Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:C2004A00855:schedule:1:p2
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:C2004A00855
Segment Type: schedule
Provision Reference: sch 1 (pt 2/9)
Character Range: 5579–8794

education and training system improves Australia's skill base, addresses community needs and contributes to social and economic progress.

This Agreement between the Commonwealth, State and Territory Ministers responsible for vocational education and training applies in respect of the years 2001 to 2003 inclusive.

PURPOSE
1. This Agreement is intended to ensure that the skills of the Australian labour force are sufficient to support internationally competitive commerce and industry and to provide individuals with opportunities to optimise their potential. It aims to create opportunities for all to acquire skills through life, especially for young people and new workforce entrants; to promote employer and individual commitment to invest in skill acquisition; to deliver high quality outcomes relevant to current and emerging labour market needs; and to enable flexible training to be delivered by a wide range of providers that are responsive to their clients.

2. The purpose of this Agreement is to create the basis for a joint partnership between governments and with industry through the development and refinement of a national vocational education and training (VET) system which will:

       i. build a leadership role for industry in national VET decision‑making, planning and advisory processes;
       ii. enhance the National Training Framework through national co‑operative action;
       iii. achieve the development of a skilled Australian community, including by working with the school sector to expand vocational education and training opportunities in schools and working with the higher education sector to improve pathways, and expanding apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities;
       iv. increase opportunities and employment outcomes for individuals;
       v. define national priorities and outcomes to guide State and Territory directions in the delivery of VET;
       vi. encourage the development of an effective and competitive training market including through the National Training Framework;
       vii. encourage a training culture in Australian enterprises and throughout the Australian community; and
       viii. improve the efficiency of the provision of VET around Australia.

3. The underpinning principles to a national approach to VET are:

       i. a spirit of co‑operation and a commitment to partnership at a national level by State, Territory and Commonwealth Governments working closely with industry as a key stakeholder;
       ii. a key role for industry in providing leadership and advice, particularly in relation to the ongoing development of the National Training Framework;
       iii. a recognition of the individual needs and characteristics of States and Territories within the context of the need for a national approach to VET;
       iv. promotion of clear, nationally shared objectives and goals for VET;
       v. clearly defined and complementary roles and responsibilities for all stakeholders; and
       vi. transparent and accountable funding arrangements and relationships.

KEY OBJECTIVES
    4. Within the overarching agreed national objectives for VET, namely:

       i. equipping Australians for the world of work;
       ii.