Nominations for Australia’s vocational education and training (VET) champions are now open, with the 2022 Australian Training Awards set to take place in Adelaide on 18 November 2022.
This year’s awards will celebrate 16 recipients, including four Australian Government categories, 11 State and Territory categories and the Outstanding Achievement in the VET and Skills Sector Award.
Minister for Employment, Workforce, Skills, Small and Family Business, the Hon Stuart Robert MP, said the awards will focus on creative initiatives that have been developed within the VET sector as the nation continues its economic recovery.
‘This year we’re introducing a new award for Innovation in VET, which recognises employers, training providers and organisations who have made the most of a challenging year for the sector,’ Minister Robert said.
‘We have seen an unprecedented surge in the number of apprentices or trainees being employed across the country. Last year alone, there were 1 in 4 Australian businesses with an apprentice or trainee, which demonstrates the strength of the skills system under the Morrison Government,’ he said.
‘Recent data from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research has found the proportion of Australian businesses with apprentices and trainees is at its highest level since 2011, which shows our investment in VET is paying off.’
Assistant Minister for Youth and Employment Services, the Hon Luke Howarth MP, said the Australian Training Awards form part of the Australian Government’s commitment to the VET sector.
‘The Australian Government has invested $7.8 billion this financial year alone to assist Australians across the nation to upskill and reskill, the biggest investment in our nation’s history,’ Assistant Minister Howarth said.
‘Our VET sector – individuals and businesses are the backbone of our economy and will help us recover faster from the economic impacts of COVID.’
Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry said the Australian Training Awards provide a chance to highlight success stories of exceptional people and business who are going above and beyond to ensure our skills base.
‘I encourage Capricornia residents to nominate exceptional locals working in the VET sector – whether they are apprentices, trainees or businesses. If you know someone who is doing a great job, nominate them today,’ Ms Landry said.
‘Let’s show the rest of the nation what our locals can do. It is important we showcase the talent and perseverance of our hard-working community.
‘These people and businesses are doing their part to help Australia bounce back after a couple of very difficult years for us all.’
The Australian Training Award nominations are open from today until 31 May 2022.
More details and how to nominate can be found at: www.australiantrainingawards.gov.au
