1. 2022 SKILLS PRIORITY LIST ALMOST DOUBLES OCCUPATIONS WITH SKILLS SHORTAGES

The Media Release stated, “The number of occupations suffering skills shortages has nearly doubled in the past year according to the National Skills Commission’s (NSC) 2022 Skills Priority List (SPL), released today.

The release of the Skills Priority list comes ahead of skills ministers from all Australian jurisdictions meeting in person in Melbourne this Friday. The Ministerial Skills Council will consider how best to address acute skill shortages across many sectors of the economy.

The Skills Priority list shows that 286 assessed occupations were in national shortage, compared to 153 occupations in 2021.

This is a staggering increase, highlighting the urgent need to respond to the biggest skills and labour shortage in decades, which is compounding economic challenges.

The demand for workers has grown with the number of jobs advertised reaching 309,900 in August 2022 – a 42 per cent increase from the same time last year with employers struggling to fill vacancies.

Of the 20 largest employing occupations, more than half were facing skills shortages.

Occupations in shortage increased across all skills levels and include:

• Professionals, particularly in the Health and Education Sector including Teachers, General Practitioners and Registered Nurses.
• Technicians and Trades Workers including Electricians, Carpenters, Chefs and Motor mechanics.
• Machinery Operators, Drivers and Labourers
• Community and Personal Service Workers including Aged or Disability Carers, and Child Care workers.”

READ THE MEDIA RELEASE HERE

ACCESS THE NCS REPORT HERE

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2. THE LIFE CYCLE OF MARKETS – WHAT DOES THE DATA TELL US ABOUT VET?

It is a webinar not to be missed given the Commonwealth, States and Territories Skills Minsters sat down last Friday to commence negotiating the new National Skills Agreement.  One of the key questions facing them is what training to fund?

For thirty years governments have pursued reforms to create a VET market where competition would drive innovation and performance. Is the market still what’s needed now?

Don’s latest research he has taken the large data sets held by corporate and VET regulators to explore the life cycles of the VET markets in WA, SA, Tasmania, the ACT and the NT. In an attempt to move beyond the well-worn shibboleth of markets = neoliberalism = bad, it is argued that the introduction of markets has been an example of successful policy implementation, but that these markets are now reaching the end of their natural life cycle. Perversely, the major rationale for creating markets – increasing choice – is no longer being provided in these mature markets.

Since a market-based approach was introduced, TAFE Institutes have lost market share, not-for-profit and social enterprise providers have been forced out of most government-created markets, while a significant number of long-standing for-profit providers continue to trade successfully, albeit in the face of more difficult market conditions. Rather than relying totally upon open markets, the data indicates which portions of the very large VET field respond well to competition and those that do not. Alternative economic theories offer more efficient and effective ways to replace markets that have reached the end of their life cycle; these include system optimisation and public value creation.

Hear more about Don’s research findings and what they mean for the future of VET funding in this important AVETRA webinar.

REGISTER HERE FOR THE AVETRA WEBINAR

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3. VET MINISTERS GET MOVING ON NEW QUALS AND WORKFORCE

The article states, “Skills and Training Minister Brendan O’Connor met with state and territory colleagues Friday (7 October 2022) and agreed to a VET workforce blueprint, “to support, grow and retain a quality workforce.

It will, “identify effective strategies for the attraction and retention of a high-quality workforce, along with capability and career development strategies and succession planning.”

This will be especially interesting if it finally settles whether the VET workforce need more than a Certificate IV in teaching – it’s a perennially unanswered question (CMM June 22 2021).

Other substantial commitments from the meeting include;

• “ambitious timeframes to finalise development of a new system of VET qualifications,” including micro-credentials and “better recognition” of prior learning
• release of the revised draft standards for registered training organisations with consultation starting mid-month
• new planning agency Jobs and Skills Australia undertaking a labour force and skills capacity study of the clean-energy workforce, “to support transition from ‘brown’ to ‘green’ occupations.” This will “inform” development of “clean-energy qualifications and micro-credentials.”
• … “confirms TAFE’s central role in the VET sector.”

READ MORE HERE

The joint Skills Ministers’ Media Release affirmed, “Consultations will continue regarding the proposed model and implementation and transition planning ahead of further consideration by Skills Ministers in 2023.

To engage on a range of Skills Reform matters, including consultation on the draft RTO Standards from mid-October, visit the [Engagement Hub / Department of Employment and Workplace Relations website] or reach out to your State or Territory Skills Minister.”

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4. PRODUCTIVITY COMMISSION URGES EXPANSION OF VET STUDENT LOAN PROGRAM

With respect to VET, the article states, “The Productivity Commission has signalled that it is strongly in favour of expanding eligibility for student loans in the VET sector as a way of boosting uptake and removing the bias favouring universities.

In its ‘5-year Productivity Inquiry: From learning to growth’ the Commission’s interim report says, “there is merit in expanding VSL (VET Student Loans) to more Diploma-level courses, as well as to Certificate III and IV courses.”

Currently, the VSL program is available for only some courses at Diploma level and above, meaning that VET students, unlike higher education students, often face upfront fees. The Commission says this results in several anomalies.

“First, students unable to meet the upfront costs of VET may opt for university education instead, even though VET may have been their preferred choice if equivalent loans were available,” the report says.

“Second, upfront costs may discourage a student from accessing VET education altogether – meaning they miss out on any kind of post-school study despite its growing necessity”.

READ MORE HERE

…

With respect to schools the Commission states in its Media Release, “High-quality school and tertiary education systems are vital for a productive workforce. But despite increased investment in schools, foundational skills such as writing and numeracy have stagnated. Employment rates for university and VET graduates have also fallen in recent years.

“Education and skills are essential for productivity growth,” Deputy Chair, Dr Alex Robson explained. “Governments spend over $100 billion a year on education and people spend many years studying. We need to get the best possible value from that investment.”

Feedback on the 5-year Productivity Inquiry: From learning to growth is now invited. Submissions close on 21 October 2022 and can be made at www.pc.gov.au.

DOWNLOAD THE INTERIM REPORT HERE

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5. OFT ISSUES DISCONNECT-RECONNECT ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT NOTICE FOR RTOs

RTO transcripts must formally include additional information related to the category of ‘electrical equipment’ the qualified holder of the transcript was assessed on, in addition to the other requirements on the application form.

There is also, an additional transcript reporting requirement for RTOs related to those assessed in locating and rectifying faults in low voltage (LV) electrical equipment using set procedures associated with Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (RAC) work.

The new requirements have been brought about because of the amalgamation of a number of Disconnect and Reconnect units of competency covering a range of categories of electrical equipment into one, in the recently updated Electrotechnology Training Package (UEE – now Release 3.2).

In order to meet its regulatory functions in relation to affirming the category of ‘electrical equipment’ the qualified holder of an RTO transcript was assessed on, given it is no longer reported in the title of the unit of competency, OFT’s Assistant Commissioner has had to formally gazette and issue a “NOTICE OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION” for RTOs.  The OFT notice can be downloaded HERE, outlining the requirements that must be reported on an RTO’s transcript.

Specific units of competency are:

• UEERL0004 – Disconnect – reconnect electrical equipment connected to low voltage (LV) installation wiring
• UEERL0005 – Locate and rectify faults in low voltage (LV) electrical equipment using set procedures

The Notice states, “Licence or Certificate applicants are required to provide an RTO issued digital (computer generated) transcript that includes the category of ‘electrical equipment’ the qualified holder of the transcript was assessed on in addition to the other requirements on the application form.

The following specialist work categories of ‘electrical equipment’ must be indicated on the RTO issued digital transcript. Failure to do so will result in the applicant being refused a licence or certificate.

1. Motors
2. Hot Water heaters
3. Appliances
4. Air conditioning
5. Refrigeration”

The AQF Qualifications Issuance Policy requires RTOs to adhere to any government regulatory and quality assurance arrangements.  Refer clauses 2.2.2 (page 71) and 2.5.3 (page 73).

The OFT website is in the process of being updated to reflect the new requirements – LICENSING AND QUALIFICATIONS

Download the OFT NOTICE OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REQUIRED OF RTOs HERE

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6. SMART AND SKILLED UPDATE – NO. 181 – 184, OCTOBER 2022

1. New Skills List Review methodology: Consultation webinars for Smart and Skilled Providers
   1. Background
   1. Existing Skills List management processes
   1. Proposed Skills List management process
2. Summer Skills 2022/23 – Intent to Participate
   1. Student eligibility
   1. Priority industry areas
   1. Training can commence from Monday 26 September 2022
   1. Communications and engagement
   1. Evaluation process of Summer Skills Intent to Participate
   1. Further Information
3. Smart and Skilled Application Process for 2023-24
4. North Coast Education Flood Recovery Support Package – Retrospective fee waivers

For more information visit: FUNDING AND SUPPORT – SMART AND SKILLED

Or, for technical support in relation to this update, contact Training Market Customer Support at Training.Market@det.nsw.edu.au

For the Smart and Skilled – NSW Skills List visit: NSW SKILLS LIST – SMART AND SKILLED

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7. ENERGY SKILLS AUSTRALIA LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE

Energy Skills Australia is an independent, not for profit, bipartite company committed to supporting high quality training and workforce development within and beyond the energy industries.

Mark Burgess was appointed Executive Officer in July 2022 and has set about under the interim guidance and support of Chief Executive Officer Bob Taylor (E-Oz) and the board executive committee to respond to the new skills agenda and framework emerging from the anticipated introduction of the Jobs and Skills Authority.

Energy Skills Australia has retained its constitutional independence and mandate as a National Industry Skills Council for the energy sectors, covering:

• Electrotechnology
• Electricity Transmission, Distribution and Rail
• Electricity Generation
• Gas Transmission

It will continue to provide industry stewardship and exist to ensure Australia’s energy sectors have access to a highly skilled and effective workforce.

Visit the website for more information:  www.energyskillsaustralia.com.au

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8. FUTURE YOU STEM CAREERS WEBSITE LAUNCHED

The DISR website states, “This free, evidence-based and curriculum-aligned program shows kids future opportunities awaiting them in STEM. Through films, short stories, posters, downloadable activities and competitions, Future You provides inspirational role models for children. It also offers practical advice on what they can do now to start their journey.

The Australian Government funds the program, and the Office of Australia’s Women in STEM Ambassador delivers it.

The Future You website is part of the government’s action towards improving diversity in the STEM workforce. STEM will be a major growth area for jobs of the future, but there is currently a shortage of people who have the skills we need to tackle our greatest challenges.”

Explore Future You resources and find out about this inspiring initiative at futureyouaustralia.com

READ MORE HERE – WOMEN AND GIRLS IN STEM

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9. EXPLORING NEW WAYS TO ENCOURAGE MORE WOMEN IN TRADES

The article states, “Deputy Secretary of Customer, Delivery and Transformation William Murphy says women make up just 2% of qualified trade workers in key Australian industries experiencing major skills shortages such as construction, electrotechnology and the automotive sector.

“As a modern and customer-centric government we are committed to making pathways to trades easier for our customers,” William says.

“The Department of Customer Service’s (DCS) Behavioural Insights Unit (BIU) is supporting Training Services NSW’s Women in Trades Strategy by undertaking research and testing possible solutions. It’s important we better understand what does and doesn’t work when encouraging women to begin a trade career, especially in a male-dominated workplace.”

NSW executive director of training services, David Collins, says the ‘Have Your Say’ consultation is seeking to understand what information is most important when people consider recommending a career in trades for women and girls.

“Increasing female participation in the trade workforce is crucial to the economic prosperity of NSW as women play a vital role in addressing skills shortages in key industry areas and occupations in NSW,” he explains.

READ MORE HERE

For more information on the Women in Trades Strategy, follow this link.  To participate in the Women in Trades initiative, visit this link.

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10. INVESTING IN RAC’S FUTURE

The article states, “Career advisers at every school will receive a package explaining how the industry can offer great careers to students who want to make a difference.

ARC chair Michael Bennett said the mail-out was part of ARC’s commitment to ensuring the industry could meet the constantly growing demand for RAC services in today’s society.

“Our industry, like almost every industry these days, needs more highly skilled people, so we are targeting our best and brightest youth to become the fridgies of the future,” he said.

“We want to ensure that secondary students – and their parents and teachers – know about the excellent career opportunities our industry offers.

“By contacting the careers advisers who are a key source of information for students, we are ensuring they can tell their students about the pathways to a career in the RAC sector.

“We are also profiling and positioning the RAC industry as something they might not have heard much about, but something that bright, ambitious students should embrace as their first choice.

“A RAC career calls for a high level of skill, extensive problem solving abilities and a desire to work in a truly specialist occupation, not just a generalist trade like plumbing or electrical.”

READ MORE HERE

ARC MEDIA RELEASE

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11. NSW MECHANICAL SERVICES LICENCE DEADLINE EXTENDED

The article states, “The original deadline was 1 October, 2022, an impossible timeframe for technicians.

Proper consultation with industry only began in recent months with most technicians completely unaware of the new licence.

The extended timeframe is a huge relief as the mechanical license is mandatory for technicians to do any work in NSW.

The department of fair trading sent an email advising technicians the licence was required to undertake the testing and commissioning of a mechanical heating, cooling or ventilation system.

Technicians can log on to the Service NSW web site for information on how to apply for the licence.”

READ MORE HERE

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12. ELECTRICIANS DISQUALIFIED FROM NSW BUILDING INDUSTRY

The article states, “Seven electricians have had their contractor licences revoked by NSW Fair Trading after investigations found they signed and submitted compliance certificates (CCEWs) for solar panel installations despite not having carried out, supervised or inspected the installations themselves.

Six of the electricians were either overseas or interstate on the dates listed on the certificates. The seventh contractor was in Sydney instead of at the job sites in regional New South Wales.

Fair Trading Commissioner Natasha Mann said the contractor licences were cancelled by Fair Trading’s Disciplinary Action Unit (DAU) between 4 March 2022 and 10 August 2022. The electricians were also disqualified from working in the New South Wales building industry for varying periods of time.

“We are warning New South Wales consumers who are getting solar panels installed to check that the person on the roof attending to the wiring is a licensed electrician with the credentials required to work in this state and carry out solar panel installations,” Mann said.

“In one of the seven cases that Fair Trading’s DAU recently dealt with, a man’s contractor licence was cancelled after he wrongfully signed off 161 solar panel installations that were carried out across New South Wales while he was interstate.

“The man took advantage of the Commonwealth Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme and received tens of thousands in government rebates for installations that he did not install or inspect himself.” …

“In light of the fact that electric shocks are the second biggest cause of death in the New South Wales construction industry we also want to ensure solar installation work sites are safe places.

“It is the solar panel installers, those properly certifying the work, who are responsible for ensuring the safety of those on premises and ensuring safe work methods are in place.”

READ MORE HERE

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13. LINE WORKERS AND ELECTRICIANS STAYING OUT OF COURT & GAOL

The article states, “Litigation is rampant in Australia and safety regulators are active in prosecutions where electricians, line workers and authorised network contractors do the wrong thing.

This article looks at how these ‘tradies’ can get into trouble (e.g. the incidents and prosecutions that PowerLogic reports each month), but more importantly, how to stay out of trouble. The article will be focused on preventing incidents that impact on the general public at their own premises or on public property.

Prosecution

Prosecution for ‘stuff-ups’ can not only result in significant fines for individuals and companies but also gaol time for individuals. … Industrial manslaughter provides even longer gaol terms and more extensive fines.

Line Workers

Line workers can impact on the safety of the general public in a few different ways including the general public being injured on or near line worker worksites. Control measures may include having traffic control in place if working near roadways and having work areas barricaded off to prevent pedestrian access.  …

Electricians

Electricians often do little or no continuing professional development (CPD) except in those states with ongoing CPD requirements and so, may easily get themselves into trouble.

In our August 2022 Electrical Incidents and Prosecutions report, incidents and prosecutions ranged from reverse polarities to missing MEN links, failure to lock out/tag out to incorrectly connected appliances.  …

Options to Prevent Prosecution and Gaol

This is all so scary from someone just trying to make a living. So, what can all tradies do to stay out of trouble?

READ MORE HERE

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14. NECA – “NET ZERO ENERGY MUST COME WITH ZERO DEATHS”

The article states, “SafeWork NSW executive director of compliance & dispute resolution, Matthew Press, says that solar retailers and installers have responsibilities under work health and safety laws to ensure workers are not at risk of falls from heights or contact with electricity, the two biggest safety risks the industry faces.

NECA technical director, Paul Brownlee, adds: “Net zero energy targets must come with zero safety issues. Solar installation is a lucrative business. But, while most electricians are completing high-quality, safe installations, dodgy installers continue to plague our industry, damaging the reputation of hardworking sparkies.

“This is not good enough, and the cowboys must be weeded out. Not only are unsafe installers putting their own lives at risk, but they’re also risking public lives by making homes potential fire traps or, even worse, death traps.”

Paul says that dodgy solar installers should experience more heat than just that from the sun, so it’s pleasing to hear that SafeWork NSW and NSW Fair Trading are clamping down on those doing the wrong thing.

“The SafeWork NSW website has some great resources regarding safe solar panel installations, and if you are still unsure, please reach out to NECA on 1300 361 099.”

SafeWork NSW reported that of the 286 inspections completed last year, 69% of sites were only using harnesses or did not have fall protection at all.”

READ MORE HERE

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15. SPECIALISED RENEWABLE ENERGY INSPECTORS INTRODUCED OVER NEXT 18 MONTHS

The article states, “The Victorian Government has announced the new category, which will be added to the Electricity Safety (Registration and Licensing) Regulations 2020. ESV will work on the transition to this new category from Wednesday, 5 October 2022.

LEIs are responsible for inspecting and certifying a range of prescribed electrical installations, such as household wiring, solar photovoltaic systems, main earthing systems, switchboards and high-voltage installations.

In recent years, Victoria has experienced a significant increase in the number of renewable electricity installations with around 56% of Victorians expected to take up new energy technologies by 2030.

While the quality of renewable electricity installations is generally high in Victoria, audits have uncovered some safety risks.

The specially trained licensing inspectors will focus on renewable energies, ensuring electrical inspections are carried out correctly and comprehensively.

ESV will work closely with industry and existing inspectors as the new licence criteria is developed and rolled out.”

READ MORE HERE

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16. SWITCHBOARDS CAUSING ELECTRIC SHOCK FROM UNSAFE BATTERY POWERED DEVICES

The electricity distributor found power monitoring devices attached to the switchboard had leaked battery acid onto the electricity meter creating an unsafe situation.”

Suggestion on what to do is advised, including checking for the presence of these devices when first opening the switchboard, noting they may be installed in hard to see locations.

READ MORE HERE

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17. $1.05 MILLION FINE FOR FATAL ELECTROCUTION

The article states, “The building industry has received a strong message about the importance of workplace safety after a construction company and a roofing company pleaded guilty and were fined $600,000 and $450,000 following a fatal electrocution incident in Sydney in 2019.

SafeWork Executive Director Compliance & Dispute Resolution Matthew Press said falls from heights were the leading cause of traumatic injuries and fatalities in the NSW construction industry, closely followed by contact with electricity.

“On 11 February 2019, two labourers were removing steel handrails from the roof of a warehouse in Moorebank when a metal handrail contacted high-voltage powerlines nearby,” Press said.

“The 25-year-old man holding the handrail fell onto his back and his workmate ran to his aid and tried to kick the handrail out of his hands.

“The 25-year-old sadly died on the roof and the other worker suffered serious burns to his legs.”

On 15 July 2022, Perry’s Roofing Pty Ltd received a $450,000 fine and on 14 September 2022, Riverwall Constructions Pty Ltd received a $600,000 fine. Both were convicted in the District Court for failing to comply with their work health and safety duty.”

READ MORE HERE

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18. RELYON NUTEC TO ACQUIRE AN INTEREST IN THOMSON BRIDGE

The Media Release states, “This initiative assembles a team of Safety, Electrical and Education practitioners that will operate internationally for our clients who build, own and operate critical infrastructure for the Energy Transition.  Furthermore, the acquisition gives RelyOn Nutec a footprint in the Australian market.

Lisa Parkinson, MD Thomson Bridge said “We are delighted to be partnering with an organisation that has a similar commercial ethos and modern approach to education, using the best technologies and experience around the world. The combined business will be very well positioned to capitalise on the current and future market trends and to continue to accelerate growth. This will allow us to provide a wider portfolio of services using RelyOn Nutec’s platforms and will introduce our electrical training to its global markets.”

RelyOn Nutec is a global business delivering safety and competence services and training across the world and is recognised as the world’s largest provider of specialist safety and competency training for the offshore, maritime and renewables industries with +30 training facilities in over 20 countries globally.”

READ MORE HERE

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19. OCTOBER IS SAFE WORK MONTH

The SafeWork NSW website states, “During October each year, SafeWork NSW asks businesses, employers, and workers to join us in raising work, health and safety awareness during National Safe Work Month and commit to building safe and healthy workplaces for all Australians.”

Find out more how to get involved in promoting Safe Work Month and making safety at work a priority for yourself and colleagues.

For example, SafeWork NSW is inviting you to host a SafeTea event at your workplace during the month of October.

A SafeTea event can be a morning or afternoon tea with your colleagues in person or online. Grab a cuppa, gather your team and start an important conversation about health and safety at work.”

You can find a range of resources (e.g. posters, media collateral) to download and share on the Safe Work month page, which also includes Safe Work Australia links:

SAFE WORK MONTH PAGE

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20. WORKERS’ COMPENSATION ARRANGEMENTS IN OZ AND NZ 2021 REPORT

This report provides information about workers’ compensation arrangements and the differences between schemes in Australia and New Zealand. 

This report provides a comparison of the different ways each workers’ compensation scheme deals with:

• Coverage,
• Benefits,
• Return to work provisions,
• Self-insurance,
• Common law,
• Dispute resolution, and
• Cross-border arrangements.

The majority of tables in the report provide a snapshot of workers’ compensation arrangements as at 31 December 2021.

The report is released every 2 years.

READ MORE HERE

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21. CONSULTATION ON MODEL WHS REGULATIONS RELATING TO MAJOR HAZARD FACILITIES

Safe Work Australia is seeking stakeholder feedback on the model Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations relating to Major Hazard Facilities (MHFs).

Major Hazard Facilities

A major hazard facility is a facility where certain hazardous chemicals are present (or are likely to be present) in a quantity that exceeds a prescribed threshold quantity. Under the model WHS Regulations, a regulator can also determine a facility to be an MHF in certain circumstances.

Common examples of MHFs are oil refineries, chemical plants, or large fuel or chemical storage sites.

Purpose of consultation

The purpose of this consultation is to gather evidence to better understand stakeholder concerns with the model WHS Regulations in relation to MHFs. It will help us determine whether there are issues that need to be addressed through changes to the model WHS laws.

Submissions from all stakeholders who have an interest in MHFs are welcome. In particular, we would like to hear from operators of MHFs in Australia and Australian MHF regulators. We also welcome feedback from members of the community with a particular interest in MHFs in their local area.”

VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO SUBMIT COMMENTS

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22. CRITICAL HYDROGEN SKILLS SHORTAGE COULD THREATEN EMISSIONS GOALS

The article states, “Australia has neither the skilled workers nor the training capacity to achieve its ambitious renewable hydrogen plans, a new report has found.

Renewable hydrogen is a critical plank of both state and federal government ambitions to be carbon neutral by 2050 and the now-legislated 43% emission reduction target. The current almost complete lack of appropriate skills is a threat to those goals.

Australia is expected to create some 7,600 domestic hydrogen-related jobs by 2050, notes the ‘Hydrogen Skills Roadmap‘ from Swinburne University and the Victoria Hydrogen Hub.

Right now there is just one approved vocational hydrogen training course – for gas workers – available in Australia, which was pushed through with some urgency to support the 20 large-scale demonstration and pilot hydrogen projects underway.

All other trades are waiting on the delivery of the National Hydrogen Skills and Training Analysis Project, a document that has so far blown through at least two deadlines in May and June, as the federal government waits to see what new skills need to be taught.”

There are some questions that come to mind, that stand out and are in need of further attention, as the report is not entirely clear on the criticality of the shortage.

That is, is the shortage a labour shortage, rather than a skills shortage?

Is the shortage a knowledge gap rather than a skills gap, given most skills are probably already held by existing workers?

If so, then it is more likely to be a labour shortage and a knowledge transfer shortage. 

Notwithstanding, the report helps initiate discussion, but more research is needed in this regard before claiming there is likely to be a critical skills shortage in this regard.

READ MORE HERE

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