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{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change locationFee-Free support could harm training sector
Fee-Free support could harm training sector
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“We absolutely support making vocational education more accessible but rushing this legislation risks turning a good idea into an ineffective policy,” said Geordan Murray, HIA Executive Director – Future Workforce.
“It is vital that we base decisions on evidence, not just good intentions. The stakes for the building industry—and the broader economy—are simply too high.
HIA’s submission to the inquiry raises key questions about how the scheme will work in practice.
“Among the many concerns is the need to evaluate the current Fee-free TAFE initiative before it’s formalised. Without clear data on what is working and what isn’t the program could fail to deliver its full potential.
“During the time that the Fee-free TAFE scheme has been operating the number of apprentices and trainees in the construction industry has declined. It doesn’t appear that the scheme is doing enough to boost participation.
“Another critical issue is fairness, HIA has always argued that private and industry-based training providers must be given equal access to funding alongside public TAFEs.
“Australia’s vocational education system is built on diversity, restricting private providers not only limits student choice but also risks leaving gaps in the training landscape.
“Transparency is also a sticking point for HIA, we are calling for the legislation to include provisions for timely data collection and reporting, ensuring the program can be objectively assessed over time. This is essential for fine-tuning the scheme to meet the country’s evolving workforce needs.
“While the government’s target of 100,000 fee-free TAFE places is a positive start, we question whether it goes far enough.
“This number might sound impressive, but in the context of our skills crisis, it is just not enough. We need to think bigger, the demand for skilled workers in construction and other industries is overwhelming.
“The government should also consider the broader financial challenges that students face, course fees are just one part of the equation. Travel costs, tools, and equipment are all barriers that need to be addressed if we are serious about boosting participation in training.
“HIA remains committed to working constructively with the government to ensure the vocational education and training system meets the needs of Australia’s workforce. But this legislation needs to be done right.
“Our industry is at a critical juncture, we need bold, well-thought-out holistic solutions. Fee-free TAFE has the potential to make a real difference, but only if it is backed by careful planning and robust support,” concluded Mr Murray.
For more information please contact:
Geordan Murray
Executive Director – Future Workforce
P: 02 6245 1379
M: 0438 103 651
E: g.murray@hia.com.au
HIA urges action to back Australian building product manufacturers
HIA is calling on the Federal Government to act urgently to support Australia’s building product manufacturers and suppliers, an industry worth more than $130 billion and critical to the delivery of new housing across the country,” HIA Managing Director, Jocelyn Martin said today.
Amendment NCC 2022 published to align with the Premises Standards
With the delay to decisions on the content of NCC 2025, the ABCB has published a further amendment to the current NCC 2022 which applies from 29 July 2025. The purpose of this minor amendment is to align the NCC with recent changes to the Premises Standards which apply to Class 3 to 9 public buildings, common areas of Class 2 apartment buildings and short-term accommodation
Industry leaders call for free access to Standards to help alleviate costs for small business
“HIA alongside a group of construction leaders and Standards Australia came together today at Parliament House, to present a united front in getting easier access to Australian Standards in the hands of those who need them most,” said HIA Managing Director, Jocelyn Martin.
HIA calls for a comprehensive red tape reduction agenda
HIA has made a comprehensive suite of submissions to the Productivity Commission ahead of the upcoming Treasurer’s Economic Reform Roundtable on 19-21 August.