As part of their commitment to improving Australia’s skills systems and the vocational education and training (VET) sector, the Federal Government has announced a new Industry Cluster model to lead processes for improving VET qualifications and skills standards.

Industry Clusters will replace the current model of 67 Industry Reference Committees and six Skills Service Organisations. They will be established next year and are expected to be fully operational by 1 January 2023.

Industry Clusters will enhance the role of industry in the national training system with a broader role for industry and greater accountability to industry. They offer industry a role that moves beyond the development of units of competency and the packaging of these into qualifications. Industry Clusters will be able to add value across the skills pipeline, to embrace workforce planning and provide intelligence and advice about career pathways and skill needs. They will also have greater input into training product development and its implementation in the VET system and higher education.

Stuart Robert, Federal Minister for Employment, Workforce, Skills, Small and Family Business, said ‘The new Industry Clusters will strengthen employer leadership and engagement, giving industry a broader, more strategic role ensuring Australia’s VET system addresses skills and workforce challenges across the economy, including labour demands, as we reopen strongly’.

Nine Industry Clusters are proposed. Skills Impact has been asked to support industry to develop a skills cluster model for the agribusiness, food and fibre related sectors. If you would like to have input and be part of this proposal, please contact us.

For more information about skills reforms click here