Phases of the review

Phase 1 of the review involved assessing the current landscape of vocational education and training (VET) in NSW, along with the skills needs of our state. The deep research and analysis conducted during this phase formed the foundation for a public-facing discussion paper being used to guide consultations in Phase 2.

Phase 2 is now underway and involves extensive stakeholder engagement including roundtables and a digital forum where the public can have their say. The discussion paper supporting this consultation phase poses questions to prompt feedback and engagement across 4 key themes:

• Boosting student success
• Placing TAFE NSW at the heart of the system
• Delivering VET in NSW
• Preparing VET for the future.

The interim report from Phase 2 will be delivered to the government for consideration at the end of 2023. Once available, interim findings will be shared on this page, via our subscriber newsletter, and other communication channels.

In Phase 3, a final report for government will be delivered in mid-2024. The government will spend time reviewing the findings and recommendations.

The NSW Department of Education will also consider a NSW Skills Plan. This plan will shape government efforts across priority industries, regions and skills requirements, ensuring that our initiatives align with the identified needs.

Focus areas of the review

As highlighted in the discussion paper, critical aspects of the review are to:

• Rebuild and strengthen TAFE NSW, recognising its vital role in serving our community
• Address the current and future skills needs of NSW
• Examine the challenges faced by disadvantaged individuals and explore recommendations to promote equity, particularly in regional and remote areas
• Restore confidence in our high-quality vocational education and training system.

These themes are underpinning the review and guiding ongoing stakeholder collaboration. We are considering aspects such as quality training, educational pathways, industry engagement, workforce development and regional growth. Furthermore, we are assessing industry needs and will recommend necessary reforms to foster a dynamic and responsive vocational education and training sector.

The Terms of Reference for the review (DOCX 90KB) are available for you to read.

The review panel

A panel has been established to ensure the integrity and independence of the review.

The review panel members were selected by the NSW Department of Education for their demonstrated deep understanding of TAFE and the NSW VET system, knowledge of different student pathways and cohorts, and relevant academic and/or government review experience.

Dr Michele Bruniges AM (Chair)

Dr Michele Bruniges AM has previously held numerous senior public service positions. In these roles she has demonstrated a comprehensive knowledge and significant expertise in delivering operational and strategic outcomes across the education and training sectors. She is a former Commonwealth Secretary (2016-2023) holding responsibility for education, skills, employment and training during this period of time, has been Director-General, NSW Department of Education and Communities (2011-2016) and Chief Executive, Education and Training in the ACT (2005-2008). She currently serves as the Chair, OECD Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) Governing Board and is the incoming Chair for the Australian Institute of Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL).

The Hon. Professor Verity Firth AM

The Hon. Professor Verity Firth AM is Pro Vice-Chancellor (Social Justice and Inclusion) at the University of Technology Sydney, a member of the Australian Universities Accord Ministerial Reference Group, and served as NSW Minister for Education and Training from 2008-2011. Verity has deep knowledge and experience in pathways for equity cohorts and a strategic understanding of TAFE and the NSW VET sector with more than 15 years working in education.

Jason Ardler PSM

Jason Ardler PSM is a Yuin man who has held senior executive roles in the NSW public and university sectors for more than 20 years. He was the Head of Aboriginal Affairs NSW for 8 years, leading government strategy and reform to improve the social, cultural and economic wellbeing of Aboriginal people. Jason is the co-founder and director of Thirriwirri, a 100% Aboriginal owned consulting organisation, Chair of the National Indigenous Australians Agency’s Indigenous Evaluation Committee, and a director of the NAISDA Indigenous performing arts college. He has extensive understanding and experience of different pathways, workforce and economic development initiatives, and equity student cohorts.

Opportunities to be involved

With the consultation phase underway and the review discussion paper available, we are now welcoming written submissions.

We want to hear from a diverse range of stakeholders, from educators and trainers to employers, providers and students, and the broader community.

Submissions

Please consider the questions and themes of the discussion paper as part of your submission. Submissions can be emailed to NSWVetReview@det.nsw.edu.au.

A simple survey is available at haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/vet for those who want a quick and easy way to have their say.

Submissions close Friday 24 November at 11:59 pm.

More information

Throughout 2023 and 2024, we will share updates about the review on this webpage and via our stakeholders, as we work together to build a stronger, more inclusive vocational education and training system for NSW.

You can stay informed about the review's progress by subscribing to our newsletter.

You can also contact us at any time by sending an email to NSWVetReview@det.nsw.edu.au.