The Annual Report represents an overview of DFEEST’s achievements, governance, workforce management and financial performance. It also outlines progress made towards achieving our objectives in South Australia’s Strategic Plan.

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2. GENCY, ROLE AND GOVERNANCE – TITLE PAGE
FOR FURTHER COPIES AND ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT
Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology
Office of the Chief Executive
GPO Box 320
ADELAIDE SA 5001
ABN: 16692317206
Telephone: (08) 8226 3821
Facsimile: (08) 8226 9533
The 2009 Annual Report is available on the department’s website at:
http:://www.dfeest.sa.gov.au
ISSN: 1449-6437
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4. AGENCY ROLE AND GOVERNANCE
Chief Executive’s Overview ........................................................................................... 7
Highlights 2009 .............................................................................................................. 9
Vision, Mission and Values ............................................................................................ 14
Role, Legislation and Structure...................................................................................... 15
Boards, Committees and Authorities ............................................................................. 16
Governance ................................................................................................................... 20
REPORT ON OPERATIONS AGAINST THE DEPARTMENT OF FURTHER
EDUCATION, EMPLOYMENT, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY’S STRATEGIC
PLAN
Goal 1
Ensure South Australians have the necessary education and skills to
participate in the high skills economy ............................................................................ 24
Goal 2
Provide high quality employment and workforce development services ........................ 38
Goal 3
Ensure young people are supported in reaching their full potential
and actively engaged in learning, training, work and in their communities .................... 43
Goal 4
Provide a coordinated, whole of government approach to the development of
an innovative community ............................................................................................... 46
Goal 5
Build a high performance organisation .......................................................................... 53
MANAGEMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES
Workforce data ............................................................................................................. 61
Workforce diversity ........................................................................................................ 64
Occupational Health, Safety and Injury Management .................................................... 70
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5. FINANCIAL REPORT
Financial Overview ........................................................................................................ 72
Audited general purpose financial report ....................................................................... 78
Account payment performance ...................................................................................... 113
Contractual arrangements ............................................................................................. 113
Fraud ............................................................................................................................. 113
Consultancy expenditure ............................................................................................... 113
PROFILE OF VET ACTIVITY
Profile of VET Activity .................................................................................................... 119
Training Package Activity .............................................................................................. 122
OTHER REPORTING ITEMS
Employee’s Overseas Travel ......................................................................................... 128
Reconciliation Statement Report ................................................................................... 130
Reporting against Carers Recognition Act 2005 ............................................................ 130
Disability Action Plans ................................................................................................... 131
Freedom of Information ................................................................................................. 131
Asbestos Management .................................................................................................. 134
Urban Design Charter .................................................................................................... 134
Sustainability Report ...................................................................................................... 135
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7. I am pleased to present the 2009 Annual Report for the Department of Further
Education, Employment, Science and Technology.
2009 has been an exciting and challenging year for the economy as it has been for
the department.
South Australia has weathered the global economic crisis well. At the end of 2009 the
state economy has shown resilience with employment numbers far better than most
predicted. The combination of significant national and state infrastructure spending
together with the strong focus on meeting the skills needs of industry and the
community have served to cushion South Australia from the worst effects of the
global economic downturn.
The government’s continuing commitment to increasing training, improving
employment participation and boosting productivity through innovation, science and
technology will be important for the state’s economy moving forward and the
department will play a key role in meeting these objectives.
For the agency, 2009 has been a year of many achievements and highlights.
There has been a significant increase in funding for training with $177 million
committed over four years by the state and Australian governments for training for
job seekers and existing workers through the Productivity Places Program.
The infrastructure for students has also been enhanced with more than $70 million
committed in 2009 into upgrading and maintaining TAFE SA facilities - this includes a
new campus at Victor Harbor and upgrades at both metropolitan and country
campuses funded jointly by the Australian and state government – this represents the
biggest ever infrastructure upgrade in TAFE SA’s history.
Strengthening the linkages with our three public universities and TAFE SA has been
a key priority and will continue to be a focus in 2010. As a result we have seen a
significant increase in the number of TAFE SA students going on to study at
university with 20 new credit transfer and articulation agreements implemented with
higher education providers in 2009.
Increasing workforce participation is crucial to the state’s economy and throughout
the year the department has been active in providing support to retrenched workers
and young unemployed through the implementation of a Youth Compact that gives
every young person aged 15-24 priority to gain an education or training place, in
addition, thousands of people were helped into employment through the South
Australia Works program.
In 2009 South Australia continued to build its reputation as a high quality study
destination with a 21% increase in international student numbers including an
increase of 28.5% within TAFE SA.
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8. Investment in research and technology will be an important foundation for boosting
long term productivity in the state including access to high speed broadband and a
highlight in 2009 was the rollout of the Broadband Blackspots Program which will
provide broadband access to around 50,000 South Australians who previously had
no access to competitively priced broadband.
In 2010, a key focus will be the delivery of the government’s Jobs Strategy which will
fund the provision of an additional 100,000 training places over the next six years,
the South Australia Works program will be refocussed to further target those most
disadvantaged, implementation of the Skills Strategy will be enhanced with
consideration of key recommendations of the Training and Skills Commission and
there will be increased focus on higher education reforms including establishing
national regulators for higher education and training providers to underpin quality.
Science and information economy initiatives, including leveraging outcomes from the
National Broadband Network rollout, and acceleration of a whole-of-government
science and mathematics strategy will also be a priority.
None of the achievements over the last year would have been possible without the
dedication and hard work of many staff in TAFE SA and the many directorates that
make up the department. I would like to give my thanks for their efforts, passion and
commitment.
Finally I would like to thank Minister O’Brien for his leadership and direction during
2009.
Raymond Garrand
Chief Executive
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9. Training, Skills and Employment
The Training and Skills Commission, established in September 2008, released its
Five Year Plan for Skills and Workforce Development - Skills for Jobs: Priorities for
Developing South Australia’s Workforce in December 2009. The plan is a key
initiative within the state government’s Skills Strategy. It makes recommendations for
fundamental changes in the state's post school education and training system, to
ensure the state has the skills available to support future growth of the economy and
sustainable employment opportunities for all South Australians.
TAFE SA applications increased in semester two significantly, and despite the
predicted economic downturn, apprentice numbers have also held up well. National
Centre for Vocational Education Research statistics, reported in June 2009, show
that in SA, 5500 apprentices and trainees commenced their training in the quarter
ending 30 June 2009, an increase of 2% compared to the same time last year.
Nationally there was a 12.6% fall.
The department’s South Australia Works initiative has helped many South
Australians gain employment or access training. South Australia Works learning,
training and work programs expended $35.66 million in 2008-09 including
$5.54 million leveraged funds from the Australian Government and other state
government agencies. The initiative assisted 32 135 people into work or training; of
these 16 745 participated in work programs and 15 390 in learning, skills
development and training programs, with 8430 gaining employment.
To assess the effectiveness of South Australia Works, a strategic review was
conducted taking account of changing labour market conditions and new policy
directions at the state and national level. The review acknowledged the overall
effectiveness of the program and made recommendations to build on its strengths
and pursue new opportunities. Recommendations will be implemented in 2010-11.
The introduction of the new South Australian Certificate of Education provides
greater opportunity for the recognition of vocational education and training
qualifications to contribute to the South Australian Certificate of Education. The
department has supported the South Australian Certificate of Education Board to
ensure industry’s endorsement of the vocational education and training pathways
and the development of coherent recognition arrangements.
TAFE SA
There has been continued progress in reforms to TAFE SA as part of the Skills
Strategy, including establishing the three TAFE SA institutes as separate registered
training organisations, increasing e-learning and recognition of prior learning and
achieving further cost efficiencies.
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10. Two new TAFE SA lead centres were established; the Lead Centre for Hospitality,
Tourism and Food Studies at Regency campus and the Adelaide College for the Arts
in the city - to further strengthen links with industry.
An improved admissions system has been implemented with the South Australian
Tertiary Admissions Centre along with a state of the art e-messaging service
throughout TAFE SA.
Other achievements by TAFE SA over 2008-09 include:
 28.5% increase in international students commencing study in 2009
 3.6% increase in TAFE SA admission offers in 2009 from 2008
 six new international courses registered on the Commonwealth Register of
Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
 twenty new credit transfer and articulation agreements implemented with Higher
Education providers in 2009
 improvements and simplification of the admissions process through the South
Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre
 implementation of the e-learning Strategy and improved models of delivery of
recognition of prior learning and industry engagement.
TAFE SA Infrastructure
More than $70 million, the biggest ever infrastructure upgrade in TAFE SA’s history,
was committed by the state and Australian governments to upgrade and maintain
TAFE SA facilities. This includes a new $20 million Student Information System, the
start of construction of the new $9.4 million TAFE SA Victor Harbor campus and
significant upgrades at metropolitan and regional campuses.
The department was successful in securing $33.3 million of infrastructure funding
through the Australian Government’s Better TAFE Facilities and Training
Infrastructure Investment for Tomorrow Programs. Refurbishment and upgrade
works have commenced at Regency, Tea Tree Gully, Whyalla, Mt Gambier, Mt
Barker, Adelaide City and Noarlunga campuses. Machine guarding improvements
are also being made at a variety of regional campuses. All work is scheduled for
completion by 30 June 2010.
The first part of the new Victor Harbor project was completed with the purchase of
the land for the new TAFE SA campus. Construction has commenced and is due for
completion in 2010.
The construction of a new building to provide business and computer studies,
hairdressing, welding and fitting services was completed at the Narungga TAFE
campus, an Aboriginal teaching facility located on the southern tip of the Yorke
Peninsula.
The development of the new Student Information System officially began with the
signing of the contract with SunGard Higher Education in 2009. The new system will
significantly improve the enrolment process and data management for students and
staff. Implementation activities will begin in the 2009 – 2010 financial year.
The Horse Skills Centre was successfully relocated from Cheltenham to Morphettville
and delivery of programs commenced in the new facility.
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11. Office for Youth1
The largest annual youth event in Australia, National Youth Week, was held from
28 March 2009 to 5 April 2009 with over 1000 young people volunteering their time to
develop and run youth week activities for over 20 000 participants across the state.
The Intra-Government Youth Action Committee was established, consisting of
representatives of government agencies and community groups working with young
people, to develop a new youth policy framework for South Australia.
Forty young entrepreneurs (aged 18-30) commenced in the Ignite Program, an
initiative jointly funded with the Department of Education, Employment and
Workplace Relations and Primary Industries and Resources South Australia. The
program will support participants to develop the necessary skills to establish and
expand agri-enterprises that are commercially and environmentally sustainable.
The first regional A-Team was held in the Riverland and examined the issue of how
to engage young people in information and communication technology to build and
connect regional communities. Over 70 people from community and government
attended the final presentation of recommendations which included making more
effective use of e-learning, developing a pilot Individual Electronic Health Record and
establishing a Riverland virtual information hub.
Science and Information Economy
The 15th Thinker in Residence, Dr Genevieve Bell, a noted anthropologist, spent
several months in South Australia. Dr Bell completed a report and made
recommendations relating to how the state can set strategic directions and take
maximum advantage of the opportunities arising from the use of new digital
technologies.
In July, the Information Economy Agenda 2009-2014 was launched. This document
defines priority areas and actions in support of South Australia’s Strategic Plan and
provides a framework for managing initiatives and partnerships between government,
business, education and communities.
In August, the Federal Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital
Economy and the South Australian Minister for Science and Information Economy
jointly launched a project to significantly enhance wireless broadband services in
Adelaide.
The roll out of the Broadband Blackspots Program, in partnership with Adam Internet,
began in November to provide broadband access to around 50 000 South
Australians, starting with severely affected parts of the southern suburbs.
The STI10 Progress Report was launched in August. This detailed the benefits to the
state from the government’s 10-Year-Plan for Science, Technology and Innovation at
the half-way mark, five years after its launch in 2004. This indicated that since 2004,
some $200 million in state investment under STI10 had leveraged some
1
The Office for Youth, and subsequently the Youth portfolio, transferred to the Attorney General’s Department
from 1 July 2009.
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12. $1.2 billion in Commonwealth, industry and institutional funds across various science,
technology and innovation projects, both investing and operational (verified by
Deloitte Touché Tohmatsu).
The South Australian Government-supported Trans Tasman Commercialisation Fund
made its first investment in South Australia with $500 000 towards security
surveillance software technology developed at the University of Adelaide. The fund
continues to work with the state's three local universities to identify technologies
suitable for commercialisation and investment.
The department continued its international research collaborations with Manitoba,
Canada. A delegation visited SA in March 2009 led by the Deputy Minister of
Innovation, Energy and Mines, Mr John Clarkson, to discuss the status of current
joint research projects and examine opportunities for future new project
collaborations.
Partnerships with the Australian Government
At the national level, agreement was reached with the Australian Government to
establish a national vocational education and training and higher education regulator
and reform support services regulation and legislation with regard to international
students. This culminated in a series of decisions by the Ministerial Council for
Tertiary Education and Employment and the Council of Australian Governments to
undertake ongoing policy reform in 2010.
In 2009, $17.92 million of Commonwealth funding was committed to South Australia
to provide additional training opportunities for existing workers and jobseekers
through the National Agreement for Skills and Workforce Development. The
agreement sets out the commitment between the Australian Government and the
states to work towards increasing the skill levels of all Australians, including
Indigenous Australians.
The Australian Government’s Productivity Places Program provided additional
training opportunities to assist South Australian workers and job seekers to develop
new skills to meet the growing needs of industry.
The Productivity Places Program for Jobseeker training is directed to people over
17 years who are not currently working and intending to seek paid employment after
completing the qualification so that they are better equipped to participate in
emerging work opportunities. In June 2009, the department allocated around
$8.6 million of Productivity Places Program funding so that 48 registered training
organisations could deliver training toward 2760 jobseeker qualifications. As of
December 2009, the department recorded 1811 jobseeker enrolments and had
registered 605 qualifications.
In October 2009 the department allocated around $10 million of Commonwealth
Productivity Places Program funding and $8 million of state funding so that
60 registered training organisations could deliver training toward 4376 existing
worker qualifications.
This Commonwealth, state and industry commitment to train the existing workforce is
in addition to funding released in 2008 through the Productivity Places Program for
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13. Existing Worker Pilot Program when around 2760 qualifications were allocated for
existing worker training. As of December 2009, 2669 enrolments had been recorded
and around 22% of enrolled existing workers had achieved a qualification.
To support young people to participate and attain qualifications from 1 July 2009 the
South Australian Government implemented a Compact with Young South Australians
to ensure that every young person aged 15 to 19 has priority to access a
government-subsidised education or training place. The objective of the compact is
to increase the level of participation and qualifications among young South
Australians, and has been implemented in South Australia in 2009 through the Learn
or Earn initiative www.learnorearn.sa.gov.au.
The Training Entitlement for Retrenched Workers is a state government initiative
introduced in 2009 that complements the Australian Government’s Compact with
Retrenched Workers which allows retrenched workers to access subsidised
vocational education and training places, such as those available through
Productivity Places Program. The South Australian Government’s training entitlement
will provide a government subsidised training place to retrenched workers, 25 years
and older, for a higher level qualification than they already hold.
Following the report prepared by the Australian Apprentices Taskforce in 2009, the
Council of Australian Governments agreed to the recommendations set out in the
report to maximise the number of apprentices who commence and complete
apprenticeships, and to strengthen the apprenticeship system. Recommendations
will be implemented by the Australian and state governments in 2010.
In 2009, a review of the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 was
commissioned by the Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon Julia Gillard MP who appointed
the Hon Bruce Baird to undertake the review with support from the Department of
Education, Employment and Workplace Relations. The review examined the
Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 and the current regulatory
framework to identify and address areas for improvement to ensure Australia
continues to offer a high quality education service to overseas students.
A taskforce was also established in South Australia to investigate and address key
issues affecting the experience that overseas students have while studying in
Adelaide and ensure that Adelaide provides Australia’s best educational and lifestyle
experience for overseas students studying at our universities and training institutions.
This taskforce looks at issues such as accommodation, student welfare and safety,
employment and student services. The department also continued to provide
financial support to Education Adelaide to lead the Study Adelaide marketing
initiative in overseas markets.
During 2009, priority was given to investigating the nature of skills required for
environmental sustainability and to support the industry development opportunities
being pursued by the South Australian Government. The government made a
substantial contribution to the development of a National Green Skills Agreement,
endorsed by the Council of Australian Governments on
7 December 2009. The agreement enables individuals and businesses to contribute
to a sustainable, low-carbon economy in their workplaces and communities.
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14. Our Vision
South Australia has a highly skilled workforce and maximised employment
participation that shapes the state’s economic competitiveness, and is distinguished
by a culture of excellence, innovation, continuous learning and social inclusion.
Our Mission
To optimally match workforce skills, training and participation, with current and future
employment, working with individuals, community and industry to strategically
support the state’s development. This mission requires creative and integrated policy
that delivers effective training, employment programs and services.
Our Values
The department is striving to become a high performance learning organisation,
which attracts, develops and retains a highly talented workforce. The department will
only achieve its vision through a strong commitment to our people and core values.
We will show integrity in our:
Respect for:
 the values, beliefs, customs and cultures of individuals and our community
 others rights, responsibilities and professionalism
Responsiveness in:
 providing timely and caring services
 generating creative, shared solutions
 embracing change where it is appropriate
 recognising and celebrating effort and achievement
Openness in decision-making by:
 providing supporting reasons
 restricting information only where there is a wider public interest
 declaring any relevant private interests
 resolving conflicts
 being transparent
Striving for excellence in:
 using public resources efficiently and effectively
 embedding equality of access and opportunity
 fairness in our operations
 standards of service
Courage in:
 challenging and being challenged
 taking risks
 doing things in different ways
 taking responsibility for mistakes and learning from them
 enforcing our code of conduct
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15. Portfolio governance for further education, employment, science, technology and
youth2 is managed through a number of councils, boards and committees. These
work in conjunction with the department to advise the Minister for Employment,
Training and Further Education, the Minister for Science and Information Economy
and the Minister for Youth on key strategic areas.
Agency
The Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology.
Acts Administered
Technical and Further Education Act 1975
Training and Skills Development Act 2008
Construction Industry Training Fund Act 1993
Flinders University of South Australia Act 1966
University of Adelaide Act 1971
University of South Australia Act 1990
Regulations
Technical and Further Education Regulations 1999
Technical and Further Education (Vehicles) Regulations 1998
Training and Skills Development Regulations 2008
Construction Industry Training Fund Regulations 2008
Public Corporations (Bio Innovation SA) Regulations 2001
Public Corporations (Education Adelaide) Regulations 1998
Public Corporations (Playford Centre) Regulations 1996
2
The Office for Youth, and subsequently the Youth portfolio, transferred to the Attorney General’s Department from
1 July 2009.
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16. Training and Skills Commission
The Training and Skills Development Act 2008 establishes the Training and Skills
Commission and outlines its functions.
The commission, established on 1 September 2008, has nine members and two
deputy members appointed by the Governor. It is chaired by Emeritus Professor
Denise Bradley AC.
The Act gives authority to the commission in regulating training providers and
apprenticeships and traineeships. The commission advises and makes
recommendations to the minister on matters relating to the development, funding,
quality and performance of the vocational education and training, adult community
education and higher education sectors.
The Act also establishes two reference groups, the Adult Community Education
Reference Group and the Training Regulation Reference Group. These groups are
chaired by the commission members but draw on the wider resources of industry and
the community for specialist advice through their membership and consultations.
The commission is the peak advisory body to the South Australian Government on
skills and workforce development priorities. It is responsible for the preparation, and
annual update, of a Five Year Plan for Skills and Workforce Development in South
Australia - Skills for Jobs: Priorities for Developing South Australia’s Workforce. The
plan is the principal instrument by which the commission provides its advice to the
minister.
In developing its advice to the minister, the commission is required, under the Act, to
consult with a wide range of stakeholders, including groups representing industry,
employees, education and training providers, industry skills boards and training
advisory bodies, government and community.
For more information regarding the Training and Skills Commission go to:
http://www.tasc.sa.gov.au/
TAFE SA Institute Councils
The institute councils are established by the Minister for Employment, Training and
Further Education for each of the three institutes of TAFE SA under the Technical
and Further Education Act 1975. The councils advise, monitor performance and
provide supplementary funding for the institutes’ operations.
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17. Higher Education Council
The Higher Education Council was established in order to bring together university
vice-chancellors and other key players in the higher education sector in recognition of
the central role that education, training and research and development has to the
future development of the South Australian economy and community. The council is
chaired by the Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education and is
administratively supported by the department.
Austraining International
Austraining International was formed in 1991 and is wholly owned by the South
Australian Government. Austraining is a specialist project management and
international development organisation managing projects throughout the Asia
Pacific and Middle East. Austraining employs around 85 staff with 19 in-country
offices across the Asia-Pacific.
For more information regarding Austraining International go to:
http://www.austraining.com.au/aboutus
Education Adelaide
Education Adelaide is a subsidiary of the Minister for Employment, Training and
Further Education established under the Public Corporations (Education Adelaide)
Regulations 1988. It operates as a partnership between the City of Adelaide, the
state’s universities, the state government and numerous private colleges and
schools. Its strategic direction is to accelerate the growth of South Australia’s
education export industry to benefit the state’s education providers, the local
economy and community. Education Adelaide works closely with the department to
achieve international student targets outlined in South Australia’s Strategic Plan.
For more information regarding Education Adelaide go to:
http://www.studyadelaide.com/about-us.aspx
Office of the Training Advocate
The Office of the Training Advocate provides a public contact point to respond to
questions or complaints about the training system.
In this context the training system comprises higher education, vocational education
and training, apprenticeships and traineeships, adult community education and
education services for overseas students.
The Training Advocate is an independent statutory authority established under the
Training and Skills Development Act 2008 and operates in accordance with a Charter
of Functions. These functions are designed to enhance consumer protection by
improving access and effective participation in employment and skill formation
opportunities, and to contribute to strategies which raise the quality and
responsiveness of the training system in South Australia.
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18. The functions are established to:
 promote employment, education and training
 provide independent complaint handling
 provide advocacy
 provide information and advice
 monitor the training system.
The Training Advocate reports to the Minister for Employment, Training and Further
Education and tables a separate Annual Report.
For more information regarding the Office of the Training Advocate go to:
http://www.trainingadvocate.sa.gov.au/
The Premier’s Science and Research Council
The Premier’s Science and Research Council was established to advise the
government on strategies for boosting local science and research capabilities and
improving levels of innovation. The council is chaired by the state’s chief scientist and
is administratively supported by the department.
Information Economy Advisory Board
The Information Economy Advisory Board provides advice to the Minister for Science
and Information Economy on potential benefits of the information economy to all
South Australians and on how to maximise the benefits.
SABRENet Ltd
SABRENet Ltd is a company limited by guarantee with the three local universities
and the South Australian Government as members. It is a not for profit organisation
which has as its objective to further the use of advanced data networking for the
conduct of research and education in South Australia. SABRENet Ltd owns a dark
fibre optical cable telecommunications network linking the major higher education
campuses and research precincts, as well as some schools and TAFE SA
campuses. The department is represented on its board.
For more information regarding SABRENet Ltd go to:
http://sabrenet.edu.au/
Bio Innovation SA
Bio Innovation SA is a subsidiary of the Minister for Science and Information
Economy established by the Public Corporation (Bio Innovation SA) Regulations
2001. South Australia has a dynamic bioscience industry based on a strong tradition
of medical and agricultural research that drives commercial opportunities. To build on
these opportunities, the South Australian Government established Bio Innovation SA,
a bioscience industry development organisation that provides business development,
finance, infrastructure and marketing assistance. An external review of this
organisation was undertaken in 2009 which demonstrated the positive impact of its
work in the state economy.
For more information on Bio Innovation SA go to:
http://www.bioinnovationsa.com.au/
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19. Playford Centre
Playford Centre is a subsidiary of the Minister for Science and Information Economy
established by the Public Corporations (Playford Centre) Regulations 1996, to
contribute to South Australia’s economic growth, exports, commercialisation of
research and entrepreneurial activity, by facilitating the formation and development of
innovative technology ventures.
Playford Capital
In 2001, Playford Centre formed a subsidiary, Playford Capital Pty Ltd. Playford
Capital uses funding provided by the Australian Government’s Building on
Information Technology Strengths and Information and Communications Technology
Incubator Programs to invest in South Australian information and communications
technology firms which have the potential and commitment to become high growth
companies exporting interstate and overseas. This has stimulated the inflow of
private equity into South Australia and supported information and communications
technology company growth. Playford was awarded $7.45 million from the Australian
Government’s Innovation Investment Follow on Fund to support its ongoing
investment activities.
For more information on Playford Capital go to:
http://playford.com.au
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award State Award Committee3
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is an international self-development program
available to young people aged 14-25. The Minister for Youth is the exclusive licence
holder in South Australia and appoints the State Awards Committee to maintain
quality and support the delivery of the award.
Minister’s Youth Council3
The Minister’s Youth Council comprises young people aged 12-25 who provide
advice to the Minister for Youth on issues that affect young South Australians. The
Minister’s Youth Council consults and advises the minister directly through monthly
meetings.
3
The Office for Youth, and subsequently the Youth portfolio, transferred to the Attorney General’s Department
from 1 July 2009.
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20. The department’s corporate governance obligations are prescribed in the Public
Sector Management Act 1995 and the Technical and Further Education Act 1975.
These Acts establish general management aims, personnel management and
employee conduct standards. The Chief Executive of the Department of Further
Education, Employment, Science and Technology is responsible for observance of
these aims and standards.
The department maintains a governance framework (below) that integrates strategic
management, leadership and accountability, in the way it manages its people and
resources to achieve best performance of its functions.
Governance Framework
Chief Executive
Ray Garrand
Audit and Risk
Strategic Procurement
Management
Committee
Committee
Chair: Elaine Bensted
Chair: Ian McLauchlan
Occupational Health
Executive Forum and Safety Committee
Chair: Ray Garrand Chair: David Royle
Corporate Executive
Committee
Chair: Ray Garrand
Providing Quarterly Reports
TAFE SA Adelaide TAFE SA Adelaide
TAFE SA Regional
South Institute North Institute
Denise Janek
Stephen Conway Adrian Marron
Budget and Finance Asset Strategy ICT Governance People and Culture
Executive Committee Committee Board Committee
Chair: Craig Fowler Chair: David Royle Chair: David Royle Chair: Elaine Bensted
TAFE SA Network Executive
TAFE SA Adelaide TAFE SA Adelaide
North TAFE SA Regional
South
Institute Council Institute Council
Institute Council
These standing committees will be complimented with temporary policy feeder groups and project teams that are responsible to one of the standing committees.
In 2009 the department’s governance structure encompassed the following:
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21. Corporate Executive
Corporate Executive is a high level decision making and leadership group in the
department. Its primary role is to ensure the successful achievement of the
department’s strategic planning and portfolio outcomes and it has responsibility for
maintaining the effectiveness of these governance mechanisms.
The Budget and Finance Executive Committee
The committee provides financial governance over the department’s resources. It
monitors performance against fiscal targets and tracks allocation of operating and
capital budgets and makes decisions on a range of finance related issues. The
committee provides advice on the best use of operating and capital budgets to the
chief executive through Corporate Executive.
The Business Services Strategic Reference Group
The group provides leadership, advice and the strategic vision for business services
across the department. The group is a sub- committee of Corporate Executive and
reports to Corporate Executive as required.
The Asset Strategy Committee
The committee provides strategic guidance for the integrated planning and
management of all infrastructure requirements across the portfolio and the
development of strategic portfolio infrastructure plans for TAFE SA.
The Aboriginal Reference Group
The group provides leadership within the department to improve access to, and
outcomes from, education, training and employment programs for Aboriginal people
in South Australia.
Executive Forum
Executive Forum is a broadly based group of executives responsible for the
collaborative achievement of departmental objectives across all initiatives and
programs.
The TAFE SA Network Executive
The network is a peak decision making body for all strategic issues relating to the
TAFE SA Network. It leads the implementation of the Skills Strategy and will
standardise services across a range of institute operational areas across TAFE SA.
The Audit and Risk Management Committee
The committee is an integral part of the governance framework and provides
assurance to, and assists the chief executive in undertaking his statutory and
administrative responsibilities. It has an external chair.
It is anticipated that changes to the governance structure will be made in 2010.
21

22. DFEEST SENIOR MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE
AND REPORTING ARRANGEMENTS
AS AT OCTOBER 2009
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
TAFE SA ADELAIDE TAFE SA ADELAIDE
TAFE SA REGIONAL
SOUTH NORTH
DEPUTY TAFE SA NETWORK SERVICES
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING
SERVICES
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
TRAINEESHIP &
EMPLOYMENT CORPORATE
APPRENTICESHIP
PROGRAMS COMMUNICATIONS UNIT
SERVICES
DIRECTOR DIRECTOR PRINCIPAL
INFORMATION AND ORGANISATIONAL CONSULTANT
COMMUNICATION DEVELOPMENT AND BUSINESS
TECHNOLOGY HUMAN RESOURCES IMPROVEMENT
MINISTER FOR EMPLOYMENT,
TRAINING AND FURTHER CHIEF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
EDUCATION EXECUTIVE SHARED BUSINESS
MINISTER FOR SCIENCE AND SERVICES
INFORMATION ECONOMY
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
FINANCIAL, ASSET AND
INFRASTRUCTURE
PROCUREMENT
PLANNING
SERVICES
MANAGER
DIRECTOR
INTERNAL AUDIT
EXECUTIVE
AND RISK
SERVICES
MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
SCIENCE AND
QUALITY AND TERTIARY
INFORMATION
EDUCATION POLICY
ECONOMY
DEPUTY
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
PLANNING, POLICY AND
INNOVATION
DIRECTOR DIRECTOR
PLANNING AND INDUSTRY SKILLS
WORKFORCE PLANNING
AND POLICY EVALUATION DEVELOPMENT
OFFICE OF THE
TRAINING AND SKILLS
COMMISSION
DFEEST also has many important relationships with other organisations eg Office of the Training Advocate,
Education Adelaide, Playford Capital, BioInnovation SA, Austraining. These relationships are not shown here.
22

24. 1.1 Accelerate skills take-up for the current and emerging workforce (Links
to South Australia’s Strategic Plan Targets T6.15, T6.19, T6.20 and T6.21)
A key focus for TAFE SA is to develop partnerships with industry and
enterprises to provide responsive training solutions that meet current and
future skills requirements for South Australia’s workforce. Growth in South
Australia’s mining industry is significant and TAFE SA is working with BHP
Billiton and the mining industry to create scholarships for Aboriginal people to
study engineering and geosciences. The vocational scholarships are designed
to support Indigenous students to undertake courses in engineering and
geosciences with the aim of increasing the pool of Indigenous students
moving to tertiary education in mining-related fields.
A strategy to accelerate the attainment of qualifications is to recognise that
many students already have significant knowledge and skills from life and
work experience, previous courses and training, or self-taught knowledge and
skills. Evidence of their skills and knowledge will enable them to gain
recognition for all or part of a course through TAFE SA. This is known as
recognition of prior learning.
In June 2009, the department allocated around $8.6 million of Productivity
Places Program funding so that 48 registered training organisations could
deliver training toward 2760 jobseeker qualifications. The Productivity Places
Program for Jobseeker training is directed to people over 17 years who are
not currently working and intending to seek paid employment after completing
the qualification so that they are better equipped to participate in emerging
work opportunities. Almost 40% of jobseeker qualifications allocated in June
2009 were at Certificate II Level, 30.5% at Certificate III, 15.2% at Certificate
IV and 38.6% at Diploma Level. As of December 2009, the department
recorded 1811 jobseeker enrolments and had registered 605 qualifications.
In October 2009 the department allocated around $10 million of
Commonwealth Productivity Places Program funding and $8 million of state
funding so that 60 registered training organisations could deliver training
toward 4376 existing worker qualifications. This funding accounted for 90% of
the agreed training costs for these qualifications and industry will contribute
the outstanding 10% for training delivery.
This Commonwealth, state and industry commitment to train the existing
workforce is in addition to funding released in 2008 through the Productivity
Places Program for Existing Worker Pilot Program when around 2760
qualifications were allocated for existing worker training, 13% at Certificate III,
43% at Certificate IV, 37% at Diploma and 7% at Advanced Diploma Levels.
As of December 2009, 2669 enrolments had been recorded and around 22%
of enrolled existing workers had achieved a qualification.
24

25. 1.2 Ensure a ready supply of qualified South Australian workers is
available from the state’s growth sectors (Links to South Australia’s
Strategic Plan Targets T6.19, T6.20 and T6.21)
Traineeship and Apprenticeship Activity
Traineeships and apprenticeships remain a key focus in ensuring the
ongoing supply of skills for South Australian businesses and industry. The
department is responsible for the regulation of the traineeship and
apprenticeship system in South Australia under delegation from the
Training and Skills Commission.
Despite the global economic crisis experienced in the second half of 2008,
traineeship and apprenticeship commencements remained relatively stable.
In the 12 months ending 30 June 2009, there were an estimated 21 200
traineeship and apprenticeship commencements, representing a decrease
of 2.3 percentage points on the 21 700 commencements recorded in the
previous 12 months. This decline was relatively small when compared with
the 6.2 percentage point reduction experienced nationally. In South
Australia and nationally, apprenticeship commencements saw the greatest
reductions, dropping by 11.0 percentage points and 20.1 percentage points
respectively. Traineeship commencements remained constant. The below
figure illustrates the small but steady growth of trainees and apprentices in
training since 2007. At 30 June 2009, there were an estimated 32 400
trainees and apprentices in training, up 700 (2.2%) on the 31 700 recorded
in June 2007.
Trainee and apprentice activity, five years ending 30 June 20094
40000
35000
Number of trainees and apprentices
30000
25000
20000
15000
10000
5000
0
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
Year
In training Commencements Completions
4
In training figures are provided at 30 June of each year; commencement and completion figures are provided for the
12 months ending 30 June of each year. All figures are based on the National Centre for Vocational Education
Research Australian vocational education and training statistics – apprentices and trainees June quarter (2009). All
figures are estimated for 2009 and in training figures are estimated for 2008. The National Centre for Vocational
Education Research may revise these figures in the future.
25

26. 2008-2010 Pre-Apprenticeship and Traineeship Program
The Pre-Apprenticeship and Traineeship Program continued in 2009, with
eight organisations delivering 12 courses. The program seeks to increase
the supply of apprentices and trainees in occupations and industries
experiencing skills shortages in South Australia that are considered to be of
strategic importance to the economy. Course participants are provided with
technical training and employability skills specific to the targeted
apprenticeship or traineeship, and where required, they are assisted to
develop their literacy and numeracy skills. Participants attend suitable work
placements with employers, who in many cases employ them in the
relevant apprenticeship or traineeship.
During 2009, 60 participants of the Pre-Apprenticeship and Traineeship
Program gained apprenticeships or traineeships in the following targeted
trades and vocations - plumbing, electrical, bricklaying, carpentry,
engineering (mechanical and fabrication), wall and floor tiling, child care
and disability care. Further outcomes are expected when the remaining
courses conclude in 2010.
User Choice Training Subsidies
The department is responsible for the provision of User Choice training
subsidies to both public and private training organisations, to support
trainees and apprentices with the cost of formal training. These subsidies
are focussed on traineeships and apprenticeships in occupations
experiencing skills shortages. The User Choice Policy supports all trades
(available for existing workers and new entrants), traineeships at Certificate
II and III Australian Qualifications Framework levels, and pilot programs in
other areas of skills shortage, which are not normally funded under User
Choice arrangements, for example, existing workers in civil construction.
South Australia Works
The South Australia Works Skills Recognition Service assisted over 2000
clients in 2008-09 with the recognition of qualifications and skills (gained
locally or overseas) in order to gain employment.
An early intervention pilot program, Skilled Work SA, supported newly
arrived skilled migrants experiencing difficulties in gaining skilled
employment. This service assisted 150 participants of which 105 were
placed into employment.
In 2008-09 the Industry Partnership Program committed $2.1 million to
industry skills boards to support 11 initiatives across a range of industry
sectors. This commitment was matched by industry contributions of
$2.6 million.
26

27. Productivity Places Program
The department administered the Productivity Places Program in South
Australia through competitive application rounds. Applications were
assessed based on individual merit for identified need, suitable partnerships
and capacity to deliver desired outcomes for the program. Allocation of
funding was determined by:
 agreed Commonwealth targets for qualification levels to be met through
the program
 state priorities as identified through industry and workforce intelligence
including the Training and Skills Commission identified priorities.
Whilst Job Seeker places are fully funded by the Commonwealth, in 2009
the South Australian Government contributed $7.9 million of state funding,
comprising 40% of existing worker training costs, and private investment
(typically industry), contributed the remaining 10% of existing worker
training costs.
1.3 Enhance Adelaide’s reputation as a world class city for education,
training and high education (Links to South Australia’s Strategic Plan
Targets T1.16, T6.20 and T6.21)
International student enrolments (as at November 2009) in South Australia
increased by 21.2% compared to the same period in 2008. This growth rate
is higher than the national average of 17.7%.
There are 33 595 international students studying in South Australia
compared to 629 618 nationally, representing a market share of 5.3%.
A total of 18 840 new international students commenced their studies in
South Australia this year compared to 362 926 nationally, representing a
market share of 5.2%.
Commencement rates of international students in South Australia also grew
strongly at 17.3%, above the national average of 14.5%.
The numbers of providers registered to deliver to overseas students grew at
the same rate as in the previous 12 months with 17 new providers
registered during the year bringing the total number of providers to 78.
Again, as was the case in 2008, growth in the number of registered
providers was almost entirely in the vocational education sector. The
department increased its resources for regulation of this sector to meet the
increased demand for services and to ensure that providers, in particular
those new to the market, provided services to students in accordance with
relevant legislation and national standards.
27

28. During the year the department focussed on increasing advice and support
to registered training providers and held a number of forums to deliver a
range of professional development services for registered providers.
The South Australian Training Advocate, unique in the Australian training
system, is an independent statutory authority established under the Training
and Skills Development Act 2008. Of note in 2009 was the increase in
support provided to international students who were provided with
information and advice to confidentially address any aspect of studying,
living or working in South Australia.
In addition the Training Advocate worked collaboratively with the
department, other state and federal agencies and peak bodies to contribute
to strategies aimed at improving the international education experience for
students and the employment and training arrangements for
apprenticeships and traineeships.
The Higher Education Registration and Accreditation Board was
established in mid 2009 as an advisory body to the Delegate of the Training
and Skills Commission on quality matters relating to higher education under
Part 3 of the Training and Skills Development Act 2008. Key areas of the
board’s work are:
 the role of academic boards in non-self accrediting institutions
 benchmarking activities against university education undertaken by non-
self accrediting institutions
 risk management of non-self accrediting institutions operations.
The Higher Education Registration and Accreditation Board analysed
annual report data submitted to the department by non self-accrediting
institutions registered under the Training and Skills Development Act 2008.
The analysis informed the department’s strategies for strengthening the
capacity of these providers.
The Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education approved the
University College of London to deliver four qualifications that are
recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework and are also
recognised higher education qualifications in the United Kingdom.
1.4 Build a fair, quality oriented and competitive training market (Links to
South Australia’s Strategic Plan Targets T1.16, 6.20 and T6.21)
In 2009 the department sought proposals from the market to deliver the
Learn 2 Earn program funding became contestable resulting in a broader
range of projects being delivered across the state to 203 young
people. Ten projects totalling $1.1 million were delivered by TAFE SA and
privately owned providers resulting in some 60 employment outcomes.
28

29. User Choice Subsidies
During 2008, 141 registered training organisations (consisting of TAFE SA
and privately owned providers) received training subsidies under a User
Choice agreement. Some $42.6 million was provided by the department to
support over 21 000 trainees and apprentices undertaking a nationally
recognised qualification.
As illustrated in the figure below, just over half (51%) of students that
attracted User Choice assistance were apprentices, and they were the
beneficiaries of two thirds of the expenditure, reflecting the higher cost of
apprenticeship training5.
Student numbers Funding ($ million)
T/ships
$13.7
T/ships A/ships
33% A/ships
10,463 11,109
$28.1
49% 51%
67%
Travel and Accommodation
The department provides travel and accommodation subsidies to trainees
and apprentices in regional and remote South Australia, who are required to
travel to attend their off-the-job training. In 2008-09, $1.78 million was
provided for this purpose and supported 1106 trainees and apprentices.
Regulation of Training Providers
The delivery of higher education, (other than that provided by the state
universities), vocational education and training, and educational services to
overseas students is regulated under the Training and Skills Development
Act 2008. The Act provides the basis for ensuring the education and
training providers and the courses that they deliver are quality assured
under national education and training standards.
The department manages the registration of training providers to deliver
nationally recognised qualifications and Statements of Attainment under
delegation from the Training and Skills Commission.
5
Funding for traineeships and apprenticeships does not equal total expenditure for the User Choice, as other
expenses associated with User Choice are included in the total expenditure for the program.
29

30. The assessment of applications for registration and the monitoring of
compliance with standards are managed by the department with the
engagement of personnel from industry, occupational licensing bodies,
state universities and other stakeholders as relevant.
Thirty one non-university higher education providers are registered in South
Australia to deliver 332 higher education qualifications. Two organisations
withdrew their registration during the year and two new providers were
registered.
The vocational education and training sector in South Australia grew more
than in previous years with 40 new providers registered.
Seventeen providers withdrew their registration to give a total of 327
registered providers, nine of whom have their registration managed through
the National Audit and Registration Agency. The department significantly
increased audits of private providers in 2009 and conducted 168 audits of
providers registered to deliver vocational education and training. These
audits are conducted to assess applications for registration and also to
monitor provider compliance with national standards.
The department receives and investigates complaints made about
registered providers. Twenty one written complaints were received during
the year. These complaints were investigated and resolved with the
department’s intervention. In seven cases the investigation led to an audit
of the registered provider to determine whether the provider was operating
in compliance with the Training and Skills Development Act 2008 and its
conditions of registration. Fifty nine verbal complaints were received and
resolved with the department’s intervention.
Twenty nine workshops covering regulatory and educational issues for
providers in the vocational education and training, higher education and
overseas students sectors were held with over 1000 attendees. Quarterly
forums covering the Productivity Places Program, the Budget, industry skills
board activities and the Training and Skills Commission’s Skills for Jobs
Plan attracted about 400 participants.
Over the last three years the department has managed a program funded
by the Council of Australian Governments to improve the quality and uptake
of recognition of prior learning services offered by registered training
organisations. The program has worked with industry skills boards, career
development centres, the Australian Council for Private Education and
Training, employer and employee associations, and the department’s Skills
Recognition Service, and the Productivity Places Program to embed good
recognition of prior learning practice into their core activities. Activities of
particular note included skills recognition services for workers to be
retrenched from Mitsubishi and Bridgestone.
Summary information on activity is provided in Tables 1 – 5.
30

31. An expert independent review of the Quality Directorate was conducted in
2009 given the need for the department to respond to the changing market
conditions for providers, determination to maintain quality across providers
operating in SA and national reviews, in particular the Bradley Review of
Higher Education. As a result the Quality and Higher Education Directorates
were merged in 2009 to establish the Quality and Tertiary Education Policy
Directorate.
31

32. Table 1
VET Registration 2007 2008 2009
Summary
Total registered training organisations registered in South
2966 3045 3275&7
Australia for domestic delivery
Registered training organisations also delivering higher
14 14 16
education courses
Registered training organisations registered in South
93 122 141
Australia operating in another state/territory
Registered training organisations who remain suspended 3 0 0
Registered training organisations with delegated powers 1 1 38
Approvals
Initial registration 31 24 40
Renewal of registration 55 51 41
Extension to scope of registration 93 139 146
TOTAL 179 214 227
Qualifications added to TAFE SA scope of registration
70 77 203
under delegation
Refusals, Cancellations and Suspensions
Registered training organisations who expired or
10 16 17
voluntarily withdrew registration
Registered training organisations who transferred to 0
0 0
interstate registering body
Registered training organisations who had registration 0
0 0
cancelled by registration authority
Registered training organisations who had registration 0
0 0
suspended by registration authority
Registered training organisations who had registration
refused by registration authority:
- initial registration 3 3 4
- extension to scope registration 1 1 2
- renewal of registration 1 0 0
Audit Activity: Number of audits conducted
Initial registration 32 29 43
Renewal of registration 53 52 39
Extension to scope of registration 50 37 58
Monitoring 34 33 28
TOTAL 169 151 168
6
These totals, given in previous annual reports have been adjusted to include the number of providers delivering in
the vocational education and training and higher education sectors
7
Total figure inclusive of nine registered training organisations that have their auditing and registration managed by
National Audit and Registration Agency
8
In 2009 TAFE SA registration changed from one entity to three separate institutes. The delegated powers to TAFE
SA to vary scope of registration and to accredit Crown copyright courses for each of these institutes are managed by
one delegate.
32

33. Table 2
VET Accreditation 2007 2008 2009
Summary
Total accredited courses 278 159 174
Approvals
Courses accredited 39 5 15
Courses accredited (TAFE SA under delegated authority) 3 8 6
Training package qualifications implemented in South
335 335 204
Australia
New qualifications made available through traineeships
124 124 82
or apprenticeships
Table 3
Higher Education Registration 2007 2008 2009
Summary
Higher education providers registered in South Australia
28 31 31
for domestic delivery
Higher education providers who also deliver vocational
14 14 16
education and training courses
Approvals
Initial Registration 1 3 2
Variation to scope of registration 10 2 12
Refusals, Revocations and Withdrawals
Higher education providers who voluntary withdrew
0 0 2
registration
Higher education providers who had registration
0 0 0
cancelled by registration authority
Higher education providers who had registration
0 0 0
suspended by registration authority
Higher education providers who had registration refused
by registration authority
0 0 0
- initial registration 0
0 1
- variation of registration
0 0 0
- renewal of registration
Table 4
Higher Education Accreditation 2007 2008 2009
Summary
Total current accredited courses 253 208 3329
Approvals
Courses accredited 35 20 8210
9
This figure includes all qualification streams listed on the South Australian Higher Education Register
10
This figure does not include discipline streams approved within an accredited higher education course
33

34. Table 5
Overseas Recognition 2007 2008 2009
Summary
Registered providers delivering only vocational education
18 32 47
and training courses to overseas students
Registered providers delivering only higher education
9 10 11
courses to overseas students
Registered providers delivering vocational education and
training and higher education courses to overseas 8 9 9
students
Registered providers delivering only English Language
5 6 5
Intensive Courses to Overseas Students
Registered providers delivering vocational education and
training, higher education and English Language 3 3 3
Intensive Courses to Overseas Students
Registered providers delivering English Language
Intensive Courses to Overseas Students and vocational 1 1 2
education and training courses to overseas students
Registered providers delivering English Language
Intensive Courses to Overseas Students and higher 1 1 1
education courses to overseas students
Total registered providers approved to deliver to
45 62 78
overseas students
Approvals
Initial registration 2 17 17
Renewal of registration 3 5 7
Extension to scope of registration 13 10 41
Refusals, Cancellations and Suspensions
Registered training organisations who voluntarily 0
1 0
withdrew registration
Registered training organisations who had registration
0 0 0
cancelled by registration authority
Registered training organisations who had registration
0 0 0
suspended by registration authority
Registered training organisations who had registration
refused by registration authority:
- initial registration 1 1 1
- extension to scope registration 0 1 1
- renewal of registration 0 0 0
Audit Activity: Number of audits conducted
Initial registration 3 19 18
Renewal of registration 3 5 6
Extension to scope of registration 13 9 25
Monitoring 1 3 9
TOTAL 20 36 58
34

35. 1.5 Continue to develop fresh approaches to skills development and
system reforms (Links to South Australia’s Strategic Plan Targets
T6.15, T6.19 T6.20 and T6.21)
A Strategic Review of South Australia Works was conducted in 2009 to
assess the effectiveness of the initiative, taking account of changing labour
market conditions and new policy directions at the state and national level.
A high level reference group, consisting of representatives from the Training
and Skills Commission, the Economic Development Board, the Social
Inclusion Board, the Regional Communities Consultative Council, the
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations and the
Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology
provided advice on future priorities, directions and recommendations.
The review acknowledged the overall effectiveness of the program and
made recommendations designed to build on its strengths and exploit new
opportunities.
TAFE SA’s program delivery was underpinned through the establishment of
lead centres, a key initiative of the Skills Strategy. Lead centres are
designed to ensure close alignment to industry, and effectiveness in
educational service delivery. The Lead Centre for Hospitality, Tourism and
Food Studies and the Lead Centre for the Arts were launched in 2009.
The appointment of an artistic director and advisory board and a name
change - to the Adelaide College of the Arts - all signal a new direction for
vocational arts training in South Australia to encourage artistic excellence.
TAFE SA recognises e-learning has the potential to bring widespread
benefits to students and teachers and that it will transform the way further
education is delivered. In 2009 TAFE SA continued to invest and deliver the
e-learning Strategy to further embed e-learning into the delivery of an
increasing number of programs across TAFE SA.
The TAFE SA Educational Information and Communications Technology
Group was established in semester two, to oversee the implementation of
the e-learning strategy.
1.6 Promote community learning for the benefit of the individual, the
economy and social health of the state (Links to South Australia’s
Strategic Plan Target T6.19)
South Australia Works in Communities creates learning opportunities for
people and their communities. People with a disability, migrants and
disadvantaged unemployed or under-employed people between 25 and 39
years were supported to participate in learning programs. Through a range
of work programs, 4265 people were assisted and 1630 gained
employment. The Employment Assistance Program supported 2900
35

36. jobseekers facing barriers to employment of which 822 gained employment.
The Abilities for All Program provided accredited training to 154 people with
a disability to develop their skills and create expanded employment
pathways for the future.
The South Australia Works Adult Community Education Program supported
94 projects delivering 30 000 accredited and 300 000 hours of non-
accredited learning to over 11 000 people.
Tauondi Aboriginal College provided 650 Aboriginal people with accredited
or non accredited training. The college has a significant role in building the
confidence, capacity and capability of the state’s Aboriginal community.
The $2.23 million funding included $0.23 million in Australian Government
funds under the Australian and state government agreement. Over 100 000
accredited training hours and 5000 non-accredited training hours were
delivered.
1.7 Specially focussed on disadvantaged members of society
The South Australia Works Learning and Work Programs to 2010 initiative
links people with skills and jobs. The initiative aims to increase learning,
training and employment opportunities for all South Australians, particularly
people who face barriers to accessing training and employment and who
need extra help to break into the paid workforce.
South Australia Works for Aboriginal People improves learning and
employment outcomes for Aboriginal people by providing support, job
training, work placements, recruitment leadership training, career
enhancement, traineeships and apprenticeships. Of the 1580 Aboriginal
people who participated in work programs, 795 gained employment. The
Aboriginal Apprenticeship Program supported 150 apprentices, and 54 new
apprentices commenced an apprenticeship.
The TAFE SA Aboriginal Access Centre provides access to TAFE SA for
Aboriginal people. Enrolled students are supported through the
development of individual learning plans and a case management approach
to lead Aboriginal students from unemployment to vocational education and
training to meaningful employment.
In 2008-09, $1.1 million was allocated to assist employers in drought
designated areas to retain eligible trainees and apprentices. Of the 631
trainees and apprentices who attracted a retention subsidy, 95% remain in
training or successfully completed their traineeship/ apprenticeship. The
Drought Apprenticeship Retention Program is part of the government’s
broader Drought Relief Program aimed at supporting farmers and rural
communities.
36

37. In 2008-09 group training organisations, which were funded under the state
and Australian government Joint Group Training Program employed 244
Indigenous and 167 disabled trainees and apprentices.
In 2008 and 2009 calendar years a pilot project was conducted to test the
efficacy of a support model to improve vocational education and training
participation and outcomes in, and transition between, vocational education
and training and employment for people with a disability. The Vocational
Education and Training to Work: Disability Support and Transition Project
has seen very successful outcomes with a 75% qualification completion
rate and a 60% employment rate for participants in the 2008 pilot. The
project has so far assisted 73 participants and is continuing in 2010.
37

38. 2.1 Provide access to high quality employment (Links to South Australia’s
Strategic Plan Targets T1.10 T1.11 T1.12 and T1.26)
In 2008-09, 32 135 participants were assisted with the development of
foundation skills, generic skills, vocational training, brokerage into
employment and post placement support. Of these, 16 745 participated in
work programs and 15 390 in learning, skills development and training
programs; 8430 people gained employment.
Four hundred and twelve projects were undertaken to increase workforce
participation, develop better workforce practices and build community
capacity. In addition, over 895 000 accredited and 504 000 non-accredited
hours of training were delivered through projects in metropolitan and
regional areas.
Expenditure on South Australia Works learning, training and work programs
was $35.66 million, including $5.54 million of leveraged funds, including
Australian Government funds.
Nine South Australia Works Regional Coordinators work with the
employment and skills formation networks to respond to each region’s
unique learning, training and employment challenges. In 2008-09
$8.8 million was provided to assist 6350 people to participate in regional
projects and a total of 3385 employment outcomes were achieved.
South Australia Works in the Regions assisted 2127 mature aged
participants, with 1195 finding employment. In addition, 710 Aboriginal
people were supported through a diverse range of programs, with 355
gaining employment.
South Australia Works for Aboriginal People improves learning and
employment outcomes for Aboriginal people by providing support, job
training, work placements, recruitment, leadership training, career
enhancement, traineeships and apprenticeships. In 2008-09:
 1580 Aboriginal people participated in work programs with 795 gaining
employment
 the South Australia Works Aboriginal Apprenticeship Program is
currently supporting 150 Aboriginal apprentices, with 54 new
apprentices commencing in 2008-09.
In addition, 35 Aboriginal people achieved employment through the
CareerStart SA program.
South Australia Works for Mature Aged People continued to develop early
intervention strategies by providing training, upskilling and employment
programs for people 40 years and over. A total of 3620 mature-aged people
participated in work programs and 1620 gained employment.
38

39. Opportunities were provided to 475 mature aged unemployed people and
100 gained employment, through the Employment 40 Plus Program.
South Australia Works with Industry identified new employment and training
possibilities, helped people to develop the skills required by a changing and
dynamic economy, and assisted in meeting current and emerging workforce
needs. Of 4820 people who participated in industry programs, 2575 gained
employment.
A joint initiative of the Australian and state governments, the Labour Market
Adjustment Package continued to provide assistance in 2009 to retrenched
workers from Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited, eligible supply
companies, Clipsal and Cooper Standard Automotive. Eligible retrenched
workers received job search assistance, career counselling and case
management, recognition of prior learning and training and skill
development activities. This was supported by the Australian Government’s
Job Network and Job Services Australia providers. Six hundred and fifteen
retrenched workers accessed training and employment services, with 452
individuals gaining employment.
In 2009, the Australian and state governments provided assistance to
workers at Bridgestone by contributing $5.7 million towards assisting
affected workers in upskilling, skills development, referral and placement
into employment and work experience opportunities.
In 2008-09, 613 businesses that tendered or applied for government works
and service contracts and associated sub contracts valued at $250 000 or
more per annum, registered with InSkill SA
The Training and Skills Development Act 2008 introduced a requirement for
employers to be registered to employ and train trainees and apprentices.
The department implemented this requirement over 2009, with 2903 new
employers registered and 769 employers increasing the scope of their
registration to enable them to employ and train in additional trades or
vocations. This brings the number of registered employers to 12 492.
Employers seeking registration are provided with a comprehensive
induction into the traineeship and apprenticeship system, which includes
information on their obligations, responsibilities and rights and the support
that is available to the contractual parties
2.2 Increase and improve workforce participation in learning and work
(links to South Australia’s Strategic Plan Targets T1.12 T6.20 and
T6.21)
Throughout 2009, the department facilitated dialogue on employment and
skills participation for women through regular meetings with the Premier’s
Council for Women.
The impact of the global financial crisis led to a changed focus for policy
development in workforce participation, focussing more on short term
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40. strategies to address increasing workforce retrenchments, while still
maintaining the longer term challenges posed by skill shortages. Gender-
sensitive and whole-of-government strategies were adopted to advance and
promote women’s employment in the workplace.
In December 2009, the workforce participation rate was 63.2 per cent in
South Australia in trend terms, which was 0.4 percentage points lower than
the previous year (63.6 per cent). At the national level, the workforce
participation rate also fell slightly from 65.3 per cent to 65.2 per cent over
the same period (in trend terms).
2.3 Foster career development (Links to South Australia’s Strategic Plan
Targets T6.15 T6.19)
The Careers SA Framework was implemented during 2009. The framework
is the state government’s response to the need for a consistent and
coordinated career development framework and included:
 establishment of a state-wide network of high quality, consistent and
coordinated career development services for individuals, groups of
people, industry and career development practitioners
 creation of a Careers SA web portal
 the availability of high quality career and labour market information
 promotion of state-wide skills recognition services
 facilitation of an Interagency Career Development Network and a Career
Practitioner’s Network
 development of a tool kit to support the implementation of career
development services.
The Skills Recognition Service provides information, brokerage and referral
services in the areas of recognition of qualifications and skills gained locally
or overseas, pathways to recognition of prior learning and support with
career development opportunities. A major focus of the service is the
recognition of qualifications and skills, and career development as major
pathway to employment. In 2008-09, the service assisted over 2000 clients
with the recognition of qualifications and skills (gained locally or overseas)
in order to gain employment.
Career development centres continue to be expanded across the state. In
2008-09 new services were established in Southern Adelaide, Riverland,
Eyre and Eastern Adelaide.
2.4 Provide high quality workforce development services to industry and
the community (Links to South Australia’s Strategic Plan Targets
T1.10, T1.11, T1.12 and T 1.26)
In 2009 the department implemented a new Structural Adjustment Program
with the following components:
 Down Time Training
In conjunction with the Australian Government, the program provided
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