NEW LAWS SUPPORT A MORE RESPONSIVE TAFE SYSTEM

A key step in the reform of Queensland’s vocational education and training sector has begun with the introduction of new legislation into State Parliament today.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said the Vocational Education Training and Employment and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2007 would create a legislative framework for the establishment and operation of TAFE institutes as statutory authorities.

“Ensuring we have a vibrant and robust public provider, alongside a thriving private sector, is the cornerstone in ensuring Queensland’s training workforce matches the needs of industry and our vocational education and training system remains world-class,” Mr Welford said.

“Our $1 billion Queensland Skills Plan acknowledges that the rapidly changing training market poses real challenges for the responsiveness of the current TAFE delivery model.

“This legislation will help to ensure our TAFE institutes are as responsive as possible to local training needs by introducing new governance arrangements that allow for location-specific operational plans.

“This will enhance the capacity of TAFE Queensland institutes to develop industry partnerships and grow the commercial component of their business in a competitive vocational education and training market.”

Mr Welford said the change of governance would occur through a phased transition.

“Another benefit of the legislation is that eligible TAFE Queensland students will be able to access the Federal Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme, which is expected to come into effect in 2008,” he said.

“Under the current legislative model, TAFE institutes cannot offer FEE-HELP to students because they are required to have body corporate status, or the equivalent under the law.

“I have negotiated an agreement with the Federal Minister for Vocational Education and Training to ensure eligible TAFE Queensland students are not disadvantaged.

“The first institute established under the statutory authority model will act on behalf of all TAFE Queensland institutes as the eligible FEE-HELP provider for a period of 12 months while other institutes prepare for transition to the new arrangements.”

It is anticipated that the first TAFE institutes will be ready to be established under the new operating model by 1 January 2008.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000