News of yet another closure of a private training college highlights the need for better targeted investment in Vocational Education and Training (VET), says NECA chief executive Suresh Manickam.

The closure of the college comes after the cancellation of a NSW Government contract where alleged breaches of training standards have now been referred to the Australian Skills Qualifications Authority (ASQA).

“NECA has previously raised concerns about the erosion of training standards across the Electrotechnology sector,” Suresh said.

“Apprenticeships and ongoing training are critical to develop the skills of Australia’s future electricians and contractors and once again we call for properly targeted investment to meet our sector’s needs.

“Unless there is a carefully considered and long-term response to these structural disruptions within the training sector, Australian trades (and the broader economy) will not have the right balance or skilled workforce in the years to come.

“We call on both the Federal and State Governments to take note of this closure when it comes to investing funds in the VET sector. Funding support needs to be directed towards training providers that have a track record of delivery across the sector to ensure that skilled and jobs ready graduates can add to our industry skills base.”