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.

1. Page

2. 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 2011 Annual Report is available on the department’s website at:
http://www.dfeest.sa.gov.au
ISSN: 1449-6437
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3. Page 3

4. SECTION ONE 7
YEAR IN REVIEW
Our Business 8
From the Chief Executive 9
At a Glance: Highlights of 2011 10
Skills for All 12
TAFE SA 14
SECTION TWO 17
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
Our Priorities 18
Our Structure 20
South Australia’s Strategic Plan 22
DFEEST’s Five Year Strategic Plan 2010-14 24
SECTION THREE 27
OUR PERFORMANCE
Workforce Planning 28
Engagement with Industry 32
Providing Opportunities for All 40
Building World-Class Infrastructure 50
Digital Economy and Technology 54
A Focus on Quality 57
Science and Research 64
Tertiary Education 68
National Contributions 78
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5. CONTENTS
SECTION FOUR 83
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND REPORTING
Ministerial Accountability 84
Legislation 84
Boards, Committees and Authorities 85
Governance 87
Asbestos Management in Government Buildings 89
Carers Recognition Act 2005 89
Disability Action Plans 89
Freedom of Information 89
Management of Human Resources 91
Reconciliation 102
Sustainability 103
Urban Design Charter 111
Whistleblowers Protection Act 1993 111
SECTION FIVE 113
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
Financial Overview 114
Summary of Financial Information 114
Audited General Purpose Financial Report 119
Account Payment Performance 165
Consultants 165
Certification by Departmental Executive 167
Independent Auditor’s Report 168
Contractual Arrangements 170
Fraud 170
Overseas Travel 170
GLOSSARY 173
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6. Page

7. SECTION ONE
YEAR IN REVIEW
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8. 1.1 Our Business
The Department of Further Education, Employment,
Science and Technology’s (DFEEST) role is to ensure the
development of the state’s workforce to meet industry
priorities, to maximise the opportunities for all South
Australians to engage in education, training and work, to
build a more responsive and flexible training system and to
exploit opportunities for South Australia to be at the
forefront of research, science, technology and innovation.
To do this we manage the training system by providing
funding for training, empowering industry, enterprises and
individuals to invest in quality training through contracting
and regulation, monitoring provider performance and
managing vocational education and training (VET)
infrastructure. We also help build the tertiary education,
science, research and innovative capacity in South Australia
by supporting universities and research institutions.
DFEEST has undertaken a range of functions in order to
meet its objectives and contribute to the achievement of During the reporting period, DFEEST
South Australia’s Strategic Plan (SASP) objectives and played a central role in achieving 14 of
targets. South Australia’s Strategic Plan targets in
the areas of employment, education and
These included:
training as well as science, technology
- the provision of strategic policy advice for and innovation.
developing the State’s workforce, in conjunction
with the Training and Skills Commission (TaSC)
- ensuring high-quality VET is delivered by TAFE
institutes under the Office of TAFE SA, private
registered training organisations and adult
community education providers
- regulation of VET providers, non-university higher
education providers, and providers of English
Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students
- regulation, administration and funding of
apprenticeships and traineeships
- managing state-funded employment and training
support programs
- supporting the government’s strategic direction in
the higher education sector
- raising the profile of South Australia in the
international education marketplace
- developing policies and strategies, and delivering
programs, that create opportunities for Aboriginal
people, young people, people with a disability and
older workers
- provision of strategic advice and delivery of
programs in the areas of science, technology and
information economy.
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9. YEAR IN REVIEW
1.2 From the Chief Executive
I am pleased to present the 2011 Annual Report for the
Department of Further Education, Employment, Science
and Technology.
2011 has been an exciting and challenging year with the
commencement of transformational reforms to South
Australia’s training system through Skills for All. The reforms,
when fully implemented, will see funding for an extra
100 000 training places, the removal of fees for many
courses, better access to training for many students and a
training system that will be able to respond more quickly to
student and industry demand.
In 2011 DFEEST implemented a number of major initiatives
to progress the Skills for All reforms. The centre will be a state-of-the-art facility incorporating the
main building trades with a focus on sustainable industries
The Office of TAFE SA was established to help prepare and clean technologies. The design was developed during
TAFE SA for the new contestable VET sector from 2011 with construction work to commence in 2012.
July 2012. In addition, the implementation of 24 other
major reform projects commenced including the Throughout 2011 TAFE SA continued its focus on
assessment of Skills for All providers which will help providing excellence in training to students from all walks
underpin the quality of training that occurs under of life. More than 81 000 students received training during
Skills for All. 2011. Over 91 percent of TAFE SA graduates were satisfied
with the overall quality of their training, the highest
A major initiative was the introduction of the Training satisfaction rating nationally.
Guarantee for South Australian Certificate of Education
(SACE) Students which helps fund students to undertake Employers also gave very positive feedback with over
vocational training while at school and upon completion of 90 percent extremely satisfied with the quality of training
their SACE guarantees an ongoing training place. This being delivered by TAFE SA.
scheme will be expanded in 2012 with increasing interest
from schools and students. It was a great honour that this high standard of training
was recognised at the 2011 National Training Awards with
I am very pleased and proud of what staff across the TAFE SA Regional winning the award as Large Training
department have achieved to date, and look forward to Provider of the Year.
seeing the culmination of these efforts when Skills for All
goes fully live on 2 July 2012. The department also received recognition for the
excellence of its work through the 2011 Premier’s Awards.
In April, Adjunct Professor Don Bursill commenced his
appointment as Chief Scientist for South Australia and has The first award was for the collaborative work DFEEST did
been working with the department and key stakeholders in with AdamMax to provide wireless broadband to fix 50,000
strengthening the links between research and industry. broadband blackspots across the state.
In August, the Minister for Science and Information The second Premier’s Award was for the initiative ‘Remote
Economy launched 'A Science, Technology, Engineering Indigenous Public Access Project – Oodnadatta’.
and Mathematics (STEM) Skills Strategy for South Australia' .
None of this would have been possible without the
The STEM Skills Strategy is targeted at increasing the uptake dedication and hard work of many staff and the leadership
in science, technology, engineering and mathematics of our Ministers in 2011 - Minister Snelling, Minister
professions to support the growing demand in our high Kenyon and Premier Weatherill.
value emerging industries.
During 2011 the department also progressed work on the
exciting new $105 million Sustainable Industries Education Raymond Garrand
Centre at Tonsley Park. Chief Executive
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10. 1.3 At A Glance : Highlights of 2011
- 123 800 South Australian students participated in accredited training
- 34 400 Apprentices and Trainees participated in training (as at 30 June 2011) -
People in Training
a 3.9 percent increase on the previous year’s figure
- More than 81 000 students were enrolled in TAFE SA
- Over $150 million of Commonwealth funding supported South Australian
Commonwealth and State employment and training outcomes
Relations - The National Agreement for Skills and Workforce Development: Equity and
Foundation Skills, driven by DFEEST, was embedded in national policy
- Over 1500 people were engaged in community consultations
- The Training Guarantee for SACE Students commenced
- Learner Support Services trials commenced in TAFE SA
Skills for All - Over 1400 subsidised courses have been identified for inclusion on the Subsidised
Training List
- The Adult Community Education program was expanded to increase
learner pathways
- Skills for Jobs 2011, a five-year skills and workforce development plan, was launched
Training and Skills
- Two regional visits, Whyalla and the Riverland, were undertaken
Commission
- A workforce study on Eyre Peninsula mining projects was released
- TAFE SA achieved 91 percent student satisfaction
- The $9.4 million Victor Harbor campus was opened and awarded a Civic Trust Award
- Construction of the Sustainable Industries Education Centre is one step closer
TAFE SA
- The new $20.4 million Student Information System was implemented
- TAFE SA shone at South Australian Training Awards with TAFE SA Regional winning
Large Training Provider of the Year
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11. YEAR IN REVIEW
- South Australia exceeded National Partnership Agreement targets
- $51 million invested for Existing Workers with 14 000 existing worker
enrolments approved
Productivity Places Program
- $16 million invested for Job Seekers with 5 420 job seeker enrolments approved
- A $4.5 million boost was allocated to the South Australian Defence industry
- $4.6 million was invested to fund 1 223 qualifications in mining
- Outback Connect won two Premier’s Awards for AdamMax – Shining the Light on
Broadband Blackspots and Remote Indigenous Public Access Project – Oodnadatta
Digital Economy and
- The National Broadband Network arrived in Willunga with the highest take-up of
Technology
any region
- Port Pirie received a $112 000 boost for broadband services
- $5 million invested in a purpose-built Photonics Facility
Science and Research - SA STEM Skills Strategy launched
- Professor Don Bursill was announced as the new Chief Scientist for South Australia
- Over 11 000 people participated in 93 Adult Community Education (ACE) programs
delivered by 70 community-based organisations
South Australia Works
- $6.4 million invested will support 8800 people through South Australia Works
- $2.4 million invested in the ACE program to increase learner pathways
- $2.6 million of Commonwealth funding was secured for more training and jobs
Aboriginal Training and
- $1 million funding offered to assist Aboriginal job seekers
Employment
- Industry Clusters supported 285 Aboriginal people into training or employment
- The amended Training and Skills Development Act 2008 was implemented to
strengthen regulation
Quality - The Vocational Education and Training (Commonwealth Powers) Bill drafted and
submitted to Parliament
- An International Student Card was launched with SAPOL
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12. 1.4 Skills for All
Skills for All, announced in late December 2010, is the MORE SUPPORT FOR THE MOST DISADVANTAGED
strategic direction for VET in South Australia. The South Australian government will encourage more
people than ever to enter training, successfully complete
Implementation is planned over four years. When fully that training and gain employment. To achieve this,
implemented, Skills for All will bring fundamental changes additional learner support services, which will include
to the state’s training system in order to: specialised learning and workplace experience, was trialled
- raise the skills level of South Australians for the most disadvantaged. Examples of disadvantaged
groups include women returning to work and those facing
- increase the number of South Australians with post-
generational unemployment.
school qualifications
- increase workforce participation. Certificate I and II level training, and foundation skills will be
fully funded with no course fees, and further concessions
To support Skills for All, the South Australian government will continue to be available at Certificate III and IV level for
committed an additional $194 million and set an ambitious low-income earners.
goal as part of its Jobs Strategy which, with the Productivity
Places Program (PPP), to create 100 000 new jobs for the IMPROVED PATHWAYS INTO LEARNING AND WORK
state over the six years from 2010-11. Skills for All recognises the importance of ensuring
foundation skills are readily accessible to support those
In order to achieve this goal, an additional 100 000 training who may experience barriers to training and employment.
places in key growth industries has been committed over
six years. The state government has doubled funding for foundation
skills and committed $6.4 million for the Adult Community
The aim is to create a VET system that responds quickly and Education (ACE) sector to create an additional 6000
flexibly to the needs of individuals and industry; a system training places for South Australians who want to boost
which is simpler to access and navigate, and supports their literacy and numeracy skills in order to move on to
more people to enter training and progress to higher higher level training or find work.
qualifications and employment.
Pathways from school to further training have also been
Key aspects of the reform will be in place by 2 July 2012. improved. The training system now supports school
students 16 years and over who are on a VET pathway
GOVERNMENT-FUNDED TRAINING PLACES
and provides access to the training subsidy for further
South Australians aged 16 years and over will be eligible training once they complete school.
for a government-funded training subsidy to meet
individual needs and industry demand. A SHARED INVESTMENT IN SKILLS
The funding structure is being simplified. The overall
CLIENT CHOICE OF TRAINING PROVIDER
funding provided by government is increasing. There will
Students will be able to select the training provider of their be a greater sharing of the costs for higher level training
choice from TAFE SA and other approved private training for which, at Diploma and Advanced Diploma levels,
providers. To assist South Australians in selecting the providers will be able to offer income-contingent loans.
training and provider that is right for them, Skills for All will Maximum and minimum restrictions on course fees will
focus on developing resources and information that will prevent providers from overcharging students, while
give people access to high-quality information on careers, ensuring that providers cannot offer training at artificially
training options and providers. low prices.
CLIENTS WILL BE WELL INFORMED MORE SUPPORT FOR INDUSTRY
The Skills for All website will build a training information Employers can also access government-endorsed,
portal that offers information about Skills for All providers, independent workforce development advisors to help
their services and funded training courses. It will link South identify workforce development needs and broker relevant
Australians to high-quality information and tools on training and support.
careers, occupations and training pathways at one up-to-
date and easy-to-navigate website. Skills for All implementation has made good progress and is
on track for the 2 July 2012 starting date.
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13. YEAR IN REVIEW
AN ASSURANCE OF QUALITY A RENEWED PARTNERSHIP WITH INDUSTRY
From 2012, South Australia will be part of the National VET Under Skills for All, the South Australian government will
Regulation system, and will work cooperatively with the work with industry to promote workforce development,
Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA). Training maximise investment in training and encourage more
providers wishing to access public funding will need to people to gain skills through training throughout their
meet rigorous criteria to become a Skills for All provider. working lives.
The requirements are in addition to meeting the standards
under the Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF) Skills in the Workplace
and may mean that not all currently registered training
providers will be able to access public funding. This will The Skills in the Workplace program will allow employers in
result in training providers that meet the highest standards key target industries to co-invest with government to
of quality for students to ensure that South Australia retains improve the skill level of employees at higher qualification
its reputation for high-quality education and training. levels and support workforce development.
From 2012, the Tertiary Education Quality Standards Skills in the Workplace will offer contestable funding
Agency (TEQSA) will have national responsibility for higher designed to raise the skill levels of existing workers and to
education provision. address skill demands in key industry sectors. Employer
commitment and investment will be key requirements of
EMPLOYER RECOGNITION PROGRAM Skills in the Workplace, and government investment in the
program will add to, not replace, enterprise investment in
DFEEST will establish a new Employer Recognition workforce skills development.
Program that publicly acknowledges the critical role
employers and businesses play in meeting skill needs and
developing the workforce. This new program will help to
recognise and reward employers and to assist in the
continued development of a culture of training in South
Australia.
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14. 1.5 TAFE SA
As South Australia’s largest provider of VET, TAFE SA plays a TAFE SA was also awarded, or contributed to the awarding
major role in providing a comprehensive range of courses of the following:
to industry, the community and disadvantaged groups.
Together, the three TAFE institutes of Adelaide North, - TAFE SA was awarded the National Excellence Award
Adelaide South and Regional play a critical role in delivering for Outstanding Contribution to Indigenous
on South Australian government priorities, including the Interpreting by the Australian Institute of Interpreters
facilitation of an additional 100 000 training places over six and Translators for its delivery of the Diploma in
years. Interpreting in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara
Lands and other parts of South Australia
In 2011, TAFE SA delivered training to over 81 000 students
in more than 800 courses across 50 campuses. - A South Australian apprentice carpenter, trained by
TAFE SA, was judged as the best apprentice and
TAFE SA achieved the highest satisfaction ratings nationally winner of the National Apprentice Carpenter of
with over 91 percent of TAFE SA graduates satisfied with the Year
the overall quality of their training (National Centre for
Vocational Education Research (NCVER) 2011), and - TAFE SA’s Regency International Centre was awarded
95 percent of TAFE SA graduates would recommend the the Servicing Industry Award at the South Australian
training they undertook to other people. Premier’s Food Industry Awards which recognises a
business for outstanding and innovative service. The
A total of 91 percent of employers are satisfied with the centre also won the bronze medal in the Tourism
quality of training delivered by TAFE SA to apprentices and Education and Training category at the 2011 South
trainees, and 94 percent are satisfied with the quality of Australian Tourism Awards
nationally recognised training delivered by TAFE SA
(NCVER 2011). - An apprentice from Mount Gambier won a bronze
medal at the 41st WorldSkills International Competition
The Office of TAFE SA commenced operation in July 2011 held in London
as an interim arrangement to progress TAFE SA priorities
and to assist TAFE SA to become increasingly independent - A TAFE SA Building Lecturer won the 2011 SafeWork
and accountable in preparation for autonomy as a award for the Best Individual Contribution to
statutory authority. Ms Elaine Bensted, the Chief Executive, Workplace Health and Safety for his submission on the
Office of TAFE SA has been reporting to the TAFE SA 3M™ Peltor™ Lite-Com III™ communication headset
Interim Board since July 2011 and held to account for the which controls hazardous noise and has improved
outcomes against the Ministerial Charters and Institute safety for lecturers and students. The TAFE SA Building
Performance Agreements. program is believed to be the first educational
institution in Australia to have used this cutting-edge
Fortnightly video-conferences were held for all staff to technology in the form of two-way communication
ensure that changes as a result of Skills for All are well headsets to allow lecturers to effectively and safely
understood by staff. Campus forums have also been held to communicate with their students in a high-noise
provide opportunities for staff to engage in discussion. All training environment
areas of TAFE SA’s business are being reviewed to ensure
they are appropriate with the move into a new funding - A Glass Glazing Lecturer at Marleston campus won the
model in 2012. Glass Glazing Association of South Australia 2011
South Australian Glass Person of the Year Award
- TAFE SA Beer brand ‘Campus Brewery’ won two silver
Recognition and Awards medals at the 2011 Australian International Beer
South Australia was well represented at the 2011 Australian Awards for the beers ‘Nut Brown’ and ‘American
Training Awards, with eleven nominations, including six Brown Ale’. These awards showcase premium beer
relating to TAFE SA. TAFE SA Regional won the Large and brewing excellence in the Asia-Pacific region.
Training Provider of the Year and a TAFE SA student won
Vocational Student of the Year. Murray Bridge Veterinary
Clinic won Small Employer of the Year with accredited
training provided by TAFE SA. TAFE SA was also the
national runner-up in both of the VET Teacher/Trainer of
the Year and Australian School-based Apprentice of the
Year categories.
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15. YEAR IN REVIEW
Plans for 2012
2012 is a very important year for TAFE SA, with significant TAFE SA will continue to set the benchmark in Australia in
changes being undertaken in the vocational education and terms of student satisfaction and employment outcomes,
training system in South Australia as the Skills for All reforms and continue to play a central role in the state’s
are introduced. development.
TAFE SA as South Australia’s largest provider will play a TAFE SA fosters productivity, prosperity and social inclusion
critical role in progressing these reforms and 2011 has through skills development for individuals and industry as a
been a year for TAFE SA to ensure it is ready to effectively state government owned entity. TAFE SA will continue to
operate in a more competitive demand-driven market. deliver on its goals by:
Legislation will be introduced in 2012 to establish TAFE SA - delivering training that provides students every
as a Statutory Authority. This will give TAFE SA greater opportunity to achieve their personal, educational
autonomy, increased capacity to respond to market needs, and career goals
and the opportunity to attract more funding and grow in - engaging with employers, industry and the
what will be a much bigger training system . community to continue developing the highly
During 2012, TAFE SA will strengthen relationships with skilled workforce they need
industries and engagement with employers to deliver the - ensuring our products and services meet the
education and training required to develop the highly diverse needs of our students and industry
skilled workforce needed by current and emerging
industries. - prioritising resources to support our vision, meet
market expectations and implement contemporary
With the proposed changes, work will continue for methodologies and technologies
TAFE SA to remain South Australia’s largest provider of - building relationships to guarantee our
vocational education and training and will continue to offer educational delivery is meaningful and current
a diverse range of courses, including building, construction
and furnishing, manufacturing, engineering and transport, - working with ACE providers to support South
community services and health, hospitality and tourism, Australians needing foundation skills.
business and finance and primary industries, food TAFE SA looks forward to working with students, staff,
and wine. employers, industry and its many stakeholders during 2012
and in the future.
Vanessa Corbell - a
TAFE SA Floristry
student won the
State and National
Oasis Designz Cup
competitions
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16. Page

17. SECTION TWO
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
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18. 2.1 Our Priorities
Through skills and innovation, DFEEST provides the OUR VISION
underpinning elements for a strong sustainable economy South Australia has the best workforce in Australia.
for South Australia, achieved through greater participation
and productivity from our workforce.
OUR MISSION
DFEEST’s priorities include ensuring South Australia has
exemplary workforce planning and development practices; To develop the skills and capability of the state’s workforce
strong industry partnerships; increased participation in and to maximise the opportunities for all South Australians to
learning and work; a state with high quality and excellence engage in work.
in tertiary education and training; supporting the state’s
environmental sustainability through the development of Our actions to achieve this mission include:
skills and technology; supporting world competitive research - supporting the Training and Skills Commission
and uptake of new technologies and innovation; all with a (TaSC) in providing strategic advice and
continued emphasis on quality and high performance. recommendations to the government on priorities
and actions to increase the skills base of the
Supporting the South Australian government’s agenda in
workforce
areas such as Information and Communication Technology
(ICT) infrastructure, and the rollout of the National - working with industry, employers, business and
Broadband Network (NBN) in identified regions of the state across government to develop the highly skilled
is a continuing priority of DFEEST. workforce needed by current and
emerging industries
In preparation for the ongoing implementation of Skills for
- building on our past successes to propel the state
All from 2012, the process for identifying and developing its
forward with an education and training system that
strategic direction was a major priority throughout 2011.
is more responsive to industry demands
Skills for All, the department’s strategic direction for VET, will
position the sector to respond quickly and flexibly to the skill - exploiting opportunities which put South Australia
needs of industry and individuals. This includes ensuring that at the national forefront of research and
TAFE SA has appropriate governance and funding technology, and innovation development
arrangements in place so that it is well prepared for changes
- creating more opportunities for Aboriginal people,
to the way in which VET is delivered in South Australia. young people, people with disabilities and older
people to participate in the workforce and in
their communities.
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19. ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
OUR VALUES
DFEEST is striving to become a high-performance learning Openness in decision making by:
organisation which attracts, develops and retains a highly
- providing reasons for our decisions
talented workforce. The department will only achieve this
through a strong commitment to our people and core - restricting information only in the public interest
values. We will demonstrate this through: and preservation of personal privacy
- resolving conflicts
Respect for: - being transparent.
- the values, beliefs, customs and cultures of
individuals and our community
Striving for excellence in:
- others’ rights, responsibilities and professionalism.
- the efficient and effective use of public resources
Responsiveness in: - environmental sustainability
- providing timely and caring services - embedding equality of access and opportunity
- generating innovative and creative - treating people fairly
shared solutions - standards of service.
- embracing change that improves our effectiveness
and efficiency
Courage in:
- recognising and celebrating effort
and achievement. - challenging and being challenged
- taking risks
- doing things in different ways
- taking responsibility for mistakes and learning
from them
- enforcing our code of conduct.
The key priorities for the
Department of Further
Education, Employment,
Science and Technology in
2011 centred on the
department’s Strategic Plan
2010-2014 and
directly reflected the vision,
mission and values of
South Australia’s Strategic
Kristal West - Plan targets.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year
2011 South Australian Training Awards
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20. 2.2 Our Structure
PRODUCTIVITY
In order to successfully respond to the objectives of One of the focuses for Skills for All is the need for industry to
Skills for All, and to strengthen capacity in science, research increase its productivity through co-investment in training
and technology, the structure within the department and workforce development. This is ideally achieved
required transformation. through a renewed partnership with education providers,
industry, unions, the community and individuals.
The organisational restructure was fundamentally about
refocusing the department to deliver on the new policy The application of science, research, innovation and digital
direction and approach in Skills for All and to deliver on the technologies will also be critical determinants of future
Minister’s agenda for advancing science, technology, productivity and growth.
engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills as well as for
science, research and technology. The following directorates are grouped under the
Productivity stream:
The realignment of activities also provided an opportunity
to achieve administrative efficiencies, minimise duplication, - Traineeship and Apprenticeship Services
improve systems and processes and, where possible, - Industry Skills Development
economies of scale in areas such as contract management
- Digital Economy and Technology
and administration to achieve significant budget savings.
- Quality, Tertiary Education, Science and Research
Skills for All is making significant changes to South (QTESR) (specifically STEM and science
Australia’s VET system, and TAFE SA, the state’s public and research).
training provider is changing too. Skills for All gives TAFE SA
greater autonomy along with increased capacity to
respond to changing market needs.
PARTICIPATION
With TAFE SA having greater autonomy through the Office
of TAFE SA, and in the future as a statutory authority, there Skills for All proposes fundamental changes to the way
was a need to reconfigure DFEEST Corporate, both in training is accessed. A new directorate, Skills SA, was
terms of its relationship with TAFE SA as well as in terms of formed to deliver on Skills for All reforms. Skills SA has a
working across the training system, with all education dedicated team of staff to ensure stakeholders have access
sectors, industry and employers. to high-quality consumer information on careers and
training options. The focus initially is on provision of better
The organisational restructure, and the corresponding information to allow a demand-driven model to function
changes in the way that DFEEST operates, was designed to and then investment in systems to administer and allocate
ensure that the department could deliver on Skills for All funding based on student demand and industry needs.
objectives and requirements. Initial structural changes were
made from 1 July 2011. The department has a focus on increasing the participation
of South Australians in learning, training and work, in
The DFEEST Corporate structure has been developed particular people experiencing barriers and disadvantage in
around three themes which inform functional groupings: the labour market.
- Productivity Directorates under the Participation stream include:
- Participation - QTESR (specifically quality of training providers
- Policy and Corporate Support. through contracting and support for
professional development)
- Skills SA
- Participation and Equity.
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21. ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
POLICY AND CORPORATE SUPPORT
Strategic Policy, Resources and Corporate Services Corporate Communications and
Finance Skills for All will require changes to the Marketing
The key objective of the Strategic tools, resources and infrastructure Corporate Communications and
Policy, Resources and Finance area is required to support the new student- Marketing is responsible for managing
to ensure highest quality business, centred demand-driven training the communications and marketing
economic and labour market analysis system. This will require enhanced needs of DFEEST and for providing
to support prompt and informed information management systems strategic media and communications
resource allocation by the Chief configured to new funding models. advice to the Chief Executive and the
Executive and DFEEST executives, With new systems comes an Minister.
thereby focusing alignment between opportunity to review and consolidate
DFEEST programs and pursuit of contract management and The role includes responding to
strategic targets (both for DFEEST administrative functions. Corporate requests from the media, and initiating
and SASP). Services had previously undergone a contact with the media to announce
major review to develop a preferred and promote initiatives of DFEEST and
Strategic policy, review and evaluation structure that will provide the optimal TAFESA. It also includes providing
are brought together in a single systems and arrangements to deliver advice on the development and use
directorate to provide strong on the Skills for All reforms and of social media, monitoring trends in
integration between policy and achieve efficiencies. communications and marketing, and
evaluation, and some economies of managing and marketing events such
scale. Individual directorates are For more information about as the South Australian Training
responsible for operational policy, Corporate Governance, please refer to Awards and the South Australian
operational review and evaluation as page 87. Science Excellence Awards.
it relates to implementation.
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22. 2.3 South Australia’s Strategic Plan
South Australia’s Strategic Plan (SASP) outlines a medium to
long-term course for the whole of South Australia, and sets
out targets under interrelated objectives.
At the start of 2011, DFEEST was the lead agency
responsible for 14 targets, under the objectives: growing
prosperity; fostering creativity and innovation; and
expanding opportunity.
OBJECTIVE – GROWING PROSPERITY
T1.10 Jobs: Better the Australian average employment T4.10 Australian Government resources: Secure
growth rate by 2014. (Now target T47). Australian Government research and
development resources to 10 percent above
T1.11 Unemployment: Maintain equal or lower than South Australia’s per capita share by 2010
the Australian average through to 2014. and increase this share to 25 percent by
(Now target T49). 2014, for both public and private spheres.
T1.12 Employment participation: Increase the T4.11 Business expenditure: Increase business
employment to population ratio, standardised expenditure on research and development to
for age differences, to the Australian average. 1.5 percent of GSP in 2010 and increase to
1.9 percent by 2014. (Now target T98).
T1.26 Aboriginal unemployment: Reduce the gap
between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal
unemployment rates each year.
(Now target T51).
OBJECTIVE – EXPANDING OPPORTUNITY
T1.16 Share of overseas students: Double South
Australia’s share of overseas students by 2014.
(Now target T90). T6.15 Learning or earning: By 2010, increase the
number of 15-19 year olds engaged full-time
in school, work or further education/training
OBJECTIVE – FOSTERING CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION (or combination thereof) to 90 percent.
(Now target T54).
T4.6 Commercialisation of research: Increase gross
revenues received by South Australian-based T6.19 Non-school qualifications: By 2014, equal or
research institutions from licences, options, better the national average for the
royalty agreements, assignments, licensed proportion of the labour force with
technology and patents by 2010. non-school qualifications.
(Now target T95). (Now target T91).
T6.20 Higher education: Increase South Australia’s
T4.8 Broadband usage: Broadband usage to proportion of higher education students to
exceed the Australian national average by 7.5 percent of the national total by 2014.
2010, and be maintained thereafter. (Now target T93).
(Now target T57).
T6.21 VET participation: Exceed the national
T4.9 Public expenditure: By 2010, public average for VET participation by 2010.
expenditure on research and development as
a proportion of GSP, to match or exceed
average investment compared to other
Australian states. (Now target T96).
Page 22

23. ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
RELAUNCH OF THE SASP
The 2011 update of the SASP included 100 targets
restructured to reflect the visions shared by all South
Australians across six priority areas of community,
prosperity, environment, health, education and ideas.
Since November 2011, DFEEST has had lead responsibility
for 17 of the 100 targets detailed in the Plan in the areas of
prosperity, education and ideas. While many of the
department’s targets have been amended, five new targets
have been assigned:
T48 Ageing workforce participation: Increase the
proportion of older South Australians who are
engaged in the workforce by 10 percentage
points by 2020.
T50 People with disability: Increase by 10 percent the
number of people with a disability employed in
South Australia by 2020.
T55 Apprentices: Increase the number of apprentice
completions in trade occupations by 20 percent
by 2020.
T58 Online business: Increase the proportion of
businesses that receive orders online from
24 percent to 40 percent by 2014 and continue
growth each year to 2020.
T92 Science, technology, engineering and
mathematics qualifications: Increase the number
of domestic students completing undergraduate
qualifications in specified science, technology,
engineering and mathematics fields of education
by 15 percentage points to 3 600 students per
annum by 2020.
Page 23

24. 2.4 Our Five Year Strategic Plan 2010-14
The department’s Five Year Strategic Plan 2010-14, released
in May 2010, provides the strategic direction for the
department. The plan maps out seven clear goals that link
to SASP targets, and which focus on:
1. EXEMPLARY WORKFORCE PLANNING AND 3. HIGH LEVELS OF PARTICIPATION AND ACHIEVEMENT
DEVELOPMENT IN LEARNING AND WORK
Our future workforce will be built through a world-class Investing in education, skills and training that leads to
system of workforce planning and development based on secure, well-paid jobs is essential to the state’s future
understanding and responding to both industry and prosperity through increased productivity, workforce
individual demand. participation and social inclusion.
Links to SASP Targets T1.10, T1.11, T1.12, T1.26, T6.15, Links to SASP Targets T1.16, T6.15, T6.19, T6.20 and T6.21.
T6.19, T6.20 and T6.21.
4. EXCELLENCE IN TERTIARY EDUCATION AND TRAINING
2. STRONG INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS
Building the capability, quality and capacity of the VET and
Strong partnerships ensure employers have people with higher education systems to meet the demands of
the right skills at the right time to increase productivity in a individuals and of industry to address South Australia’s
rapidly changing and higher skilled economy. future labour supply requirements.
Links to SASP Targets T1.10, T1.11, T1.12, T1.26, T4.6, T4.8, Links to SASP Targets T1.10, T6.15, T6.16, T6.19, T6.20
T4.9, T4.10, T4.11, T6.15, T6.19, T6.20 and T6.21. and T6.21.
Page 24

25. ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
5. WORLD COMPETITIVE RESEARCH, TECHNOLOGY AND 7. DFEEST IS A HIGH-PERFORMANCE ORGANISATION
INNOVATION DFEEST is a highly skilled organisation that provides
responsive, effective and efficient services to industry, small
The state’s prosperity, economic growth, environmental and medium enterprises, individuals, the community and
sustainability and social wellbeing are underpinned by the the government.
discovery and application of knowledge to create new and
better products, and smarter processes and systems. Links to SASP Targets T1.7, T1.8, T1.9, T2.7, T2.11, T2.12,
T3.13 and T4.8.
Links to SASP Targets T4.6, T4.8, T4.9, T4.10 and T4.11.
6. SKILLS AND TECHNOLOGY FOR THE STATE’S
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
The long-term economic prosperity of South Australia is
inextricably connected to environmental sustainability,
investments in research and technological innovations and
in building the skills for sustainable development; these
things are essential to secure business and employment
opportunities from innovative green industries and services.
Links to SASP Targets T3.7, T4.6, T4.7, T4.9, T4.10 and T4.11.
Page 25

26. Joshua Konc -
Apprentice of the Year
2011 South Australian Training Awards
Page 26

27. SECTION THREE
OUR PERFORMANCE
Page 27

28. 3.1 Workforce Planning
DFEEST Strategic Plan Goal 1
DFEEST continued to refine workforce modelling in Skills for Jobs
conjunction with the TaSC as follows: In early December 2011 the TaSC released its annual
- supported targeted industries to develop update of the five-year plan for skills and workforce
workforce plans development, Skills for Jobs. The plan showed that job
openings over the period 2009-10 to 2014-15 will total
- facilitated the development and launch of the approximately 163 000, comprising of 69 000 new jobs
Resources Industry Workforce Action Plan in due to economic growth and 94 000 due to replacement
conjunction with Resources and Energy of those leaving the workforce.
Skills Australia
- supported the early childhood development The total demand for qualifications over this period is
workforce through an analysis of their workforce estimated to reach 299 000 - 95 000 of which are at the
requirements, and informed the State Migration Bachelor degree or higher; 51 000 at the
Plan through analysis and modelling of Advanced Diploma/Diploma level; 44 000 at the Certificate
relevant data. IV level and 70 000 at the Certificate III level.
However, more and better job opportunities are vital if The plan was again developed following extensive
people are to lead fulfilling, independent lives and generate consultation with industry and regional stakeholders, and
future opportunities. Being employed affects income, living includes a detailed analysis on the demand for
standards, welfare dependency, social inclusion and social qualifications associated with specialist occupations. The
connectedness, and through them, social and economic plan identifies 87 specialist occupations in South Australia,
wellbeing, for both individuals and their family members 2. around one-quarter of all occupations in the state. The skills
for these occupations are highly specialised and often
While strong jobs growth is a sign of a strong and require extended learning over several years. TaSC’s
prosperous economy, the quality of available jobs is analysis shows that 33 of these specialist occupations are
increasingly important. Higher skilled jobs provide higher likely to have insufficient supply of qualifications over the
incomes and greater security for the people who five-year period. This information will be used by DFEEST in
hold them. devising its eligible qualifications list and caps and
incentives regime under Skills for All reforms.
DFEEST also continued to work with a number of industries
concerning their workforce planning and development The 2011 plan also highlighted the participation challenge
needs. During the year, DFEEST supported the workforce facing South Australia and urged the government to
planning activities of a number of industries, including address this challenge through targeting its Skills for All
transport and logistics, telecommunications, early investment in areas such as foundation skills, adult
childhood, defence and mining industries. community education, and wrap-around services for those
who face barriers to training and work.
DFEEST continued to coordinate and facilitate joint
activities with the network of industry skills boards which
provided opportunities to work through policy issues
with industries.
As part of Skills for All, employers will be able to access
government-endorsed, independent workforce
development advisors to help identify workforce
development needs and broker relevant training
and support.
2
ABS 2010, Year Book Australia, 2009-10, cat. no. 1301.0, ABS, Canberra cited in ABS 4125.0 - Gender Indicators, Australia, July 2011
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29. OUR PERFORMANCE
Plans for 2012
As the government transfers its regulatory powers over to In 2012 the TaSC will continue to hold regional visits
ASQA in VET and Tertiary Education Quality and Standards following its successful visits to Whyalla and the Riverland
Agency (TEQSA) in higher education in 2012 the TaSC will during 2011. During 2012 the TaSC will also advise the
continue to advise the Minister on the extent to which Minister on how the state can maximise employment
Skills for All produces quality vocational outcomes. The TaSC participation from the mining expansion, particularly for
will also encourage industry to embrace Skills for All and regional communities.
partner with government to invest in workforce planning
and training.
15 Percent Workforce Participation in Government Construction Procurement
From 1 January 2011, government construction contracts require the contractor to ensure
that 15 percent of the onsite labour hours on major government building and civil
infrastructure projects are undertaken by apprentices, trainees, Aboriginal people and local
people who have barriers to employment.
DFEEST is working with contractors to provide assistance to meet compliance obligations
through measures such as South Australia Works, Skills in the Workplace and
Indigenous programs.
Projects signed in 2011, and that fall within scope, include DFEEST’s Sustainable Industries Education Centre
(SIEC) and the Adelaide Oval Redevelopment.
Other projects that were signed prior to 1 January 2011, such as the Seaford Rail Extension and the South Road
SuperWay have participation targets built into their contracts. DFEEST’s South Australia Works regional
coordinators are working with these contracts to identify training and employment services that will assist them
to meet their targets.
Women Influencing Defence and Resources Industry project
DFEEST collaborated with the defence and resources sectors to foster a community of
practice with over 150 women. The Women Influencing Defence and Resources Industry
project provided programs aimed at supporting the attraction and retention of female
employees in the two industry sectors. Participants attended professional development in
leadership and mentoring and were provided with networking opportunities.
Page 29

30. Employment Growth
The current annual employment growth rate at December 2011 was 0.6 percent in South Australia and 0.1 percent at the
national level. At the same time, South Australia’s labour force participation rate was 63.3 percent.
Figure 1: Trend total employment growth
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Cat No 6202.0
Figure 2: Labour force participation
66%
65%
64%
63%
63.2%
62% Dec 2011
Projected
61% (Target 65.4 at Jan 2012 )
Trend (Jan 2001 - Dec 2011)
60%
59%
58%
Jan-01
Jan-02
Jan-03
Jan-04
Jan-05
Jan-06
Jan-07
Jan-08
Jan-09
Jan-10
Jan-11
Jan-12
Jan-13
Jan-14
Jan-15
Jan-16
Source: ABS Cat No 6202.0
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31. OUR PERFORMANCE
Young people full time in school, work or further education/training
In November 2011, 85.5 percent of young people aged 15 to 19 in South Australia were engaged full time in either study
or employment, or a combination of both. This compares to 84.8 percent at the national level.
Figure 3: Youth (15-19 years) learning or earning engagement ratio
Source: ABS Cat No 6202.0
Unemployment rates by level of educational attainment
In 2006, people with qualifications of Certificate III and above experienced unemployment rates considerably lower than
those without higher level qualifications.
Figure 4: Unemployment rate census 2006
Source: ABS Population Census 2006
Page 31

32. 3.2 Engagement with Industry
DFEEST Strategic Plan Goals1, 2 and 3
APPRENTICES AND TRAINEES
The traineeship and apprenticeship system is an area in
which the department directly engages with industry to
develop and maintain South Australia’s skilled workforce.
DFEEST is responsible for the regulation of South Australia’s
traineeship and apprenticeship system, under delegation
from the Training and Skills Commission, and for the
provision of subsidies to support the training of trainees
and apprentices.
Trainee and apprentice activity Traineeship and Apprenticeship Information Service
In 2011, more South Australians participated in the The department operates an information service to provide
traineeship and apprenticeship system than ever before, advice and information on the traineeship and
with an increase in both the number of commencements apprenticeship system to trainees, apprentices, their
and completions. The number of early completions employers and the general public. In 2011, the information
also increased. service responded to 27 341 phone calls – an average of
525 calls per week. This represents a 5.5 percent increase in
- At 30 June 2011, there were an estimated 34 400
trainees and apprentices in training, a 3.9 percent calls from 2010.
increase on the previous year’s figure
(see Figure 5)
Employer Registrations and Employer Visits
- In 2010-11, there were an estimated 23 200
traineeship and apprenticeship commencements, The Training and Skills Development Act 2008 requires
a 4.5 percent increase on the previous year’s employers to register prior to employing and training
figure (see Figure 5) trainees and apprentices. In 2011, 2294 new employers
were registered to take on trainees and apprentices. A total
- An estimated total of 12 400 trainees and of 16 032 employers were registered in South Australia at
apprentices completed their training in the twelve 31 December 2011.
months to 30 June 2011, a 4.2 percent increase on
the previous year’s figure (see Figure 5) The department works closely with employers and their
- The number of existing worker commencements trainees and apprentices and conducted over 4000
and newly commencing workers both increased employer visits in 2011.
in 2010-11 (see Figure 6).
- The number of early completions experienced a
minor increase of 0.4 percent in 2011.
Page 32

33. OUR PERFORMANCE
Figure 5: Trainee and apprentice activity, five years ending 30 June 2011 4
40000
35000
30000
25000
20000 In-Training
15000 Commencements
Completions
10000
5000
0
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
Year
Figure 6: Existing worker trainee and apprentice commencements compared to newly commencing
workers, five years ending 30 June 2011 4
4
Data for Figures 8 and 9 are sourced from the NCVER Australian VET statistics – Apprentices and trainees June quarter
(2011) report. Data for 2011 and in training data for 2010 are estimates. The NCVER may revise these figures in the fu-
ture. In training data is provided at 30 June annually; commencement and completion data are provided from the
12 months ending 30 June of each year.
Page 33

34. User Choice Training Subsidies E-Training Plans
The department is responsible for the provision of User Registered Training Providers are now able to lodge
Choice training subsidies to both public and private training apprenticeship and traineeship training plans online. Online
organisations, to support trainees and apprentices with the lodgement has reduced red tape and improved the quality
cost of formal training. The User Choice policy has of the information available to the department.
historically supported all trade qualifications, a range of
traineeships at Certificate II and III Australian Qualifications Apprenticeship Nominal Terms
Framework (AQF) levels and a small number of higher level
traineeship qualifications. As part of the South Australian DFEEST prepared a consultation paper for the TaSC that
government’s election promise to support an additional was used to consult key industry stakeholders about the
100 000 training places over six years and the Skills for All appropriateness of current nominal terms for twelve trade
reform, User Choice funding was extended to all existing apprenticeships. The chosen trades have an early
worker trainees undertaking Certificate III qualifications in completion rate of 40 percent or more for all completions
September 2011. This was followed by the extension of over the period January 2007 to June 2010. The trades
training subsidies to new and existing worker trainees who concerned were Bread Baker and Pastry Cook, Butcher,
commenced a Training Contract from 7 December 2011 in Cook, Automotive Parts Interpreting (Specialist), Engineering
most AQF levels II to VI qualifications. Tradesperson (Fabrication) and (Mechanical), Bricklaying,
Carpentry and/or Joinery, Painting and Decorating, Tiling
In 2010, 160 registered training organisations (consisting of (Wall and Floor), Hairdressing and Printing Machining. All
TAFE SA and privately owned providers) received funding have a nominal term of four years, except for Automotive
under a User Choice agreement. A total of $42 million in Parts Interpreting (Specialist), which has a three-year term.
contestable funding was provided by the department The TaSC will consider industry feedback in early 2012.
during the year to support almost 22 000 trainees.
As illustrated in figures 7 and 8, funding for apprentices Institution-based Trade Training Survey and Paper
represented 56 percent of student numbers and 70 percent In 2011, DFEEST conducted a survey of institution-based
of expenditure, while funding for traineeships represented trade training learners across the state, and included the
44 percent of student numbers and 30 percent of results in an information paper on institutional pathways to
expenditure. In general, apprenticeship training is more trade qualifications, prepared for the TaSC. The paper is
expensive than traineeship training due to higher intended to assist the TaSC to develop a policy position on
infrastructure costs and smaller class sizes. institution-based trade training in South Australia.
Supervisor’s Guide
Figure 7: Student numbers
In 2011, DFEEST launched a comprehensive information
package for supervisors of trainees and apprentices. The
package consists of a booklet and DVD designed to support
supervisors in their day-to-day management, and enable
them to work more productively with trainees and
apprentices. The Supervisor’s Guide emphasises the need to
provide pastoral support and mentoring, which research
indicates is vital to the retention of trainees and apprentices,
and their completion of traineeships and apprenticeships.
A copy of the Supervisor’s Guide was sent to approximately
16 500 registered employers, with additional copies sent to
Industry Skills Boards and Australian Apprenticeships Figure 8: Funding ($ million)
Centres. The Supervisor’s Guide has also been uploaded
onto the Skills for All website, with hard copies available
from the department on request.
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35. OUR PERFORMANCE
Plans for 2012
Harmonisation Phoenix
In 2011, states and territories agreed, in principle, to the Phoenix, a web-based system assisting in the management
harmonisation of training laws and administrative processes of Training Contracts, is expected to be delivered during
for traineeships and apprenticeships by 30 June 2014. The 2012-13. This system enables training providers, employers,
department has commenced work with other jurisdictions apprentices and trainees to view and manage their own
to complete Stage 1 of the implementation plan by information online.
30 June 2012. The Commonwealth government has
announced the devolvement of the management of
Australian Apprenticeship Support Services to the states and Employer Recognition Program
territories in 2014, conditional upon the achievement In 2012 the department will implement an employer
of harmonisation. recognition program as part of the Skills for All reforms. The
program will encourage and reward employers with an
outstanding commitment to training and workforce
Mentoring Apprentices and Trainees development, including apprenticeships.
Research indicates that the provision of mentoring and
pastoral care significantly affects the chances of an
apprentice or trainee completing their qualification. DFEEST
will work with industry and employers to develop a range of
mentoring initiatives targeting disadvantaged groups, as
well as apprentices and trainees training in skills
shortage areas.
Page 35

36. UPSKILLING EXISTING WORKERS
Jobs Strategy Projects Environmental Sustainability
As part of its Jobs Strategy, the South Australian As part of the government’s 100 000 Jobs Strategy,
government, in partnership with the Commonwealth, has $500 000 has been allocated to sustainable industries
committed to creating 100 000 training places over six experiencing rapid growth to provide training in part
years from 2010-11, and upskilling existing workers to meet qualifications for existing workers. This includes $200 000
changing workforce needs is a key part of that strategy. for Grid Connect training for solar panel installations with
over 185 electricians undertaking the training. A sum of
New industries and emerging skill demand sectors have
$150 000 will assist Suzlon Energy Australia to devise wind
driven the allocation of the additional training places to
turbine maintenance training to support their current
ensure that South Australia has the right education and
workforce and $150 000 has been allocated to the Berri
training system.
Barmera Council to train staff in the installation of a
The department has funded a total of 14 specific projects subsurface irrigation system across 52 hectares of council
supporting 1018 people to gain training in a variety of parks and gardens.
industry sectors.
Productivity Places Program for Existing Workers
Plans for 2012
The PPP is a Commonwealth government initiative to
Skills in the Workplace is Skills for All’s approach to tailored
deliver $156 million of training for existing workers and job
training and workforce development responses for
seekers in areas of high skills demand.
industry. Skills shortages in key industry sectors and
In 2011, DFEEST allocated around $44.8 million of PPP companies in the supply chains for critical projects and
funding toward almost 12 500 existing worker infrastructure investments will be targeted with training
qualifications. Furthermore, from 1 July 2011 an additional subsidies, with small to medium-sized enterprises a
$4.2 million of PPP funding supported additional User particular focus. Depending on the size of their workforce,
Choice existing worker traineeship positions under businesses will be eligible for up to 90 percent of their
Contracts of Training. These PPP-funded trainees are training costs towards qualifications, and skill sets, at
undertaking higher level qualifications (Certificate IV and Certificate IV and above to support their employees. Both
above) where User Choice funding would not otherwise complete qualifications and tailored combinations of units
be available. of competency will be funded. Program design and early
implementation was completed by the end of
Industry Partnership Program December 2011.
The Industry Partnership Program concluded as an
individual program in July 2011; however it has been
absorbed into the Skills in the Workplace program.
The program worked closely with industry sectors to
develop a workforce that has the right skills, in the right
place and at the right time by creating employment and
training opportunities that are industry-led and
demand-driven. Skills in the Workplace
Projects developed under the Industry Partnership Program will fund training
brokered and managed workforce development programs critically required by
that recruited, inducted, trained and retained industry for more than
underemployed and/or unemployed people in
South Australia.
2000 SA workers.
Successful proposals, demonstrating matched funding from
industry, were funded on a contractual basis.
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37. OUR PERFORMANCE
ASSISTANCE FOR RETRENCHED WORKERS
DFEEST supported 194 workers through the Retrenched As at 30 November 2011:
Workers Program who were retrenched from Bridgestone - 163 workers had registered to access services
and Kimberly-Clark Australia during 2011. - 103 accessed or are accessing training support
DFEEST is managing the Labour Market Adjustment
- 32 workers who accessed training achieved full
program, utilising expertise in the Limestone Coast Career
AQF qualifications
Development Centre and the National Industry Skills
Council, Forestworks. - 60 individuals gained employment.
Services include:
- skill recognition and career planning
- job search assistance
- referral for skills and vocational training, as well as
licences and tickets which are fully funded under
the program
- employment brokerage.
Page 37

38. TAFE SA - INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS
TAFE SA acknowledges the important contribution industry In 2011, TAFE SA also developed and maintained
has in assisting TAFE SA to construct and deliver VET that is relationships with:
current and relevant, to develop and maintain a highly - Woolworths and Service Skills SA, with the first ten
skilled workforce. Our partnerships with employers are Diploma of Retail Management PPP
essential to our success. participants graduating
- the Adelaide Health Service Registered Training
OneSteel Whyalla Steelworks Organisation and the Department of Health, for the
upskilling of weekly paid workers in the Certificate III
Over many years TAFE SA has developed a close strategic and IV qualifications in health
relationship with the OneSteel Whyalla Steelworks. This
partnership has produced many industry-leading VET - the Repatriation General Hospital, Flinders Medical
programs and helped to develop OneSteel’s workforce. The Centre and the Calvary Health Care Group, with
‘Critical Safety Training Centre’, located at Whyalla, is a successful Productivity Places Program existing
formal partnership with OneSteel who train all of their staff worker funding for the Certificate III, IV, Diploma
in the facility using joint resources and staff. Another and Advanced Diploma.
partnership initiative with OneSteel is the development of a
‘Technician Certificate’, a tailored trade certificate not only
providing a customised solution, but supporting the Regional Development
government’s national agenda for higher level qualifications. The delivery of the innovative Smart E-Skills program used
existing relationships with Regional Development Australia
(RDA) board across the state and built further relationships
South Australian Wine Industry
with organisations such as Women in Business and
The South Australian wine industry is a major contributor to Regional Development in the South East of the state. The
the state’s economy in export and tourism earnings. program was jointly marketed and provided opportunities
TAFE SA has worked in close partnership with the industry for small to medium-sized enterprises across all industry
over many years, developing a noteworthy client list sectors to develop skills in the use of the internet. The
including: Yalumba, Constellation Wines, Pernod Ricard, program was delivered through face-to-face workshops,
Treasury Wine Estates, Peter Lehmann Wines, Vinpac one-to-one mentoring, and follow-up online services. Smart-
International and Angove Family Winemakers; 95 percent of E-Skills was enthusiastically received by participants, resulting
students enrolled in Certificate III or higher wine-related in the delivery of the program to 1174 enterprises across
qualifications are working within the industry. Training the state.
programs are customised to meet industry requirements
and currently 39 percent of training is delivered within
the workplace. Arts
The TAFE SA Adelaide College of the Arts (AC Arts) has an
active industry board which represents the arts sector.
Industry Reference Groups
Members, appointed by the Minister and Chair, participate
TAFE SA established industry reference groups regionally to in industry reference panels based on their respective areas
provide direct advice on industry skill needs (current and of knowledge. During 2011, AC Arts fostered new
emerging) and the relevance and currency of training and partnership arrangements with the Australian Dance
assessment processes. These groups include representatives Theatre, the State Theatre Company, Country Arts SA and
from industry peak bodies, private registered training the Hill Smith Gallery. One key outcome was the
organisations, Job Services Australia providers, not-for-profit opportunity for TAFE SA students to partner with the
organisations and small to medium-sized enterprises. Advice Australian Dance Theatre for the performance
from these groups provides valuable business intelligence of ‘Worldhood’.
that enhances existing quality assurance strategies and
ensures informed decision-making processes.
Page 38

39. OUR PERFORMANCE
Engineering and Automotive Industries Hair and Beauty
TAFE SA collaborated with Clipsal to produce a progressive The Limestone Coast Hair and Beauty Competition,
electrical engineering program, teaching its apprentices to organised by TAFE SA and in its 18th year, is another
use the latest C-Bus Technology. C-Bus is Australia’s market- example of long-standing and successful industry
leading energy management system for industrial projects engagement. Each year the competition grows in
and residential homes. The TAFE SA School of Electrical participation and audience, attracting an average of 100
Engineering Certificate III curriculum included a C-Bus competitors and an audience of 800. The cost of staging the
course for the first time, with the program completed by 56 event is fully covered by sponsors and entrance fees, and
apprentices as an elective unit of competency as part of the any profit is used to support students to attend the National
students’ off-the-job training. Hair and Beauty Expos.
TAFE SA Automotive training introduced the latest Over 20 TAFE SA Hair and Beauty lecturers and students
technology and state-of-the-art equipment thanks to Toyota from metropolitan and regional campuses worked
Motor Corporation Australia and Kawasaki Australia, who backstage, creating the hair and make-up looks for five of
generously donated vehicles to the value of over $100 000. the Adelaide Fashion Festival parades. During the festival,
Two top-of-the-range vehicles, a Land Cruiser Prado Kakadu the TAFE SA Fashion program also presented three parades.
and the popular Toyota Corolla Ascent, will give Certificate II Sponsored by Attitude Magazine, the parades showcased
to Diploma in Automotive Retail Services and Repair the final year Advanced Diploma of Fashion Design and
students access to new electrical engine technology and Technology students’ graduation collection.
electronic aids. A Kawasaki ER60 motorcycle that uses the
latest fuel-injected engine management system, ABS braking
system and cassette-type transmission was also donated.
Defence
TAFE SA welcomed new families of the Australian Defence
Force to South Australia at the Defence Community
Organisation Welcome Expo, as part of a major relocation
of the 7RAR Battalion from Darwin to Adelaide. The expo
attracted over 1000 Australian Defence Force members and
their families.
Over the past two years, TAFE SA has worked with the
Australian Submarine Corporation and Air Warfare
Destroyer Alliance to establish a pre-employment welder
evaluation program. The innovative program was
developed to identify specific skill gaps in students, and then
conducted targeted training to equip welders with the skills
needed to gain employment in the defence industry.
Design
During December 2011, TAFE SA Visual Merchandising staff
and students spent a week at Myer City to assist in the set-up
of Christmas displays within the store. This exercise involved
not only installing the décor, but also creating
merchandising gift stories throughout a range of
departments. The store was later judged the ‘best presented Celebrity hairdresser and make-up artist
Myer store nationally’. Dale Dorning led TAFE SA’s Hair and
Beauty session styling team at the 2011
Adelaide Fashion Festival.
Page 39

40. 3.3 Providing Opportunities for All
DFEEST Strategic Plan Goal 3
SOUTH AUSTRALIA WORKS
South Australia Works - Working Regions Program engaged Plans for 2012
and supported people who faced barriers to learning,
During the 2011-12 financial year, DFEEST will invest
training and work by delivering flexible and responsive
$6.4 million to implement South Australia Works Action
initiatives tailored to the specific needs of individuals,
Plans across the whole of the state. Over 10 200 people will
communities, regions, industries and employers.
participate in SA Works regional projects. Of these, over
Career development services provided through the 5650 will participate in employment programs with over
department’s regional program supported and assisted 2940 gaining a job, and 4550 will progress along pathways
individuals to make informed choices about education, to employment, including learning, training and skills
training and work, and facilitated planned pathways and development. Projects will provide opportunities for people
successful transitions to learning and work. to access training and a combination of case management,
In 2010-11, DFEEST, through regional projects, provided mentoring and post-employment support while gaining
over 7600 learning, skills development training and work valuable work experience, and benefitting from employers’
opportunities to people facing difficulty entering the commitments to provide jobs.
workforce, with over 3800 people gaining employment.
Regional strategic planning, strengthened by the
development of evidence-based three-year Strategic Plans,
provided a robust response to the labour force needs of
local labour markets. Over 800 people, including
representatives from industry, communities and
government, attended stakeholder forums to identify priority
areas which increased participation in learning, training
and work.
In addition, DFEEST, in conjunction with Commonwealth
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace
Relations (DEEWR), facilitated a Regions Forum attended by
over 120 regional partners and stakeholders to align
Commonwealth, state and local/regional efforts on training
and workforce participation.
DFEEST’s regional coordinators worked with the South
Australia Works networks to respond to each region’s
unique learning, training and employment challenges. The
networks bring together the three tiers of government,
employers, industry, education and training providers, the
non-government sector and community organisations,
enabling decision-making in local communities.
The establishment of six Career Development Practitioner
networks in the Barossa, Limestone Coast, Kangaroo Island,
Riverland, Northern and Southern Adelaide has enhanced
the existing 17 regional career development services. The
services support and complement the locally tailored
participation projects delivered in state government regions.
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