News from "Our Community Matters"

Seven studies throw a spotlight on the community sector
Nobody can complain that the Rudd Government is unwilling to review the needs of the community sector. There
are, by a conservative count, seven inquiries running at the moment.
1. The Productivity Commission is examining the not‐for‐profit sector's contribution to Australian society (see
below)
2. The Henry Review on Australia’s Future Tax System is looking at the tax treatment of not‐for‐profits
3. The Treasury Review of Financial Reporting for Unlisted Companies is looking at companies limited by
guarantee
4. the National Compact consultations are looking towards a national compact between the government and
the sector
5. The Senate inquiry on Disclosure Regimes for Charities and Not‐for‐profit Organisations is giving its final
report at the end of the year
6. The Council of Australian Governments Business Regulation and Competition Working Group is looking at
slashing red tape in the non‐profit sector.
7. There is a Federal Government review of the operation of Prescribed Private Funds (PPFs).
We certainly can’t complain about being neglected (we would recommend that any community
organisation that hasn’t made a submission to at least the Senate Inquiry and the Henry Review should think about it ).
However, all this activity does raise other concerns. One common complaint against the present system, after all, is
that it’s fragmented, incoherent, and lacking a central rationale.
There does seem to be a risk now that unless someone pulls it all together government policy will gallop off in all
directions, and it’s not at all clear who that someone is to be.
Unless there’s a strong advocate in government, there’s a risk that policy will continue to be set by the Tax Office.
There’s no reason for despair, or even depression, and we look forward to a policymaking process that’s eventually
on top of an inherently messy and confusing (though thriving and innovative) community sector.

60 Years of Adult Education in Tasmania

Adult Education is a cornerstone of Tasmania’s education system, the Minister for Education and Skills, David Bartlett, said today. Speaking at the 60th birthday celebrations at the North Hobart centre today, Mr Bartlett said that the Adult Education brand will continue to be part of the Community Knowledge Network (CKN), which brings together libraries, Online Access Centres and Adult Education. On this very important occasion, Tasmanians can be reassured that Adult Education has an exciting, vibrant future, Mr Bartlett said.

ACE on the Road!

The Australian College of Educators and the University of Canberra are proud to present the 2009 ACE on the Road speaker;

Professor Erica McWilliam
presenting

The 21st Century Teacher:
From Sage to Guide to Meddler

Most baby boomers know that ‘every eye on me’ was the catch cry of the instructive teacher in the twentieth century. A teacher’s job was to instruct, inspire, scold, cajole. A ‘pupil’s’ job was to listen, attend, absorb, regurgitate. The predominance of that style of teaching is supposed to have changed, and for many, it has. Where we once spoke of pupils and teachers, we now speak of ‘the child-as-learner’ and teachers as ‘facilitators of learning’. Where once every eye was to be on the teacher, now learners are to be focused on their own learning and that focus should last for life.
For contemporary teachers, this means a shift from ‘sage on the stage’ to ‘guide on the side’. The modern teacher understands that ‘child-centeredness’ is the driving logic of pedagogical work, and that powerful learning may occur when a teacher spends less time instructing and more time providing support for learners and learning.
In this presentation, Erica McWilliam explains why a further move is needed for this century, with teachers increasingly seeing themselves as ‘meddling in the middle’ of the curriculum, co-creating and assembling knowledge and cultural products with students and collaborating in evaluating their worth.

When: Wednesday 13 May 2009
Where: Clive Price Suite 1, University of Canberra
At: Choice of two sessions: 4.00pm or 7.00pm
Cost: ACE Members: $30.00 Non members: $40.00 Students: $10.00 (ID required)Groups of 5 or more: Members’ rates (all prices include GST)Light refreshments provided

Professor Erica McWilliam’s career has involved four decades as a teacher and educational researcher. She has taught in a wide range of Australian school settings, from small regional schools to large urban schools, in the government and non-government sectors.
Erica is the leader of the Creative Workforce Program in the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Creative Industries and Innovation, based at the Queensland University of Technology, Australia. She has also recently taken up a professorial appointment with the National Institute of Education in Singapore. Her scholarship covers a wide spectrum, as is evidenced in her numerous publications on creative capacity building, innovative teaching and learning, research methodology and training, and educational leadership and management.
Professor McWilliam is well known for her contribution to educational reform and its relationship to ‘over the horizon’ work futures in the context of the new knowledge economy. Her latest book, The Creative Workforce: How to launch young people into high flying futures was published last year with UNSW Press in Sydney.

Click here for further information and registration information, visit www.austcolled.com.au or phone 1800 208 586.

Free Inclusive Community dance Session

Australian Dance Week 2009
Wednesday 6th May 10-11am
Majura Community Centre Hall, Rosevear Pl, Dickson
Men & women welcome.Free. No need to book, just turn up!

Join The Radiance Dance Project current participants in an open session to celebrate Australian Dance Week. Watch and/ or join in some of the creative movement activities the group explores as part of their learning journey in this innovative performance project.


The Radiance Dance Project is a 40-week inclusive community adult education program using the mediums of creative dance/ movement theatre open to women with & without disabilities in the ACT region. Participants experience the enjoyment & freedom of individual & collective creative expression through movement, make meaningful connections with others & develop confidence in self-expression & communication through practical activities & performances.

Contact Morgan Tel: 6161 1192 or 0400 455 965
Email: enquiry@expressivearts.com.au
Web: www.expressivearts.com.au

E-portfolios - research, resources and funding opportunities!

Electronic portfolios (e-portfolios) are revolutionising the way learners move between work, study and different education sectors, by enabling them to create dynamic, engaging, and up-to-date records of their skills and achievements. This month, the national training system’s e-learning strategy, the Australian Flexible Learning Framework (Framework), is highlighting the importance of e-portfolios through a number of resources, research and funding opportunities. This includes:


Supporting e-portfolios – the inside track to managing learner information

As a relatively new e-learning tool, e-portfolios provide an unprecedented opportunity for learners to produce up-to-the-minute records of their work history, training and life experiences. And as with most developing technologies, questions are being asked about how to manage e-portfolios to ensure they are used to their full potential and are not open to exploitation.What are the legal requirements around the privacy and security of a learner’s information? Is it the learner, the training provider or both who own the content of an e-portfolio? How can evidence included in an e-portfolio be verified for authenticity? A new Framework report, Managing Learner Information, investigates these questions and the requirements to support learners to move between educational sectors, job roles and industry areas. The report considers the issues of ownership, privacy, verification, access control and security for e-portfolios, and can be accessed via the Framework’s website. A summary of the findings can be found in the Framework’s monthly e-newsletter, Flex e-News.


E-portfolio resources for everyone
The Framework is working to establish national e-portfolio standards to facilitate interoperable e-portfolio systems that support learner mobility. Throughout 2009, the Framework’s E-portfolios business activity will develop a range of reports and resources to help support the diverse requirements for e-portfolios across the vocational educational and training (VET) system and beyond.
Two other major e-portfolio reports, detailing the benefits of e-portfolios for the school, VET and higher education sectors, are now available for download.
The E-portfolios in Australian education and training report contains the key strategic directions and issues from the 2008 National Symposium on E-portfolios, including recommendations for developing, implementing and using e-portfolios in schools and VET.
The E-portfolio use by university students in Australia: Informing excellence in policy and practice report outlines the outcomes of the 2008 Australian e-Portfolio Project. This project, funded by the Australian Learning and Teaching Council, analysed e-portfolio use in the higher education sector and provides guidance on future development opportunities.

E-portfolio implementation trials - funding available The Framework is committed to investigating the development and implementation of e-portfolio systems which support a learner's ability to easily move into VET and beyond.In March 2009, the Framework released the E-portfolios for RPL Assessment report which includes the outcomes of an environmental scan and two trials commissioned by the Framework, and identifies the benefits and future development needs of using e-portfolios to support RPL (recognition of prior learning) in VET.On Thursday 30 April 2009 the Framework will release the application details for seed funding which will build on and broaden the scope of this report. More information, funding guidelines and an application template will be available from http://flexiblelearning.net.au/e-portfolios from this date. Funding will close on Thursday 21 May.

For more information about the Framework, its products, resources and support networks, contact: (07) 3307 4700, email: enquiries@flexiblelearning.net.au or visit: http://flexiblelearning.net.au

Journal of Applied Research in Workplace E-learning

The URL of this website is http://journal.elnet.com.au/impact.

We encourage anyone with an interest in workplace/organisational e-learning to register for a free account which will allow them to access open access content and receive notifications of new issues.

Prospective article authors should contact impactjournal@elnet.com.au

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Envitonmental Health Conference

The enHealth Working Group on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Environmental Health (WGASTIEH) have just released the final program for the forth coming 7th National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Environmental Health Conference.
The Working Group on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Environmental Health (WGATSIEH) is pleased to advise that the program and registration brochure for the forth coming 7th National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Conference is now available on the conference website:
www.natsieh.com.au
Please note that hotels are extremely busing during this time in Kalgoorlie so please ensure that your accommodation is booked as soon as possible.
If you have not already done so register to attend on line, payment can be made by EFT, cheque, purchase order or on-line credit card payment is also available. A tax invoice will be emailed to you once your on-line registration has been received. Register on line at the conference website or directly at the following link:
http://www.natsieh.com.au/php/regForm.php
We look forward to seeing you in Kalgoorlie!

Deputy Prime Minister's Awards for Excellence

Minister for Education, Employment and Workplace Relations, the Hon. Julia Gillard MP, has opened the nominations for the 2009 Minister’s Awards for Excellence for employers of apprentices in 22 regions across Australia.Employers are encouraged to apply. The applications are open until 11 May 2009.
The Minister’s Awards for Excellence, supported by Skills Australia, profile employers working in positive ways to retain employees; particularly significant in times of economic difficulty. The awards also demonstrate the commitment to investing in people and can position organisations as innovators in a rapidly changing world.
Please click here for the application form in rtf or pdf format for the Employer of Australian Apprentices award. The PDF form includes all the relevant information about applying for these awards and the RTF document can be filled out electronically and emailed directly to ministersawards@deewr.gov.au
Application forms can also be downloaded or completed online by following the Minister’s Awards for Excellence links at: www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au
Each regional winner receives $5000 prize money, a certificate and a trophy. The Awards will be presented at a ceremony hosted by the Hon Julia Gillard MP, Minister for Education, Employment and Workplace Relations at Parliament House on 18 August 2009. This will be followed by a dinner hosted by Mr Philip Bullock, Chair of Skills Australia.Enquiries about the Awards can directed to ministersawards@deewr.gov.au

ASCCA Competition

The 2009 ASCCA Competitions have been announced. They are available in both Word and PDF on the website. http://www.ascca.org.au/

It is important that those planning to submit entries read the conditions of entry very carefully. If they don't follow the instructions on how to submit their entries they may find their masterpiece excluded from judging.

Petrol Scheme for Volunteers

BP Australia is beginning a scheme for volunteers - "Vouchers for Volunteers".

This will open on Monday, April 27.

Through this scheme BP will be providing $250,000 in fuel vouchers to volunteers assisting not-for-profit organisations.

For further information on this offer, please go to www.talkstoppedlongago.com.au/v4v_home.html

$200 million Program

INVESTING IN VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING FOR TOMORROW
The Minister for Education, Julia Gillard, called for applications from vocation education and training institutes for funding under the $200 million Training Infrastructure Investment for Tomorrow program. Training Infrastructure Investment for Tomorrow is the second element of the Rudd Government's $500 million Teaching and Learning Capital Fund for Vocational Education and Training. The Rudd Government announced the $500 million Teaching and Learning Capital Fund for Vocational Education and Training as part of a $4.7 billion nation-building infrastructure package to support Australia's economy.

NCVER News

Welfare to work: Does VET make a difference?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
_Tom Karmel, Nhi Nguyen, Kevin Mark_
The purpose of this paper looks at the fundamental issue of whether VET does
improve the employment prospects of the groups in question. It exploits data
from the Student Outcome Survey to construct samples that proxy three welfare
groups and models the post-training employment outcomes.
http://www.ncver.edu.au/publications/2105.html

NCVER News

Measuring educational outcomes: Vocational education and training
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
_Tom Karmel_
A history of performance measurement for the vocational education and training
(VET) sector, beginning with the creation of the Australian National Training
Authority in 1992 and ending with what we know of the current reforms. As well
as discussing the various measures, the paper looks at the challenges that are
brought up by indicators and makes some suggestions for indicators for the VET
system.
http://www.ncver.edu.au/publications/2128.html

New solutions needed to boost productivity

Fresh approaches to national skills training are urgently needed in order to meet the challenges of the economic downturn and to position Australia for a return to growth and prosperity, according to a consortium of peak industry, trade union and youth advocacy bodies. A report released today by the National Skills Policy Collaboration (NSPC) - comprising the Australian Industry Group, Australian Council of Trade Unions, Group Training Australia, Australian Education Union and Dusseldorp Skills Forum - recommends a new wave of training reform to take advantage of opportunities beyond the current economic crisis. The report, Investing Wisely, sets out a framework to elevate skills development and to entrench a culture of learning across the workforce.

2020 Vocational Education Broadband Network

2020 SUMMIT: VOCATIONAL EDUCATION BROADBAND NETWORK
The Minister for Education, Julia Gillard, said the Government is committing $81.9 million over 3 years to fund the Vocational Education Broadband Network proposed at the 2020 Summit. The Vocational Education Broadband Network will provide the infrastructure to support a high speed broadband network for the training sector.
High speed network connectivity is already in place for the higher education sector and is being addressed for schools through the Fibre Connection to Schools initiative. The Vocational Education Broadband Network will extend the Digital Education Revolution to the vocational education and training sector. The Vocational Education Broadband Network will allow more course offerings for learners and enable speedy access to resources no matter where they are located.

One view given at the Friends of Adult Education meeting

June Hazzlewood's comments at the recent meeting:

"Lifelong learning may be defined as any formal, informal, non-formal,
serendipitous or incidental learning, which occurs over the increasingly
longer lifespan at any place, time or pace for any reason.
Learning in retirement, learning in later life, adult learning, learning
in the third age of active retirement and variations on the lifelong
learning theme are the concern of adult community educators, but what is
different from learning in any other cohort? Is it the what, the why,
the how, the when or the where? And does it matter?
Third age learners use positive words and phrases such as challenging,
enjoyable, indulgent and a sense of achievement. All value the journey
more highly than the award at graduation and in fact some do not mention
their achievements to any outside their immediate circle of family and
friends. The consensus view of many researchers is that there are a
variety of ways in which seniors can continue to work and continue to
learn in the final years of their careers and into their retirement.
There are many ACE places – ACE stands for Adult Community Education but
there are not many which are able to respond to otherwise unmet needs
and offer the breadth and depth of training that capital A capital E
Adult Education does. Adult Education together with its complementary
program School for Seniors, Launceston's U3A, in their self contained
venues can and do provide the what, the why, the how, the when and the
where adults require to lead fulfilling lives both before and after
retirement. And yes - it does matter."

e-learning improves employability

A new report has highlighted e-learning as a dynamic influence in shaping the vocational education and training (VET) system in the 21st century, as organisations use e-learning as a tool to embed employability skills in their education and training.
In 2008, the National Quality Council set a mandate for employability skills to be explicitly written into VET competency standards in Training Packages, highlighting the importance of teaching learners a set of good generic, transferable skills.
These skills include communication, teamwork, problem solving, initiative and enterprise, planning and organising, self management, learning, and technology.
According to this report, released by the national training system’s e-learning strategy, the Australian Flexible Learning Framework (Framework), e-learning can actively develop employability skills. Key findings include:
E-learning enables learners to take responsibility for their learning including when, where and how they want to learn. Technologies such as web-based research, podcasts, mobile learning (m-learning) and online course content assist in developing personal responsibility for their learning.
Through experiential learning techniques, such as virtual worlds, simulated material from Flexible Learning Toolboxes, and CD-ROMs containing workplace simulations, learners can be taught most employability skills via hands-on demonstrations.
Virtual classrooms, webconferencing, chat rooms and wikis are forms of cooperative learning which teach teamwork, communication and problem solving skills.
Learners are encouraged to reflect on their learning through tools such as e-portfolios, blogs and digital stories. Reflection is a key facet of developing and monitoring the learning of employability skills and how they impact on job effectiveness.
According to respondents, learning is the employability skill focused on first, often in the induction or early stages of training. E-learning enhances the teaching of this employability skill as it caters for a range of learning styles including auditory learning (audio recordings), visual learning (videos) and kinetic learning (workplace simulations).
Active ‘hands-on’ learning strategies, such as real and simulated work settings, project-based activities and role plays are the most effective means for teaching employability skills as they make the educational experience more interesting, jobs are brought alive and motivation for learning is increased.
According to Jim Davidson, Chair of the Framework's managing body, the Flexible Learning Advisory Group (FLAG), the report is an important testament to the value of e-learning in supporting the delivery of employability skills that apply across a variety of jobs and life contexts.
“Jobs today require more flexibility and teaching learners a set of transferable employability skills gives them the edge to gain and stay in employment. Incorporating e-learning as part of training allows a natural development of employability skills,” he said.
The report highlights the importance of developing teaching, learning, reporting and assessment processes for employability skills and looks at three case studies of how this is being done effectively, including:
Skills Tech Australia (QLD), which is using e-learning within a ‘front-end’ employability skills induction program for apprentices
The Electronics and Computer Systems Engineering Program (SA) at the Tea Tree Gully Campus of TAFESA, which has a comprehensive, strategic approach to fostering the employability skills using an electronic tool called LINKup
The Adult Migrant Education Service (AMES) (NSW), which uses e-learning in a model that links literacy skills with employability and technical skills in dual qualification courses.

Confusion over Adult Education in Tasmania

The Tasmanian Greens have called on Premier and Education Minister David Bartlett to clarify how he will utilise the $1.8 million allocated for Adult Education, and how his announced changes to Adult Education will affect pensioners and Health Care Card holders, after the Friends of Adult Ed group revealed that they are still waiting for answers to these basic funding questions. Greens Leader Nick McKim MP said Mr Bartlett's failure to respond to basic funding queries is adding to confusion and concern over the future of Adult Education in Tasmania, while also raising questions over whether the Premier is out-of-touch with his own Education Department.

NCVER Report

A paper released by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), examines data from the Student Outcomes Survey to look at whether VET does increase the job prospects of Welfare to Work recipients.

To download a copy of the paper visit http://www.ncver.edu.au/publications/2105.html

Victorian Skills Awards

Don't forget to nominate for these prestigious awards> Go to http://www.skills.vic.gov.au/awards to register

SA Vocational Training Outcomes

Results of a new survey out today show that South Australian apprentices and trainees who complete their qualifications are satisfied with their training and are finding work. Released today by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), the Apprentice and Trainee Destination Survey follows apprentices and trainees nine months after they finish their training. Employment, Training and Further Education Minister, Michael O'Brien welcomed the results, while strongly encouraging trainees and apprentices to complete their training.

The ACT Social Inclusion Board

Presents…

- Still Doing it Tough -

by Professor Peter Saunders

The ACT Community Inclusion Board is hosting a presentation by Professor Saunders from the Social Policy Research Centre at the University of NSW. He will report the findings from his latest study on deprivation and social exclusion in Australia.
The study provides a picture of prevailing community opinion on the elements of a decent life and estimates the extent to which clients of welfare agencies are able to access those same elements and participate in their communities.

An opportunity to discuss the report with others in your field over morning tea will follow Professor Saunders’ presentation. Please indicate whether you will stay for morning tea and if you have any special dietary requirements when you RSVP.


Date: Tuesday 12 May 2009
Time: 9:30am – 11:00am
9.30 Welcome
9.35 Professor Saunders speaks
10.05 Questions
10.25 Morning Tea
Venue: Centre for Teaching and Learning
51 Fremantle Drive, Stirling. Free parking available. Bus route 26 from Woden interchange.RSVP: Tuesday 5 May 2009 email: communityinclusion@act.gov.au phone: 6205 1961

TOCAL COLLEGE

Full time student numbers at Tocal College are running at capacity while other agricultural education institutions continue to struggle to find enough students, NSW Minister for Primary Industries, Ian Macdonald, said today. More than 100 students are enrolled in full time courses at Tocal, making it the only agriculture campus in Australia I am aware of that is not struggling to fill courses, Mr Macdonald said. Some institutions are finding the age demographic has moved from school leavers to people in their thirties and forties, but most Tocal students continue to be school leavers.

What Is Brumby Doing for Job Seekers?

The Nationals MP for Northern Victoria, Damian Drum, has urged the Brumby State Government to put a halt to its planned new TAFE fee structure, due to come into force from July 1. "The growing unemployment crisis in regional Victoria means we must do all we can to help those who are looking for new skills and new work," Mr Drum said. But under the new fees structure TAFE students undertaking courses at a level lower than their current qualification will be charged full course costs.

Governance Training

BEST FIT: A Governance Learning Support Material for Board/Committee Members (CD ROM)- Trainer Pack
View Product Sample
Training Package:
Business Services-BSB01
Year of Completion:
2007
NTIS Code:

Trainer Pack price:
$30.00
Units of competency as follows:
BSBATSIL401A
Meet the roles and responsibilities of a Board member (1)
BSBATSIL501A
Meet the roles and responsibilities of a Board member (2)
SRXGOV001A
Participate as a member of an effective board of an organisation
SRXGOV002A
Undertake the role of an individual Director of an organisation

Coalition website for education

The Coalition is launching a new website www.educationforaustralia.com.au to engage with the public on how to improve our education system, said Christopher Pyne, Shadow Minister for Education, Apprenticeships and Training. Coalition MPs have been inundated with complaints from parents and school communities about the roll out of the Building the Education Revolution program, the Computers in Schools program and Trades Training Centres and child care. Bureaucratic bungles and Ministerial mistakes are not good enough for our students, parents and teachers.

New look LORN gateway

A new version of online portal LORN was launched today, demonstrating the vocational education and training (VET) system’s recognition that training providers need easy, online access to quality national education and training resources.
Launched by the national training system’s e-learning strategy, the Australian Flexible Learning Framework (Framework), LORN connects training providers with free or low-cost learning resources from around the country, through a central online source.
LORN directly supports the Australian Government’s commitment to developing a VET system where teachers and trainers are effective ‘managers of learning’ and are able to access a sustainable e-learning infrastructure.
Its enhanced search functionality encourages a more flexible approach to education and training, allowing training providers to design or customise their own training by mixing and matching learning resources from different sources.
Launching the new version of LORN, Jim Davidson, Chair of the Framework's managing body, the Flexible Learning Advisory Group (FLAG), said it was an essential tool for people working in VET.
“Through LORN we are adding to the national education and training infrastructure and providing a service which saves training providers time and money, by allowing them to share resources rather than having to develop their own.
“More than half of the country is currently represented in LORN through its state, territory and two national collections – TVET Australia and the Toolbox Repository – and it is growing every day,” he said.
All LORN resources comply with nationally agreed standards so training providers can use them in a variety of learning management systems.
To check out the new look site and search facility, visit: http://lorn.flexiblelearning.net.au

NCVER

Trade apprentices who complete their training are more likely to find a job and earn more money, new statistics show.

Released by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), the Apprentice and Trainee Destination Survey tracks apprentices and trainees nine months after leaving their training.

To download a copy of the survey please visit http://www.ncver.edu.au/publications/2138.html

WA State Government Help To Keep Apprentices Working

Group Training Organisations (GTOs) which take on apprentices who lose their jobs during the economic downturn would be eligible for payments of up to $1,800 from the State Government. Training Minister Peter Collier said today that the Government's initiative was designed to ensure that Western Australia had skilled workers to meet future demands. "This State Government payment, when combined with $1,800 from the Federal Government's Securing Apprenticeships initiative, will mean that the majority of an out-of-trade apprentice's wages will be covered for up to 12 weeks," Mr Collier said.

Diversity@Work

Go to this address for the latest courses of Diversity@Work:

Diversity@Work [melissa@diversityatwork.com.au]

CONFINTEA

FISC MAY 16 18, 2009 Belem, BrasilRegistration for the FISC is now open for participants outside Brazil; know how to participate click here www.fisc2009.org Le FISC ouvre les inscriptions pour les participants du dehors du Brésil ; comment y participer www.fisc2009.orgRegistration for the FISC is now open for self-organized acitivities click here www.fisc2009.orgOuverture des inscriptions pour les activités autogérées click here www.fisc2009.org

New Tasmanian Program To Break Down Barriers

Tasmanians experiencing barriers to post compulsory education and employment will benefit from a $440,000 statewide program run by Skills Tasmania. Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier, Heather Butler, said today that community groups and registered training organisations which provide services targeted at individuals from various groups such as Aboriginal people, people with a disability, women, older people, migrants and refugees were encouraged to apply for small grants of up to $20,000 under the Equity Support Program.

WA Partnership Launched

Training Minister Peter Collier has launched a new partnership that will provide unique training and employment opportunities for disadvantaged young people in the Peel region. Fairbridge Western Australia Inc and the Building and Construction Industry Training Fund (BCITF) have joined forces to establish the Building Maintenance Traineeship program. Mr Collier said there were no programs of this kind operating anywhere in Australia, even though building maintenance was a major industry activity.

AWARDS FOR OUTSTANDING EMPLOYERS OF APPRENTICES

The Minister for Education, Employment and Workplace Relations, Julia Gillard, has encouraged employers to nominate for the 2009 Minister's Awards for Excellence for the Employers of Australian Apprenticeships award category. During an economic downturn, employers often find it more challenging to maintain their support for apprentices and trainees. Through these awards, the Rudd Government is acknowledging those businesses which are continuing to invest in apprentices and trainees during these difficult days.

Jobs Fund Seed Funding

The Federal Government has recently announced a Jobs Fund to help tackle unemployment. Parts of the initiative may be of interest to some ACE providers, particularly those wanting to develop social enterprises. more information

ADULT EDUCATION IN TASMANIA

The future of Adult Education is assured, Premier and Minister for Education and Skills, David Bartlett, said today. Mr Bartlett said that the Adult Education brand will continue to be part of the Community Knowledge Network, which brings together libraries, Online Access Centres and Adult Education. "I'm committed to supporting Adult Education - that's why the Department of Education has a presence at tomorrow's Adult Education forum organised in Launceston so Tasmanians can be reassured that Adult Education has an exciting, vibrant future," Mr Bartlett said.

Be A Mentor

Would you like to help young people?
Invest your past in their future!
Older Australians have a lot of expertise, and wisdom to share with
younger generations. A new pilot program, Mentors for our Students,
provides an ideal opportunity for retired people, with skills in health
and transport industries, maths, science and engineering, to mentor
young people in secondary schools.
Western LCP is one of 25 Local Community Partnerships piloting a
mentoring in schools program in Brimbank and Hobsons Bay. The
Local Community Partnership matches students in years 9 – 12 with
recently retired or soon to be retired tradespeople, as well as
professionals who have skills, qualifications and experience in the
above areas.
The aim of the program is to inspire young people, broaden their
horizons, encourage them to stay on at school, and help them make
informed career choices. It’s an opportunity for older Australians to
invest their past in the future of young people in their community.
Mentors will be trained and supported by the Western Local
Community Partnership.
Commitment: 1 hour mentoring per week for 10
weeks.
If you are interested, please contact
Bill O’Connor on (03) 8311 5800 or 0438 039 446

BSB07 Assessment Tools

TVET Australia has a new suite of customisable BSB07 Assessment Tools that are available in electronic version as a download. The unit packs includes an Assessor Guide, an Assessment Project along with a Knowledge Test (Examination) and have been written for Certificate IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma levels.

· The Assessor Guide has been written for selected units of competency and includes mapping, project instructions, marking guide with model answers, knowledge checklists, RPL assessment tools and an evidence record and final results sheet for the supported unit.
· The Assessment Project provides instructions for the candidate; it includes specific tasks that are practically focused on each unit element, checklists for each task and a comprehensive case study.
· The Knowledge Test (Examination) is a set of questions drawn from the unit of competency and includes instructions for the candidate, exam questions and a marking schedule.

For a 50 page sample of this material click the following link; http://www.atpl.net.au/data/sample/pdf/atpsample_15986.pdf (1.5MB)

For a full list of titles that are included in the new suite click the following link; http://www.atpl.net.au/browse.aspx?id=181896&cat=10#selected

For a full list of BSB07 titles (now reaching 364 items) click the following link; http://www.atpl.net.au/browse.aspx?id=1.sm.0.bsb07&cat=3#selected

Please contact our Client Services team on 03 9832 8188 for a bulk discount should you wish to purchase 10 or more of these new materials.

Government Finance Statistics - 2007 - 2008

The Australian Bureau of Statistics released Government Finance Statistics, Education, Australia, 2007-08 that contains statistics on expenditure on education by the general government sector for the period 2002-03 to 2007-08. These data are presented on an accrual accounting basis and are taken from the system of Government Finance Statistics. Government expenditure on education refers to expenditure on all levels of education, such as pre-school, primary, secondary, university, and technical and further education (TAFE), by the general government sector. It excludes expenditure on courses provided by non-educational institutions, such as the vocational training programs of private businesses.
The publication is available at: http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/5518.0.55.001?OpenDocument

Are High TAFE fees stopping re-skilling in Victoria?

Labor's plans to charge full fees for TAFE courses are preventing Victorians from gaining new skills to help them find work in these tough economic times, Shadow Minister for Tertiary Education and Training and Nationals Leader in the Legislative Council Peter Hall said. Mr Hall said from 1 July 2009, TAFE students undertaking courses at a level lower than their current qualification will be charged full course costs.

ePortfolios for RPL Assessment Workshop

A one day workshop in best practice Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and ePortfolios for Assessment; The workshop will be facilitated by area expert Wendy Perry. The workshop will include hands on ePortfolio training using Mahara facilitated by Recognise-IT personnel. The Australian Flexible Learning Framework released the report ePortfolios for RPL Assessment in March, 2009. This workshop aims to show how findings of this report can be put into everyday practices in RPL Assessment. Learn how: * to set objectives for ePortfolio use * ePortfolios facilitate the RPL process * to structure a ePortfolio system * ePortfolios can be used beyond RPL
Friday May 15, 2009 - 9am to 5pm200 George Street SydneyRegistration $650Wendy Perry is a well known leader in Vocational Education and Training (VET) with a pragmatic approach to implementing policy, new concepts and ideas.Wendy has expertise in the use of online skills profiling tools such as Skillsbook and e-portfolios and she has authored reports on RPL systems and e-portfolios for the Australian Flexible Learning Framework. Most recently ePortfolios for RPL Assessment report.Wendy's background includes management roles within private and public Registered Training Organisations in the areas of Traineeships and Apprenticeships, business development, fee for service consultancy, training needs analysis, Vocational Preparation and Business Services.Mahara is a flexible and powerful open source ePortfolio system. Its incredible flexibility allows the creation of an almost endless type of evidence or artefacts. Portfolios can be readily designed to capture critical aspects of evidence in units of competency - photos, sound files, documents... the list is exhaustive.Mahara features include a weblog, resume builder and social networking tools, connecting users and creating online learner communities. Put this powerful tool to use with the help of our practical one day workshop series.

Learn More Register Contact Us

'No Frills' 2009

NCVER invites participants to share their research and knowledge at the 18th
National Vocational Education and Training Research Conference 'No Frills'
2009. Co-hosted by the University of Ballarat, the conference will focus on
strategies, observations and proven practices that can influence an even
better VET system in Australia. We seek papers that rely on sound
evidence-based research rather than on descriptive or opinion-based work.
The call for papers is now open, don't miss this opportunity - the last date
for submission of abstracts is 1 May 2009.
Places are limited and fill fast, so register now at
http://www.ncver.edu.au/newsevents/trconf/trconf18.html

National VET Research and Evaluation Funding Round

Researchers with innovative ideas are invited to submit a proposal for
funding. Projects should be relevant to the contemporary environment and focus
on research that is pertinent to policy and how the tertiary education sector
operates. Funding for several research projects in the vicinity up to $100,000
per project is available through a competitive selection process. An
information kit is available from the web address below. For more information
please contact Renee Lukeman on + 61 8 8230 8661 or via email.
renee.lukeman@ncver.edu.au
http://www.ncver.edu.au/newsevents/tenders.html

Australian Community ICT Awards

Has your nonprofit organisation delivered an innovative technology project in the past year, either in-house or in partnership with a government agency or company working with nonprofit organisations?
If so you need to enter the Australian Community ICT Awards .
The Awards provide a way of showcasing the innovative work you are doing and provide a platform for sharing your ideas with the broader community. The insights from your experience will be extremely valuable for other nonprofits Australia wide.

GRANTS AVAILABLE

Attention Community Groups with Paid Staff: Hot Grant Closing Soon
Community groups nation-wide have only until April 24 to get their share of a hot grant being offered by the Federal Government which aims to encourage community organisations and small businesses to implement practices that help employees balance their work and family obligations, as well as improve employee retention and productivity.
Grants of between $5000 and $15,000 are available to help meet the set-up costs of family-friendly arrangements under the Fresh Ideas for Work and Family Grants program, which is being offered by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations. Examples of family-friendly practices might include:
establishing rosters based on school terms and school hours;
establishing part-time or job-sharing opportunities;
developing policies regarding leave for employees who care for children with disabilities, elderly relatives or people with other special needs;
providing facilities such as family rooms for employees with young children;
establishing a workplace mentoring program.
Community groups often find it hard to compete for employees in offering attractive pay, and therefore need to rely on good conditions (as well as the opportunity to do good work) to help clinch the deal. This program offers a great opportunity to give your organisation the edge. Find out how to apply at www.ourcommunity.com.au/funding/hotgrant.
Upcoming newsletters

Last Chance to Nominate

Rewarding Community Workers -
The Alcoa Foundation Community Worker Awards are designed to recognise the invaluable contribution to the nation's life made by the women and men working in community groups. The winner will receive $5000. It's easy to nominate someone who you know is doing a stand-out job working in the community sector - but you only have until April 24 to do so.
Find out more at www.ourcommunity.com.au/communityworkeraward.

WA Ministerial Statement

Ministerial Statement - Read in Parliament
Portfolio: Training
I am pleased to provide an update on the ways in which Western Australia’s training sector is responding to employers and individuals adversely affected by the current economic downturn.

Today, Members may have noticed an advertisement on page 18 of The West Australian newspaper – the first of four appearing over the next four weeks.

The advertisements illustrate the coordinated approach being taken by the Department of Education and Training and its extensive network of training and other service providers who are available to assist both employers and employees in these uncertain times.

The first phone call in response to the advertisement was at nine o’clock this morning seeking the advice of the Department’s Career Development Centre.

This is the coordination centre and the first point of contact for people seeking career assistance and training information, and referral to additional services such as the State Government funded Employment Directions Network and ApprentiCentre.

Importantly, for people wishing to have their skills and experience formally recognised, the Career Development Centre recently became the shopfront for the Department’s skills recognition service.

Further assistance is provided through the Employment Directions Network, which has significant experience in offering personalised support to people who have been made redundant through business closures.

The Department provides $7.7million per annum to support the network, which consists of 24 not-for-profit community-based agencies strategically located throughout the State.

Employment Directions Network staff assist clients with career exploration through workshop activities and one-on-one guidance interviews, information on how to access employment and training information, work experience insurance cover, internet access and job search support.

The network also delivers the Profit from Experience program, which encompasses career information, advice and assistance to people over the age of 40 (over 35 for indigenous people) and includes up to $500 per person for training assistance.

The Department, through its ApprentiCentre, also offers support and assistance to apprentices, trainees and their employers affected by the business downturn.

ApprentiCentre staff are industry specialists who offer support, solutions, service and advice to employers and apprentices and trainees.

This co-ordinated response has already provided vital support to people who have been made redundant through business closures, including employees at BHP Nickel Mine in Ravensthorpe, Austal Ships in Henderson, Gunns Limited in Yarloop, Carrier Air Conditioning in Bentley, Harvey Beef at Harvey and HIsmelt in Kwinana.

This has been a great source of reassurance and support to those people affected in these very uncertain times.

The role that training plays is integral in building the State’s workforce participation, skills and productivity during this time of economic challenge and uncertainty.

TAFE colleges have joined together to make use of their intimate knowledge and close working relationships with local industry to create the TAFE Response Unit.

I have called on TAFE colleges to develop and implement this coordinated response to address the job losses that are occurring and to ensure that support is provided to employees to acquire training that will assist them to gain or retain employment.

The TAFE Response Unit will also provide assistance to employers to manage the effect of redundancies on their workers.

This mobile tactical response group will coordinate career planning guidance, support, recognition of prior learning (RPL) and industry consultations to HR departments, employers and employees.

Using the intimate knowledge and close working relationships that exist between local TAFE colleges, enterprise and industry, the TAFE Response Unit will be able to provide targeted and appropriate support in an immediate and responsive manner.

In order to be a single point of contact for those seeking assistance, the TAFE Response Unit will use TAFE and Department of Education and Training resources (ie: Career Development Centre, ApprentiCentre and Employment Directions Network) across the State to provide the required expertise in every situation, and will work with other Government agencies, community organisations and private training organisations where appropriate to provide a comprehensive support service.

The TAFE Response Unit will assist individuals seeking help by connecting them with the appropriate TAFE personnel that will best serve their needs.

The unit will respond to all requests for assistance within the first 24 hours of notice.
I am aware that many members will be fielding enquiries from constituents who have been affected in some way by the economic downturn.

As a consequence, I will be writing to all members next week enclosing a package of training support information which can be utilised in offices to assist with constituent enquiries.

$5.3 million nationwide for e-learning innovation

More than 145 projects have been awarded a share of $5.3 million to develop innovative e-learning training solutions in all states and territories in 2009.

The funding, provided by the national training system’s e-learning strategy, the Australian Flexible Learning Framework (Framework), aims to support and enable innovation so that e-learning is embedded as an integral part of the vocational education and training (VET) system.

Led by registered training organisations (RTOs), this year’s E-learning Innovations projects will focus on:
supporting business-training provider partnerships that drive the integration of e-learning into business and training
empowering individual learners by stimulating demand, providing greater choice, responding to the needs of disadvantaged learners, and increasing RPL (recognition of prior learning).
The projects have the potential to benefit the national training system by creating personalised e-learning solutions for learners and providing targeted workforce development through partnerships between businesses and RTOs.

To find out more about the 2009 E-learning Innovations projects, visit:

Australian Capital Territory
New South Wales
Northern Territory
Queensland
South Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
Western Australia
For updates on selected projects throughout the year, stay tuned to Flex e-News or visit: http://flexiblelearning.net.au/innovations

CONTRIBUTION OF THE NOT_FOR_PROFIT SECTOR

The Productivity Commission released an Issues Paper relation to its inquiry into the contribution of the not-for-profit sector to assist participants in preparing submissions to the commissioned study into the Contribution of the Not for Profit Sector. It outlines a range of issues about which the Commission is seeking information.
The Paper is available at:
http://www.pc.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/87551/not-for-profit-issues.pdf

Removal of barriers for People with disabilities

People with disabilities will find it easier to get work following changes made to Disability Employment Services, announced by the Federal Government. The peak body for all providers of employment and related services, NESA, welcomed the new provisions. The changes, that take effect next year, will make it easier for providers to give the more tailored and timely services that people with disabilities who are
wanting to work, need.

New Employment Services for people with a Disability

Following extensive consultation, the Rudd Government unveiled its new $1.2 billion employment service for people with disability. The Minister for Employment Participation, Brendan O'Connor, announced details of the new Disability Employment Services (DES) at the Australian Financial Review Skills Conference in Sydney. From March 1, 2010 existing caps on services will be removed and all job seekers with disability will have access to individually tailored employment services while employers will be have access to greater support.

Brendan O'Connor Speech - Skilling Australia

ADDRESS TO AUSTRALIAN FINANCIAL REVIEW SKILLING AUSTRALIA CONFERENCE In a speech entitled 'Skilling Australia for the Future Policy', the Minister for Employment Participation, Brendan O'Connor, discussed how integral employment, skills and training is to the Government's vision for a strong, prosperous and fair Australia, and some of the major reforms underway in employment services

VIC small business skills boost

A panel of industry experts who will assist Victorian small businesses to boost the skills of their workforces has been announced by the Brumby Government. Skills and Workforce Participation Minister Jacinta Allan said the service provider panel members would provide expert advice on training to 1500 small to medium-sized businesses as part of the Brumby Government's $52 million Skills for Growth: Workforce Development Program. "The Brumby Government is taking action to secure more jobs for Victorians by investing in a skills system capable of delivering the skills our businesses need to boost productivity and innovation and drive economic growth," Ms Allan said.

Interactive Whiteboards

Hitachi Australia hosted an event at the Powerhouse Museum yesterday to unveil its new technology powering the innovative creative digital media workshops. The Hitachi interactive whiteboards and ultra short-throw projectors have been installed in the new upgraded education space, facilitating the learning experience for students who partake in courses at Powerhouse.

For the first time in Australia, the Hitachi interactive whiteboards have been integrated with Apple Mac computers to allow students in the labs to use a range of programs on the boards.

The upgraded workshops have dramatically changed the way students learn at the Powerhouse Museum. Students are now placed at the centre of the learning experience and can use the Hitachi technology to search locations on Google Earth, make videos and documentaries, as well as create music with programs such as GarageBand.

NCVER News

Information on employment outcomes for vocational education and training (VET) graduates can now be accessed by using a new interactive online resource.

Developed by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), SOS Online can assist career counsellors and parents to help young people decide their future training options.

To access this resource visit http://www.ncver.edu.au/resources/sos_online.html

$1 million for e-learning Toolboxes in critical industries

$1,070,000 has been awarded to develop six new Flexible Learning Toolboxes (Toolboxes) that will support the delivery of nationally endorsed training packages in critical industries.
The Series 12 Toolboxes will be developed by registered training organisations (RTOs) in consultation with Industry Skills Councils and Industry Training Advisory Boards to provide flexible and high quality support for learning on the job, in the classroom or in remote locations.
Funded by the national training system’s e-learning strategy, the Australian Flexible Learning Framework (Framework), Toolboxes are high quality, cost effective, interactive e-learning and assessment resources that can be installed on a server or used on a stand-alone computer.
This year, Series 12 Toolboxes will be developed for the following industry areas:
Forestry industry
Timber will cover five core competencies from the Forest and Forest Products Training Package and support a wide range of Certificate II and Certificate III qualifications including sawmilling, merchandising, and manufactured products. Timber will look at generic communication and occupational health and safety skills, as well as technical skills including preparing and interpreting sketches and timber grading. Timber will deliver crucial e-learning resources for workers in an industry that has traditionally relied overwhelmingly on face-to-face training.
Retail industry
Retailer 2 will extend the Series 10 Retailer Toolbox by covering the core units of the Certificate II in Retail, as well as five selling, merchandising and marketing electives. Rather than taking a traditional unit-by-unit approach, learners will complete activities guided by a range of customer-focused scenarios and case studies, which will be mapped back to core units. A skills recognition pathway will be available for new and existing resources.
Community services industry
Spiritual Wellbeing will cover five units from the Certificate III and Certificate IV in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care. It will provide training for health care workers in Indigenous communities, focusing on supporting and assessing clients with mental health, alcohol and other drug issues. Learners will complete a range of learning activities in simulated rural, remote and urban health care clinics, with an emphasis on promoting illness prevention strategies and healthy lifestyle choices.
Electrotechnology industry
ElectroTech will support five core units from the Certificate III in Electrotechnology (Electrician). Learners will complete hands-on activities and challenges to develop problem solving skills while learning about basic electrical concepts, electrical occupational health and safety, fabricating electrical components, and using drawings, diagrams, schedules and manuals.
Plumbing industry
Licensed to Plumb will address a shortage of e-learning materials for the plumbing industry, providing an engaging, media-rich, interactive learning experience to support five units of the Certificate IV in Plumbing and Service. It will focus on core skills and knowledge for licensed plumbers, including drainage, water, gas, plan sizing, and layout of plumbing systems.
Spatial information services industry
Satellite City is designed to support four units from the Certificate IV in Spatial Information Services, and the Certificate IV in Surveying. It will guide learners through the processes involved in reading and interpreting spatial data, conducting a field survey, managing and storing data and developing a presentation of the data, in line with industry practices.
Series 12 Toolboxes will be developed throughout the year and released in early 2010. They will add to a collection of more than 100 existing Toolboxes across a diverse range of educational and industry areas, helping deliver over 170 qualifications and supporting approximately 930 units of competency.
Toolbox resources can be downloaded freely as self-contained ‘learning objects’ through LORN, or purchased on CD-ROM as a program covering several units of competency.
Toolbox Champions are employed in every state and territory to provide advice and support on Toolbox use, implementation and customisation. To contact your Toolbox Champion, visit: http://flexiblelearning.net.au/toolbox/champions
For more information about the Framework, its products, resources and support networks, contact: (07) 3307 4700, email enquiries@flexiblelearning.net.au or visit: http://flexiblelearning.net.au

Pathways Australia 2009 Not-For-Profit

Pathways Australia 2009 Not-For-Profit Professional Development Series
How to Win that Government Contract!Need a change of luck?Attend this full-day, skills building workshop.

Do you...
Feel as though you need to update your tender writing skills?
Want to understand the differences between good and poor submissions?
Work for an organisation that rarely wins new government contracts?
YES? Then this workshop is for you.
Book Today!
VIC: 21 April 2009 QLD: 22-April 2009 NSW: 23 April 2009
Click here for details: www.pathwaysaustralia.com.au/PDF/09_Win_Gov_Contract.pdf

Numbers are strictly limited for this program. Register Here. http://www.pathwaysaustralia.com.au/Seminars.aspx?cid=2

Pathways Australia PO Box 260 Bentleigh Vic 3204 269 Centre Road Bentleigh Vic 3204Tel: (03) 8530 6444 Fax: (03) 8530 6400 seminars@pathwaysaustralia.com.au www.pathwaysaustralia.com.au

ACT Inclusive Drama Program

Express yourself through sound & movement.

This 10-week program is open to adults with and without disabilities. Sessions aim to develop your creative potential, build connection & collaboration with others in a supportive and playful environment & increase confidence in using your body as an expressive instrument.

No specific skills, ability or experience required.
Wednesdays 3.30 - 5.30pm for 10 weeks
Term 2 starts Wednesday 29th April
Downer Community Centre, Frencham Pl, Downer

Come and Try $5 for first session
Contribution $50 for 10 week term
(Support workers free).
Bookings Essential.

Facilitated by Morgan Jai-Morincome, a qualified & experienced community arts professional specializing in inclusive community based projects & programs with experienced co-facilitators from arts & education backgrounds.
Contact Morgan Tel: 6161 1192 or 0400 455 965
Email: enquiry@expressivearts.com.au
Web: www.expressivearts.com.au


This program is provided with the support of the ACT government through the Department of Education & Training.

ACE presents......

Professor Erica McWilliam




Most baby boomers know that ‘every eye on me’ was the catch cry of the instructive teacher in the twentieth century. A teacher’s job was to instruct, inspire, scold, cajole. A ‘pupil’s’ job was to listen, attend, absorb, regurgitate. The predominance of that style of teaching is supposed to have changed, and for many, it has. Where we once spoke of pupils and teachers, we now speak of ‘the child-as-learner’ and teachers as ‘facilitators of learning’. Where once every eye was to be on the teacher, now learners are to be focused on their own learning and that focus should last for life.
For contemporary teachers, this means a shift from ‘sage on the stage’ to ‘guide on the side’. The modern teacher understands that ‘child-centeredness’ is the driving logic of pedagogical work, and that powerful learning may occur when a teacher spends less time instructing and more time providing support for learners and learning.
In this presentation, Erica McWilliam explains why a further move is needed for this century, with teachers increasingly seeing themselves as ‘meddling in the middle’ of the curriculum, co-creating and assembling knowledge and cultural products with students and collaborating in evaluating their worth.

Professor Erica McWilliam will present;

The 21st Century Teacher:
From Sage to Guide to Meddler

When: Wednesday 13 May 2009
Where: Clive Price Suite 1, University of Canberra
At: Choice of two sessions: 4.00pm or 7.00pm
Cost: ACE Members: $30.00 Non members: $40.00 Students: $10.00 (ID required)
Groups of 5 or more: Members’ rates (all prices include GST)
Light refreshments provided

Professor Erica McWilliam’s career has involved four decades as a teacher and educational researcher. She has taught in a wide range of Australian school settings, from small regional schools to large urban schools, in the government and non-government sectors.
Erica is the leader of the Creative Workforce Program in the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Creative Industries and Innovation, based at the Queensland University of Technology, Australia. She has also recently taken up a professorial appointment with the National Institute of Education in Singapore. Her scholarship covers a wide spectrum, as is evidenced in her numerous publications on creative capacity building, innovative teaching and learning, research methodology and training, and educational leadership and management.
Professor McWilliam is well known for her contribution to educational reform and its relationship to ‘over the horizon’ work futures in the context of the new knowledge economy. Her latest book, The Creative Workforce: How to launch young people into high flying futures was published last year with UNSW Press in Sydney.

Click here for further information and registration information, visit www.austcolled.com.au or phone 1800 208 586.

Jobs and Training Compact

The Rudd Government today announced a Jobs and Training Compact with Australians affected by the global recession promising training, support and local initiatives to help them get back to work. The Compact is the next step in the Government's response to the global recession following earlier action to stabilise financial markets, stimulate demand through direct stimulus, measures to boost housing and nation building through infrastructure investments. The Jobs and Training Compact includes: $300 million to provide immediate access to employment support, an additional 20,000 Productivity Places for retrenched workers and financial assistance including a new agreement with the big four banks to assist those with mortgages, a $650 million Jobs Fund to help support local jobs and training through community projects in regions hardest hit by the economic downturn.

Fund to Support Jobs, Build Skills and Community Infrastructure

A new $650 million Jobs Fund announced by the Rudd Government today will support local jobs, build skills and improve facilities in local communities The new Jobs Fund is part of the Rudd Government's Jobs and Training Compact with Australians who have been hit hardest by the global recession, and builds on the Rudd Government's $42 billion Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan. Projects will encourage local government, community organisations, employers and employment service providers to work together to give people employment or training opportunities in their local area.

Local Employment Coordinators

The Government will appoint Local Employment Co-ordinators to marshal training, infrastructure and Jobs Fund investments to maximise job opportunities in seven local communities hit hardest by the effects of the global recession. The Government is providing $20.8 million for the Local Employment Co-ordinators to work in regions and communities affected by higher unemployment and job losses. Trucking magnate, Mr Lindsay Fox, has agreed to support the work of Local Employment Co-ordinators by advising employers in communities affected by the economic downturn how to keep their workers. He will be assisted in this task by Mr Bill Kelty.

Going to Brazil

FISC MAY 16 18, 2009 Belem, Brazil

Registration for the FISC is now open for participants outside Brazil;

know how to participate click here www.fisc2009.org

Registration for the FISC is now open for self-organized acitivities click here www.fisc2009.org

Adult Education Alive and Well In Tasmania

Adult Education will continue to provide its current offerings to meet community needs, Premier David Bartlett said. That is my guarantee. As long as people continue to enrol in the courses, Adult Education will flourish. To suggest otherwise is ill-formed nonsense.

Green Skills Taskforce for NSW

The Deputy Premier and Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Carmel Tebbutt and Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth today announced the membership of the NSW Green Skills Taskforce and an additional $5 million to encourage businesses to green up their workforce. Ms Tebbutt said the high-level taskforce would develop an action plan to drive the training of the State’s workforce in green skills and drive green jobs. The global financial crisis and climate change are the twin threats to our standard of living, Ms Tebbutt said.

IBSA Workshops

Trainer & Assessor Professional Development Workshops - APRIL
Innovation and Business Skills Australia (IBSA) in conjunction with APCOT is offering workshops nationally. "101 Ways to Make Training More Active!" The workshops will build your group facilitation skills and enliven your training sessions no matter what industry or subject matter you deliver!
This one day workshop will provide you with specific suggestions on how to organise and conduct lively training sessions that can be used to teach and train any subject.
You will experience interactive exercises that you can use straight away in your own training sessions. These simple yet powerful strategies will help you with team building to stimulating discussions to prompting questions (no more empty silences!) to developing skills, inviting feedback and promoting back-on-the-job applications, you’ll discover inventive, innovative and proven strategies to make your training sessions unforgettable with measureable outcomes for learners.
Audience
Trainers and assessors striving to improve their group delivery skills and training sessions.
When & Where
Additional dates have been added for Melbourne and Sydney.
State/City
Date
Brisbane
Thursday 23 April
Melbourne
Monday 27th April
Sydney
Thursday 30 April


Cost
The full day workshop (9.30 - 16.30 inc. lunch) is $490 per participant (inc GST).
Group discounts are available when four or more participants from the one organisation register.
Please contact IBSA for further details.
Please register online at http://www.ibsa.org.au/courses.jsp or complete and return the attached registration form.
Contact IBSA on 03 9815 7000 or email events@ibsa.org.au.

Concerns raised about new Job Network

ACOSS has expressed concern that job seekers may be disadvantaged in the transition to the new Job Services Australia system announced by the Government today. Clare Martin, CEO, Australian Council of Social Service: "The key issue is whether unemployed people can get the support they need. This is our benchmark in responding to the tender. With unemployment rising, tendering the entire employment services network couldn't have come at a worse time. There is real potential for disruption and disadvantage for job seekers."

$4Billion for Job Services Australia

The Minister for Employment Participation, Mr Brendan O'Connor announced national results for the tender of the Rudd Government's $4 billion new employment services to be named Job Services Australia: People, Skills and Jobs. Providers for Job Services Australia will begin operation from July 1. There will be a 12 month transition period for job seekers to Job Services Australia providers. Job Services Australia folds seven separate employment services programs into a 'one-stop-shop' that provides job seekers with a more personalised service. The Government believes the new Job Services Australia will deliver a better, more personalised service that responds to all economic conditions. Job seekers will receive an individual Employment Pathway Plan, which can include literacy and numeracy programs, work experience, help with resumes, trade equipment and training.

INITIATIVES AT TAFEWA

TAFEWA colleges are set to take training delivery to a new level, with a greater focus on meeting the needs of their local communities. Training Minister Peter Collier said as part of this, colleges would develop strategic and business plans, a requirement reflected in the new Training Legislation Amendment and Repeal Act 2008. "These plans will help improve the long-term focus and direction of each TAFEWA college, setting out individual college objectives, functions and targets and detail how these will be achieved," Mr Collier said. "Colleges will also be able to tailor their individual plans to directly meet the needs of their local community."

Book Launch

Reading the Fine Print: A history of the Victorian Adult Literacy and Basic Education Council (VALBEC) 1978 – 2008Book Launch • Thursday May 7 at William Angliss Conference Centre 6.00 – 7.30 pm The long awaited and much anticipated Reading the Fine Print: A history of the Victorian Adult Literacy and Basic Education Council (VALBEC) 1978 – 2008 will be launched by Rosie Wickert at this special event prior to the annual conference. This important book is an engaging and comprehensive account of thirty years in the life of VALBEC. It recounts some of the policy and pedagogical struggles of the adult literacy field that have shaped VALBEC’s identity. The book will be on sale at a special conference price. More details will be sent out soon. ----------------------------------------------

Qld Construction Employment Opportunities

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in south-east Queensland are being given new employment opportunities through a Main Roads traineeship program. Main Roads Minister Craig Wallace said the Constructive Mob training program was providing practical training in construction for participants, including classroom and on-the-job experience leading to a Certificate II in Civil Construction.