SKILLS FOR JOBS - The Training and Skills Commission's Five Year Plan for Skills and Workforce Development 2011

As we release this year’s plan, we are acutely aware that many South Australian businesses are struggling as a result of global economic conditions, and many workers are worried about their future. We are also confident, however, that South Australia faces a very positive outlook, with unprecedented growth opportunities flowing from major investment in resources and infrastructure. South Australia must continue to build on its strengths and make sure that our workforce and our workplaces are geared up for the opportunities ahead.

In our previous plans, the Commission made bold recommendations for a reformed education and training system in this state; where skilling opportunities are available to all citizens – whether it is for initial skills, retraining or second chance learning. We are now seeing the first stages of the state government’s response – Skills for All kicking in. It is an exciting time.

As the Commission hands over its regulatory powers to the national regulator, we can focus our efforts more intensely on making sure the suite of reforms being implemented will address the productivity and participation challenges that we are all too familiar with. We will continue to work with the state government to ensure its significant investment under Skills for All is directed towards areas of industry demand and individual need. We will continue to focus on the quality of the VET system – training must provide vocational outcomes for students.

The success of the reforms will depend on the capacity of players within the system, and the tools and supporting structures in place to underpin it. We will monitor these areas closely.The Commission has had its say, the government has responded. It is now time for industry to step up to the challenge and make the most of the opportunities that the funding and structural reforms to our VET system afford. Individuals also need to take charge of their future pathways by engaging with the Skills for All initiatives.

I thank everyone who has contributed to this year’s plan and encourage everyone to engage with enthusiasm in the reforms as they are rolled out.

Mr Adrian Smith

CHAIR