Previous Victorian Training Award winners

Chhunly Taing

• Holmesglen Institute
• Certificate III in Civil Construction

As a woman working in a male-dominated industry, Chhunly Taing has faced plenty of challenges, but they never stopped her pursuing a career in the construction industry.

When Chhunly started the Holmesglen RII30920 Certificate III in Civil Construction, she didn’t know what a drill was, and she felt intimidated by the men onsite. But her confidence grew and she gained the respect of the men she works with, many of whom she now leads in her role as a leading hand on the Metro Tunnel project.

Chhunly is making a real contribution to changing the way men view women in construction. Many of her male colleagues ask her to speak to their daughters about working in the construction industry.

In 2022, Chhunly was named Holmesglen’s George Kline Apprentice of the Year. She has the ‘tickets’ she needs to work in construction and a dream to work in a leadership position.

Finalists

• Gerritt Maiai – The Gordon Institute of TAFE, Certificate III in Cabinet Making
• Madison Giordano – Kangan Institute, Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Franchesca Morrell

• Bendigo Health
• Certificate III in Dental Assisting

Franchesca knows that visiting a dentist can be a fearful experience and it’s her goal to make the experience pleasant for her patients. She grew up in the Philippines and migrated to Australia, settling in NSW in 2017. Initially, she got her teeth into dentistry by working as a dental assistant. The dentist trained her on the job but there was no opportunity to do a formal course.

The course cemented her aspiration to become an oral health therapist and enhanced her skills and confidence. There was also great satisfaction in knowing that her work was benefiting the community.

All her hard work was honoured in 2022 when she was awarded Trainee of the Year at Bendigo TAFE. Since graduating she’s progressed to a new role as senior dental nurse at Bendigo Health and she’s excited about the opportunities to expand her career through the various initiatives across the region.

Finalists

• Claire Bartlett – Chisholm Institute, Certificate III in Business
• Danica Taliloa – Murray Mallee Training Company, Certificate IV in Business Administration

Caitlin Cook

• South West TAFE
• Diploma of Nursing

Caitlin Cook was a young stay-at-home mum of 5 children and although she’d always wanted to be a nurse, she hadn't completed school and never believed she could achieve her dream. She joined the Young Parents VCAL program at South West TAFE and soon after applied for the Diploma of Nursing at South West TAFE.

Caitlin loved her time studying then tragedy struck; her partner passed away and she and her children were left homeless. Nevertheless, Caitlin was determined to see her course through and create a successful career and positive future.

Her goal was to care for vulnerable people and the elderly. Now Caitlin works as an endorsed enrolled nurse and after winning South West TAFE’s Vocational Student of the Year, she’s embarking on the Bachelor of Nursing and Midwifery at Deakin University. Caitlin said she changed so much that she hardly recognises the person who started the course 2 years ago.

Finalists

• Amanda Meehan – Holmesglen Institute, Diploma of Nursing
• Kai Bucktin – GOTAFE, Certificate III in Information, Digital Media and Technology, Certificate IV in Cyber Security

Jaynaya Miller

• Skillinvest Limited
• Certificate III in Business

Jaynaya enrolled in a Certificate III in Business that was designed specifically for First Nations students. Through her training provider, Skillinvest, she undertook work at the Warrnambool Police Station.

Driven to succeed, Jaynaya juggled school, 2 jobs and her course. Now she’s passionate about a career in the police force and because she knows the internal workings of the station and programs, she feels it will help her in the application process.

The SBAT was a journey of self-discovery for Jaynaya as she found her passion which solidified her career goals.

Jaynaya is also deeply involved with her First Nations community and has become the strong voice for the girls who don’t have the confidence but want to achieve change. She mentors them to speak up and express their needs and goals. Her leadership resulted in her winning the 2021 Kalay Academy Camp Leadership Award, and she represented Skillinvest and Victoria Police when she was nominated for the 2021 AEN Indigenous Trainee of the year.

Finalists

• Brittany Taylor – The Management Edge Pty Ltd, Certificate III in Horticulture
• Brooke Ware – Federation Tafe, Certificate III in Hairdressing

Desirae Kilduff

• Bendigo Kangan Institute
• Diploma of Leadership and Management and Diploma of Human Resource Management

Desirae has a desire for 2 things: learning, and leadership in her work for First Nations people. She started her professional career as a full-time trainee at ANZ Bank in 2019, this provided Desirae with a pathway into the First Nations employment industry. In 2020, Desirae moved into the role of employment consultant at Maxima group, the organisation that facilitated her traineeship. Allowing her to share her experience with other First Nations jobseekers.

Desirae has achieved great success, completing a Diploma of Business, Diploma of Leadership and Management and Diploma of Human Resource Management and in 2021 was awarded Indigenous Student of the Year. In 2022, she was promoted to indigenous program manager for South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania with Maxima. Every career step is for the advancement of her people. By providing culturally safe spaces for First Nations jobseekers, she assists mob engagement with employment and training, impacting positively on the wider community.

Finalists

• Chelsea Cooke – Holmesglen Institute, Certificate III in Conservation and Land Management
• Edward Bryant – Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association Limited, Certificate IV in Community Services

Rebecca Toleman

• South West TAFE
• Certificate II in Agriculture, Certificate III in Agriculture, Certificate III in Agriculture (Dairy Production), Certificate IV in Agriculture

Raised in Hawkesdale south-west Victoria, Rebecca Toleman grew-up with farming in her veins. She understands the industry inside out. After secondary school, she detoured into pharmacy, but the call of the wild was too strong, and she returned to milking cows in a herringbone dairy.

After 10 years as a farmer, her passion to teach future farmers led her to South West TAFE. The course began with 30 enrolments. By 2021 this expanded to 370 students, a staggering 1,140% growth, with 8 teachers, across 10 programs.

Her drive to innovate and create the best outcomes for her students saw Rebecca design an agriculture program for secondary school students from non-farming backgrounds which expanded across the region. Rebecca also led South West TAFE to revolutionise calving training by introducing a life-size cow simulator that enabled students to develop their skills without endangering live animals. The ground-breaking initiative became an industry talking-point across the world

Finalists

• Felicity Symons – Elisabeth Murdoch College, MST20616 VCE VET Certificate II in Applied Fashion Design and Technology
• Brooke Pallmann – Wodonga TAFE, Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

Smart Business Solutions Group

SMART Business Solutions are in their 15th year of providing quality accounting and business advisory, financial planning and mortgage broking.

Business leader Shannon Smart ensures that her entire team participates regularly in training so they’re always up to date with finance and market trends.

Regular structured training sessions happen for 2 hours each Monday over lunch run by different team members who communicate their specific skill set. Otherwise, team members are involved in ongoing learning in their area of expertise with 59% being enrolled in an external qualification.

This targeted approach to training has shaped a team of high-achieving individuals. They’re encouraged to enter industry awards, which has resulted in 85% achieving finalist status in in the past 2 years.

Training upskills the team technically, creates internal efficiencies, helps grow the client base and develops soft skills such as client communication and health and wellbeing, to make for a happier work life.

Finalists

• Bira Bira Early Learning Centre Pty Ltd
• Anywise

M.C. Herd Geelong

M.C. Herd, established in 1951, is a third-generation Australian family business. It began life as a small abattoir providing services to the Geelong and district areas and has evolved into a large export abattoir employing over 300 local staff to process beef and lamb for world markets.

New staff begin their journey with a ‘warm welcome’ – a 4-day program using accredited materials customised to industry needs. The program ignites the learning culture by introducing the many opportunities offered by the industry.

They offer nationally accredited qualifications in meat processing, slaughtering, boning, quality assurance and leadership. Currently, 73% of the team are undertaking some form of training including certificate levels.

Their commitment to providing opportunities for every cohort is seen in their ethos that there’s a job for everyone. They work to match roles to the strengths of the individual, including people with disabilities.

Finalists

• G8 Education
• McDonald's Australia Ltd

New Plumbing Solutions

Established in 2009, New Plumbing Solutions (NPS) has a family-style culture with a corporate structure. They nurture their apprentices to be more than just ‘tradies’ and rather full-fledged professionals with a vision to deliver exceptional service in both plumbing and civil services for commercial, industrial, education and government customers.

The company has excelled at training apprentices, who have then flourished into fully qualified plumbers who go on to lead the next generation of NPS apprentices. They’re committed to innovation, a forward-thinking approach and continuous improvement as central elements of their company’s training.

When the pandemic struck, NPS collaborated with the learning management system application Edapp, so plumbers and apprentices could remain up-to-date with training, even while working remotely and with social-distancing regulations in place.

The application’s custom-learning tools ensured that the apprenticeship program would be tailor-made to the team and remain relevant as opposed to a generic learning environment. By installing groundwork from the beginning and rotating apprentices through all 3 divisions of the business (maintenance, civil, alongside relining and water metering), as well as investing heavily into the development of their apprentices NPS ensures a skilled workforce committed to company values.

Finalists

• blueAPACHE
• Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency CO OP Ltd

Wellsprings for Women

Located in one of the most culturally diverse and marginalised communities in Melbourne – Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia, Wellsprings for Women has improved the lives of thousands of vulnerable women since its inception in 1994 as a small drop-in group for socially isolated women.

Subsequently it grew to provide 50 education, employment and support programs for around 500 women and children weekly in a safe, encouraging environment where women thrive.

Aside from English and computer literacy and vocational pathway programs, they provide case management to women impacted by mental health, isolation, family violence, poverty and homelessness so they can overcome their complex barriers to education. Services include safety plans, risk assessment, emergency relief, supported referrals and material aid.

Wellsprings impactful work not only meets the needs of learners, it contributes to the wellbeing of the wider community and enables women and children to live free from violence.

Finalists

• Wyndham Community and Education Centre Inc.
• Prace Inc.

Victoria University Polytechnic

Victoria University Polytechnic has inclusivity, diversity and opportunity at the core of its values to enrich workforces and the wider community. Its primary catchment is the western corridor of Melbourne, containing areas of extreme disadvantage and high levels of disclosed disability.

In response, VU Polytechnic developed robust strategies to support a diverse cohort. Access workers perform comprehensive student needs assessments and develop individual learning plans so students with disabilities can participate equitably. As required, students are provided with specialist learning software, Auslan interpreters or note-takers.

Other opportunities come from VU Polytechnics alliances with major organisations such as Western Health and Western Bulldogs, who provide work placements for students with disability, which may lead to continuing employment.

Victoria University Polytechnic promotes the transformational power of education for all students and develops capabilities for the changing world of work. In 2021–2022, 75 intellectually disabled students participated in a bespoke curriculum to prepare them for further studies or employment. Encouragingly, most progressed to further studies.

Finalists

• The Gordon Institute of TAFE
• Bendigo TAFE and Kangan Institute

Master Builders Association of Victoria

Master Builders Victoria serves the entire building industry by providing quality training, leadership and professional development services.

Their Building Leadership Simulation Centre, the only one in the southern hemisphere, immerses students in common worksite challenges and provides them with real-world problem-solving opportunities in simulated construction environments. This accelerates learning while eliminating the risks inherent in a real-world setting.

Learning is both flexible and inclusive. Most students work full time and many have limited academic backgrounds. Before undertaking a course, students have a learning, literacy and numeracy assessment to ensure they are an appropriate fit for their courses.

MBV focuses on why people want to learn and the process of learning. They’ve exceeded average outcomes for private training and VET providers across Australia, with 79.5% of graduates having improved employment after training.

MBV continues to deliver valuable training to support the development of a future-ready industry that builds a better world.

Finalist

• Technical Advanced Training

Bendigo TAFE and Kangan Institute

With a solid gold history dating back to the gold rush, Bendigo TAFE and Kangan Institute operates 8 TAFE campuses providing leading-edge training in state-of-the-art facilities and vocational education and training across Melbourne’s northern suburbs, regional Victoria, and internationally through partnerships with overseas training institutes.

Education and training spans across diverse study areas, including centres of excellence in automotive and trades, business and IT, food and fibre, health and community services, culinary and hospitality, and Indigenous and foundation courses.

Their TAFEs ensure Victorians have access to world-class skills for a world-class economy. In response to a strong demand for cybersecurity skills in Victoria, they launched the Certificate IV in Cyber Security at Kangan Institute’s Cremorne Campus in March 2022. Innovative skilling solutions are also delivered in conjunction with overseas providers, including partnering with Jiaxing Nanyang Polytechnic Institute in Zhejiang, China to deliver a one-of-a-kind mechanical technology marine program.

Finalists

• Builders Academy Australia
• GOTAFE

Arborists don't grow on trees – Arbortrim Australia Pty Ltd, Citywide, Arboriculture Australia and the Victorian Tree Industry Organisation

Top of the tree of the federal government’s Priority Skills shortage list is arboriculture. To address this, the Arborists Don’t Grow on Trees (ADGOT) collaboration was formed including Arbortrim, Citywide, Arboriculture Australia and the Victorian Tree Industry Organisation.

Demand for tree workers continues to grow due to expanding urban forests, the need to maintain vegetation around power infrastructure and responding to storm damage.

As arborists don’t grow on trees, ADGOT is targeting jobseekers and school leavers. They are encouraging more women to join the industry and constructing partnerships to engage indigenous communities.
Training initiatives include pre-employment programs and safety refreshers, as well as writing minimum industry standards, industry reviewed learner guides and operating procedures.

Arbortrim’s Certificate III in Arboriculture and Diploma programs have become a centre of excellence turning out highly skilled and safer workers.

The collaborators have taken a holistic approach to the skills challenge achieving industry wide recognition.

Finalists

• Health Navigator Project and Melbourne Polytechnic Collaboration – Melbourne Polytechnic, Whittlesea Community Connections and Northern Health
• Turning Point, YSAS and SHARC – Turning Point, YSAS – Youth Support and Advocacy Service and SHARC – Self Help Addiction Resource Centre

Mary Faraone and Howard Kelly

Apprentice of the Year

Andrew Jan

Bendigo TAFE, Certificate III in Plumbing

Andrew has had wide-ranging life experience prior to becoming a mature-aged apprentice in his 30s. He had an extensive career in the thoroughbred industry and, after 18 years as a volunteer firefighter, he has risen to the highest rank of Group Officer of the Coliban Group of the Country Fire Authority. In choosing to study a Certificate III in Plumbing at Bendigo TAFE, Andrew was motivated to find a career that provided both stability and an environment that challenged his innate curiosity and problem-solving skills.

Finalists

• Felicity Barnett – Certificate III in Commercial Cookery, The Gordon TAFE
• Stephanie Pemberton – Certificate III in Parks and Gardens, South West TAFE

Trainee of the Year

Samantha Brown

Federation University TAFE, Diploma of Nursing

Always intrigued by nursing, Samantha realised when she finished high school that she wasn't ready to make a career choice. She sought work experience, working for several years as a conveyancer and then in a fast-paced role managing a top hotel in Ballarat. With her interest in nursing never waning, she tested the waters through the traineeship model, first enrolling in a Certificate III of Individual and Ageing Support. This course convinced Samantha that she wanted to pursue a vocational training pathway, and she then enrolled in a Diploma of Nursing.

Finalists

• Emma Dreverman – Certificate III in Business, Squad
• Jake Seuren – Certificate IV in Agriculture, TAFE Gippsland (Warragul Campus)

Vocational Student of the Year

Samantha Daly

Swinburne University of Technology, Certificate IV in Mental Health

Determined to find a silver lining after losing her job at the onset of the global pandemic, Samantha applied to study the dual Certificate IV in Mental Health and Mental Health Peer Work. Samantha spent the 7 years prior rebuilding her life and recovering from a major brain injury. Inspired by her personal connections to mental health and using her unique lived experience of recovery, Samantha overcame initial fears and doubts about returning to study as a mature-aged student. She feels strongly about developing her theoretical knowledge and gaining practical expertise so that she can offer genuine help and meaningful support to others.

Finalists

• Josh Allison – Diploma of Sport Development, Box Hill Institute
• Maria Kelly – Advanced Diploma of Graphic Design, Gordon Institute of TAFE

School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year

Laura Davidson

Sunraysia Institute of TAFE and Mildura Senior College, Certificate III in Hairdressing

Laura Davidson has had a passion for hairdressing since she was 9 years old, when she told the owner of her local salon that she wanted to work there one day. She taught herself braiding and other techniques by watching YouTube videos and practising on herself and her friends. In Year 9, she commenced a Certificate II in Salon Assistance, before beginning casual work at a boutique hair salon in Mildura. Laura lives in the south-west NSW town of Gol Gol and travels to Mildura for her schoolwork at Mildura Senior College, her training at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE Mildura and her practical work at the salon.

Finalists

• Massimo Zurzolo – Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology, Kangan Institute of TAFE – ACE and Montague Continuing Education Centre
• Steven Hull – Certificate III in Agriculture, Murray Mallee Group Training and Castlemaine Secondary College 

Koorie Student of the Year

Lucas Price

Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association Limited, Certificate IV in Community Services

A proud Gunditjmarra man from the Framlingham mission in Victoria's Western District with a deep connection to his community. Lucas was motivated to be in a position where he could use his lived experience to provide direct support to those in the community who are over-represented in the justice system and who suffer from drug and alcohol addictions and intergenerational trauma.

Finalists

• Stephen Cranage – Certificate IV in Cyber Security, GOTAFE
• Shaikhani Fewings – Certificate III in Commercial Cookery, Crown College 

Teacher or Trainer of the Year

Julie Kramer

Bendigo TAFE, Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Community Care)

Julie tested the waters of teaching in 2011 by providing classroom support to students in a Certificate III for Aged Care qualification. After receiving brilliant feedback from the trainers in that course, Julie pursued a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment and pursued an ongoing role as a teacher and trainer. Julie has a passion for learning styles and developing distinct teaching approaches for the different needs of the many students in her courses.

Finalists

• Scott Hopkins, SuniTAFE
• Michelle McNab, GOTAFE 

Small Employer of the Year

Swell Constructions

Swell Constructions is a Melbourne-based construction company, passionate about blending modern design carpentry works with environmental sustainability. Through investment in quality training of its staff, Swell Constructions have built a flourishing work culture of care and precision, as well as making custom-built sustainable building more affordable. The company is serious about its own environmental responsibility, partnering with a leading environmental not-for-profit organisation, Greenfleet, to explore carbon offsets and other ways to reduce the environmental impact of its work.

Finalists

• Mansfield Armchair Cinema
• Bellarine Bakehouse

Medium Employer of the Year

CPE Construction

CPE Construction has used training as a central pillar of its growth from a company that built farm-style sheds to one that works on multi-million-dollar construction projects across Victoria. The company recognised the COVID-19 pandemic as an obstacle to some work but relished the opportunity to train staff, with 20% of its staff currently enrolled in accredited training. This includes 7 apprentices who are studying a Certificate III in either Plumbing or Steel Fabrication, and one HR Manager who is completing the double Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management and HR.

Large Employer of the Year

Metro Trains

Metro Trains Melbourne (MTM) is the franchise operator that runs and maintains Melbourne's world-class metropolitan rail network. It has over 6,400 employees and partners with the state government to deliver some of the key infrastructure projects currently being built in Melbourne, including the Metro Tunnel project. MTM works closely with Victoria's TAFE and training sector to recruit and train people in these skills shortage areas, ensuring that trainees are ready for specific roles at the completion of their training.

Finalists

• McDonalds Australia
• Swan Plumbing Supplies

CYP Design and Construction and Holmesglen Institute Collaboration

Recognising that Victoria is experiencing one of the greatest infrastructure booms in the nation's history, 3 construction companies (Lendlease, John Holland and Bouygues) have partnered with Holmesglen to upskill Victorians to meet the needs of one of the major infrastructure projects in Victoria’s Big Build program, the Metro Tunnel Project. Its twin strategies are MetroHub, a project-specific jobs and training centre, and the Victorian Tunnelling Centre, a national-first tunnelling training centre that combines real-life machine training and simulated tunnelling training environments. Both strategies aim to make training more accessible to all people, including priority job seekers from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Finalists

• Wodonga TAFE, Transport Women Australia and Volvo Australia
• Victoria Police Diversity Recruitment Program

Community Training Provider of the Year 

The Centre for Continuing Education 

The Centre for Continuing Education Inc (The Centre), rose like a phoenix from the ashes of complete governance and financial failure. From 2015 it was restored to a thriving not-for-profit training provider employing more than 70 people. As a Learn Local community education college, it largely services those who experience barriers to social and economic participation in the Hume region.  

Program effectiveness is measured through the outcomes and their employment rates are extraordinary, ranging from 95 to 100% for community services and health programs. Whether they're empowering women to safely take control of their financial affairs, administering family therapy or supporting offenders to understand and manage their learning disorders, the Centre for Continuing Education is constructing the road towards a safer, happier life. 

Finalists

• CireServices Inc. 
• Williamstown Community and Education Centre Inc. 

Inclusive Training Provider of the Year

GOTAFE 

GOTAFE is the largest vocational education provider in northern Victoria servicing a population of over 286,484 people across 9 campuses. It plays a critical role in providing public education to over 9,400 students from a variety of education and socio-economic backgrounds, including areas of high disadvantage. The 2019 student population included 981 students (11%) and 20 (4%) staff members self-identified as living with a disability. 

GOTAFE strives for inclusion by design through their Social Justice Charter (2019–2023). They lead the sector in positively impacting the achievements and well-being of students, and have embedded the universal principles of equity, fairness, and respect into all aspects of the learning experience. This has resulted in increased student enrolments from 9.4% in 2016 to 11.8% in 2019, with a course completion rate of 92%. 

Finalists

• Box Hill Institute 
• National Food Institute 

Small Training Provider of the Year

Winner – Builders Academy Australia 

At Builders Academy of Australia (BAA) students are taken on a journey to mastery by builders who know their trade through and through. To date, over 8,000 graduates have successfully achieved nationally accredited qualifications for work in the building and construction industry. 

BAA strives to positively impact the building and construction sector through delivering high quality trade training. They offer workplace-based pre-apprenticeships and apprenticeships as well as traineeship models that are delivered in custom built training centres and management level qualifications delivered via a live and interactive virtual classroom mode. 

BAA's strong reputation and brand has helped them maintain high student enrolments and retention rates, despite the pandemic. Student enrolments from March to June 2020 exceeded those for the same period in 2019 by 190% and retention rates exceeded equivalent periods in prior years. 

Finalists

• Health Careers International Pty Ltd 
• Ringwood Training 

Large Training Provider of the Year

South West TAFE 

As the largest vocational education and training provider in south-west Victoria, South West TAFE (SWTAFE) services a population of over 120,000 across 24,000 square kilometres and 5 campuses. It proudly plays an integral role in developing a skilled workforce that supports the regions industries and communities.  

SWTAFE sits at the frontline of tackling social disadvantage. A high proportion of students come from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, including vulnerable young people, long-term unemployed, people with learning and physical disabilities, as well as students identifying as Koorie. SWTAFE is recognised globally by the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics (2018) Colleges and Institutes Canada (2019) and TAFE Directors Australia, for its nimble and innovative approach to reimagining learning. Their smart classrooms extend program delivery to remote campuses so that study options are expanded for over 400 students. 

Finalists

• GOTAFE 
• Box Hill Institute 

2020 People's Choice Award – Apprentice of the Year (as voted on by the online public)

Nellie Baker

Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician at NECA Education and Careers

Apprentice of the Year

Shona McGuigan 

Certificate III in Plumbing, South West TAFE 

Having grown up on a farm in Mortlake in Victoria's west, Shona knew she wanted a career that required practical skills where she could work outdoors. During her senior years at secondary school, she was exposed to plumbing as a career at the South West TAFE Taster Day. Against advice from some school staff members who insisted that plumbing was not a career for women, she enrolled in the VET in Schools plumbing program, and she loved it. 

Happiness equates to success for Shona, but she has won several awards including South West TAFE's Apprentice of the Year (2019) and then overall Apprentice of the Year at South West TAFE (2020). She hopes that her success will inspire others to follow their dreams, even if like hers, they are unconventional. 

Finalists

• Nellie Baker – Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician at NECA Education and Careers 
• Joel Handcock – Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician, Bendigo TAFE 

Trainee of the Year

Nicole Barrow 

Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, Box Hill Institute 

Animal lover Nicole Barrow knew from a young age that she would work in a profession that involved animals. During her schooling, she worked at a thoroughbred stud on weekends, and after completing Year 12 at the end of 2016, she got a job at a Warmblood breeding facility which helped her become surer of her career path. It soon became clear that because of her fascination with animal anatomy and physiology, she should become a veterinary nurse. 

Nicole signed up for a traineeship at Rose City Veterinary Hospital in Benalla and began her course at the start of 2017. She was very engaged in learning the skills and knowledge provided by the medical and surgical nursing unit at the clinic. The further Nicole progressed in her training and education, the more she fell in love with her vocation. Her dedication to her studies saw her qualify in January 2020, and awarded the title, 'Student of the Year' at Box Hill Institute.  

Finalists

• Tamara Eldridge – Certificate IV in Community Services, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology 
• Nicholas Steer – Certificate IV in Business, Chisholm Institute 

Vocational Student of the Year

Simon Watts 

Diploma of Community Services, Wodonga Institute of TAFE 

Renowned bicycle mechanic and rider Simon Watts had been providing a community service since 2010 when he established the not-for-profit Border Community Cycleworks. He supplied free bicycles to people in need for transport, rehabilitation and exercise, as well as conducting bike education programs in schools. After a hiatus in studying for more than 15 years, he decided to formalise his community service credentials and take his ultimate career ride into Wodonga TAFE to embrace a Community Service Diploma. 

Achieving the Community Service Diploma has been a life-changing experience for Simon and he's an avid ambassador for training and lifelong learning as he glimpses into the worlds of those who have had extraordinary experiences including refugees fleeing conflict and the homeless. He was nicknamed the 'high achiever' and awarded Student of the Year by Wodonga TAFE. His own training accomplishment makes him a powerful role model for those who are unsure of their path. 

Finalists

• Scott Tomlinson – Certificate IV in Leisure and Health, genU Training 
• Bethany Peele – Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising, Kangan Institute 

School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year

Van Sui Thawng 

Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician, Box Hill Institute 

Van Sui Thawng faced terrible adversity in war-torn Myanmar. He and his family fled the country in 2009 and took a long journey to Australia, with time spent in a Malaysian refugee camp. Eventually they arrived in Melbourne and settled in Mooroolbark. Despite all of this, Van views challenges as a normal part of life and an opportunity to grow. 

After attending an information evening at Yarra Hills Secondary College, Van decided to complete VCE and take on electrical trade training. It was a good choice given there was a skills shortage. The Head Start program was the perfect option to combine his ambitions to finish secondary school and become an electrician through the school-based apprenticeship. 

To create further understanding and remove cultural barriers, Van teaches people at work about his background. This has created a sense of comfort to the point where he enjoys the workplace mateship. As a role model for other young Hakha Chin people Van leads by example and has become a voice to be heard in his community. He demonstrates that regardless of where they have come from, their cultural or language barriers, or experiences of adversity, if you have passion and a dream you can change your life and achieve your vision.  

Finalists

• Callum Howden – Certificate III in Air-conditioning and Refrigeration, MEGT Australia and GOTAFE 
• Darian Burgess – Certificate III in Carpentry, Swinburne University of Technology and JS Lowther Builders 

Koorie Student of the Year

Matthew Atkinson 

Certificate IV in Community Services, Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association (VACSAL) 

Helping people heal from the effects of transgenerational trauma is a key goal of Matthew Atkinson, a proud Bangerang man who laid a path from his career as a carpenter into the justice department where he could provide direct support and services to the Aboriginal community. 

Matthew's natural leadership ability has been honoured twice. After being nominated by peers, trainers and assessors, he won VACSAL's Student Leadership award in 2019.  In 2017 he won his regions Fairely Leadership Award, which recognised promising leaders from a range of experiences. He's also completed a Certificate IV in Leadership and Management to strengthen his knowledge and ability to convey his important messages.  

Now Matthew is enjoying his role as Koorie case manager with Shepparton Magistrates Court as well as being Chair of the Shepparton Local Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee.  He's passionate about supporting his community to break the cycle of poverty, transgenerational trauma. 

Finalists

• Grace Stewart – Certificate III in Business, Ai Group Apprentice and Trainee Centre 
• Elva Smerotkins – Certificate III in Commercial Cookery, SuniTAFE, Mildura 

Teacher or Trainer of the Year

Kevin Nunn 

TAFE Gippsland 

Born and raised in the Bairnsdale area, Kevin Nunn spent a lot of his time growing up exploring the forest adjacent to the family farm in East Gippsland. Back then, there were no TAFE tree felling courses and people were expected to learn on the job. He remembers being filled with anxiety and adrenaline when he felled his first big ash tree but when the dust settled, he turned to his teacher who just smiled and nodded his head. This experience nearly 40 years ago, guides how he trains his students today. With that same gesture, he tells his students that they've done a good job. 

Kevin's the go-to person when it comes to adapting training to keep it engaging and applicable to real world scenarios. For example, the timber industry is significantly more automated than it was 15 years ago, with people and machinery working closely. Kevin has had the pleasure of teaching thousands of students about the industry that he loves, and he recognises each of their unique backgrounds and learning styles. His crucial work has helped make TAFE Gippsland a leading provider for forestry management and timber training. 

Finalists

• Marina McGrath – Bendigo Kangan Institute 
• Torin Coakley – Bendigo TAFE 

Medium Employer of the Year 

Mambourin Enterprises 

Mambourin is wholly focused on removing barriers to employment, education and a fulfilling life for people living with a disability, regardless of how challenging those barriers may seem. Their inspiring success stories tell of people who have been deemed unemployable, yet go on to defy the odds and obtain qualifications, get jobs, get married, have children and go on holidays. 

Based in the west of Melbourne, Mambourin is a not for profit organisation that's been supporting people aged between 16 and 65 living with intellectual and physical disabilities for almost 50 years. They connect people to opportunities that help them achieve their personal goals. Traditionally, when young people living with a disability leave school their options are limited and they struggle to find employment. This can leave them disengaged and disconnected from their community. Mambourin has well-established partnerships with special schools and mainstream secondary schools across the west of Melbourne. 

Large Employer of the Year

Swan Plumbing Supplies 

Swan Plumbing Supplies is a family-owned business that's been in operation for 66 years. It grew from a small shop front to 35 branches across Australia employing more than 200 team members. Its client list includes 3,500 plumbers who work in retail and industrial environments. Each week, 50% of Swan team members are engaged in training across every aspect of the business, from the warehouse to the shop floor. 

Central to Swan's management pillars is to train and develop employees to the highest standards of excellence. Community links are strong. During the Victorian bushfires, Swan supported staff who were CFA volunteers so they could battle the blazes whilst receiving full pay. They also donated considerable amounts of product to restore services at Kinglake in 2008. Just as important is offering students from local school's work experience opportunities, which can take place in all areas of the business. 

Winner – SuniTAFE Aged Care Leadership Development Collaboration 

Sunraysia Institute of TAFE and Chaffey Aged Care 

It was a great day for the aged care sector when Sunraysia Institute of TAFE (SuniTAFE) and four aged care providers in the Sunraysia region joined forces in a collaborative partnership to upskill its workforce and set new standards for leadership in aged care. 

Princes Court (Mildura), Chaffey Aged Care (Merbein), Jacaranda Village (Red Cliffs) and Murray House (Wentworth) provide aged care services collectively to 325 residents and employ nearly 400 staff. SuniTAFE worked with these four providers to identify common problems across the sector. What emerged was a familiar story across the business – staff were elevated to senior roles as a result of tenure even though they were under-qualified to meet operational and industrial requirements in-line with current standards. 

The collaborators co-designed the entire project and developed a training solution that directly addressed leadership issues. The project creates an improved environment for aged residents requiring care within the community. This is of benefit to their wellbeing, families and friends, who are assured of consistency and quality. 

Finalists

• Aboriginal Workforce Development Initiative 
• IBM Australia New Zealand – Federation TAFE and IBM Australia Ltd 

Community Training Provider of the Year 

The Centre for Continuing Education 

The Centre for Continuing Education Inc (The Centre), rose like a phoenix from the ashes of complete governance and financial failure. From 2015 it was restored to a thriving not-for-profit training provider employing more than 70 people. As a Learn Local community education college, it largely services those who experience barriers to social and economic participation in the Hume region.  

Program effectiveness is measured through the outcomes and their employment rates are extraordinary, ranging from 95–100% for community services and health programs. Whether they're empowering women to safely take control of their financial affairs, administering family therapy or supporting offenders to understand and manage their learning disorders, the Centre for Continuing Education is constructing the road towards a safer, happier life. 

Finalists

• CireServices Inc. 
• Williamstown Community and Education Centre Inc. 

Inclusive Training Provider of the Year

GOTAFE 

GOTAFE is the largest vocational education provider in Northern Victoria servicing a population of over 286,484 people across nine campuses. It plays a critical role in providing public education to over 9,400 students from a variety of education and socio-economic backgrounds, including areas of high disadvantage. The 2019 student population included 981 students (11%) and 20 (4%) staff members self-identified as living with a disability. 

GOTAFE strives for inclusion by design through their Social Justice Charter (2019–2023). They lead the sector in positively impacting the achievements and well-being of students, and have embedded the universal principles of equity, fairness, and respect into all aspects of the learning experience. This has resulted in increased student enrolments from 9.4% in 2016 to 11.8% in 2019, with a course completion rate of 92%. 

Finalists

• Box Hill Institute 
• National Food Institute 

Small Training Provider of the Year

Winner – Builders Academy Australia 

At Builders Academy of Australia (BAA) students are taken on a journey to mastery by builders who know their trade through and through. To date, over 8,000 graduates have successfully achieved nationally accredited qualifications for work in the building and construction industry. 

BAA strives to positively impact the building and construction sector through delivering high quality trade training. They offer workplace-based pre-apprenticeships and apprenticeships as well as traineeship models that are delivered in custom built training centres and management level qualifications delivered via a live and interactive virtual classroom mode. 

BAA's strong reputation and brand has helped them maintain high student enrolments and retention rates, despite the pandemic. Student enrolments from March to June 2020 exceeded those for the same period in 2019 by 190% and retention rates exceeded equivalent periods in prior years. 

Finalists

• Health Careers International Pty Ltd 
• Ringwood Training 

Large Training Provider of the Year

South West TAFE 

As the largest vocational education and training provider in south-west Victoria, South West TAFE (SWTAFE) services a population of over 120,000 across 24,000 square kilometres and 5 campuses. It proudly plays an integral role in developing a skilled workforce that supports the regions industries and communities.  

SWTAFE sits at the frontline of tackling social disadvantage. A high proportion of students come from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, including vulnerable young people, long-term unemployed, people with learning and physical disabilities, as well as students identifying as Koorie. SWTAFE is recognised globally by the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics (2018), Colleges and Institutes Canada (2019), and TAFE Directors Australia, for its nimble and innovative approach to reimagining learning. Their smart classrooms extend program delivery to remote campuses so that study options are expanded for over 400 students. 

Finalists

• GOTAFE 
• Box Hill Institute 

2020 People's Choice Award – Apprentice of the Year (as voted on by the online public)

Nellie Baker

Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician at NECA Education and Careers

Apprentice of the Year

Jake Carter

Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician
Design and Build Electrical

On the verge of making a career change from finance to studying for an electrical pre-apprenticeship, Jake Carter discovered his partner was expecting their first child. Despite the drop in pay and unknown job prospects that would eventuate, Jake made the ‘big and risky’ decision to forge ahead. With his new responsibilities increasing his motivation and determination to succeed, Jake completed his studies in 3, rather than the customary 4 years. Further accelerating his career while completing a Diploma of Electrical Project Management at Melbourne Polytechnic, Jake has started his own business while sub-contracting to Design and Build Electrical. He credits Holmesglen’s Futuretech for laying the foundation for his success.

Trainee of the Year

Daniela Feldman

Certificate III in Business
Department of Premier and Cabinet, Victoria

Less than a year after doing her traineeship Daniela Feldman has emerged as a young professional doing something she loves which enables her to work for, and have a positive impact on, the wider community. Daniela applied for a traineeship after finding that studying at university was not as challenging or stimulating as she’d expected. Her traineeship in the Human Resources area of the Department of Premier and Cabinet has refocused her goals and provided her with her most rewarding career experience to date. Having completed her training 2 months earlier than predicted, Daniela has now been offered an ongoing role with the department.

Vocational Student of the Year

Rachael Hilder

Diploma of Community Services and Diploma of Justice
Trained at Kangan Institute

Having completed diplomas in Community Services and Justice while juggling commitments as a wife, primary carer and parent, Rachael Hilder rightly feels a great sense of achievement. Returning to education at the age of 48, leaving school at Year 10 and never having completed a course, she relished the opportunity to use her brain and loved every moment of her studies, graduating with high distinctions and awarded Kangan’s 2018 Overall Student of the Year. As a Corrections Officer at Ravenhall Correctional Centre, Rachael hopes to use her experience to encourage and motivate the prisoners she works with to take their first steps to building new and meaningful lives in society.

School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year

Heidi Liesel Rasmussen

Certificate III in Companion Animal Services
Attended Point Cook Senior Secondary College

From the moment she was knee high and could utter the word ‘vet’, Heidi Liesel Rasmussen knew it was the career path she not only wanted to go down, but had to. Work placement in a veterinary clinic led to her determination to pursue formal qualifications which she commenced while in Year 11. With a number of awards already under her belt – for the highest level of achievement for a number of Year 11 subjects and Trainee of the Year from The Gordon, she’s extremely excited about what the future holds. She plans to expand her learning through TAFE for a Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing and university for a bachelor degree.

Koorie Student of the Year

Tanya McDonald

Diploma of Community Services
South West Healthcare

Tanya McDonald finds it hard to believe she has come through a background of family violence and now has completed a Diploma of Community Services and gained a full-time job. But it’s all true, and in the process Tanya has overcome her self-doubt and gained immeasurably in confidence. A strong advocate for her local Indigenous community, Tanya’s goals are to make a positive impact on their health needs and encourage young Indigenous people to further their education. Having faltered a couple of times in her studies and being forever grateful for her teacher’s encouragement to continue, Tanya believes that if she can inspire just one person to continue their studies that will be a great achievement.

Teacher or Trainer of the Year

Jodi Rechsteiner-Sanders

GOTAFE

Training was never on Jodi Rechsteiner-Sanders' radar as a career option. Raised in the education sector with teaching parents, step-parents and grandparents, she was determined to forge her own path. It wasn’t until her mid-thirties, university and trade-qualified, that Jodi realised teaching might be a sensible career choice – allowing her to combine her skills as a qualified chef and her enjoyment of science amongst other subject areas. In 2009 destiny got the upper hand and she joined GOTAFE, teaching in the Hospitality and VCAL departments. Jodi has an unwavering passion for achieving outcomes for all her students, ensuring her program delivery, resources and their format are all governed by what works best for her them.

Large Employer of the Year

Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority

In dealing with emergencies, the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA) is acutely effective. Providing the 24-hour link between the Victorian community and the state’s emergency service agencies – police, fire and ambulance, ESTA fields a call every 12 seconds. Becoming an ESTA call-taker requires no minimum qualifications or education. Training happens across multiple formats including face-to-face, classroom and online, via 1,100 training scenarios. The range of educational choices also accommodates diversity in the workforce. Effectively managing a triple-zero call appropriately in a rapid, volatile environment is critical. ESTA’s level of success, with an overall reduction of reportable adverse events of 28.7% is because staff are trained to be responsive and resilient.

Employer Award for Apprenticeship Development

Seymour Health

Educating a young person for life and work is more complicated when there are extra challenges. Seymour Health designed its Seymour Health School-Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship program in 2018 to instil confidence and self-belief in marginalised local youth. The trainees have experienced significant stresses and have difficulty engaging in mainstream life. Customised training triggers a transformation. Students go from a place of having few social or professional skills to communicating confidently and appropriately with staff and health service consumers. Through supporting youth development and employment, Seymour Health contributes to the local community and students gain the skills and confidence to master their destiny and embrace career prospects in the health sector.

Holmesglen and Royal Children's Hospital collaboration

Working together towards a common vision, the Royal Children’s Hospital and Holmesglen Institute created an enriching pathway to employment for young people with disability.  Australia’s first Integrated Practical Placement Program is an innovative model combining industry, education and support services. Students enthusiastically perform roles that fulfil a business need and contribute to the hospital’s daily operations. The program includes unpaid work placements of 6 months, and where possible, participants are supported to transition into paid employment. Piloted in 2018, the program exemplifies how barriers can be overcome through the effective partnering of education with industry. Results to date show that 80% of students gained employment, with others pursuing further studies.

Community Training Provider of the Year

Cire Services

At community-based Cire Services, you can even try before you buy with programs such as Try a Trade tasters, run in partnership with Swinburne University of Technology. It’s so successful that over 75% of participants enrol in pre-apprenticeships. Cire’s range of accredited and pre-accredited training opportunities, delivered across the Yarra Ranges, reflect student aspirations. They combine practicality and entrepreneurship with subjects including cooking, literacy, computer skills and financial literacy. The Women’s Warehouse program empowers long-term jobless women and 70 % have achieved employment. Agility is key to assisting the many cohorts experiencing disadvantage and over the past 3 years, Cire’s pre-accredited enrolments have doubled. These inspiring programs have an impact far beyond the classroom.

Inclusive Training Provider of the Year

Victoria University Polytechnic

The general student population of Victoria University Polytechnic feel fortunate to learn in a setting where there’s a rich representation of cultures and all levels of ability, but it’s not without its challenges. VU Polytechnic’s catchment includes areas of extreme disadvantage with associated chronic mental and physical health issues, however students with disability are fully accommodated to realise their academic merit. The 2018 pilot sport and work education program saw aspiring athletes with intellectual disability play competitive sport and gain a certificate for work-readiness. All participants transitioned into the Certificate II in Work Education Sport. By participating in work experience and transition programs, students develop independence, and the skills to perform jobs professionally.

Small Training Provider of the Year

Ringwood Training

The enormous success of Ringwood Training (RT) is no fabrication. Set on a dedicated campus at Ringwood Secondary College, RT delivers a unique, government school training model with blended learning in the vital industry areas of automotive and engineering fabrication trades, and information communication technology. RT’s industry partnerships have been a source of creativity and innovation when it comes to course development, and the acquisition of cutting-edge technology for the engineering fabrication department and an automotive workshop stocked with varieties of vehicles and automotive systems further enhance the course offering. Students appreciate being able to work at rates that suit their other commitments and many transition from school-based programs to take further qualifications.

Large Training Provider of the Year

Sunraysia Institute of TAFE

As the Mallee region experiences strong population and economic growth, SuniTAFE (Sunraysia Institute of TAFE) responds to regional needs. As a leading provider of vocational education in NW Victoria, SuniTAFE has 2 main campuses and a 30-hectare SMART farm near Mildura. Technologically innovative SMART farm programs have attracted international attention and align students and industry to meet growing horticultural demand. In 2018, a Diploma of Nursing was launched, as well as a Certificate III in Transport and Logistics, in response to an urgent need for freight drivers. SuniTAFE’s cultivating success with above-average completion rates of 95% accompanied by strong job outcomes, and the increase in new commencements in 2018 being the highest in Victoria.

Teacher or Trainer of the Year

Wendy Lever-Henderson

For Wendy Lever-Henderson, the teaching of certificates in community services and case management is as much about the student’s personal development as it is about their knowledge and skills.

Wendy is a senior educator. Many of her students have experienced life challenges. To help them be job-ready, she makes decisions driven by their needs and perspectives. This might mean altering timetables to meet student requirements and introducing online and night classes.

Wendy is passionate about developing and expanding community services and aims to inspire her students to have a positive impact on other people’s lives. Her flexible approach to learning has doubled diploma graduate numbers. 

Vocational Student of the Year​

Elise Stewart

Elise Stewart demonstrates that having a disability shouldn’t prevent anyone from achieving their goals. Initially Elise was told she couldn’t become a nurse because she is profoundly deaf and could put patients at risk.

Through resilience and determination, she became the first deaf person to complete a Diploma of Nursing at Bendigo TAFE. 

To accomplish this Elise accessed full-time interpreters, lobbied to have electronic materials subtitled, and worked with an audiologist to have equipment amplified so she could hear bodily sounds. Elise’s inspiring work helped to break down the communication barriers for teachers, peers and patients, and her current workplace now has deafness awareness training.

Koorie Student of the Year

Lewis Brown

Lewis Brown, a proud Yorta Yorta, Dja Dja Wurrung and Gunditjmara man, chose community services as a career to help his community thrive. 

He recognises that the First Nations community is over-represented in the jail system and is passionately committed to assisting them towards fair and justifiable sentencing. 

The Certificate IV in Community Services gave him the skills to transition with ease into his new role as Koori Court Project Officer at Court Services Victoria. Lewis believes that education will break the cycle of poverty and transgenerational trauma. Studying helped him grow, not just educationally, but as a member of the community and a father. 

Trainee of the Year

Amanda Woodhams

Amanda Woodhams works in an industry where you rarely see women. A passionate advocate for improving and shaping urban ecology, she recently completed a Certificate III in Arboriculture, which requires fearlessness, athleticism, balance, technique and the ability to problem-solve at great heights while operating a chainsaw.

In light of that, Amanda believes she represents how encouraging, embracing and inclusive vocational training is. While studying arboriculture, Amanda felt completely supported to be herself and contribute her skills.

School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year

​Sophie Babycz​​

The experience of doing a school-based apprenticeship with Wallan Neighbourhood House is extremely rewarding for Sophie Babycz.

When the opportunity was presented she jumped at the opportunity to become an SBAT student, studying a Certificate III in Business at Goulburn Institute of TAFE. Sophie believes that business skills will serve her well in a changing world. 

Working in a community organisation with a broad range of people has been an exciting experience that’s seen her develop strong communication skills. Being given the responsibility of report writing, assisting with promotional material, and providing customer support has solidified Sophie’s goals to work in the business field.  ​

Apprentice of the Year​​

Alyssa Heard

From an early age, Alyssa Heard knew that she wanted to be a chef. She started on her journey at 15 years of age, working in hospitality as a waitress to earn extra money. 

When the head chef discovered Alyssa's passion for cooking, she took her under her wing and offered her an apprenticeship. Alyssa enrolled in a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery and won several awards.

The course generated a dramatic change in Alyssa's views on food. Now she's passionate about the creation of fresh, slow food that's been made with love. Her love of baking has seen her embark on a Certificate III in Patisserie and eventually Alyssa plans to have her own business. 

Employer Award for Apprenticeship Development

Nazareth Care

Nazareth Care in Ballarat is a 145-bed accredited residential aged care facility offering independent living apartments through to specialised care.

For years they relied on regional casual workers due to health care professional shortages. To address this, Nazareth Care partnered with various organisations including Federation University TAFE and Jobs Centre, created a traineeship, employed and trained 11 people to enhance their staffing levels, and established an ongoing training program.

The model includes VET, and Certificate III to diploma options and was designed to attract jobseekers, including return to work parents and youth sourcing pathways into nursing. The model's tremendous impact on business exemplifies its effectiveness for adoption by the aged care industry.

Employer of the Year

PACCAR Australia

PACCAR Australia produces heavy-duty trucks under the Kenworth, Peterbilt and DAF brands. It generates around $1 billion in annual revenue.

Maintaining current skills is vital for business growth. For instance, their newest Kenworth T610 truck has a unique technological platform so a range of new skill sets was required for everything from software to assembly.

Another initiative to address a skill shortage of spray painters capable of working on large trucks saw Kenworth partner with Chisolm Institute to develop their unskilled operators.

This leads to a Certificate III in Automotive (Body Paint). In 2017 PACCAR trained more than 6,000 employees who achieved an average of 7.5 courses each.

Holmesglen Healthscope Industry Collaboration​

In 2011 Holmesglen Institute launched a 5-storey health science facility with a state-of-the-art simulation centre. They partnered with Healthscope, a private hospital healthcare provider and created a unique symbiotic health and education precinct. An onsite hospital is a first for Australia and takes training and skills development in a TAFE environment beyond traditional boundaries.

The Holmesglen Healthscope collaboration has introduced a hospital into a once underserviced community, created 750 nursing and allied health positions, enhanced opportunities for students, and established a facility for collaborative applied research which includes a joint clinical chair. Holmesglen's partnerships and industry links are vital elements of the project's success.

Inclusive Training Provider of the Year

Melbourne Polytechnic

Melbourne Polytechnic provides an effective and inclusive education and training environment for staff and students with disability.

The courses conducted by their Work Education department focus on empowerment. One program saw the establishment of several on-campus retail stores including a produce shop, and a not-for-profit store selling work clothes to students from low socio-economic backgrounds. These highlighted the value of hiring people with disability.

Strong relationships with local employers have yielded excellent employment outcomes. For 2016–17, 24 graduates achieved mainstream employment and 77 students went on to further studies. Students with disability participate in all aspects of Melbourne Polytechnic life through the provision of a range of support services.

Small Training Provider of the Year

Builders Academy Australia

A key point of difference in the Builders Academy Australia (BAA) training model is that they're builders who are training builders. Their nationally accredited building and construction VET courses are developed in consultation with Simonds Homes.

BAA is deeply committed to maintaining pathways between education, sustainable employment and career advancement. Most BAA students are already employed and looking to expand career opportunities, so flexible learning pathways are offered such as evening and weekend, interactive, virtual classrooms. Industry shortages exist in foreman and supervisor, project manager and site manager skills.

Large Training Provider of the Year

Wodonga Institute of TAFE

Ranked highest in the Victorian TAFE sector for student and employer satisfaction, and acknowledged as an exemplar model for improving youth outcomes, Wodonga Institute of TAFE provides vocational education services to diverse learners. 

A low rate of tertiary education participation in the region inspired them to collaborate with other institutions to develop more relevant pathway courses. For instance, students who achieve low ATAR scores can access the Wodonga TAFE – Charles Sturt University Pathway Program and attain a dual Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation and a Diploma of General Studies. Outcomes for their 211 participants have been outstanding with significant increases in course demand, and one student being awarded a PhD scholarship. ​​

​Community Training Provider of the Year

Wyndham Community and Education Centre Inc 

A broad range of adaptive educational and community programs are offered by Wyndham Community and Education Centre, a not-for-profit organisation. Their focus is across the western suburbs of Melbourne and Geelong.

The organisation responds to disadvantaged learners, youth and refugees with tailored pre-accredited and accredited programs that provide pathways into further education or employment.

In collaboration with industry, Wyndham Community and Education Centre created successful enterprises in the areas of hospitality, horticulture and bookkeeping. For instance, their Saffron Kitchen project provides on-the-job learning in a hospitality environment for people facing multiple barriers to employment. Their philosophy is that a young person's life circumstances shouldn't limit their opportunities.