Acknowledgements 24 8.2 Education And Training Services In Bass Coast Shire 25 8.3 The 11 Indicators Used To Determine Levels Of Disadvantage. 26 8.4 Global Knowledge Workers 27 9. References 28 Action Plan 29 Strategic Objectives 30 Glossary/Abbreviations

Term/Abbreviation Explanation Term/Abbreviation Explanation

ACFE Adult Community and Further Education MCEETYA Ministerial Council on Education, Employment, Training and Youth Affairs At risk students “Young people who are at risk of disengaging, or who have already disengaged MEYP Municipal Early Years Plan from education and training and are not in meaningful employment". NIEIR National Institute of Economic and Industry Research Source: VLESC/Bass Coast/South SGBCLLEN 2006-2008 Agreement 2007 Schedule 1 BCCHS Bass Coast Community Health Service OTTE Office of Training and Tertiary Education BCS Bass Coast Shire PINP Nature Park BCSC Bass Coast Shire Council RDV Regional Development Biztobiz website The development of this website is a product of the South East Victoria Mentoring Project completed RTO Registered Training Organisation in 2007. The website will provide ongoing mentoring assistance to local businesses. SCHSC South Coast Health Services Consortium CALD Culturally And Linguistically Diverse SEIFA Socio Economic Index For Advantage Community Indicators Community Indicators Victoria was established as a result of the recommendations of the Victorian Community Indicators Project, commissioned by VicHealth and the Department SGBCLLEN South Gippsland and Bass Coast Local Learning and Employment Network of Human Services from 2005-2006 (January 2005 to July 2006). Its goal was to establish a South Coast Best Start is a prevention and early intervention project that aims to improve the health, sustainable system for the development and use of local community wellbeing indicators. Best Start Project development, learning and wellbeing of all Victorian children from pregnancy through to transition DEECD Department of Education and Early Childhood Development to school (usually taken to be eight years of age). Bass Coast and South Gippsland Shires have been funded for this project. It is auspiced by Bass Coast Community Health Service. DEST-LCP Department of Education, Science and Training- Local Community Partnership which arranges work placements for students S&C TA Southern & Coastal TAFE Alliance is an alliance between GippsTAFE campus and Chisholm Institute Bass Coast campus formed to achieve maximum integration and development of DSE Department of Sustainability and Environment programs and service offerings for the benefit of the Bass Coast and South Gippsland regions Gippsland Apprenticeship Research project to determine the reasons for non-completion of apprenticeships SGSC Council Research Project and traineeships conducted by Monash University Gippsland. TAFE Technical And Further Education Gippsland Skills and The forum was formed to investigate areas of skills shortage and to determine reasons for Labour Needs Forum same and to research opportunities for encouraging skills migration into Gippsland. The focus U3A The University of the Third Age (U3A) is an international organization, embodying the principles was on two areas of employment: Nursing and Power Engineering and associated skills. of life-long education and the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake, in an atmosphere of mutual learning and teaching. Each U3A is a learning community, organized by and for people who can GPA South Gippsland General Practice Alliance, South Gippsland best be described as being active in retirement - the so-called Third Age of their lives. Global Knowledge Workers (GKW) Professionals (such as info tech managers, finance managers, importers/exporters, marketing/ VET Vocational Education Training advertising managers, technical sales professionals, media, computer, medical scientist, financial advisor professionals and other business services) See appendix for detailed list VLGA Victorian Local Governance Association GYOC Gippsland Youth Options Commitment is a region wide, cross-sectoral approach to VSC Victorian Skills Commission ensure that all young people remain connected with education and training. WGRLC West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation HECS Higher Education Contribution Scheme Executive Summary

Bass Coast Shire Council (BCSC), in partnership with the South BCS needs to attract more Global Knowledge Workers (GKW) (Appendix of this project will be linked to the Plan. Bass Coast Shire also has a in securing employment on completion of secondary studies had Gippsland and Bass Coast Local Learning and Employment Network 9.4) if it is to remain an economically viable community. One way of Municipal Early Years Plan (MEYP) which is a local area plan designed been eroded. The variety of jobs on offer in BCS until recently, has (SGBCLLEN), local education and training providers, The Department attracting GKW to an area is by the provision of high quality educational to provide strategic direction for the development and coordination mainly been in the tourism and retail sectors, both of which are of Education and Early Childhood Development (DEECD) (Gippsland facilities and services at all levels for their families. A visit to the local of educational, care and health programs, activities and other local often low paying jobs and attract a high percentage of part time or Region) and Monash University Gippsland (“the Reference Group”) Government schools in the Shire shows that the current infrastructure developments for children 0-6 years in the municipality. The progress casual employment. The boom in the construction industry has, have developed the BCSC Education Plan (“Plan”). The aim of in all these schools is ageing and in many cases inadequate to meet of the implementation of the MEYP will also be linked to this Plan. however, opened up many more job opportunities for young people. this Plan is to enhance the health, wellbeing and prosperity of current needs, let alone cater for anticipated future needs. The physical It is recognized that there is a need to provide educational The expansion of the hospitality industry including the larger individuals and the community through learning and ensuring infrastructure can have a huge impact on the morale of students opportunities for young people with disabilities who are completing accommodation developments, has also led to an increase in the number that the region is able to respond to the demands of a growing and staff and on the outcomes of students attending the various their secondary school education and looking to move onto further of management and administration roles available in this sector. population and requirements for a range of skills and knowledge. schools. The State has recognised this with its commitment to: study or vocational opportunities. This process often requires giving There are many employment opportunities in the local health young people with disabilities the time to adjust to the change and to sector with a shortage of both nursing and medical staff which Research for this Plan indicated that the region is less well educated • The Victorian Schools Plan whereby $2.3 billion has been allocated further develop their interpersonal skills through a program that is is expected to increase given the population growth. Aged care than in Victoria as a whole and it had already been established that BCS for education capital over 5 years with a target of every Victorian focused on work readiness. Trialling different options by volunteering nurses will always be in demand with the increase in the older has a low socio economic status. BCS has two of the most disadvantaged government school being rebuilt or modernised within 10 years. This with community groups or gaining experience in a supportive work population and the proliferation of aged accommodation. Local postcodes in the state: postcode 3984, Corinella and postcode 3995, will also create improved learning environments and improved access; environment are further ways to meet the needs of this group. Government and the Education sectors are major employers in BCS . Major characteristics of 27 of Victoria’s most disadvantaged and there is always demand for professionals in these sectors. • maintaining a world-class education system through better postcode areas are: low family income, early school leaving, limited Consultation with current students was in the form of a survey which was access to learning technologies via improved internet access with computer use, no internet access, unemployment, disability/ distributed to students attending Wonthaggi and Newhaven Secondary BCS can also boast world-class natural attractions and the Phillip Island a $89.3 million allocation for broadband access to schools; sickness support, domestic violence, child maltreatment, criminal Colleges. The survey revealed that many are seeking more social support Nature Park (PINP), in particular, is involved in many research projects. convictions, rental stress and lack of qualifications. (Vinson T 2007) • strengthening community-school partnerships with possible in the home as well as at school and when asked what would encourage There is the capacity for future roles in environmental sciences but this options of sharing infrastructure and facilities, creating “schools young people to live, learn and work in BCS, answers included; improved then leads to another issue such as the limited number of courses provided It is well documented at a National and State level that the school as hubs”, engaging the community in the delivery of education educational facilities, a wider range of job opportunities, incentives to locally to match the skills required for the increased variety of roles. retention rates in rural areas are lower than in the cities resulting in and strengthening school contributions to the community; and complete Year 12, a community that was supportive of young people, lower rates of transfer to higher education by rural students. (DEECD, improved community health and family services and facilities. Education With 34.4% of families of students in secondary schools regarded as Victoria 2002; NSW Health 2006) At a local level, the mean Year 10- • developing a new Specialist School in BCS. and training providers confirmed the students’ responses. They recognise low income earners, this obviously brings with it a variety of issues 12 retention rate in Gippsland government schools was 69.8 % in that there needs to be a greater understanding by the community that for families struggling to support children at school and may lead to 2006 compared to the retention rate in BCS of 70.2%. Whilst BCS Whilst the impetus for the development of the Plan was the issues access to quality education has an important effect on an individual’s life. children leaving school earlier to secure employment, albeit part- has a higher retention rate than Gippsland as a whole, it is still well faced by secondary students, early childhood literature provides strong time, casual or in lower paid occupations. Payment for a child’s below the state average of 82%. There is an unacceptable number of evidence that experiences in the early stages of life set the stage for The Reference Group therefore, determined that there was a need to tertiary education is a very expensive exercise for rural families in ‘at risk’ students which is likely to be influencing the low retention later life. Bass Coast and South Gippsland Shire Councils have received develop a ‘learning culture’. It was said that many in the community particular. Whilst the cost of the actual university course may be rates. The uptake of apprenticeships and traineeships is above the funding from the Department of Human Services for the implementation did not have respect for the value of education. The student survey covered by HECS, the cost of accommodation in the metropolitan state average. (SGBCLLEN Mid Year report to VSC June 2007). of a ‘Best Start’ Project. It is a prevention and early intervention showed that many students did not see the completion of Year 12 areas is high. There is also the added concern of social support for project that aims to improve the health, development, learning and guaranteeing increased job opportunities. Until the last twelve rural students if they have no family ties in the metropolitan areas. The National Institute of Economic and Industry Research (NIEIR) Report wellbeing of all Victorian children from pregnancy through to transition months, the unemployment rate for the area had been much higher (2006) Development Options Bass Coast Shire 2005-2030 shows that to school (usually taken to be eight years of age) and the progress than the state average and it could be that people’s confidence 1. Introduction 2. Strategic Context The Reference Group explored the identified issues and developed The action plan consists of four objectives within the framework of the Bass Coast Shire is experiencing exciting yet challenging times. The 2.1 Australian Government an action plan to address the issues. A collaborative approach four environments of health: Social, Natural, Built and Economic. unprecedented growth in population and development opportunities that ensures that Council engages with the experts in this field have arisen as a result of the growth, have required the community to accept Development of this Plan is consistent with, and will contribute and is therefore informed of all issues so that it can build the Objective 1: To promote the value of a lifelong ‘learning changes that had not been planned for. The ageing population, in particular, to, the Australian Government policy set out in “The Adelaide community capacity to advocate to the relevant Government culture’ to individuals and the community presents many opportunities and challenges. With any change, there is a level Declaration on National Goals for Schooling in the Twenty- bodies on local issues. By building relationships between the of uncertainty and a feeling of loss of control. Council acknowledges this and First Century”. (MCEETYA, April 1999) Several tenets of the Action: Motivate people to take up or continue community, education and training providers it is hoped to: has been involving sectors of the community in its strategic planning process. Declaration link closely to the Council’s strategic objectives. learning for themselves and others. This empowers individuals to have some control over the future of Bass • encourage the integration of education and training pathways; Coast Shire and what legacy they will leave for future generations. It allows Lifestyle/Social Objective 2: To support the environmental Council to be in a better position to manage change because it ensures that • support local business education needs to ensure decisions are based on sound policy and address the community’s concerns. a skilled workforce for the region; sustainability of the Shire through education • Schooling provides a foundation for young Australians’ intellectual, physical, social, moral, spiritual and aesthetic development Action: Enhance the value in, and the appreciation • facilitate planning across all sectors of education and Council has a responsibility to the community to ensure that it takes a and contributes to the development of a student’s sense of self of, the local natural environment. leadership role in securing a sustainable social and economic future. worth, enthusiasm for learning and optimism for the future. • provide input into the Council’s structure planning for land use. With that in mind, the decision to facilitate the development of this Objective 3: To advocate and facilitate the provision of quality, Plan was an obvious step in that process. By informing the education • Students have qualities of self-confidence, optimism, Despite BCS being identified as a disadvantaged area (T Vinson 2007) it is accessible education, training and learning facilities. and training providers of the current and projected demographics and high self-esteem, and a commitment to personal well positioned to improve its socio-economic status with a decrease in economic status, it assists them to base their strategic plans in line excellence as a basis for their potential life roles as Action: Advocate for infrastructure that supports the the unemployment rate and the reported high level of social cohesion. A with the achievement of the overarching Education Plan. It also assists family, community and workforce members. current and future needs of the community and that will report on the Indicators of Community Strength in Bass Coast identified with developing networks to achieve positive outcomes for all. that, overall, residents reported higher than the State average in levels assist in attracting ‘Global Knowledge Workers’. • Students have the knowledge, skills and attitudes of wellbeing, social support, feeling part of the community, volunteering The value of establishing relationships or networks can never be over to establish and maintain a healthy lifestyle, and Objective 4: To contribute to the economic prosperity and perception of safety. It is documented that if disadvantaged estimated. The development of this Plan is an example of what can be for a creative and satisfying leisure time. communities have the opportunities to participate in community activities of Bass Coast Shire through the provision of a achieved when people who share the same goals and passions collaborate • The learning outcomes of educationally and build networks, they are more likely to become involved in decision- broad range of education and training options. together on a project. The initial Roundtable discussion brought a making that creates services, facilities and policies that improve their disadvantaged students improve. Actions: Advocate for training and education options to group of people who all have a background or interest in education and wellbeing. (Pope J 2007) The community’s input will, therefore, be meet existing and future employment needs. training together in the same forum for the first time. Whilst each person integral to the successful implementation of the Education Plan. Environment and Heritage Encourage a broad range of employment opportunities. may have a different role, all share the same Vision for this Plan. The Action Plan has tasks to be achieved within the next four years. • Students have an understanding of, and concern for, stewardship It will be reviewed annually and tasks evaluated and redeveloped Bass Coast is a vibrant community engaged in continual of the natural environment, and the knowledge and skills “In twenty years time I hope as required to ensure the achievement of the objectives. It will be learning and captures the value in this in strengthening health, to contribute to ecologically sustainable development. students are being taught more evaluated in 2012 and ongoing actions and tasks developed. wellbeing and prosperity by connecting with the world. The development process has been an exciting journey with a very life skills such as things that we motivated group of participants who are committed to achieving the Vision and believe that social, economic and personal health can take away from school to and wellbeing is achievable by raising the education levels and make our lives more positive.” increasing the training opportunities in a community. Built Environment 2.2 Victorian Government • Strengthening community-school partnerships with possible Leadership options of sharing infrastructure and facilities, creating “schools • Promote the economic use of public resources, and • Advocating to the relevant government departments for improved Education remains the number one priority of the Victorian State as hubs”, engaging the community in the delivery of education uphold the contribution of schooling to a socially education, training and learning opportunities for Bass Coast Shire. Government. The Government recognizes that education is the key to and strengthening school contributions to the community; cohesive and culturally rich society. This includes advocating to the Victorian Government, in partnership creating a dynamic, successful community and that Victoria must be a • Opportunity for innovation and requirement with South Gippsland Shire Council, for ongoing funding for the “South place where children get the best possible start to their education and • Enable all young people to engage effectively with an for community consultation; Coast Best Start” Project. It is currently funded from 2006-2010; increasingly complex world characterized by advances in where people of all ages are motivated to keep learning. The education and information and communication technologies, population training system requires continual improvement if Victoria is to keep up • Working together across government to create pathways for • Taking the lead role in the development of the Education diversity arising from international mobility and migration, with the rest of the world. Wide variations exist in the results achieved by young people that support a highly skilled workforce. Plan in partnership with the SGBCLLEN; and complex environmental and social challenges. students of different socio economic backgrounds and too many students leave school before completing their secondary education. To participate 2.3 Local Government • Advocating for and facilitating transport and • Students being confident, creative and productive in a modern economy more adult learners need to increase their skills communication infrastructure that supports economic development and lifestyle opportunities; users of new technologies, and understand the through further education and training. (Growing Victoria Together 2005) Local government undertakes a diverse range of educational activities and impact of those technologies on society. there are many examples of these. Local governments work with people of • Supporting new and existing industry and business to provide a The Government is also committed to reforming the way it develops all ages, with schools and employers, community groups and individuals diverse employment base and increase employment opportunities; Local Economy and provides services to ensure that services become more localized, to provide support, premises, funding and advocacy to enhance their better coordinated and relevant to communities, including: community’s participation in education and learning. (VLGA, 2003). Early • Promoting Bass Coast Shire Council as an ‘employer of choice’. • Further strengthening schools as learning communities childhood services such as Maternal and Child Health, Neighbourhood • Building stronger partnerships with community groups, where teachers, students and families work in partnership Houses and libraries are provided through local government. Planning with business, industry and the wider community. the business community and local government; • Identifying and establishing appropriate sites and locations • Ensuring that Government departments and agencies Local government provides leadership in the provision of • Participate in programs and activities which foster and develop for future development of integrated education and learning enterprise skills, including those skills which will allow work more closely together at a regional level; environmental educational activities such as waste management, 1 facilities in conjunction with relevant stakeholders; them maximum flexibility and adaptability in the future. environmental rehabilitation projects, energy management *, • Making sure that the provision of Government accessing natural heritage trust funding for programs such as • Assisting education providers to plan and develop • Assist young people to contribute to Australia’s social, cultural services is more localized (ibid) Landcare and the provision of community grants. (ibid) appropriate sites for new educational facilities; and economic development in local and global contexts. The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development It is involved in many economic development activities acknowledging • In partnership with early childhood service providers, planning • Students have employment related skills and an understanding of (DEECD) is responsible for key cross-sectoral initiatives. that education and the educational qualifications of a community have a for services to be co located on appropriate sites. the work environment, career options and pathways as a foundation significant impact on the economic prosperity of a community. Activities for, and positive attitudes towards, vocational education and Government priorities that have the capacity include business mentoring programs, educational sessions for small Service Provision training, further education, employment and lifelong learning. to impact on Bass Coast include: businesses and support for the development of business incubators. (ibid) • Provision of relevant community education programs; • Access to the high quality education necessary to enable the • Victorian Schools Plan whereby $2.3 billion has been allocated 2.4 Bass Coast Shire Council completion of school education to year 12, or its vocational for education capital over 5 years with a target of every Victorian • Provision of infrastructure for the provision of pre-school services; equivalent, that provides clear and recognized pathways government school being rebuilt or modernized within 10 years. This BCSC is involved in a wide range of educational activities. These • Provision of community grants for relevant to employment and further education and training. will also create improved learning environments and improved access; can be divided into leadership, planning and service provision. community education programs; • Maintaining a world-class education system through better • Provision of infrastructure and support for access to learning technologies via improved internet access with community-based learning programs. “In twenty years time I hope all an $89.3 million allocation for broadband access to schools;

students are given a fair go.” 1*Bass Coast Shire Council is one of 39 Councils who participate in the Cities for Climate Protection Program. Councils involved have committed to reducing their own greenhouse gas emissions by between 10% and 40 % and to work with their communities to reduce emissions by between 10% and 20%. (VLGA,2003) (ibid) 3. Relationship to BCSC’s 4. Education Plan Framework Community and Council Plans Methodology 4.3 Education Forum 4.1 Education Round Table In April 2007, Council hosted an Education Forum to enable local education and training providers to learn how other communities are addressing similar issues to those faced by Bass Coast Shire. Bass Coast Shire Council Council hosted a Round Table discussion with local education and Council is most appreciative of the following speakers Council Plan training providers on 19 October 2006 where its CEO, Allan Bawden, presented findings from a survey conducted by SGBCLLEN and a who presented papers at the forum. Overall directions and report on the Development Options Bass Coast Shire 2005-2030 » Fiona Hodges, General Manager Community commitments across which was conducted by the NIEIR. Issues affecting both individual Wellbeing, Cardinia Shire Council social, economic, organisations and shire wide were collated and developed into environmental and an issues matrix under the headings of the four environments » Emanuel Merambeliotis, Acting Principal, governance dimensions. of health: Social, Environmental, Built and Economic. Pakenham Secondary College

All participants agreed that a partnership approach was needed to » Kenneth Thompson, Chairman, Global Learning address the issues identified in these reports and achieve positive Village Committee, Hume City Council Bass Coast Shire Council Bass Coast Shire Council outcomes for the whole community of Bass Coast. The participants » George McLean, General Manager, Post Compulsory Department, Municipal Strategic Municipal Public supported the development of an Education Policy and this Plan. Department of Education and Early Childhood Development Statement Health Plan 4.2 BCSC Education Policy Approach and commitments Community Approach and commitments 4.4 Literature Review across the four dimensions across the four dimensions. The Education Policy was developed as a basis to inform this Plan and to with an emphasis on issues Plan articulate Council’s role in education. The objectives of the policy are: Extensive literature research was undertaken including from of land use, the built international, national and local resources. Issues identified at environment, public open • To advocate to the relevant government departments for improved the local level are similar to those experienced in other parts of space, air and water. education, training and learning opportunities for Bass Coast Shire. the world and within Australia. We can therefore learn from the strategies implemented elsewhere when developing our own. • To clarify Council’s role and responsibilities in Other specific relation to education and learning. issue Plans 4.5 Site visits • To assist Council in setting priorities relevant Education Plan, Positive to education and learning. Visits to other Shires that have implemented Education Strategies proved Ageing Strategy, Youth valuable in establishing the reasons for developing this Plan, the variety Strategy, Municipal Early • To foster collaboration between relevant stakeholders in of processes implemented and the outcomes and achievements. Years Plan, Assets Plan, facilitating the provision of quality education, training and Access Action Plan etc learning opportunities and outcomes for our community.

• To create an awareness of the importance of the relationship of quality education and learning to the community’s health, well-being and prosperity. 5. Bass Coast Shire Profile 4.6 Secondary Student Survey 4.7 Partnerships 5.1 Socio-Economic Secondary students attending both Wonthaggi Secondary College and The SGBCLLEN approached Council to develop the Plan following the Socio-Economic Indexes for Areas (SEIFA) 2001 was developed to assess “Young people would be Newhaven College were sent a survey consisting of three questions. release of the discussion paper Summary of information that affects the welfare of Australian communities. The Australian Bureau of Statistics decisions relating to the education, employment and training for 15- (ABS) has developed four indexes to assess the wellbeing of communities. encouraged live, learn and work 1 What do you want education services to be like in twenty years? 24 year olds. (Kibell, C, 2006) The report highlighted a variety of issues that were already impacting, or had the potential to impact, negatively Index 1 Index of Advantage and Disadvantage: 2 What supports do young people need to in Bass Coast if there was a on the whole community. At the same time, Council commissioned the Low values indicate areas of disadvantage. encourage them to complete Year 12? report Development Options Bass Coast Shire 2005-2030 (National more extensive range of tertiary Index 2 Index of Disadvantage: Focuses on low-income earners, Institute of Economic and Industry Research, (NIEIR), 2006). One of 3 What would encourage young people to live, relatively lower educational attainment and high unemployment. opportunities available locally.” learn and work in Bass Coast Shire? the recommendations of this report suggested that, whilst continuing to attract older residents, BCS needs to maintain a balanced inflow Index 3 Index of Economic Resources: Includes variables that are Seventy responses were received. Some of the of working age and young people similar to the current structure for associated with economic resources. Variables include rent paid, common responses to question 1 were: the next 25 years if it is to sustain a long-term viable economy. income by family type, mortgage payments, and rental properties.

» a greater range of subjects; To address the issues identified, it was proposed to establish a Reference Index 4 Index of Education and Occupation: Includes “Students need to feel that the » improved facilities. Group made up of local education and training providers to assist in all education and occupation variables. the development of this Plan. Whilst representation from all sectors of teacher is a friend and mentor Answers to question 2 included: education was sought, i.e. early years, primary, secondary, tertiary and Each of the four indexes is constructed of a so that they feel comfortable U3A, regular attendees have been from the secondary sector. Issues list of variables (see Appendix 8.3). » more support from parents, teachers and their peers; relevant to early years education have been captured in the Municipal discussing issues with them” » increased employment opportunities. Early Years Plan and within the South Coast Best Start Project. The mean score for the index of Relative Socio-Economic Disadvantage (RSED) for Australia is 1,000. A score of less than 1,000 indicates that Answers to question 3 included: As previously mentioned, the benefits of building relationships and an area is more disadvantaged than the Australian average. The lower partnerships to achieve positive outcomes for a community cannot the score, the more disadvantaged the community is. As can be seen » more employment opportunities; be underestimated. This is evidenced by the successful partnership from the Table 1, Bass Coast is ranked as a disadvantaged area. » a greater variety of weekend activities between GippsTAFE and Chisholm to form the Southern and Coastal According to SEIFA, Bass Coast Shire is ranked

Alliance. The two organisations are working together to achieve better 37th of the 47 regional municipalities. outcomes for the communities of Bass Coast and South Gippsland.

Education is a ‘whole of community’ issue and therefore the development of this Plan would not have been possible without the input of a wide cross section of education and training providers, students and the community.

Table 1 – SEIFA Index

Advantage/ Education Ideally, BCS needs to attract households with global knowledge skills Rank within Disadvantage Rank within Economic Rank within Rank within “Students completing Area Disadvantage –Occupation who are willing to relocate here without any appropriate employment Gippsland (Index 2) Gippsland (Index 3) Gippsland Gippsland (Index 1) (Index 4) position being available to them in the Shire at that time. This is Year 12 need support from Bass Coast 931.02 1 988.75 3 903.42 2 956.66 2 because higher skilled worker migration creates a cycle of improved economic performance and productivity. Improving productivity creates parents and each other” Baw Baw 938.04 3 1009.66 5 956.27 6 970.20 6 a cycle of faster sustainable improvement. If the global knowledge East Gippsland 933.56 2 984.06 2 901.96 1 959.28 3 workers are able to reside in BCS but work outside the municipality, Latrobe City 941.52 4 960.18 1 941.50 4 939.37 1 BCS benefits because they are bringing more money into the Shire thus increasing the economic prosperity of the community. South Gippsland 955.70 5 1017.49 6 931.87 3 961.59 5 “Young people would be One of the major strategies to attract young, working age people is the Wellington 958.47 6 1006.31 4 944.53 5 960.59 4 provision of a range of quality education options, that is, the provision encouraged live, learn and work Gippsland 950.50 989.72 939.02 954.41 of primary and secondary schools, TAFE and Universities. (NIEIR) Country Victoria 970.47 1001.28 972.44 964.02 in Bass Coast if there were more Metro 1047.04 1025.81 1044.31 1046.64 Table 2 job opportunities other than Source: ABS 2001 Census Data Age Group Bass Coast Victoria Australia working in supermarkets” 0-4 years 5.3% 6.2% 6.3% 5-14 years 12.1% 13.1% 13.5% 5.2 Impact of age structure on the Therefore local economies in rapidly ageing regions economic viability of Bass Coast Shire are often depressed. This is because: 15-24 years 9.3% 13.7% 13.6% 25-54 years 35.1% 42.5% 42.2% • Areas of high real unemployment and poor productivity attract 55-64 years 15.2% 10.8% 11.0% The age structure of a community is important in the planning of ageing migrants because they are also low cost areas; infrastructure and services, such as schools and health services. 65 years+ 23.0% 13.7% 13.3% Together with fertility rates, it also has implications for the future • Ageing workers earn less, so local average wages Median age of persons 46 years 37 years 37 years growth or decline of the population and the economic sustainability of and average household incomes are reduced; the Shire. As can be seen from Table 2, BCS has an older age structure Source: 2006 Census QuickStats www.censusdata.abs.gov.au than that of Victoria and Australia. It is also a general economic rule • Pool of entrepreneurs taking risks declines (aged persons that rapidly ageing regions are regions of low per capita income are generally in retirement and tend to seek financial and low economic productivity. The report Development Options security rather than risk starting up a new business venture). Bass Coast 2005-2030 (NIEIR, 2006) states that this is because: Therefore, the number of new businesses declines;

• Low per capita income regions are low cost regions; • Lower productivity and fewer employable persons further reduce economic activity. A downward cycle develops; • Low per capita income regions attract aged migrants; • Lack of long-term labour discourages • Low per capita income regions cause young to leave; long-term business investment.

• Alternatively, high per capita income regions attract young migration and

• High per capita income regions cause aged to leave. 6. Education Issues 7. Monitoring and 8. Appendices for Bass Coast Shire Evaluation 8.1 Acknowledgements The following information was sourced from the discussion paper, 7.1 Monitoring Council would like to acknowledge the contribution of the following members of the Reference ‘Summary of information that affects decisions relating to the Group in the development of this Plan and thank them for their participation. education, employment and training for 15-24 year olds’. (Carolyn This Plan will be monitored by the BCSC Social Planner but Name Position Organisation Kibell Consulting & Research Pty Ltd and SGBCLLEN (2006)) the implementation of the action plan is the responsibility of Mr Allan Bawden Chief Executive Officer Bass Coast Shire Council the nominated officers and or organisations. The progress • The Shire has lower educational standards than in Victoria as a whole. Mr Richard Perry Director Economic Development and Community Services Bass Coast Shire Council of the implementation will be reviewed annually. Mrs Jeanette Draper Social Planner Bass Coast Shire Council • Retention of secondary students in education and Ms Stephanie Symes Economic Development Planner Bass Coast Shire Council training is declining- against the State trend. 7.2 Evaluation Ms Liz Wright Manager, Community Services Bass Coast Shire Council • There is an unacceptable number of ‘at risk’ students. The effectiveness of this Plan will be evaluated against the Ms Linda Ryan Administration Officer, Community Services Bass Coast Shire Council improvement of the issues identified by the SGBCLLEN and Ms Virginia Simmons Director & Chief Executive Officer Chisholm Institute • Student enrolment in Universities is in decline and an improvement of the Community Indicators report. deferrals from Universities are increasing. Ms Catherine Pickett Regional Manager, Bass Coast Campus Chisholm Institute Ms Robyn Campbell School Director, School of Business and Management Chisholm Institute • Anecdotally it is said that there is a lack of an Ms Marge Arnup O-School Entry Project Officer, Gippsland Region DEECD appreciation of a ‘learning culture’. Mr Don Paproth Deputy Regional Director, Morwell/South Gippsland Operating Area DEECD • TAFE State priorities do not always reflect all local needs therefore Mr Bob Speed Business Development Manager Gippsland Group Training LTD the profile hours do not meet all local student and industry needs. Ms Janine Pickersgill Program Support Officer Gippsland Regional Council ACFE Mr John Cargill Previous Campus Manager, GippsTAFE • Main employment industries are retail, tourism and construction. Mr Jim Vivian Campus Manager GippsTAFE • There are no large industries to support a large apprenticeship base. Dr Peter Whitley Chief Executive Officer GippsTAFE Mr Malcolm Beasley Director Impact Creativity • Local government, the health sector and education Ms Loretta Hambly Director, Strategic Planning Monash University, Gippsland Campus make up most of the larger employers. “Students need the support of Mr Doug Wain Chief Executive Officer Moonya • The unemployment rate for Bass Coast Shire was 5.5% knowing that year 12 is a change Mr Michael Brewin Principal Newhaven College in December 2006. Gippsland 5.3%. Victoria 5.0% and that results can determine Ms Karen Milkins-Hendry Vice Principal Newhaven College • In the 2006 census there were 14.3% one-parent families. Mr Mark Manteit Chief Executive Officer PINP your future but that it is not the Ms Bridget Fahy Education Manager PINP • 34.4% of families of students in secondary schools Mr David Roche Executive Officer SGBCLLEN can be regarded as low-income earners. end of the world if you do poorly.” Mr Colin Waring Bass Coast Principal Librarian West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation Mr Eugene Willems Principal South Coast Christian School Mr Garry Dennis Principal Wonthaggi Secondary College Mr Darren Parker Vice Principal Wonthaggi Secondary College 8.2 Education and Training Services in Bass Coast Shire 8.3 The 11 indicators used to determine levels of disadvantage.

Child Care Secondary Schools Indicators Method of calculation Bass Coast Children’s Centre (Long Day Care) Newhaven College ABC Learning Centre (Long Day Care) South Coast Christian College Unemployment Number of unemployed as a proportion of the labour force. Kids House (Long Day Care and Occasional Care) Wonthaggi Secondary College – Dudley Campus (Junior) Low income Proportion of households with incomes < $26,000 per annum. Wonthaggi Secondary College – McBride Campus (Senior) Low birth weight Proportion of all birth weights < 2,550gm. Playgroups Coronet Bay Playgroup Tertiary and Other Child abuse Number of confirmed instances as a proportion of all children up to 15 years of age. Corinella Playgroup Chisholm Institute of TAFE Education – Leave school < 15 years of age Number as proportion of > 15 years of age. Inverloch Playgroup Bass Coast Adult Education Centre Emergency assistance Recipient households as proportion of all households. San Remo Playgroup U3A Wonthaggi Inc. Phillip Island U3A Psychiatric hospital admissions Number of persons admitted as proportion of population > 18 years of age. Pre-Schools GippsTAFE Court convictions Number of convicted persons as proportion of population 18-50 years of age. Inverloch & District Pre School Child injuries Injuries as proportion of population ≤ 18 years of age. Jeanette Loughridge Memorial Pre-School Community Centres and Neighbourhood Houses Unskilled workers Number of unskilled workers as proportion of population 18-65 years of age. Phillip Island Kindergarten Inc Phillip Island Community and Learning Centre Inc. San Remo Pre-School Corinella and District Community Centre Inc. Court defendants Number of people dealt with by courts for criminal matters as proportion of population 18-50 years of age. Wonthaggi Kindergarten Inc (Murray St) Wonthaggi Neighbourhood Centre at Mitchell House Wonthaggi Kindergarten Inc (White Rd) Inverloch Venus Bay Community Group Bass Valley Community Group Inc. Primary Schools Bass Valley Primary School Learning Centres Cowes Primary School Bass Coast Adult Education Centre Inverloch Primary School Phillip Island U3A Newhaven Primary School South Coast Speakers Toastmaster Club “Students need support in completing Year 12 because they want to Primary School U3A Wonthaggi Inc San Remo Primary School work hard to get the job they have always dreamed of their whole life.” South Coast Christian College Libraries St Joseph’s Primary School Cowes Wonthaggi North Primary School Inverloch Wonthaggi Primary School Wonthaggi Mobile library service to Corinella, Coronet Bay, Cowes, Grantville, and San Remo 8.4 Global Knowledge Workers 9. References Global knowledge occupations Australian Bureau of Statistics (2007) 2006 Census QuickStats: Bass Coast National Centre of Science, Information and Communication Technology Importers, Exporters & Wholesalers Computing Professionals (S) (Local Government Area) retrieved on 27 June 2007 from http://www. and Mathematics Education for Rural and Regional Australia Resource Managers Miscellaneous Business & Information Professionals Project & Program Administrators censusdata.abs.gov.au/ABSNavigation/prenav/LocationList?newgeograph (siMERR) (2005) The siMERR national Survey in Brief retrieved on 24 September 2007 from http://www.simerr.une.edu.au/ Finance Managers Human Resource Professionals Computing Support Technicians Bass Coast Shire Council (2007) Council Plan 2007-2011 Information Technology Managers Librarians Mathematicians, Statisticians & Actuaries Bass Coast Shire Council, Wonthaggi, Victoria NSW Health (2006) Report of the New South Wales Chief Sales & Marketing Managers Business & Organisation Analysts Property Professionals Health Officer Social determinants Year 12 retention rate Department of Education, Science and Training Canberra (April retrieved on 24 September 2007 from http://www.health. Policy & Planning Managers Sales, Marketing & Advertising Professionals Accountants, Auditors & Corporate Treasurers 2007) OECD Thematic Review of Tertiary Education Country nsw.gov.au/public-health/chorep/soc/soc_retent.htm Media Products & Artistic Directors Other Business & Information Professionals Technical Sales Representatives Background Report Australia. Retrieved on 23 August 2007 from http://www.oecd.org/dataoecd/51/60/38759740.pdf Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) (2004) Media Presenters Legal Professionals Medical Technical Officers Education Levels Rising in OECD Countries but Low Attainment Still Department of Education and Training (2002) Knowledge and Skills for the Science, Building & Engineering Professionals Economists Science Technical Officers Hampers Some. Retrieved on 23 August, 2007 from http://www.oecd.org/ Innovation Economy: a Statement by the Hon. Lynne Kosky, MP minister document/31/0,2340,en_2649_201185_33710751_1_1_1_1,00.html Natural & Physical Science Professionals Designers & Illustrators Financial Dealers & Brokers for Education and Training, Communications Division of the Department Chemists Journalists & Related Profs Financial Investment Advisers of Education and Training, Victorian Government, Melbourne, Victoria Pope J (2007) Indicators of Community Strength in Bass Coast, Including select townships, Department of Planning and Geologists & Geophysicists Authors & Related Professionals Library Technicians Department of Premier and Cabinet (March 2005) Growing Community Development formerly The Department for Victorian Life Scientists Film, TV, Radio& Stage Directors Medical & Science Tech Offs Victoria Together. A Vision for Victoria to 2010 and Communities, Victorian Government, Melbourne, Victoria Beyond, Victorian Government, Melbourne, Victoria Medical Scientists Scientists, Engineers & Related Associated Professionals Electrical & Electronics Engineers School Resources Division (2006) Building Futures, Caring Frankston City Council (2004) The Learning City Strategy, A Framework For Your Child Policy and Process for Victorian Government For Action 2005-2007, Frankston City Council, Frankston, Victoria Schools, Department of Education and Early Childhood Kibell C (2006) Summary of information that affects decisions relating Development, Victorian Government, Melbourne, Victoria “Young people would be encouraged live, learn and work in Bass to the education, employment and training for 15-24 year olds. Carolyn Snelling Leigh (2003) Local Government and Education It Takes a Village to Coast if there were improved public transport services, a cinema Kibell Consulting & Research Pty Ltd and SGBCLLEN, Wonthaggi, Victoria Raise a Child Victorian Local Governance Association, Melbourne, Victoria Hume City Council, Hume Global Learning Village (2004) Learning South Gippsland and Bass Coast Local Learning and Employment Network and more recreational opportunities other than sport.” Together 2004/2008 An introduction to the Hume Global Learning (2007) Report to the Victorian Skills Commission, Wonthaggi, Victoria Village and our Strategy, Hume City Council, Dallas, Victoria. Vinson T (2007) Dropping off the Edge: the distribution Ministerial Council on Education, Employment, Training and Youth of disadvantage in Australia, Jesuit Social Services and Affairs (1999) The Adelaide Declaration on National Goals for Schooling Catholic Social Services Australia, Richmond, Victoria in the Twenty-First Century retrieved on 27 August 2007 from http://www.mceetya.edu.au/mceetya/nationalgoals/natgoals.htm

National Institute of Economic and Industry Research (NIEIR) (2006) Development Options Bass Coast Shire 2005-2030, NIEIR, Clifton Hill, Victoria Bass Coast Shire Council Education Plan 2008 -2012 Action Plan Strategic Objectives

Strategic Objective Issues Strategic Objective Issues

1. Lifestyle/Social • Low socio economic profile 4. Local Economy • Limited availability of skilled staff particularly in the hospitality, health sectors To promote the value of a lifelong • Low year 12 retention rates To contribute to the economic prosperity • Limited succession planning ‘learning culture’ to individuals • Low rates of students attending tertiary institutions of Bass Coast through the provision of • Affordability of education and training and the community. • Increase in deferrals from university a broad range of education and training • Course variety does not always reflect local employment needs • Low educational and qualification levels options. • Apprenticeship rates declining • Limited housing affordability • High unemployment rate • Students and families have low aspirations • Lack of major industries to support apprenticeships • Limited staff support • Lack of Bass Coast based group training provider • Limited ‘return to study’ programs • Identification of skills gap • Barriers for students from Culturally And Linguistically Diverse (CALD) populations • Low rate of global knowledge businesses and job opportunities accessing education, training and employment opportunities • Low number of entrepreneurs • Limited course variety • Need for professional development in curriculum development, mentoring • Identification of leaders and mentors within the local community programs and research into the needs of changing communities • Identification of improvement opportunities within the organisations providing services • Limited agriculture courses • Identification of business mentors 2. Environment and Heritage • Geographic restraints to accessing education options • Limited partnerships between education and corporate sectors To support the environmental • No local environmental courses covering subjects such as: • Identification of links between economic development and environmental sustainability sustainability of the Shire • The natural attributes of Bass Coast. through education. • Eco-tourism. • Environmental and landscape possibilities. • Links between economic development and environmental sustainability • Need for appropriate knowledge and skill base to respond to pressures on the environment 3. Built • Limited access to quality, modern IT equipment and resources To advocate and facilitate the provision • Inadequate infrastructure, quality, size, location of quality, accessible education, • Need for university presence “In twenty years time I hope students are not training and learning facilities. • Accessible, affordable transport options subjected to bullying.” Objective 1 To promote the value of a lifelong ‘learning culture’ to individuals and the community.

Action Task Measures Responsible Officer/ Partners Target Resources Action Task Measures Responsible Officer/ Partners Target Resources

Motivate Establish a Reference Group Bass Coast Education, Training and Reference Group 2008 Advocate for Recommendations submitted Students’ outcomes improved. Local schools 2008 people to of key stakeholders and Employment Consortium established. ongoing provision of to all levels of Government. DEECD ongoing take up, or community members to pursue improved BCSC continue, the Vision for the Education facilities Local businesses learning for Plan via advocacy, strategic and services Early Childhood Services themselves planning and co-ordination. and staff and others Implement the South Coast Improvement in the health, development, BCSC 2008- Promote achievements of Alumni established. Wonthaggi Secondary School 2009 development Best Start Project. learning and wellbeing of children from SGS 2010 local past students. Newhaven College Update of student achievements reported in Ongoing opportunities pregnancy through to transition to school. BCCHS local media at the end of each school term. in schools DEECD and early Bass Coast Youth Mentoring Program for SGBCLLEN Ongoing years sector. Participate in the Gippsland Relevant Bass Coast stakeholders BCSC 2008 secondary students continued. DEECD Youth Options Commitment. to become signatory to the GYOC. SGBCLLEN Wonthaggi Secondary colleges Secondary School TAFE Newhaven College RTOs Celebrate excellence and The Wonthaggi Energy and Innovation BCSC Events Manager 2010 DEECD innovation in learning. Festival expanded.

Applications submitted to the Reference Group Annually Gippsland Innovation Festival. Participation in a shire wide Reference Group Annually celebration of Education Week. Promote accessible education Innovation in education promoted through Moonya ATSS Annually and learning opportunities for all. the annual ‘Sun, Surf and Sand’ festival. TAFE Monash University Gippsland Development of Bass Coast 2008 Gippsland Multicultural Specialist School. Services Refer to the objectives of the Wurreker Local Schools Ongoing “In twenty years time hopefully high quality education Strategy when developing programs. U3A Wurreker Broker services will be accessible to all.” An increase in the number of CALD 2008 students accessing post secondary courses. Provision of supported educational Ongoing programs that meet the individual needs of young people with disabilities. Promote the important role Formal recognition of the achievements of SGBCLLEN Annually of teachers and tutors. teachers and tutors during Education Week. DEECD Local schools Objective 2 To support the environmental sustainability of the Shire through education.

Action Task Measures Responsible Officer/ Partners Target Resources Action Task Measures Responsible Officer/ Partners Target Resources

Enhance Re-brand the Shire to be recognised Shire branding reflects BCSC 2008 Establish a network with local New activities, professional Local schools 2011 schools to develop environmental development programs and Environmental Organisations the value as a leader in environmental empathy. environmental empathy. curricula activities, professional kits available and shared. PINP in, and the Implement strategies to educate Produce an information booklet for PINP 2012 development for teachers and kits DSE appreciation visitors to respect and assist in the new residents, estate agents, schools, Reference Group based on local issues for schools. of, the local conservation and sustainability libraries on environmental initiatives. DSE natural Seek funding for identified List of projects identified and Businesses 2012 of the environment. Landcare environment Implement an education program educational projects on ongoing funding acquired. Government agencies Parks Vic. on the impacts of every day environmental sustainability. Environmental groups activities on stormwater quality. Reference Group Implement an education program Establish an environmental sub-group Environmental sub group established Bass Coast Education, Training 2009 on the community benefits of the Bass Coast Education, Training with ongoing funding identified. and Employment Consortium of reuse of waste water. and Employment Consortium. Government Agencies Advocate for the provision of Increased options for higher Reference Group 2010 Consideration for studies that provide Introduction of environmental TAFE 2011 flexibly delivered higher education education available. Universities specialist skills in environmentally practices into existing courses. Gippsland Group Training options including environmental TAFE friendly and eco friendly techniques SGBCLLEN studies for local residents. U3A associated with trades such as: electrical, building, plumbing, design. Establish formal partnerships Formal partnership group established. PINP 2009 between education providers and TAFE Integrated learning local environmental organisations Foreshore Committees options documented. to enable integrated learning. Secondary schools DSE Landcare Research the link between Research completed and document Monash University Gippsland 2011 social, economic and published for community PINP environmental sustainability. discussion. Reference Group Provide regular information and Increase in skill base and PINP 2009 opportunities for professional number of volunteers for TAFE development training for volunteers environmental programs. Foreshore Committees on environmental issues. Secondary schools DSE Landcare Objective 3 To advocate and facilitate the provision of quality, accessible education, training and learning facilities.

Action Task Measures Responsible Officer/ Partners Target Resources Action Task Measures Responsible Officer/ Partners Target Resources Provide a range of high Research the establishment of a DEECD 2008 Advocate for Promote the services of Increase in the utilisation of BCSC 2008 quality education services Government secondary college in Catholic Diocese, Sale ongoing infrastructure existing learning facilities. eg existing learning facilities. WGRLC Ongoing across all levels. San Remo / Phillip Island area. Reference Group that supports Libraries, Community Houses. Bass Coast Community the current Houses Network Expansion of the South Coast 2008 and future Christian College. needs of the Research the future infrastructure Consultants engaged, research DEECD 2009 community needs across all sectors. completed and reported back Reference Group Relocation of Newhaven College. 2010 and that to reference group. will assist Continue to pursue the Evidence to support the need Reference Group 2008 Research feasibility of establishment 2012 in attracting presence of Monash University for a University presence. Monash University 0ngoing of a secondary Catholic College. ‘Global Gippsland in Bass Coast Shire. Knowledge Provide metropolitan standard Assessment of broadband services BCSC Economic Planner 2008 Workers’ Research design options to A collaborative Education and Training DEECD 2009- External Broadband services required and development of and Advisory Panel support innovative methods to Delivery Model including infrastructure Reference Group 2012 funding for Action Plan to achieve them. deliver education and training. requirements researched and developed. Consultant Utilise the Transport Connections Transport options increased. Transport Connections 2008 Research to include consideration of to facilitate Project to increase transport Project Officer ongoing co location of the following services: project access and options to education Reference Group • Senior secondary campus and training facilities and services • Group training • Library • Community support services • University foundation studies.

Co-locate early years’ services to Increase the number of early years’ BCSC 2008 enable easier access for families. learning hubs in the Shire. BCCHS Ongoing BCS Children’s Services Providers Network Primary Schools Objective 4 To contribute to the economic prosperity of Bass Coast Shire through the provision of a broad range of education and training options.

Action Task Measures Responsible Officer/ Partners Target Resources Action Task Measures Responsible Officer/ Partners Target Resources

Advocate for Identify skills and labour gaps. Skills and labour gaps identified SGBCLLEN 2009 Facilitate cross-sector Bass Coast Industry Reference Group 2008 training and and strategies developed. Gippsland Skills and partnerships Network established. ongoing education Labour Needs Forum Advocate for a group-training Evidence supporting the need Gippsland Group Training 2009 options to OTTE provider to be based in Bass Coast. for a Group-training provider. Reference Group meet existing S&CTA and future Government agencies Increase Maximise educational and training Proposed industrial and commercial OTTE 2008 employment Employment agencies the range of and employment opportunities developments to be a standing agenda Reference group ongoing needs Gippsland Group Training employment associated with new industrial item for the Reference Group meetings. opportunities and commercial developments. Advocate for local courses to Recommendations in the Gippsland Gippsland Skills and 2008 Educational and training needs reflect local employment needs. Skills and Labour Needs Forum Report. Labour Needs Forum 0ngoing assessed against the developments. S&CTA Government agencies Evidence provided to OTTE.

Maximise educational and training Provision of a range of tourism TAFE 2008 Facilitate business growth. Participation by business operators BCSC Small Business Ongoing opportunities associated with the and hospitality training options. BCSC Economic ongoing in a broad range of relevant Development Officer tourism and hospitality sectors. Development Unit; education and training sessions Business Associations Government agencies S&CTA Employment agencies A broad range of business support BCSC Small Business Ongoing Maximise educational and Partnership with Monash Monash University Gippsland 2009 incorporated into the biztobiz website Development Officer training opportunities associated University Gippsland for placement GPA South Gippsland with the health sector. of medical students at BCRH, SCHSC Promote local employment Job opportunities promoted in Local businesses and Ongoing BCCHS and BCSC HACC team. BCRH opportunities. print media and on line. organisations BCSC Employment Agencies

Promote the value, long Increase number of VET placements. SGBCLLEN 2010

term career pathways and Local Secondary Colleges

employment opportunities of Local businesses

apprenticeship training. DEST-LCP

Implement recommendations Gippsland Group Training 2008 from the Gippsland Apprenticeship SGBCLLEN ongoing Research Project. Local businesses Monash University Gippsland Increase number of apprenticeships. RDV BCSC Social Planner Bass Coast Shire Council 76 Mc Bride Ave, Wonthaggi VIC 3995 Tel 1300BCOAST www.basscoast.vic.gov.au