Don’t you love it when government committees or departments change their name (because they can), or dissolve. For me it is a huge task of changing everything that mentions the said sector, and replacing it with the newer, more shiner, or maybe less shiny version. Everything in the RTO Success training package has reference to websites, departments, and information provided by the said committee. Of course I am referring in this instance to the COAG Industry and Skills Council agreeing to streamline governance arrangements and committees. and with that they took away the NSSC.
Yes, I believe it was a necessary decision as things were tending to get out of control, however now we are again in limbo, waiting on decisions. I applaud the want to involve industry in policy development and oversight of the performance of the VET sector, believe the stance at its inaugural meeting on 3 April 2014 (see Communique of meeting), was worthwhile. I just don’t like the extra work it brings, not only for me, but for many others out there in RTO land. Is this a complaint, no not really, just wanting to vent my spleen. Now that I have said, I better had get to work….
As a result an Industry and Skills Council Advisory Committee will be established to provide industry with a formal role in relation to policy directions and decision-making in the national training system. In addition, the National Skills Standard Council (NSSC) has been dissolved and its ongoing functions will be delegated to industry representatives and selected senior officials through the Industry and Skills Council Advisory Committee.
The Commonwealth will consult with states and territories on the composition and role of the Committee. It is envisaged that the new Committee will begin functioning in mid-2014.
Urgent matters relating to the national training system, including the endorsement of training packages, will be dealt with by Secretaries of departments in the interim, with Secretaries to consult with industry and advise the chair of the Council of any matters being considered.