|
|
|
AEN Newsletter - 5th July 2024
|
Drugs, Alcohol & Workplace Risks
|
|
Guiding the Path Beyond Formal Education
|
IR Introduction Network Meeting
|
|
Decision Making with a Data Driven Mindset
|
|
African Cultural Awareness Workshop
|
|
Empowering others to Perform & Excel
|
|
Field Officers Conference
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The prestigious Apprentice Training Awards recognise excellence and innovation within the group training sector across various categories.
|
|
Celebrating outstanding achievements and long-term dedication, these awards highlight the significant contributions of individuals and organisations to vocational education and training.
|
|
Inspiration Award: Disability Achievement
|
Inspiration Award: Indigenous Student of the Year
|
Inspiration Award: Overcoming Adversity
|
Inspiration Award: Women in Trades
|
School-based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year
|
|
|
|
|
GTO Service Excellence Award
|
GTO Service Excellence Award
|
GTO Industry Service Awards
|
GTO Industry Collaboration Award – NEW!
|
|
Outstanding OHS Initiative Award
|
|
AEN Lifetime Achievement Award
|
AEN Industry Service Award
|
|
|
|
|
Each category underscores the exceptional talent, dedication, and impact of recipients in advancing vocational education and training.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Apprentice Connect Australia
|
|
Apprentice Connect Australia Providers have commenced delivering the new Australian Apprenticeship Support Services program.
|
Apprentice Connect Australia Providers will help apprentices access available financial incentives and deliver personalised information and advice on apprenticeship pathways. They will also address barriers to retention and completion by delivering strengthened support, including pastoral care, career and industry mentoring and counselling.
|
New specialist support services providers have been introduced. They have specialised experience to support:
|
- women in male-dominated trades
- First Nations apprentices
- apprentices working towards clean energy occupations.
|
You can find out more about the transition arrangements DEWR.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Australian Apprenticeship Incentive System Changes
|
|
The Australian Apprenticeship Incentive System has moved into Phase 2. In this phase, the financial support is targeted to Australian Apprenticeships in priority occupations on the Australian Apprenticeships Priority List.
|
Changes in the Incentive System have seen apprentice payments front loaded to provide more support in the first year of their apprenticeship.
Priority Hiring Incentive
Is available for eligible employers of Australian Apprentices in priority occupations and provides up to $5,000 in the first year of an apprenticeship.
Australian Apprentice Training Support Payment
Provides up to $5,000 for eligible Australian Apprentices in occupations listed on the Australian Apprenticeship Priority List and is paid over 4 instalments. Payments have been front loaded to provide greater support in the first year of the apprenticeship.
New Energy Apprentice Support Payment
|
Apprentices who work in occupations identified as clean energy on the Australian Apprenticeship Priority list may be eligible for the New Energy Apprentice Support Payment. On 1 June 2024, the guidelines were updated to broaden eligibility. It is available where employers can provide apprentices with meaningful exposure, experience and work in clean energy.
|
|
|
|
|
|
ATO Tax Time Occupation and Industry Specific Guides
|
The ATO have over 80 guidelines developed for various industry occupations that will assist individuals to better understand how they complete their annual tax return this year.
|
Income and allowances to declare and the expenses you can claim a deduction for in your occupation or industry.
|
The ATO occupation and industry guides help you to complete your tax return, use these guides to:
|
- work out what income and allowances to declare
- check if you can or can't claim work-related expenses as a deduction
- find out what records you need to keep.
To claim a deduction for work-related expenses, you must meet the 3 golden rules:
|
- You must have spent the money, and you weren't reimbursed.
- The expense must directly relate to earning your income.
- You must keep records that show you incur the expense (usually a receipt).
|
|
|
|
|
Australian Skills Guarantee
|
The Australian Skills Guarantee is now in effect.
|
The federal governments Australian Skills Guarantee encourages greater use of apprenticeship and trainee pathways. It sets national targets on major Australian Government construction and ICT projects with a contract value of $10 million or more.
|
The Skills Guarantee will provide support to:
|
- women who seek to pursue employment or undertake training
- apprentices, trainees and ICT cadets, by increasing opportunities available to them on
- major projects to gain valuable skills and experience
- businesses facing difficulties filling vacancies due to skills shortages
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Snapshot data for 2023-2024 shows further progress has been made to improve worker protection, transparency and integrity in Victoria’s labour hire industry.
|
Preliminary data for the year shows the Labour Hire Authority (LHA) delivered expanded compliance and enforcement programs and enhanced its education and engagement activities to help providers and hosts meet their obligations under the Labour Hire Licensing Act 2018 (Vic).
|
By the end of 2023-2024, 5,663 businesses held a labour hire licence – the highest number since the labour hire licensing (LHL) scheme began in 2019 – including 1,240 new licences granted over the year.
|
The LHA licensing team continued processing the first round of licence renewals, with 1,056 renewals granted in 2023-2024.
|
As an industry, commercial cleaning saw the highest growth in licensed providers, with 89 new licensees, followed by the health care and social assistance industries with an increase of 60 new licensed businesses.
|
|
|
|
|
|
National Code of Good Practice for Australian Apprenticeships Survey
|
|
Successful working relationships between employers and apprentices are critical to supporting better retention and stronger completion outcomes.
|
Through the National Skills Agreement Improved Completions Initiative, the Australian Government is partnering with states and territories to refresh the National Code of Good Practice for Australian Apprenticeships and collaborate on best practice guidance and resources for employers of apprentices and trainees.
|
- understand how stakeholders currently use the National Code during an apprenticeship or traineeship
- identify how to improve information to support employers, apprentices and trainees understand each other’s roles and responsibilities.
|
Stakeholders are invited to participate in a short online survey which should take less than 15 minutes to complete. The survey is open from 1 July 2024 and closes on 31 July 2024.
|
We encourage to pass the survey link on to your own stakeholders, particularly to those with experience taking on or being an apprentice or trainee, or those who work closely with employers, apprentices and trainees.
|
Further consultation on the National Code and best practice guidance will occur in 2024, with outcomes available in 2025.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The prohibition on the use of engineered stone under the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations takes effect from 1 July 2024 and applies to all Victorian employers, regardless of any previous contractual obligations.
|
Any attempt to avoid the prohibition will be subject to strong compliance and enforcement action, including possible prosecution and potentially significant fines.
|
WorkSafe Executive Director Health and Safety Sam Jenkin said inspectors would be out in force to ensure compliance with the regulations.
|
"From 1 July 2024 , WorkSafe's silica enforcement team will be visiting manufacturers and processors – including unannounced visits – to ensure the products they are working with are permitted under the new regulations," Mr Jenkin said.
|
The new regulations define engineered stone as an artificial product containing one per cent or more crystalline silica, created by combining natural stone with water, resins or pigments that becomes hardened.
|
Concrete or cement products, bricks or pavers, ceramic wall or floor tiles, roof tiles, grout, mortar, render or plasterboard, or porcelain or sintered stone products that don’t contain resin are excluded.
|
An exception to the prohibition will allow the removal, repair or modification of engineered stone benchtops, panels or slabs installed before 1 July 2024.
|
This work will not require notification to WorkSafe, but must comply with existing control requirements for on-tool water suppression, dust extraction devices and respiratory protection equipment and regulations for high-risk crystalline silica work.
|
Mr Jenkin said employers were also permitted to dispose of engineered stone, whether previously installed or not, as part of a usual approach to waste management.
|
"We understand there may be excess stock of uninstalled engineered stone held by businesses such as suppliers and distributors that can no longer be used," he said.
|
"For the purposes of Victoria’s prohibition, WorkSafe will not consider supply to have occurred if engineered stone is sent to another jurisdiction that has a transition period in place."
|
Employers, including former engineered stone licence holders, must continue to ensure employees who are likely to be exposed to crystalline silica risks are given information, instruction and training in the risks and control measures and continue to monitor and report on their health.
|
New WorkSafe guidance is now available to support Victorian employers and workers to understand their ongoing obligations.
|
WorkSafe's "Silica dust can be deadly" campaign will run throughout July to remind workers and managers in the construction and stonemason industries of the ban as well as the risks of crystalline silica dust.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Now in it's 14th year, National Skills Week recognises, celebrates and informs on the diversity, benefits and achievements a VET pathway can offer individuals and businesses.
|
It's time to start planning your events and activities!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Tune in on 10 July to learn about the 2024 message and to find out how you can get involved in helping encourage meaningful R U OK? conversations in your workplace, school or community.
|
Date: Wednesday 10 July
Time: 12.00pm (AEST) - The event will go for approximately 15 minutes.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For more information and to register for the event visit R U OK Day?.
|
|
|
|
|
|
National Skills Taxonomy Discussion Paper
|
By developing a common skills taxonomy, we can create a cohesive approach to workforce development that enhances occupational mobility and aligns workforce capabilities with industry needs.
|
Individuals, businesses, and communities thrive when they collectively have the skills to productively participate in education, employment and the economy. This includes the right skills to support individuals to engage in safe, secure, fairly paid work, and to update and refresh their skills to support transition between jobs and industries over their career.
|
To inform the design and development of a NST, JSA is consulting with a wide range of stakeholders to better understand the role the taxonomy can play, how future users might interact with it, the design and features required to deliver on stakeholder ambitions and considerations for ongoing governance and maintenance.
|
Share your insights and perspectives on the opportunities and challenges that a national skills taxonomy may present.
|
Specifically, Jobs & Skills Australia is interested in your views on:
|
- the benefits and limitations of existing skills taxonomies
- how an NST could help across education, training or the labour market
- the principles and key features you want in an NST
- what data should inform an NST and how it should be maintained.
Jobs & Skills Australia is scheduling a series of in-person and virtual workshops with stakeholders from across VET, higher education, industry and unions and the communities sector. These workshops will explore the range of views on the development of a National Skills Taxonomy from across these stakeholder groups.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Early-bird ticket sales for the 2024 Victorian Training Awards Gala are wrapping up soon.
|
Don’t miss your chance to attend this prestigious event at a discounted rate.
|
- There’s something for everyone: apprentices and trainees, connect with employers who can give your career a boost. Training providers and employers, celebrate your exceptional work and expand your brand and networks.
- 70 years of dreams: join in to celebrate 70 years of achievements in the Victorian VET sector. It’s a night of recognition, inspiration, and celebration that you won’t want to miss.
- Generous discounts: secure your early-bird tickets now and save. This offer ends soon, so act fast to take advantage of these fantastic savings.
|
We look forward to seeing you on Friday 30 August at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre for an evening to remember.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Apprentice Scholarship Now Open for Applications
|
|
The Apprentice Employment Network & The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Australia is excited to provide 8 x $1000 scholarships through its The Edge Foundation Grants and Scholarships program again for 2024.
|
The Edge Foundation honours the work of the late Judith Wright, poet, environmentalist and campaigner for Aboriginal Land Rights and recipient of the Australian National Living Treasure Award in 1998.
|
This scholarship commits to recognise and promote the youth training and career work undertaken by Group Training Organisations and the Apprentice Employment Network in each state.
|
This is open to current apprentices and trainees under the age of 21 employed by a Group Training Organisation that is an AEN member in that state. Apprentices or Trainees must be in employment as of 30th June 2024.
|
The scholarship is to be used for career development. It can not be used to purchase items unrelated to their apprenticeship or traineeship.
|
8 x $1000 scholarships are available. We intend to provide one scholarship per Australian state or territory. This means there is one for Victoria for our membership. Should there be no nominations from a state or territory, the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Awards reserves the right to reallocate the unused funds to another state to issue.
|
|
Full details and additional information can be found on this page. The nomination form can be found at the bottom of this page.
|
To make a nomination, the apprentice/trainee (or Field Officer should the individual have a barrier to present) must submit a 60-second video. In the video, they will need to cover the following:
|
- Who are they, and where are they from?
- What is their apprenticeship or traineeship?
- What are their career ambitions?
- How will a $1000 scholarship help them achieve their career ambitions?
|
The more information they share about themselves, the better the judges understand their story. They can provide a PDF file containing their resume and other supporting documentation with the nomination.
|
Applications close Wednesday 31st July 2024.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Held across the country from 7-14 July 2024, NAIDOC Week will celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
|
This year’s theme chosen by the National NAIDOC Committee is Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud.
|
|
The theme honours the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture – with fire a symbol of connection to Country, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
|
First Nations communities, registered businesses, schools and local governments are all encouraged to apply for funding to run an activity or event that directly relates to the 2024 NAIDOC theme including:
|
- arts based activities, including painting, dancing, crafts and storytelling;
- family fun days and community activities;
- cultural and Elders activities;
- NAIDOC themed sporting activities or competitions, or activities that actively promote Reconciliation.
|
NAIDOC Week, which first began in 1975, provides an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Drugs, Alcohol & Workplace Risks
The misuse of alcohol and drugs has a significant negative impact on Australian business. It is a work health and safety matter demanding attention of both workers and management.
|
Date: Thursday 11th July 2024
Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm
Delivery: In Person ONLY
|
Guiding the Path Beyond Formal Education
There is a profound truth behind our tendency to hold onto old problems instead of accepting and embracing new solutions. However, breaking free from this pattern is the key to unlocking progress in both our personal and professional life.
|
This session is designed to explore how you can assist others to step outside their comfort zone sustainably to tap into their true potential and unlock new horizons. Take a deep dive into strategies that lead to empowering actions, so you can mentor and guide others to new heights that extend beyond formal education.
|
Date: Tuesday 23rd July 2024
Time: 10:00am - 1:30pm
Delivery: In Person ONLY
|
Decision Making with a Data Driven Mindset
As data continues to grow in importance for organisations across industries, data literacy one’s proficiency in the interpretation and communication of data and data-related activities has become an increasingly crucial skill, even for those who are not data analysts, data engineers, or data scientists.
|
Date: Tuesday 6th August 2024
Time: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Delivery: In Person ONLY
|
African Cultural Awareness Workshop
|
Attendees will gain an in-depth grasp of the various belief systems, values, and customs of African Australians and other culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) groups.
|
This seminar incorporates substantial insights from an esteemed African elder who has fostered connections between the African and Australian communities for more than two decades.
|
Date: Thursday 15th August 2024
Time: 10:00am - 2:00pm
Delivery: In Person ONLY
|
Empowering Others to Perform & Excel
Great leaders inspire great teams. And great teams require a culture of employees being independent and motivated individuals, performing interdependently within their team and forming key collaborations for long-term success.
|
Date: Wednesday 21st August 2024
Time: 10:00am - 1:30pm
Delivery: In Person ONLY
|
|
Please login to the members area prior to purchasing tickets to access the members rate or to RSVP for a free event.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Since the program commenced in May 2020, a total of 1,251 participants have been supported to date.
|
|
|
|
|
Apprentices and trainees who have lost their employment are encouraged to register.
|
|
For assistance by one of our program officers until placed with a host employer through a Group Training Organisation (GTO), or directly with an employer.
|
|
If you have an apprenticeship position you would like to fill, please contact the AEN Office so we can forward potential candidates that meet your criteria.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Head on over to GAN Australia and subscribe to the newsletter to be kept up to date with everything that’s happening with GAN Australia and the wider VET sector?
|
|
|
|
|
|
Thanks to our Industry Partners
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
