Labor is calling on the Gutwein Government to stop any further undermining of Tasmania’s vocational training and apprenticeship system.
Shadow Labor TAFE and Skills Minister Michelle O’Byrne has said changes under consideration by the Australian Industry Skills Commission could seriously weaken the skills base of apprentices and trainees.
“Labor is calling on Minister Jeremy Rockliff to categorically rule out supporting changes to the vocational training and apprenticeship system as proposed by the AISC,” Ms O’Byrne said.
“If put into place these changes would weight apprenticeships and vocational courses far more towards theoretical learning than to practical skills training.
“Apprentices, trainees and their employers all need to know that they will finish their courses and apprenticeships fully qualified, skilled up and equipped to take on the job.
“This can only be achieved with on the job training.
“Any reduction in the hours of practical learning trainees and apprentices get is counter-productive and potentially dangerous, and the Gutwein Government must make sure this does not happen in Tasmania.”
Michelle O’Byrne MP
Shadow Minister for TAFE, University and Skills
