VET workforce of the future

In the past two years, there has been a very welcome re-focussing in TAFE and VET on the importance of those who work in the sector, and particularly on those who are integral to its central mission – teachers. The re-focussing has highlighted some very critical issues – issues associated with qualifications and professional development, endemic casualisation and what is generally acknowledged to be an aging workforce.

All these things are situated in a broader context – vocational education continues to be the worst resourced education sector, and the issue of investment underpins any discussions about its future. Thus has it ever been!

The government has big plans for TAFE and VET – the sector is crucial to its vision for the future of Australian society. This is a rare moment for us – and it is one which we must seize with both hands. More...