The Queensland  Government’s Skills and Training Taskforce has handed its interim report to the Minister for Education, Training and Employment John-Paul Langbroek.

 

The Taskforce, Chaired by  Chief Executive Officer of the Queensland Resources Council Michael Roche,  was created to take an in-depth look at TAFE and how it could be revitalised.



“This interim report contains the preliminary findings of the Taskforce, which will help us assess what actions should be taken to reinvigorate TAFE and ensure it is more responsive to the economic demands of the State,” Mr Langbroek said.



Minister Langbroek said Mr Roche had worked with members from key Queensland industry sectors including construction, agriculture and tourism to overhaul the State's training sector and meet current skills shortages and future skills needs.



He said the Taskforce was consulting interest groups and considering recent reviews and reports to assist them in developing recommendations for the future of Queensland’s VET sector.

 


“The Newman Government is determined to grow a four pillar economy and reduce the State's unemployment,” he said. “We’re not interested in whether or not people have certificates or diplomas if they don’t have jobs.



“That’s why we want to make sure TAFE courses align with Government priorities and meet demands in the marketplace.



“This is about making sure that there are real career outcomes for vocational education students and it’s not a case of training for training’s sake.”



Minister Langbroek said a full government response would be given after the final report is handed down.



The final report will be handed down by the end of November.