The Australian Industry and Skills Committee (AISC) has approved a new project for the food and beverage industry.

In recent years, the increase in popularity of regional, local and niche produce such as cheese, fermented foods, beer, cider and distilled spirits has exposed skills gaps in national vocational qualifications, skill sets and units of competency.

This new Artisanal Food and Beverage Project will look at the skills and knowledge requirements in these unique sectors to identify and fill gaps in current qualifications, skill sets and units from the FBP Food, Beverage and Pharmaceutical Training Package.

A focus of the project will be to develop qualifications that provide recognisable training, and address the complex, multi-faceted skills required to safely produce various products for these growing niche markets.

The AISC approved this project after these skills were identified as a priority in the 2018–2021 IRC Skills Forecast and Proposed Schedule of Work.

Opportunities for stakeholder input

Stakeholder input is appreciated throughout the duration of this project. The qualifications, skill sets and units need to reflect real work experience. So if you work in the sector, Skills Impact would love your input and help. We will keep you informed of project updates and consultation opportunities via this newsletter and the project webpage. However, your feedback is welcomed at any time. Please feel free to contact the project manager, Danni on 03 9321 3526 or [email protected].

The Food, Beverage and Pharmaceutical Industry Reference Committee (IRC) will oversee this project, as part of their responsibilities to support engagement with the sector, and to ensure projects meets industry stakeholder needs.