DFEEST Annual Report 2008

FOR FURTHER COPIES AND ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT

Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology
Office of the Chief Executive
GPO Box 320
Adelaide SA 5001

ABN: 16692317206

Telephone: (08) 8226 3821
Facsimile: (08) 8226 9533

The 2008 Annual Report is available on the DFEEST Website at:
http://www.dfeest.sa.gov.au

ISSN: 1449-6437

TABLE OF CONTENTS

AGENCY ROLE AND GOVERNANCE
Chief Executive’s Overview ................................................................................................. 9
Highlights 2008.................................................................................................................. 11
Vision, Mission and Values ................................................................................................ 14
Legislation, Role and Structure ......................................................................................... 16
Boards, Committees and Authorities ................................................................................ 17
Governance ..................................................................................................................... 21

REPORT ON OPERATIONS AGAINST THE DFEEST STRATEGIC PLAN
Goal 1 Ensure South Australians have the necessary education and skills to
participate in the high skills economy .......................................................... 27
Goal 2 Provide high quality employment and workforce development services .... 40
Goal 3 Ensure young people are supported in reaching their full potential and
actively engaged in learning, training, work and in their communities......... 47
Goal 4 Provide a coordinated, whole of government approach to the
development of an innovative community ................................................... 52
Goal 5 Build a high performance organisation ........................................................ 59

MANAGEMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES
Workforce data.................................................................................................................. 65
Workforce diversity............................................................................................................ 68
Occupational Health, Safety and Injury Management ....................................................... 74

FINANCIAL REPORT
Financial Overview ............................................................................................................ 79
Audited general purpose financial report .......................................................................... 83
Account payment performance ....................................................................................... 118
Contractual arrangements............................................................................................... 118
Fraud .............................................................................................................................. 118
Consultancy expenditure................................................................................................. 119

PROFILE OF VET ACTIVITY
Profile of VET Activity ...................................................................................................... 125
Training Package Activity ................................................................................................ 127

OTHER REPORTING ITEMS
Employee’s Overseas travel ............................................................................................ 135
Reconciliation Statement report...................................................................................... 137
Disability Action Plans ..................................................................................................... 138
Reporting against Carers Recognition Act 2005 ............................................................. 138
Freedom of Information ................................................................................................... 138
Asbestos Management.................................................................................................... 141
Urban Design Charter...................................................................................................... 142
Sustainability Report ....................................................................................................... 143

Chief Executive’s Overview
I am pleased to present the 2008 Annual Report for the Department of Further
Education, Employment, Science and Technology.
2008 has been an exciting and challenging year for the economy as it has been for
DFEEST.
The year commenced with an increasing focus on meeting the skills needs of
industry and finished with concerns about rising unemployment arising from the
global financial crisis.
Despite changing economic circumstance what hasn’t changed is the Government’s
commitment to increasing training, improving employment participation and
boosting productivity through innovation, science and technology.
A significant focus of the Department’s activities in 2008 was implementing the
Government’s new Skills Strategy aimed at delivering a more effective, responsive
and cost effective training system for South Australia including significant increases
in work place based training and e-learning.
As part of this strategy a new Training and Skills Development Act (2008) was
enacted, strengthening the legislative role of the Training and Skills Commission. A
new Training and Skills Commission was appointed on 1 September 2008 led by
Emeritus Professor Denise Bradley AC. One of the first tasks of the Commission is
to develop a five year Skills and Workforce Development Plan for South Australia
reflecting the needs of industry. A new state purchasing plan will then be produced
in 2009 to better direct funding for training in line with industry needs as outlined in
the Skills Plan.
Significant changes to the TAFE SA network were implemented in 2008 with the
further establishment of three connected institutes TAFE SA Adelaide South,
TAFE SA Adelaide North and TAFE SA Regional. A key focus in the future will be
the establishment of Lead Industry Centres, five Lead Centres will be established in
2009 aimed at developing closer working relationships with industry and key
stakeholders to enable TAFE SA to be more responsive to the rapidly changing
needs of the business environment.
The South Australian vocational education and training system continued to
outperform the rest of the nation in 2008. The National Centre for Vocational
Education Research Ltd (NCVER) Student Outcomes Survey 2008 showed South
Australia’s training sector was the most effective in Australia from a client
perspective, with
92 per cent of graduates satisfied with the overall quality of their training, the highest
of all states and territories. Students also reported excellent employment outcomes,
with 86 per cent of students employed after training, outranking all other states and
territories and significantly higher than the national average of 81 per cent.
As at 30 September 2008, NCVER data estimates there were 33 500 apprentices
and trainees in-training in South Australia, 4.2 per cent higher than the 32 200
recorded a year earlier, at 30 September 2007. In the 12 months ending
30 September 2008, there were an estimated 21 800 traineeship and apprenticeship
commencements, representing an increase of 2.7 per cent increase compared to
the preceding twelve months to 30 September 2007.

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The Commonwealth and State Government significantly increased funding for
training in 2008 through the new Productivity Places Program for Existing Workers.
The Program is jointly funded by the Commonwealth and State Government
(90 per cent) and industry (10 per cent). In 2008 a total of 2 821 South Australian
workers have secured training under this new program in areas of skill need with
total funding of $14.1 million.
Delivery on the Government's 10 Year Vision for Science, Technology and Innovation
(STI10) continued in 2008 with the rollout of 11 new science infrastructure
facilities across the State as part of the National Collaborative Research
Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) representing an investment of some $92 million in
the State's research capabilities.
The Premier's Science and Research Council (PSRC) welcomed a new co-chair, the
new Chief Scientist for South Australia, Dr Ian Chessell, replacing outgoing Chief
Scientist Professor Max Brennan AO. Development of the State's capabilities
in water and renewable energy were the top priorities of the PSRC in 2008 as were
strategies to increase the study of science and maths.
It is also pleasing to see that the first Veterinary Science students began studies at
the University of Adelaide in 2008 following State Government support of $5 million
towards the building of the new Veterinary Science Centre in addition to a
$15 million contribution from the Commonwealth and in excess of $10.5 million from
the University.
DFEEST also continued to support the objective of making broadband widely
available and affordable for South Australians. The Broadbanding Yorke Peninsula
project provided broadband to households and business premises in Yorke
Peninsula through WiMAX broadband connections – the first time in Australia where
a whole community has been connected using this technology. A similar broadband
project in the Coorong District also converted to the high quality WiMAX services.
During the year Office for Youth A-Teams provided an opportunity for young people
to work with industry mentors and hear from experts to research and investigate key
policy issues to prepare innovative policy recommendations for Government.
Over 1 000 young South Australians voiced their opinion on a range of issues linked
to South Australia’s Strategic Plan during the Tell It Like It Is youth consultations, in
partnership with the Community Engagement Board.
DFEEST commenced a review of its Strategic Plan in late 2008 with industry and
stakeholder consultation and the revised Strategic Plan will be released in 2009.
I would like to give my thanks to Brian Cunningham, previous Chief Executive of the
Department from January 2005 to August 2008 and express my thanks to all staff
for their commitment and hard work during the year. I would also like to thank
Minister Caica for his leadership and direction during 2008.

Raymond Garrand
Chief Executive

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Highlights 2008
South Australia outranked all Australian states in terms of its performance on
training. The National Centre for Vocational Education and Research
(NCVER), Student Outcomes Survey 2008 reported that:
- The quality of TAFE SA training was showcased in the South Australian
Training Awards and WorldSkills Australia National Competitions. TAFE
SA trained the South Australian Apprentice of the Year, Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year, Australian School-based
Apprentice of the Year and won the enterprise Training Initiative Award
within the South Australian Training Awards. TAFE SA students also
claimed 11 medals of excellence at the WorldSkills national competition in
Sydney in July 2008.
The Government’s new Skills Strategy was endorsed in March 2008. The
strategy aims to reform the delivery of training in South Australia by being
more cost effective and responsive to industry demands. Key changes will
include:
- a significant increase in work-based training and e-learning
- establishing a number of lead industry centres to provide a single point of
contact for industry
- embedding case management to support learners from disadvantaged
groups
- increasing the Recognition of Prior Leaning to help focus resources on
filling training gaps and increasing qualifications
- increasing efficiencies in the publicly funded training sector to be able to
significantly increase training.
The revised Training and Skills Development Act (2008) was proclaimed on
1 September 2008. Key changes include establishing a simpler, faster dispute
resolution process for apprenticeship / traineeship arrangements; appointing
for the first time the Training Advocate as an independent arbiter; and putting
in place a faster more efficient process for approving training contracts.
A new Training and Skills Commission was established headed by Emeritus
Professor Denise Bradley AC - the Commission will focus on developing a
five year workforce development plan and providing advice to Government on
future workforce and training needs.
In 2006, the State Government committed to funding an additional 2 600
apprentices and trainees over four years (2006-10) at a cost of $14.5 million.
This target was exceeded before the end of 2008.
As at 30 September 2008, NCVER data estimates there were 33 500
apprentices and trainees in-training in South Australia, 4.2 per cent higher
than the 32 200 recorded a year earlier, at 30 September 2007. In the
12 months ending 30 September 2008, there were an estimated 21 800
traineeship and apprenticeship commencements, representing an increase of
2.7 per cent compared to the preceding twelve months to 30 September
2007.

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The Department’s South Australia Works Program has helped many South
Australians gain employment or access further training:
- South Australia Works learning, training and work programs expended
$33.08 million 2007-08 including $4.7 million of Australian Government
and other State Government agencies funds.
- South Australia Works in the Regions assisted over 8 000 people in the
regions with over 3 140 gaining employment.
- South Australia Works for Mature Aged People - 3 780 participated in
work programs and 1 659 gained employment.
- South Australia Works with Industry - 4 970 people participated in
industry programs, with 2 546 gaining employment.
- South Australia Works programs involved 1 688 Aboriginal people and
806 gained employment.
- The South Australia Works Aboriginal Apprenticeship Program
supported 150 apprentices, and 55 new apprentices commenced an
apprenticeship.
- Sixty Aboriginal people gained a public sector traineeship, cadetship
or apprenticeship via the South Australia Works CareerStart SA
program.
- South Australia Works for Aboriginal People won the Premier’s Award
for the best public sector program for Growing Prosperity, a back to
back achievement following last year’s South Australia Works in the
Regions winning submission.
The State Government negotiated two new funding agreements for vocational
education and training funding with the Commonwealth Government. This
agreement covers skills and workforce development and the new national
partnership agreement for the Productivity Places Program.
The Productivity Places Program aims at providing a significant boost to
training for jobseekers and existing workers as part of the Australian
Government’s Skilling Australia for the Future initiative.
The Productivity Places Program for Existing Workers was formally launched
as a pilot program on 9 September 2008 with the aim of funding 1 800 higher
level qualifications.
In November 2008, the South Australian Government held an Innovation
Conference for 200 people including university leaders, industry players and
government in response to the Cutler Review into the National Innovation
System which was completed in September 2008 with the release of the
Venturous Australia report.
The Department worked with Dr Michael Keating AC from the Economic
Development Board on the Board’s Review of Skills and Workforce
Development in South Australia. The review made wide ranging
recommendations for enhancement of the training system in South Australia
to meet skills in demand; DFEEST is now implementing these
recommendations.

12

TAFE SA’s new Dental Clinic was opened at Gilles Plains Campus. The
redeveloped training facility has created an internationally competitive training
environment which provides a unique facility for collaboration between TAFE
SA, the SA Dental Service and the University of Adelaide’s School of
Dentistry. By working closely with industry, the program delivers leading edge
training and education opportunities to support and expand South Australia’s
skills base.
A new SA Food Centre was opened within the Regency International Centre
at TAFE SA Regency Campus. Principal partners in the project include TAFE
SA, the Department of Primary Industries and Resources SA and SARDI. The
Centre provides a “one stop shop” for the food industry to access a full range
of support from the key government agencies that provide services to the
food industry.
The TAFE SA Victor Harbor Campus Relocation Project was approved by
Government and involves the construction of a new building that will enable
doubling of the training levels offered in the Fleurieu region. The new
infrastructure will include teaching, administrative and lecturer preparation
space and will include solar panels, water tanks and a high efficiency lighting
system.
The Department secured a $5 million grant for the University of Adelaide
towards the establishment of a new veterinary science school at the
University’s Roseworthy Campus.
The project Broadbanding Yorke Peninsula achieved its goal when
households and business premises were provided with WiMAX broadband
connections during 2008.

13

Vision, Mission and Values
Our Vision
South Australia has a highly skilled workforce and maximised employment
participation that shapes the State’s economic competitiveness, and is
distinguished
by a culture of excellence, innovation, continuous learning and social inclusion.

Our Mission
To optimally match workforce skills, training and participation, with current and
future employment, working with individuals, community and industry to strategically
support the State’s development. This mission requires creative and integrated
policy that delivers effective training, employment programs and services.

Our Values
DFEEST is striving to become a high performance learning organisation, which
attracts, develops and retains a highly talented workforce. The Department will only
achieve its vision through a strong commitment to our people and core values. We
will show integrity in our:

Respect for:
the values, beliefs, customs and cultures of individuals and our community
others’ rights, responsibilities and professionalism

Responsiveness in:
providing timely and caring services
generating creative, shared solutions
embracing change where it is appropriate
recognising and celebrating effort and achievement

Openness in decision-making by:
providing supporting reasons
restricting information only where there is a wider public interest
declaring any relevant private interests
resolving conflicts
being transparent

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Striving for excellence in:
using public resources efficiently and effectively
embedding equality of access and opportunity
fairness in our operations
standards of service

Courage in:
challenging and being challenged
taking risks
doing things in different ways
taking responsibility for mistakes and learning from them
enforcing our code of conduct

To view the 2007 – 2010 DFEEST Strategic Plan go to
http://www.dfeest.sa.gov.au/Portals/2/downloads/dfeeststratplan07_10.pdf

15

Legislation, Role and Structure

Portfolio governance for further education, employment, science, technology and
youth is managed through a number of councils, boards and committees. These
work in conjunction with the Department to advise the Minister for Employment,
Training and Further Education, the Minister for Science and Information Economy
and the Minister for Youth on key strategic areas.

Agency
The Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology

Acts Administered
Technical and Further Education Act 1975
Training and Skills Development Act 2003 (until repealed by the Training and Skills
Development Act 2008 which came into operation on 1 September 2008)
Construction Industry Training Fund Act 1993
Flinders University of South Australia Act 1966
University of Adelaide Act 1971
University of South Australia Act 1990

Regulations
Technical and Further Education Regulations 1999
Technical and Further Education (Vehicles) Regulations 1998
Training and Skills Development Regulations 2003 (until repealed by the Training
and Skills Development Regulations 2008 which came into operation on
4 September 2008)
Construction Industry Training Fund Regulations 1993 (until repealed by the
Construction Industry Training Fund Regulations 2008 which came into operation on
1 September 2008)
Public Corporations (Bio Innovation SA) Regulations 2001
Public Corporations (Education Adelaide) Regulations 1998
Public Corporations (Playford Centre) Regulations 1996

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Boards, Committees and Authorities within the Minister’s portfolio

Training and Skills Commission
The Training and Skills Commission was initially established under the Training and
Skills Development Act 2003. On 1 September 2008 a new and strengthened
Commission was appointed under the new Training and Skills Development Act
2008. The Act gives authority to the Commission in regulating training providers and
apprenticeships and traineeships. The Commission advises and makes
recommendations to the Minister on matters relating to the development, funding,
quality and performance of vocational education and training, adult community
education, and higher education sectors.
Under the 2008 Act, the Commission will provide advice and recommendations on
the priorities and actions needed to increase the skills base of the workforce to the
South Australian Government. A key task for the Commission is to develop a five
year Skills and Workforce Development Plan for South Australia in conjunction with
the Economic Development Board, the Social Inclusion Board, Industry Skills
Boards, and regional, community and industry groups.
The Commission has nine members and two deputy members appointed by the
Governor, the majority from industry, with two appointed after consultation with
employer associations and the United Trades and Labour Council. The Commission
is chaired by Emeritus Professor Denise Bradley AC.
The Act also establishes two reference groups, the Adult Community Education
Reference Group and the Training Regulation Reference Group, to advise and assist
the Commission. These groups are convened by Commission members, but draw
on the wider resources of industry and the community for specialist advice through
their membership and consultation strategies.
The Training and Skills Commission provides its own annual report to Parliament on
its operations and reference groups.

Institute Councils
The Institute Councils are established by the Minister for Employment, Training and
Further Education for each of the three Institutes of TAFE SA under the Technical
and Further Education Act 1975. The Councils advise, monitor performance and
provide supplementary funding for the Institutes’ operation.

Higher Education Council
The Higher Education Council was established in order to bring together university
vice-chancellors and other key players in the higher education sector in recognition
of the central role that education, training and research and development has to the
future development of the South Australian economy and community. The Council
is chaired by the Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education and is
administratively supported by DFEEST.

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Austraining International

Austraining International was formed in 1991 and is wholly owned by the
Government of South Australia. Austraining is focussed on the delivery of training
offshore for the overseas development market. Austraining employs around 85 staff
with 13 in country offices across the Asia-Pacific.
For more information regarding Austraining International go to
http://www.austraining.com.au/CompanyInfo/AboutUs/tabid/54/Default.aspx

Education Adelaide
Education Adelaide is a subsidiary of the Minister for Employment, Training and
Further Education established under the Public Corporations (Education Adelaide)
Regulations 1988. It operates as a partnership between the City of Adelaide, the
State’s universities, the State Government and numerous private colleges and
schools. Its strategic direction is to accelerate the growth of South Australia’s
education export industry to benefit the State’s education providers, the local
economy and community. Education Adelaide works closely with DFEEST to
achieve targets in South Australia’s Strategic Plan.
For more information on Education Adelaide go to
http://www.studyadelaide.com/about-us.aspx

Office of the Training Advocate
The Training Advocate responds to questions or concerns about the vocational
education and training system in South Australia and can assist by:
Providing information about vocational education and training
Listening to student and Registered Training Organisation concerns
Investigating complaints or referring them to another authority who can deal
with them
Continually looking for ways to assist the State Government to improve the
training system.
The Office of the Training Advocate comes under the Training and Skills
Development Act 2008 and reports directly to the Minister for Employment, Training
and Further Education and tables a separate Annual Report.
The Office of the Training Advocate Website can be found at
http://www.trainingadvocate.sa.gov.au/

The Premier’s Science and Research Council
The Premier’s Science and Research Council was established to advise the
Government on strategies for boosting local science and research capabilities and
improving levels of innovation. The Council is co-chaired by the Premier and the
State’s Chief Scientist and is administratively supported by DFEEST.
During 2008 the Council initiated work on improving science and maths skills in the
South Australian workforce, as well as projects on water and renewable energy. The
Council membership was increased during 2008 to include members with
experience in mineral resources, climate change and water and natural resource
management. The South Australian Scientist of the Year and South Australian Young
Tall Poppy were also invited to join the Council.

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Information Economy Advisory Board
The Information Economy Advisory Board provides advice to the Minister for
Science and Information Economy on potential benefits of the information economy
to all South Australians and on how to maximise the benefits. Membership brings
together prominent individuals from the community, academia and industry. It is
supported by, and works closely with, DFEEST.

Bio Innovation SA
Bio Innovation SA is a subsidiary of the Minister for Science and Information
Economy established by the Public Corporation (Bio Innovation SA) Regulations
2001. South Australia has a dynamic bioscience industry based on a strong
tradition of medical and agricultural research that drives commercial opportunities.
To build on these opportunities, the South Australian Government established
Bio Innovation SA, a bioscience industry development organisation that provides
business development, finance, infrastructure and marketing assistance.
For more information on Bio Innovation SA go to
http://www.bioinnovationsa.com.au/

Playford Centre
Playford Centre is a subsidiary of the Minister for Science and Information Economy
established by the Public Corporations (Playford Centre) Regulations 1996, to
contribute to South Australia’s economic growth, exports, commercialisation of
research and entrepreneurial activity, by facilitating the formation and development
of innovative technology ventures.

Playford Capital
In 2001, Playford Centre formed a subsidiary Playford Capital Pty Ltd. Playford
Capital uses funding provided by the Australian Government’s Building on IT
Strengths and ICT Incubator Programs to invest in South Australian ICT firms which
have the potential and commitment to become high growth companies exporting
interstate and overseas. This has stimulated the inflow of private equity into South
Australia and supported ICT company growth.
For more information on Playford Capital go to www.playford.com.au

SABRENet Ltd
SABRENet Ltd is a company limited by guarantee with the three local universities
and the Government of South Australia as members. It is a not for profit
organisation which has as its objective to further the use of advanced data
networking for the conduct of research and education in South Australia. SABRENet
Ltd owns a dark fibre optical cable telecommunications network linking the major
higher education Campuses and research precincts, as well as some schools and
TAFE Campuses in metropolitan Adelaide.

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Duke of Edinburgh’s Award State Award Committee
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is an international self-development program
available to young people aged 14-25. The Minister for Youth is the exclusive
licence holder in South Australia and appoints the State Award Committee to
maintain quality and support the delivery of the Award.

Minister’s Youth Council
The Minister’s Youth Council comprises young people aged 12-25 who provide
advice to the Minister for Youth on issues that affect young South Australians. The
Minister’s Youth Council consults and advises the Minister directly through monthly
meetings.

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Governance
The Department’s principal corporate governance obligations are prescribed in the
Public Sector Management Act 1995 and the Technical and Further Education Act
1975. These Acts establish general management aims, personnel management and
employee conduct standards. The Chief Executive is responsible for observance of
these aims and standards.

The Department maintains a governance framework (Figure 1) that integrates
strategic management, leadership and accountability, in the way it manages its
people and resources to achieve best performance of its functions.

Figure 1

Minister

Audit and Risk
Chief Executive
Management

EXECUTIVE
FORUM Corporate Executive
DCE ETS
DCE PPI

Budget and Finance
Executive

Other
Reference
Groups
TAR Exec TAN Exec TAS Exec
Business Services
Strategic Reference Group

TAFE SA Network
Executive
Asset Strategy Committee

Other reference
Groups
Aboriginal Action
Committee

Workforce Development
Executive
Information Accountability

The framework is supported by a governance structure encompassing the following:
Corporate Executive is the high level decision making and leadership group in the
Department. Its primary role is to ensure the successful achievement of the
Department’s strategic planning and portfolio outcomes and it has responsibility for
maintaining the effectiveness of these governance mechanisms.
The Budget and Finance Executive Committee is an expert committee providing
financial governance over the Department’s resources. It monitors performance
against fiscal targets and tracks allocation of operating and capital budgets and
makes decisions on a range of finance related issues. The Committee provides

21

advice on the best use of operating and capital budgets to the Chief Executive
through Corporate Executive.
The Business Services Strategic Reference Group provides leadership, advice and
the strategic vision for business services across DFEEST. The Group is a sub
committee of Corporate Executive and reports to Corporate Executive as required.
The Asset Strategy Committee provides strategic guidance for the integrated
planning and management of all infrastructure requirements across the portfolio and
the development of strategic portfolio infrastructure plans for TAFE SA.
The Aboriginal Action Committee provides leadership within DFEEST to improve
access to, and outcomes from education, training and employment programs for
Aboriginal people in South Australia.
The Workforce Policy Development Executive brings together the leadership of all
relevant policy units of DFEEST and the Office of the Training and Skills Commission
to ensure a coordinated and connected approach to workforce planning and policy
activities across the Department and to build more focussed and collaborative
relationships with external stakeholders on policy and workforce development
issues.
Executive Forum is a broadly based group of executive leaders responsible for the
collaborative achievement of departmental objectives across all initiatives and
programs.
The TAFE SA Network Executive is a peak decision making body for all strategic
issues relating to the TAFE SA Network. It will lead the implementation of the Skills
Strategy and standardise services across a range of Institute operational areas
across TAFE SA.
The Audit and Risk Management Committee is an integral part of the governance
framework and provides assurance to, and assists the Chief Executive in
undertaking his statutory and administrative responsibilities.

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REPORT ON OPERATIONS
AGAINST THE DFEEST STRATEGIC
PLAN

25

GOAL 1 Ensure South Australians have the necessary education
and skills to participate in the high skill economy

1.1 Accelerate skills take-up for the current and emerging workforce (Links
to South Australia’s Strategic Plan (SASP) Target (T) 6.15, T6.19, T6.20
and T6.21)

A key strategy for accelerating and increasing training has been to increase
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). RPL involves recognising knowledge and skills
from life and work experience, previous courses and training, or self-taught
knowledge and skills. Candidates must provide evidence of relevant skills and
knowledge to gain recognition for all or part of a course/qualification at TAFE SA.

RPL processes undertaken by TAFE SA include:
Refrigeration program for workers to gain Certificate II in Electrotechnology –
Split Systems for the purpose of gaining a national Refrigerant Handling
licence
The Building, Construction and Furnishing program commenced assessment
and delivery to apprentices on site and on location during 2008. This resulted
in providing recognition of current competencies and RPL to a number of
existing workers
The School of Plumbing Services worked closely with SA Water to develop a
technical competency framework for implementation across its workforce to
increase skills transfer and the number of staff with nationally accredited
qualifications
The Aboriginal Access Centre (AAC) conducted an RPL project with
Aboriginal staff across government agencies to promote completion of
Certificates III and above. The AAC provides case management and learning
support to Aboriginal students in mainstream TAFE SA courses to assist in
completion higher level qualification completions
The TAFE SA Community Services and Health program has continued to
work in partnership with the Community and Neighbourhood House
Association to deliver an RPL mentoring and assessment program for
Neighbourhood House coordinators. This program leads to the completion of
the Diploma or Advanced Diploma of Community Services Management.
A similar model of mentoring community and Government leaders through an RPL
process has been highly successful across the State, leading to more than 70
workers completing the Diploma or Advanced Diploma of Community Services
Management. More than 40 of these participants have been Indigenous.
Other initiatives to accelerate skills take-up include:
A joint program developed with TAFE SA and CMI (Toyota) to fast track
apprentices enrolled in Certificate III in Automotive Mechanical Technology
(Specialising in Light Vehicle)

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TAFE SA Hospitality, Food and Wine Program at Barossa Campus delivered
a ‘Taste of Hospitality’ training program to 57 participants during 2008 with
39 gaining employment. This program was funded by South Australia
Works, Mid North Development Board, Barossa Lower North Futures Inc.
and has received in-kind sponsorship from the Clare/Mid North Hospitality
and Tourism enterprises
The TAFE SA GetSET 50 Program at Port Augusta Campus continued in
2008. GetSET 50 targets young people between 16-19 years who have
been disconnected from education. The program produced 40 successful
graduates in 2008, 22 of whom were Indigenous
Goal 100 (Mark III), an initiative of One Steel, TAFE SA and the Whyalla
Economic Development Board continued to provide an opportunity in 2008
for more than 100 local unemployed people to win jobs in the expanding
heavy vehicle industry sector, including the mining industry.

1.2 Ensure a ready supply of qualified South Australian workers is available
from the State’s growth sectors (Links to SASP T6.19, T6.20 and T6.21)

Results to be achieved by June 2010 unless otherwise stated

Increase by 5 per cent the number of young people aged 15-24 in traineeships and
apprenticeships from 19 900 at June 2006 to 20 900.

Progress to date: As at 30 June 2008, the number of young people aged 15-24 in
traineeships and apprenticeships was 19 700. 1
Trainee and Apprentice Activity
The Department is responsible for the regulation of the traineeship and
apprenticeship system in South Australia under the delegation of the Training and
Skills Commission. Traineeships and apprenticeships remain a key strategy through
which a ready supply of skills are made available to South Australian businesses and
industry.
As at 30 September 2008, NCVER data estimates there were 33 500 apprentices
and trainees in-training in South Australia, 4.2 per cent higher than the 32 200
recorded a year earlier, at 30 September 2007. In the 12 months ending
30 September 2008, there were an estimated 21 800 traineeship and apprenticeship
commencements, representing an increase of 2.7 per cent increase compared to
the preceding twelve months to 30 September 2007.
Over 10 000 trainees and apprentices completed their training in each of the past
three years, with 11 200 completions recorded in the 12 months ending June 2008.

1
Source: NCVER data cubes, July 1994 to June 2008. NCVER has revised its June 2006 estimates down to 19 600, the
benchmark used for this target

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Trainee and apprentice activity, five years ending 30 June 2008*

40000

35000

30000

25000

20000

15000

10000

5000

0
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

In training Commencements Completions
In training figures are provided at 30 June of each year, commencement and completion figures are provided for the 12 months
ending 30 June of each year.

All figures are based on the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) Australian vocational education and
training statistics – Apprentices and trainees June quarter (2008). All figures are estimated for 2008 and in training figures are
estimated for 2007. The NCVER may revise these figures in the future.

The South Australian Government has a strong commitment to industry leadership
and has strengthened the role of the Industry Skills Boards (ISBs) as the
Department’s primary source of industry advice. The ISBs work with industry,
enterprise, community and Government to identify workforce trends and emerging
skill needs, and facilitate the update of workforce development strategies by
industry to improve the attraction, retention and development of a skilled workforce.
Additional funding resources will support the Boards.
A number of TAFE SA programs are continuing to work with the ISBs and industry
associations to meet skill shortages being experienced in various industries. Two
examples of TAFE SA initiatives during 2008 include industry partnerships with
Clipsal for the delivery of training for Electrical Prevocational students and the
Electrical Apprenticeship Program (Certificate III in Electrotechnology – Systems
Electrician).
Marketing students at Adelaide City Campus are training in a purpose-built, fully
equipped simulated office environment made possible through a donation of
equipment from retailer Harvey Norman. The ‘Harvey Norman Centre for Innovation’
was launched in 2008.
South Australia Works Skills Recognition Services (SRS) was established in the
Adelaide CBD to assist people with the recognition of qualifications and skills
(gained locally or overseas) in order to gain employment. The service opened as a
shop front at 55 Currie Street, Adelaide in March 2008. The service primarily works
with newly arrived skilled migrants and also assists anyone needing help with

29

information on pathways to recognition of qualifications and skills; recognition of
prior learning; career changes; and/or pathways to gaining skilled employment.
2006-08 Pre-Apprenticeship / Traineeship Program
The Department awarded grants to six registered training organisations (RTOs) for
the delivery of the Pre-Apprenticeship/Traineeship Program in June 2007. The
program seeks to increase the supply of apprentices and trainees in occupations
and industries experiencing skill shortages that are considered to be of strategic
importance to South Australia’s economy.
The 2006-08 Program concluded on 30 June 2008, with 70 per cent of the 176
commencing participants gaining employment. Forty-four per cent of commencing
participants gained an apprenticeship or traineeship while further education and
training outcomes were achieved by other participants.
The Department has formal processes through which grievances and disputes can
be raised by trainees, apprentices or their employers. In the 12 months to
June 2008, 74 disputes and/or grievances were referred to the Training and Skills
Commission’s Grievances and Disputes Mediation Committee (GDMC) for
determination.
Since the enactment of the Training and Skills Development Act 2008, on
1 September 2008, parties to a training contract can now take grievances and
disputes directly to the South Australian Industrial Relations Committee.
At the COAG meeting on 29 November 2008 all State and Territory Governments
and the Australian Government agreed to sign a new National Skills and Workforce
Development Agreement. This Agreement covers the Specific Purpose Payments
made by the Commonwealth to the State for Vocational Education and Training. It is
subject to the provisions of the broader Intergovernmental Agreement on Federal
Financial Relations. This new Agreement significantly reforms the nature of the
relationship between the States and Territories and the Commonwealth. The
Agreement emphasises national skills and workforce development targets and the
associated outcomes and outputs for which the States and Territories are expected
to achieve.
The Agreement also clarifies individual and joint State, Territory and Commonwealth
responsibilities within the national training system. The Agreement defines the base
level of funding nationally and the distribution of that funding between jurisdictions.
Special Purpose Payments from the Commonwealth are no longer provided as
individual grants to agencies direct from the Commonwealth but rather will be paid
to State Treasury and transferred to DFEEST on an agreed basis. The new
arrangements commence on 1 January 2009.
The other important agreement reached by COAG in relation to the VET system is
the National Partnership Agreement on Productivity Places Program. This
Partnership provides significant additional investment in vocational education and
training for both Existing Workers and Job Seekers. South Australia piloted the
Existing Worker component of the program in 2008 through an MOU with the
Commonwealth. Implementation of the full Existing Worker and Job Seeker
programs will commence in 2009.

30

It is expected that national policy development and reform of the VET system will
continue through COAG and the Ministerial Council for Vocational Education and
Technical Education (MCVTE).

1.3 Enhance Adelaide’s reputation as a world class city for education,
training and higher education (Links to SASP T1.16, T6.20 and T6.21
In South Australia overseas student enrolments peaked at a record 27 967, up by
20.1 per cent on 2007 numbers and representing 5.1 per cent market share of the
national total. Australian Education International estimates that overseas students
directly contributed $741 million to the South Australian economy and $13.73 billion
to the Australian economy, making international education Australia's third largest
export industry. 2
The Department continued to provide financial support to Education Adelaide to
lead the Study Adelaide marketing initiative in overseas markets. Along with the
Department of the Premier and Cabinet’s University City Project and the Adelaide
City Council, the Department assisted the development of Education Adelaide’s
Industry Development Plan, which provides the blueprint for positioning Adelaide as
a city for high quality education and accessible support infrastructure.
There has been a significant increase in the number of providers offering education
services to overseas students, in particular in the vocational education sector. The
total number of providers delivering to overseas students has increased from 45 to
62. Fifteen of the 17 new education and training organisations were registered to
provide education services to overseas students in the VET sector. These 15
providers were approved for a total student enrolment capacity of 2 250 students.
This higher level of activity has sharpened the Department’s focus on its regulatory
and quality assurance activities for this sector.
TAFE SA was presented with the Hong Kong Australia Business Association Judges’
Award for excellence in bilateral trade and building strong educational ties with
Hong Kong and mainland China.
The Department continues to work closely with the University City Project in the
Department of the Premier and Cabinet on measures to attract high quality
international universities to Australia and to improve international research.
In their 2007 Annual Reports, South Australia’s universities reported the following
achievements:
The University of South Australia saw an increase in its total research income
of 13 per cent to $45.7 million
It won Federal Government funding to establish a national centre for student
equity in higher education and the University was named an Employer of
Choice for Women for a fifth consecutive year
The University of Adelaide signed formal agreements with the United
Kingdom’s Cranfield University for research and courses in defence and
security

2
Source: Australian Education International (AEI), subscribers Marketing Information Package (MIP), detailed December 2008 Pivot
table, accessed online 26 February 2009

31

It won more than $57 million in new federal grants from the National Health
and Medical Research Council, the Australian Research Council and the
Grains Research and Development Corporation, highlighting the University’s
research experience
It has been awarded 235 new Commonwealth-supported places, more new
places than any other university in the country
Flinders University commenced the construction of the new $45 million
Health Sciences and Education buildings
It renewed formal agreements between the university, DFEEST and TAFE SA
for a further five years, providing increased cooperation with the VET sector
Flinders University was nominated as the lead University for the South
Australian Government in the Australia and New Zealand School of
Government (ANZSOG) consortium.
The quality of TAFE SA training was showcased in the South Australian Training
Awards and WorldSkills Australia National Competitions. TAFE SA trained the South
Australian Apprentice of the Year, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of
the Year, Australian School-based Apprentice of the Year and won the enterprise
Training Initiative Award within the South Australian Training Awards. TAFE SA
students also claimed 11 medals of excellence at the WorldSkills national
competition in Sydney in July 2008.

1.4 Build a fair, quality oriented and competitive training market (Links to
SASP T1.16, T6.20 and T6.21
User Choice training subsidies
The Department provides support for traineeships and apprenticeships through the
provision of training subsidies (known as User Choice training subsidies) to
registered training organisations.
During 2008, 176 registered training organisations (consisting of TAFE SA and
privately owned registered training providers) established User Choice agreements.
A total of $39.87 million was provided by the Department during the 2007-08
financial year to support in excess of 22 000 trainees and apprentices undertaking a
nationally recognised qualification.
As illustrated in the figure below, 44 per cent of students who attracted User Choice
assistance were apprentices, while funding for traineeships represented 38 per cent
of expenditure.

Student numbers Funding

T/ ships
T/ ships A/ ships $14,203,229
12,814 9,951
38% A/ ships
56% 44%
$23,130,872
62%

Funding for traineeships and apprenticeships does not equal total expenditure for User Choice, as other expenses associated
with User Choice are included in the total expenditure for the program.

32

Review of User Choice policy and pricing structure
The Department commenced a review of the current User Choice policy and pricing
structure in 2008.
It is anticipated that the review will be finalised by early 2009.

Travel and accommodation allowances for apprentices and trainees
A departmental review of travel and accommodation allowances for apprentices and
trainees resulted in a number of policy changes. This included the rationalisation of
travel allowances on the basis of distance travelled to the nearest training provider.
The outcome has increased allowances for the majority of eligible apprentices and
trainees.
The annual travel and accommodation budget increased from $0.875 million to
$1.775 million, in July 2008, to support the policy amendment.

Quality in Training
The Department manages the assessment of registrations of training providers to
deliver nationally recognised qualifications and Statements of Attainment under
delegation from the Training and Skills Commission.
A total of 31 non-university higher education providers are registered in South
Australia, delivering 208 higher education qualifications. There were three new
organisations approved in 2008.
The vocational education and training sector in South Australia continued to grow
with 24 new providers registered making a total of 290 registered providers in this
sector. The registration of TAFE SA was renewed for a further five years following a
comprehensive assessment process across delivery sites that demonstrated
compliance with all registration requirements. During the year, 16 providers
withdrew from the system.
The Department investigates complaints about registered providers. Thirty seven
written complaints were received during the year.
The majority of vocational education and training qualifications are developed and
endorsed within National Training Packages. Each Training Package provides a suite
of qualifications for a sector of industry ranging from entry to para-professional
levels. The Department made available 36 training packages containing 335
qualifications. Of these, 124 qualifications were made available as traineeships or
apprenticeships.
In addition to national qualifications in Training Packages, vocational education
qualifications are accredited provided there is an industry or market need not met by
a Training Package. A total of 13 vocational education courses were approved for
initial accreditation or extension of accreditation. Eight of these courses were
accredited under delegation by TAFE SA.
Twenty six professional development workshops to assist training providers meet
registration requirements were attended by 334 participants. Three Training Provider
Forums conducted by the Department attracted over 180 managers and
practitioners from private and public RTOs in 2008.

33

The Department also:
informed students and consumers of their choices, rights and responsibilities
informed and advised training providers about the relevant national and state
standards and legislation with which they must comply
contributed to the design, development and implementation of national
qualifications
ensured standards are met with continuous improvement through audits of
training providers
convened professional development workshops and forums on teaching and
learning strategies and education management issues
worked in collaboration with relevant national and interstate bodies to
maintain and improve the national training system.

RECOGNITION DATA
Table 1
VET REGISTRATION 2007 2008
Summary
Total Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) registered in SA for
282 290 a
domestic delivery
RTOs also delivering Higher Education courses 14 14
RTOs registered in South Australia operating in another State/Territory 93 122
RTOs who remain suspended 3 0b
RTOs with delegated powers 1 1c
Approvals
Initial registration 31 24
Renewal of registration 55 51
Extension to scope of registration 93 139
TOTAL 179 214

Qualifications added to TAFE SA scope of registration under
70 77
delegation

Refusals, Cancellations and Suspensions
RTOs who expired or voluntarily withdrew registration 10 16 d
RTOs who transferred to interstate registering body 0 0
RTOs who had registration cancelled by registration authority 0 0
RTOs who had registration suspended by registration authority 0 0
RTOs who had registration refused by registration authority:
Extension to scope registration 1 1
TOTAL 15 20

Audit Activity: Number of audits conducted
Compliance 34 33
Complaint 7 8
TOTAL 176 159
a
2 RTOs have their auditing and registration managed by National Audit and Registration
Agency (NARA)
b
Registration period for all 3 suspended RTOs has lapsed
c
TAFESA
d
Includes 3 RTOs who were previously suspended

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Table 2

VET ACCREDITATION 2007 2008
Summary
Total accredited courses 278 159
Approvals
Courses accredited 39 5
Courses accredited (TAFESA under delegated
3 8
authority)
Training Package qualifications implemented in South
335 335
Australia
New qualifications made available through
124 124
traineeships or apprenticeships
TOTAL 501 472

Table 3

HIGHER EDUCATION REGISTRATION 2007 2008
Summary
Higher education providers registered in SA for
28 31
domestic delivery
Higher education providers who also deliver VET
14 14
courses
Approvals
Initial Registration 1 3
Variation to scope of registration 10 2
TOTAL 11 5

Refusals, Revocations and Withdrawals
Higher education providers who voluntarily withdrew
0 0
registration
Higher education providers who had registration
0 0
cancelled by registration authority
0 0
suspended by registration authority
refused by registration authority
0 0
Initial registration
0 1
Variation of registration
0 0
Renewal of registration
TOTAL 0 1

Table 4

HIGHER EDUCATION ACCREDITATION 2007 2008
Summary
Total current accredited courses 253 208
Approvals
Courses accredited 35 20

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Table 5

OVERSEAS RECOGNITION 2007 2008
Summary
Registered providers delivering only VET courses to
18 32
overseas students
Registered providers delivering only higher education
9 10
courses to overseas students
Registered providers delivering VET and higher
8 9
education courses to overseas students
Registered providers delivering only English
Language Intensive Courses (ELICOS) to overseas 5 6
students
Registered providers delivering VET and higher
education and English Language Intensive Courses 3 3
(ELICOS) to overseas students
Registered providers delivering English Language
Intensive Courses (ELICOS) and VET courses to 1 1
overseas students
Registered providers delivering English Language
Intensive Courses (ELICOS) and higher education 1 1
courses to overseas students
Total Registered providers approved to deliver to
45 62
overseas students
Approvals
TOTAL 18 32

Refusals, Cancellations and Suspensions
RTOs who voluntarily withdrew registration 1 0
RTOs who had registration cancelled by registration
0 0
authority
RTOs who had registration suspended by registration
0 0
authority
RTOs who had registration refused by registration
authority:
Extension to scope registration 0 1
TOTAL 2 2

Audit Activity: Number of audits conducted
Compliance 1 3
Complaint 1 2

TOTAL 21 38

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1.5 Continue to develop fresh approaches to skills development and system
reforms (Links to SASP T6.15, T6.19, T6.20 and T6.21)

A TAFE SA e-learning strategy was launched in June 2008. The strategy integrates
the approach to e-learning across TAFE SA, increases access to quality learning,
increases capacity to deliver quality education and contributes to a systems and
business oriented approach.
TAFE SA Business Administration program secured funding from the Australian
Flexible Learning Framework to undertake the Virtual Administration Trainee
Adventures (VATA) project. VATA will explore the educational opportunities of using
virtual worlds as an e-learning platform by trialling the methodology with a pilot
group of Aboriginal trainees who are employed by the Department of Education and
Children’s Services (DECS).
TAFE SA Hairdressing Program has partnered with local schools and key industry
employers in the Riverland to develop e-learning strategies to assist with delivery of
Certificate II in Hairdressing. This allows the local community retain young people to
develop skills for the community.
TAFE SA conducted two successful pilot programs at Bower Place, a Family
Therapy Centre in Gawler Place for delivery of the Certificate IV in Community
Services Work. Students were exposed to learning in an on-job environment with
support and direction from Bower Place and TAFE SA staff, with access to
interactive learning materials online.
The South Australia Works Skills Recognition Services gave free one hour interviews
to over 150 members of the public. Participants experienced the benefits of
identifying their existing skills and knowledge to help them gain a nationally
recognised qualification, engage in further training and improve their opportunities in
the job market. Each participant received a report they could use to present to a
training organisation if they wished to seek formal assessment or further training.

1.6 Promote community learning for the benefit of the individual, the
economy and social health of the State (Links to SASP T6.19)

The Alternative Learning Options Program (ALOP) delivered by TAFE SA is funded
by South Australia Works, promoting community learning to assist disengaged
young people to either return to school, pursue further TAFE SA studies or gain
employment. Participants from four southern metropolitan high schools developed
their confidence and gained valuable skills.
During 2008 the Horse Skills Centre collaborated with Balaklava High School,
Balaklava Racing Club and Barossa Lower North Futures Board to further develop
horse industry training programs for school students within the region.
A community program during Adult Learners’ Week called ‘the upside of retirement’
was attended by 70 people, with ‘Cookery for Retired Men’ a strongly attended
program.
TAFE SA Abilities for All program worked closely with the Disability Sector to
increase basic skill levels across the community. In 2008, the program involved key

37

partners from Barkuma, Orana, Balyana, Barossa Enterprises, Minda and the
Bedford Group. Accredited training programs were offered to 168 employees across
these organisations at Certificate II level.
The South Australia Works Adult Community Education Program (ACE) supported
over 90 projects delivering 10 000 accredited and 300 000 hours of non-accredited
learning to over 11 000 people.
Implementation of Community Learning: learn, live, grow, prosper during 2008
included Adult Learners Week activities in September and the Australian Learning
Communities Conference in October. A website that promotes all community
learning activity, sponsored by South Australian and Local Government is being
developed by DFEEST.
Making Literacy Everybody’s Business was launched in September 2008, promoting
new ways of communicating ideas and information to increase all forms of literacy,
including workplace, health, financial and information technology.

1.7 Specially focus on disadvantaged members of society
South Australia Works in Communities creates learning opportunities for people and
their communities. People with a disability, migrants and disadvantaged
unemployed or under-employed people between 25 and 39 years were supported to
participate in learning programs. Through a range of programs 4 646 people were
assisted and 1 835 gained employment. The Employment Assistance Program
supported 2 010 jobseekers facing barriers to employment of which 835 gained
employment. The Parents Return to Work program provided accredited training to
590 parents with 225 gaining employment.
South Australia Works for Aboriginal People won the Premier’s Award for the best
public sector program for Growing Prosperity.
South Australia Works in the Regions Recognition and Achievement Award was
presented to Riverland Drought Recovery Initiative - Mining, which assisted workers
affected by the continuing impact of the drought.
In 2007, the State Government announced a $7.7 million package to support
farmers and farming communities in drought affected areas. This amount was part
of an overall $60 million drought relief program designed to support farmers and
rural communities.
During 2007-08 the Department administered $1.5 million of this total package
through the Drought Apprenticeship Retention Program to assist employers in
drought designated areas through payments of $1 500 for each apprentice or
trainee retained in their employment, allowing 980 apprentices and trainees to
remain in employment.
A group of young unemployed South Australians participated in the Dare to Dream
project, a joint initiative between TAFE SA Hospitality Studies, South Australia
Works, Hyatt Regency Adelaide, Save the Children Australia (SA) and Hospitality
Group Training. The project comprised a short training program provided by
TAFE SA in which participants were given an introduction to the knowledge and

38

skills required to be a chef, including cooking techniques, nutrition, kitchen hygiene,
and occupational health and safety.
TAFE SA Workplace Education is working closely with Families SA and Minda
Incorporated to deliver positive learning outcomes for youth at risk and learners with
disabilities through the Labs n Life project with the learning outcomes from the
Certificate I in Introductory Vocational Education Certificate (IVEC).
TAFE SA implemented the first GetSet For Your FUTURE program in the
metropolitan area for 80 disengaged young people. Managed through Northern
Futures and in partnership with OneSteel.
The Equity Fee Assistance Scheme continued during 2008. The scheme assists
students who hold a pensioner concession card or health care card.
TAFE SA supported disadvantaged members of the community, particularly those
who have no academic results, to gain access to government subsidised training
places through Assessment of Basic Skills (TABS) testing. The testing demonstrates
essential minimum literacy and numeracy skills required to be successful in TAFE
SA courses. In 2008 streamlining of TABS processes occurred with applicants able
to access their results via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre website.
TAFE SA English Language Services, Home Tutor Scheme matches volunteers with
migrants or refugees to provide one on one tutoring in English language skills
development. The Home Tutor Scheme provides nationally accredited training and
support to volunteers who help migrants learn English.
TAFE SA won the 2008 Fair Go Award from Deaf Australia in recognition of
exceptional efforts to give deaf people a fair go in education.
TAFE SA Community Services and Health provided accredited training in the APY
Lands with 12 students graduating in 2008 in various Certificate II and III Community
Services qualifications. A VET in Schools program provided Certificate II in
Community Services Work with a child care focus. Thirty five residents in the APY
Lands have been involved in Community Services and Health studies. Students
were engaged through active, hands on delivery through culturally appropriate and
locally relevant learning materials and activities.
TAFE SA has worked collaboratively with Pika Wiya Learning Centre to gain funding
for a Certificate II in Health Support Services, resulting in 10 successful participants
including three students on Australian School Based Apprenticeships.
A pilot program at TAFE SA Barossa Valley Campus integrated an engineering
course with literacy/numeracy. Overall there were 60 participants in the program
with 41 Indigenous participants who completed Access Training (Numeracy and
Literacy), Certificate I Resources and Infrastructure Operations and Certificate II in
Metalliferous Mining Operations (Open Cut).
The state-wide Aboriginal Access Centre initiative was established to facilitate
increased participation and engagement of Aboriginal people in VET and
employment through individualised Case Management Services, Certificate I and II
level qualifications, marketing, Cultural Awareness Training and fee assistance
grants.

39

GOAL 2 Provide high quality employment and workforce
development services

Results to be achieved by 2010 and how DFEEST is tracking

Increase the number of participants in South Australia Works learning and
work programs to 25 000 or more per annum
In 2007-08, over 29 000 participants were engaged in South Australia Works
programs, with over 8 500 gaining employment.

Maintain the number of Aboriginal apprentices in training above 170 with a
further 1 300 participants in South Australia Works for Indigenous people per
annum
The total number of Aboriginal apprentices in training peaked at 170. The
apprentices in training contributed to the 1 688 Aboriginal people in South Australia
Works programs.

Increase the proportion of employment outcomes for the total number of
participants in South Australia Works from 28 per cent in June 2006 to 33 per
cent
In 2008, 49 per cent of participants in work programs gained employment.

Increase the proportion of employment outcomes in South Australia Works for
mature-aged people from 30 per cent in June 2006 to 44 per cent
In 2008, 44 per cent of participants in work programs gained employment.

Increase in the proportion of employment outcomes in South Australia Works
for Indigenous people from 29 percent in June 2006 to 41 percent
In 2008, 48 per cent of Aboriginal participants in work programs gained
employment.

Labour Market Adjustment Program from 65 per cent in June 2006 to 67
percent
Workers retrenched from organisations facing closure or restructure are provided
with training and employment assistance on demand. Fifty eight per cent of
participants of the Labour Market Adjustment Program gained employment.

Increase the proportion of work outcomes for South Australia Works in the
Regions from
34 percent in 2006 to 41 percent
Fifty one per cent of participants in South Australia Works in the Regions projects
gained employment. $8.6 million was provided to assist over 6 780 participants in
South Australia Works in the Regions projects, with a total of 3 463 employment
outcomes achieved.

40

2.1 Provide access to high quality employment (Links to SASP T1.10
T1.11 T1.12 and T1.26

South Australia Works links people to skills and jobs by:
Working in partnership with industry, the three tiers of government, education
and training providers, regional organisations and the community, the South
Australia Works initiative focuses on eight priority areas - young people,
mature-aged people, Aboriginal people, public sector, industry, regions,
communities and skills development
addressing the needs of individuals who face barriers to participating
effectively in their communities and the paid workforce by providing learning,
skills development, training and employment opportunities.
Expenditure on South Australia Works learning, training and work programs was
$33.08 million in 2007-08 including $4.7 million of Australian Government funds and
other State Government agencies.
South Australia Works in the Regions assisted over 8 000 people in the regions with
over 3 140 gaining employment. People from a range of target groups including
young, Aboriginal and mature aged people were assisted through 220 South
Australia Works in the Regions projects.
South Australia Works for Mature Aged People continued to develop early
intervention strategies by providing training, up skilling and employment programs
for people 40 years and over. A total of 3 780 mature-aged people participated in
work programs and 1 659 gained employment.
South Australia Works with Industry identified new employment and training
possibilities, helped people to develop the skills required by a changing and
dynamic economy, and assisted in meeting current and emerging workforce needs.
A total of 4 970 people participated in industry programs, with 2 546 gaining
employment.
South Australia Works programs provided opportunities for Aboriginal people to
participate in learning, training and employment across the private and public
sectors. In 2007-08:
South Australia Works programs involved 1 688 Aboriginal people and 806
gained employment
an additional 517 Aboriginal people undertook accredited or non accredited
training at the Tauondi Aboriginal College
The South Australia Works Aboriginal Apprenticeship Program supported 150
apprentices, and 55 new apprentices commenced an apprenticeship
Sixty Aboriginal people gained a public sector traineeship, cadetship or
apprenticeship via the South Australia Works CareerStart SA program.
The TAFE SA Mechanical Engineering and Transport Program, in partnership with
CavPower and Wilpena Pty Ltd, signed an agreement with the intention to support
the employment of 350 retrenched Mitsubishi and Electrolux workers over a five
year period. This agreement provides an accelerated adult apprenticeship program
as well as on the job training with host employers over a five year period. The

41

program will see participants complete a Certificate III in Automotive Mechanical
Technology (specialising in Heavy Vehicle Mobile Equipment suited to the mining
industry).
TAFE SA Veterinary and Applied Science Centre continues to have a high level of
credibility with the industry that it services. The Centre works closely with
enterprises to ensure the skills of graduates are of a high calibre and meet the needs
of the employers. Over 85 per cent of students within the program obtain
employment within the industry.
In a collaborative working relationship between TAFE SA and Thiess Australia, the
Caterpillar Rigid Dump Truck driving simulator was located at the Port Augusta
Campus for the delivery of industry required skills training. The simulator was loaned
to TAFE SA for the re-training of 53 farmers from drought affected areas into skills
shortage areas. In addition, a further 21 people accessed the training through
Employment Agencies and private funding.
A Safety Training Centre was opened in Whyalla in August 2008. The Centre is a
collaborative venture between TAFE SA and OneSteel to offer critical safety training
which has been tailored to suit the requirements of industry. The training is
structured using the expertise and knowledge of OneSteel personnel with TAFE SA
delivering training.
A joint initiative of the Australian and State Governments, the Labour Market
Adjustment Initiative is a responsive, demand driven program which provides
assistance to retrenched workers. Workers retrenched from nine companies
received job search assistance, career counselling and case management,
recognition of prior learning and training and skill development activities. Nine
hundred retrenched workers accessed training and employment services, with 520
individuals gaining employment.

2.2 Increase and improve workforce participation in learning and work (links
to SASP T1.12, T6.20 and T6.21)
The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Aboriginal Workforce Development continued its
work on increasing Indigenous participation in education and employment in order
to provide widespread economic and social benefits for communities. The
Committee is chaired by the Minister for Employment, Training and Further
Education.
TAFE SA continued its relationships with both SA Water and Wyndham Richardson
Investments Pty Ltd to secure funding for scholarships for TAFE SA students.
SA Water provided scholarships for students of the Certificate IV and Diploma of
English Proficiency. A total of 10 scholarships valued at $1 000 each were awarded
during 2008.
Wyndham Richardson Investments Pty Ltd provided scholarships for students who
studied full time in any Certificate IV or higher level qualification. Ten scholarships,
valued at $1 000 each were awarded in 2008.
The Women’s Employment Participation Initiative, led by DFEEST in conjunction
with the Office for Women and SafeworkSA, has identified specific opportunities for

42

increasing the participation of women in employment and is gathering broad
industry support through the Premier’s Council for Women’s Economic Status
roundtable series.

2.3 Foster career development (Links to SASP T6.15 and T6.19)

Career Development Services were established in Northern Adelaide, Adelaide Hills,
Port Augusta and Whyalla, complementing the Career Development Services
already established in Mt Gambier and Murray Bridge. The Northern Adelaide
Centre is a partnership between the Department of Education, Employment and
Workplace Relations (DEEWR) and DFEEST.
Industry Skills Boards have developed a range of career information materials that
are being used to link with Trade Schools for the Future, Future SACE and other
agencies. These materials provide up to date information on specific industry
sectors, linking business users and the general public to a variety of information and
resources. School students can access these materials to complete their personal
learning plans and make decisions about their futures. These materials are available
on DFEEST’s Workforce Information Service website:
www.workforceinfoservice.sa.gov.au

Over 400 young people who were at risk of leaving school before completing Year
12 or engaging in education and/or employment have received individualised
support through the Youth Pathways Program. A case management model was
used to successfully retain them within the school sector or engage them in a TAFE
SA course or a mix of school and TAFE studies.
TAFE SA Community Services and Health program developed a partnership with the
University of South Australia for joint delivery of the Graduate Certificate in
Education, specialising in Career Development.
The program also delivered the Certificate IV in Career Development to 75
participants in the Riverland region. This was the first delivery of this qualification in
Australia and participants came from Commonwealth Career’s Advice Australia
agencies as well as the South Australian and Northern Territory school sector.
Training was also delivered in the Australia Careers Development Studies to more
than 150 teachers and school counsellors in DECS, the Independent Schools
Association and Catholic Education.

2.4 Provide high quality workforce development services to industry and the
community (Links to SASP T1.10, T1.11, T1.12 and T 1.26)

A high level report on skills and workforce development in South Australia was
produced by Dr Michael Keating from the Economic Development Board with the
support of DFEEST and the Department of Trade and Economic Development
(DTED). The Review of Skills and Workforce Development in South Australia: the
Challenge for the Next Decade found that based on economic forecasts, at the time
of writing the report, an estimated 133 000 additional workers will be required

43

between now and 2017-18 with a further 20 000 workers needed to replace people
leaving the workforce.
Some actions in response to these issues include:
Productivity Places Program For Existing Workers – a four year program
assisting workers already in the labour force to update or upgrade existing
skills
Productivity Places Program For Job Seekers – assisting those looking for
work to acquire skills and gain lasting employment
Productivity Places Program For Structural Adjustment - the Structural
Adjustment places are being made available to support displaced workers in
the automotive and manufacturing industries as part of structural adjustment
processes. These workers will be eligible for significant retraining
opportunities to meet skills in demand in growing sectors of the economy
Industry Partnerships Program Specific Purpose Workforce Development and
Training initiatives will also be funded through the Industry Partnerships
Program (IPP). IPP is a $2 million program with matching funding sought from
industry on a project by project basis. In collaboration with the South
Australian Industry Skills Boards, strategic training and workforce
development projects will be developed that recruit, retrain and retain
unemployed and under employed people in South Australia
Delivery commenced in the Advanced Diploma of Nursing (Rural and Remote
Health stream) aimed at up-skilling and addressing the need for specialist
skills amongst regional health workers
Local links in the industry and community ensure TAFE SA is engaged to
provide high quality workforce development services to both industry and the
community. Outcomes for 2008 include:
- the establishment of a Trade Training Centre based at TAFE SA Port Pirie
Campus, involving four schools from Port Pire, Gladstone, Jamestown
and Peterborough
- increased industry pathways developed between Southern Flinders
Ranges Regional Development Board, John Pirie Secondary School and
TAFE SA Port Pirie Campus as a conduit into employment
- several Alternative Learning Option Programs (ALOP) established across
the State
- Learn2Earn programs operating on a number of Campuses increased
employability outcomes for students.
As at June 2008, approximately 3 500 apprentices and trainees were
employed by 16 group training organisations funded by the State and
Commonwealth Governments through the Joint Group Training Program.
These organisations received $2.25 million collectively to support
commencement, retention and completion of apprenticeships and
traineeships.
The Department operates an information service to promote traineeships and
apprenticeships and provide information and advice to trainees, apprentices, their

44

employers, and the broader community. An average of 445 enquiries are handled
each week.
The Workforce Development Showcase is available on DFEEST's Workforce
Information Service Online www.workforceinfoservice.sa.gov.au. It provides a
range of practical industry level tools and resources that may assist industries and
businesses to develop their workforce to better match their business directions. The
showcase displays six themes: career information; up skilling of workers; skills
recognition; current and future workforce issues and planning; training linkages and
methodologies; and attraction and retention of workers.

2.5 Improve workforce planning and information (Links to SASP T1.10, T1.11,
T1.11 and T1.26)
A new Training and Skills Commission was established in September 2008. The
Commission commenced the process in 2008 of consulting with industry,
businesses and communities on the drafting of a comprehensive Five Year Plan for
Skills and Workforce Development. The Plan will identify the type and quantity of
skills that are needed from industry’s perspective and outline clear priorities and
strategies to meet training and employment goals.
The Workforce Policy Development Executive formed in 2008 to bring together the
leadership of all relevant policy units of DFEEST and the Office of the Training and
Skills Commission. It ensures a coordinated and connected approach to workforce
planning and policy activities and builds a more focussed and collaborative
relationships with external stakeholders on policy and workforce development
issues.
The Workforce Planning and Policy directorate supports the State’s workforce
planning system by developing and promoting well researched, fully consulted
policy positions and strategy options which will enhance South Australia’s efforts to
build its workforce capacity.
Workforce Planning and Policy supports the Training and Skills Commission,
Government, industry and the community including education and training providers
in developing South Australia’s workforce. The directorate provides the Minister for
Employment, Training and Further Education with high quality and timely analysis on
a range of workforce and industry matters.
Workforce Planning and Policy promotes a common understanding of the Workforce
Planning System through a network of agencies by refining the analytical processes
used and providing tools and resources to assist industry in developing workforce
plans to ensure South Australians have the education and skills needed by
employers to drive a higher skilled economy. This is achieved through skills and
workforce demand assessments, industry and regional profiles and through industry
partnerships specifically with the nine Industry Skills Boards, the Defence Teaming
Centre and the Resources and Engineering Skills Alliance.
The Directorate facilitates the development of Industry Workforce Action Plans in six
priority areas including Agriculture, Advanced Manufacturing, Construction,
Defence, Health and Community Services (including Correctional Services) and
Resources (Minerals).

45

Workforce Planning and Policy is responsible for the ongoing development and
maintenance of WIS (Workforce Information System) Online
http://www.workforceinfoservoce.sa.gov.au/ – a widely used (locally, interstate and
internationally) web based tool that strives to provide high quality information across
five areas of content – workforce and industry information, strategy information,
e-alert, and downloadable resources/tools.

46

Goal 3 Ensure young people are supported in reaching their full
potential and actively engaged in learning, training, work
and in their communities

Results to be achieved by 2010 and how DFEEST is tracking

young people from 41 per cent in June 2006 to 46 per cent
In 2008, 50 per cent of young people in work programs gained employment.

Increase by 31 percent the number of young people in public sector
traineeships, apprenticeships and cadetships from 520 at June 2007 to 680
participants
Annual targets of approximately 600 per annum were set to ensure an accumulative
total of 1 950 over three years. A total of 437 public sector traineeships,
apprenticeships and cadetships were achieved. Of these, 383 were young people.
In addition, 54 young people gained a traineeship, apprenticeship, cadetship with a
not-for-profit community sector organisation.

The Government’s Skills Recruitment Strategy, ‘CareerStart SA’ and the Skills
Register programs facilitated a workforce planning approach to the recruitment of
trainees, apprentices and cadets across public sector agencies. State Government
departments developed an annual Skills Recruitment Plan which guided the activity
of the CareerStart SA program.

Maintain the number of young people volunteering in their local communities
through youth programs at 4 200 volunteers
As at 30 June 2008, 4 396 young people had volunteered in their local community
through youth programs; an increase of 33 per cent from 2007.

Maintain the minimum level of Office for Youth grant funding to support
initiatives which engage disadvantaged young people at 30 per cent
As at 30 June 2008, 61 per cent of funding was directed to disadvantaged groups.

Increase the number of young people involved in government and community
decision-making processes from 1 400 in 2007-08 to 2 000
As at 30 June 2008, 2 835 young people were involved in government and
community decision making processes. One thousand of these were involved in the
state-wide youth consultations for the development of YouthCONNECT.

3.1 Ensure South Australians aged 15 to 24 have the skills and opportunities
to make successful transitions from school or unemployment to
education, training or work (Links to SASP T6.15, T6.19, T6.20 and T6.21)

TAFE SA delivers a range of programs for young people to increase and enhance
learning and pathways into employment.

47

Ongoing programs delivered included TAFEstart, apprentice and traineeship
programs and Alternative Learning Options Program (ALOP). TAFE SA continues to
provide students with learning support, counselling and information services to
enable young people to be well informed.
During 2008, TAFE SA attended approximately 80 career events, including
parent/teacher evenings and school presentations. TAFE SA publications and career
guides were developed specifically for use in schools.
Growth in the number of South Australians entering apprenticeships and
traineeships continues to be strong, recording an 8.3 per cent rise in
commencements, above the national rise of 6.9 per cent. Traditional
apprenticeships during 2008 totalled 12 900.
TAFEstart targets young people who have left school before completing year 12
studies, to re-engage them in learning and expand their career and study options to
enable successful transition to training and or employment.
South Australia Works assisted 8 060 young people by providing them with the skills
and opportunities to move successfully from school, further education and training
or unemployment into work, with 4 003 gaining employment.
Youth Conservation Corps projects provided 250 young people with practical work
experience on a range of conservation projects, with 150 gaining employment.
Learn2Earn provided training to 75 disadvantaged young people and 22 gained
employment.
Four hundred and twenty two school aged students participated in two Social
Inclusion Initiative programs, the ALOP and Adult Community Education Youth
Works Program, with 261 young people returning to school, and 21 proceeding onto
further training.
The South Australian Government Traineeship and Apprenticeship Skills Register
provided support to 326 young people who had completed a traineeship with 47
gaining an ongoing government employment placement through the register.

3.2 Ensure many more young people are engaged in political and civic life in
their communities

YOUTH PARLIAMENT
The thirteenth Office for Youth, Youth Parliament, involving 72 young people from
across South Australia, was held in Parliament House during September/October
2008.

YouthCONNECT
The Office for Youth is developing YouthCONNECT, a new policy framework for
South Australia that will replace the Youth Action Plan 2005-07. YouthCONNECT will
foster a collaborative approach between young people, government and the
community to address issues facing young South Australians.

48

DFEEST Annual Report 2008

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