Melbourne Storm heroes Suliasi Vunivalu and Brandon Smith today attended an event at AAMI Park to promote Australia’s Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector, alongside the Hon Steve Irons MP, Assistant Minister for Vocational Education, Training and Apprenticeships.
The two Storm players are more than just stars on the football field, with both embracing their off-field roles as Australian Apprenticeships Ambassadors.
Vunivalu and Smith shared their experiences as VET students with Assistant Minister Irons, who himself started his career as an apprentice.
“Winger Suliasi Vunivalu and Hooker Brandon Smith are role models for thousands of young footy fans across the country. They’re promoting a message not only about what it takes to succeed as elite athletes, but about the value of getting the skills that will ensure that they will have great careers after they hang up their boots,” Minister Irons said.
“The success of these two Australian Apprenticeships Ambassadors highlights the versatility of VET courses in delivering flexible, work-ready training.
“By gaining practical skills through their apprenticeships, Suliasi and Brandon have set in place a solid plan for life after sport. Vocational education really is a rewarding option for those who are looking to start or change their career.”
The NRL’s CareerWise Vocational Education and Training Awareness Program encourages athletes and the broader community to undertake apprenticeships and vocational education while playing rugby league.
Minister Irons said that the NRL, with its strong links to regional and remote communities, is a powerful advocate for the many opportunities and benefits of a career starting with VET.
“As part of the Australian Government’s $525 million Skills Package, we will continue to support the NRL’s delivery of its highly successful vocational education programs,”
Minister Irons said.
