The Apprentice of the Year Award is presented to a Victorian apprentice who has displayed outstanding achievement in all aspects of their trade. The winner of this award will represent Victoria at the Australian Training Awards.

Eligibility

You must: 

• be a permanent resident of Australia
• have completed or be due to complete your training course in the period 1 July 2023 to 31 December 2024 
• be registered in a training course that leads to a nationally recognised outcome or qualification relevant to the award you are applying for
• have completed or be due to complete your training in the state of Victoria
• have a contract of training registered with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority 
• not be enrolled at school.

Overview 

Provide a short overview covering a description of the qualification you are enrolled in, your training provider and employer (if applicable) as well as your reason for choosing your industry and training path. 

(Limit: 300 words)

Selection criteria

Criterion 1 

Career and study achievements 

Tell us about: 

• why you chose your course 
• what you have learnt and how you have changed 
• what you have gained from your time studying 
• how you have contributed to your workplace. 

(Limit: 400 words)

Criterion 2 

Team and communication skills

Tell us about: 

• what you have been able to tell others (workmates, employers, friends or family) about your training 
• what you like about working in a team setting 
• what traits you think are important to positively influence others.

(Limit: 400 words)

Criterion 3 

Ability to be an ambassador for training in Victoria 

Tell us about: 

• times when you have taken a leadership role inside or outside of work 
• any times when you have been a representative for your course, your training provider or another cause outside of your training 
• how you would describe the quality of your training. 

(Limit: 400 words)

Criterion 4

Other qualities and pursuits 

Tell us about: 

• any challenges that you have overcome during your training
• any times you have used initiative either in your training, your personal life or your workplace
• the qualities or activities you feel would be useful in your role as Apprentice of the Year 
• your involvement in other community or industry pursuits.

 (Limit: 400 words)

The Trainee of the Year Award is presented to a Victorian individual who is undertaking a traineeship and has been outstanding in all aspects of their training. The winner of this award will represent Victoria at the Australian Training Awards.

Eligibility 

You must: 

• be a permanent resident of Australia 
• have completed or be due to complete your training course in the period 1 July 2023 to 31 December 2024
• be registered in a training course that leads to a nationally recognised outcome or qualification relevant to the award you are applying for
• have completed or be due to complete your training in the state of Victoria
• have a contract of training registered with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority 
• not be enrolled at school.

Overview 

Provide a short overview covering a description of the qualification you are enrolled in, your training provider and employer (if applicable) as well as your reason for choosing your industry and training path. 

(Limit: 300 words)

Selection criteria 

Criterion 1 

Career and study achievements 

Tell us about: 

• why you chose your course
• what you have learnt and how you have changed
• what you have gained from your time studying
• how you have contributed to your workplace. 

(Limit: 400 words)

Criterion 2 

Team and communication skills 

Tell us about: 

• what you have been able to tell others (workmates, employers, friends or family) about your training
• what you like about working in a team setting
• what traits you think are important to positively influence others.

(Limit: 400 words)

Criterion 3 

Ability to be an ambassador for training in Victoria 

Tell us about: 

• times when you have taken a leadership role inside or outside of work
• any times when you have been a representative for your course, your training provider or another cause outside of your training
• how you would describe the quality of your training. 

(Limit: 400 words)

Criterion 4 

Other qualities and pursuits 

Tell us about: 

• any challenges that you have overcome during your training
• any times you have used initiative either in your training, your personal life or your workplace
• the qualities or activities you feel would be useful in your role as Trainee of the Year
• your involvement in other community or industry pursuits.

 (Limit: 400 words)

The Vocational Student of the Year Award is presented to a student whose outstanding achievement in a course of study led to a nationally recognised qualification. The winner of this award will represent Victoria at the Australian Training Awards.

Eligibility 

You must: 

• be a permanent resident of Australia 
• have completed or be due to complete your training course in the period 1 July 2023 to 31 December 2024 
• be registered in a training course that leads to a nationally recognised outcome or qualification relevant to the award you are applying for
• have completed or be due to complete your training in the state of Victoria 
• be enrolled as a full-time or part-time student (but not as an apprentice or trainee).

Overview 

Provide a short overview covering a description of the qualification you are enrolled in, your training provider and employer (if applicable) as well as your reason for choosing your industry and training path. 

(Limit: 300 words)

Selection criteria 

Criterion 1 

Career and study achievements 

Tell us about: 

• why you chose your course
• what you have learnt and how you have changed
• what you have gained from your time studying
• how you have contributed to your workplace.

(Limit: 400 words)

Criterion 2 

Team and communication skills 

Tell us about: 

• what you have been able to tell others (workmates, employers, friends or family) about your training
• what you like about working in a team setting
• what traits you think are important to positively influence others. 

(Limit: 400 words)

Criterion 3 

Ability to be an ambassador for training in Victoria 

Tell us about:

•  times when you have taken a leadership role inside or outside of work
• any times when you have been a representative for your course, your training provider or another cause outside of your training
• how you would describe the quality of your training. 

(Limit: 400 words) 

Criterion 4 

Other qualities and pursuits 

Tell us about: 

• any challenges that you have overcome during your training
• any times you have used initiative either in your training, your personal life or your workplace 
• the qualities or activities you feel would be useful in your role as Vocational Student of the Year 
• your involvement in other community or industry pursuits. 

(Limit: 400 words)

The School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year Award is presented to a student who is undertaking a Certificate II or above qualification as a part-time Victorian school-based apprentice or trainee. The award recognises the student’s commitment to their formal studies at school and in the workplace. The winner of this award will represent Victoria at the Australian Training Awards.

Eligibility 

You must: 

• be a permanent resident of Australia
• have completed or be due to complete your training in the state of Victoria 
• be undertaking or completing a Certificate II or above qualification, through a Victorian school-based apprenticeship or traineeship
• have a contract of training registered with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority
• be enrolled at school.

Overview 

Provide a short overview covering a description of the qualification you are enrolled in, your training provider and employer (if applicable) as well as your reason for choosing your industry and training path. 

(Limit: 300 words)

Selection criteria 

Criterion 1 

Career and study achievements 

Tell us about: 

• why you chose your course
• what you have learnt and how you have changed 
• what you have gained from your time studying
• how you have contributed to your workplace. 

(Limit: 400 words) 

Criterion 2 

Team and communication skills 

Tell us about: 

• what you have been able to tell others (workmates, employers, friends or family) about your training
• what you like about working in a team setting
• what traits you think are important to positively influence others. 

(Limit: 400 words)

Criterion 3 

Ability to be an ambassador for training in Victoria 

Tell us about: 

• times when you have taken a leadership role inside or outside of school
• any times when you have been a representative for your course, your training provider or school or another cause outside of your training 
• how you would describe the quality of your training.

(Limit: 400 words) 

Criterion 4 

Other qualities and pursuits 

Tell us about: 

• any challenges that you have overcome during your training
• any times you have used initiative either in your training, your personal life or your school
• the qualities or activities you feel would be useful in your role as School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year
• your involvement in other community or industry pursuits. 

(Limit: 400 words)

The Koorie Student of the Year Award recognises the achievements of a Koorie student who demonstrates the relevance of lifelong learning for themselves and their community. The winner of this award will represent Victoria at the Australian Training Awards.

Eligibility 

You must: 

• be a permanent resident of Australia
• identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
• Meet the eligibility requirements for any of the individual student categories:
  • Apprentice of the Year 
  • Trainee of the Year 
  • Vocational Student of the Year 
  • School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year.

Overview 

Provide a short overview covering a description of the qualification you are enrolled in, your training provider and employer (if applicable) as well as your reason for choosing your industry and training path. 

(Limit: 300 words)

Selection criteria

Criterion 1 

Career and study achievements 

Tell us about: 

• why you chose your course
• what you have learnt and how you have changed
• what you have gained from your time studying
• any challenges that you have overcome during your training. 

(Limit: 400 words) 

Criterion 2 

Team and communication skills 

Tell us about: 

• what you have been able to tell others (workmates, employers, friends or family) about your training
• what you like about working in a team setting
• what traits you think are important to positively influence others. 

(Limit: 400 words)

Criterion 3 

Ability to be an ambassador for training in Victoria 

Tell us about: 

• times when you have taken a leadership role inside or outside of work or school 
• any times when you have been a representative for your course, your training provider or school or another cause outside of your training
• how you would describe the quality of your training. 

(Limit: 400 words) 

Criterion 4 

Other qualities and pursuits 

Tell us about: 

• how you are connected with your community or extended family 
• how the training has impacted on your community 
• the qualities or activities you feel would be useful in your role as Koorie Student of the Year 
• how you have contributed to your community. 

(Limit: 400 words)

The Teacher or Trainer of the Year Award recognises innovation and excellence by a teacher or trainer providing nationally recognised training to students in the TAFE and training sector. The winner of this award will represent Victoria at the Australian Training Awards.

Eligibility 

You must: 

• be a permanent resident of Australia
• have qualified (as determined by the Australian Qualifications Framework) as a teacher or trainer
• be employed (or regularly contracted) by a registered training provider
• have delivered training in Victoria (from 1 January 2023 to 31 December 2024) which will lead or has led to nationally recognised qualifications or Statements of Attainment under the Australian Qualifications Framework national training system.

All applicants must be endorsed by the registered training organisation and evidence of the teacher or trainer’s qualification must be submitted with the application.

Overview 

Provide an overview of your areas of expertise, qualifications, courses and, or classes taught, education and work background, a description of the environment in which you operate and any specific challenges which were encountered and may have had to be overcome during the course of teaching or training. 

(Limit: 300 words)

Selection criteria 

Criterion 1 

Excellence and initiatives 

Tell us about: 

• what involvement you have had in the development of new learning methodologies and training delivery
• an initiative you have implemented which has led to innovation or improvement in your delivery and,or assessment practice
• how you have shared the outcomes of your innovation or improvement with your colleagues
• the impact of these initiatives or improvements on your learners, your colleagues and your industry partners. 

(Limit: 400 words) 

Criterion 2 

Learner needs and focus 

Tell us about: 

• how you support your learners’ diverse needs and ensure they continue to be engaged in learning
• what evidence there is of the effectiveness of the design and delivery methodologies of your training program
• any examples where you have initiated a new idea or activity etcetera in response to feedback
• what learner, industry and, or community feedback mechanisms you have utilised. 

(Limit: 400 words)

Criterion 3 

Commitment to vocational educating and training (VET) teaching and learning 

Tell us about: 

• how you maintain and grow your own skills and knowledge
• how you support others to develop their skills and knowledge
• examples of your engagement with other VET professionals. 

(Limit: 400 words) 

Criterion 4 

Links with industry and the community 

Tell us about: 

• how active links with industry and the community are implemented in practice 
• what are the major issues confronting the industry or industries related to your teaching program 
• how VET practices can help address these issues
• what level of engagement you have with industry and professional bodies 
• how you promote VET in industry and the community. 

(Limit: 400 words)

The Lynne Kosky Memorial Award for Lifetime Achievement is presented in recognition of an individual’s outstanding leadership and contribution to the Victorian TAFE and training sector for more than 15 years. 

A contribution may be a new innovation, new knowledge, or ways to improve professional practice deemed to be above and beyond the everyday with a long-lasting impact within the sector.

This award has unique nomination procedures and eligibility. 

• Individuals cannot self-nominate for this award category; nominations must be made on behalf of an individual.
• Nominees do not need to be currently employed to be eligible for this award.
• Once an individual has been nominated for the award, they become an enduring nominee and, if not successful initially, are eligible for consideration for this award in subsequent years.
• A post-humous nomination can be made for this award.

The nomination follows the eligibility set by the Australian Training Awards.

The nominated individual must: 

• have an established history of distinguished service to the TAFE and training sector (15 years or more, of sustained service) 
• have made a positive and lasting contribution to the TAFE and training sector 
• be recognised by other industry, training, education or employer groups; and have the respect of professional peers 
• be acknowledged as having reached a pinnacle of their profession or industry 
• have demonstrated, over an extended period of time, a contribution which has included either research, industry achievement, professional leadership and service to the TAFE and training sector 
• have demonstrated high-level personal integrity 
• have exhibited leadership and provided inspiration to others in the TAFE and training sector 
• have positively influenced the TAFE and training sector in Victoria 
• have made significant and fundamental contributions and be able to demonstrate a lifetime commitment to the TAFE and training sector.

Overview 

Provide a short overview of the person, their achievements and the reason for the nomination. 

(Limit: 400 words)

Selection criteria

Criterion 1 

History of service

Consider the nominee’s history of service to the vocational education and training (VET) and skills sector – in particular, positions of leadership the nominee has held such as on boards or as chair of committees. Any other known history in the sector, such as participation on committees and workgroups, and any examples of the nominee representing the VET and skills sector officially as a liaison to other organisations or at state, national or international meetings. Additionally, consideration is given to an individual’s broader contributions to the VET and skills sector. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 2 

Significant contribution and positive influence on the VET and skills sector 

Consider the nominee’s significant contribution(s) to the advancement of VET practice and skills development, including teaching or training positions or programs, awards or recognition from professional or industry groups and institutions, and, or innovative approaches to difficulties. How will the nominee’s story inspire others to higher standards in their work or to raise the communities’ perception of the VET and skills sector?

(Limit: 800 words) 

Criterion 4 

Leadership 

The nominee’s leadership in the field of VET including, but not limited to, positively influencing policy or practice on a state, national or international level. This may include government committees and workgroups, advocacy, senior positions, other training, mentoring or committee participation. How have they 'made a difference' in some way? 

(Limit: 800 words)

The Small Employer of the Year Award celebrates small businesses that have achieved excellence in the provision of nationally recognised training for their employees. The winner of this award will be nominated to represent Victoria at the Australian Training Awards.

Eligibility

Your organisation must:

• deliver nationally recognised vocational education and training (VET) for your employees that leads to formal qualifications or Statements of Attainment issued by a Registered Training Organisation under the Australian Qualifications Framework
• employ 99 or fewer full-time equivalent (FTE) employees.

Note: nominations will not be accepted from organisations whose core business is the delivery of vocational education and training (these organisations may consider nominating for either the Large or Small Training Provider of the Year).

Overview

Provide a brief description of your business, including the products and, or services offered, plus any major milestones that have been achieved.

(Limit: 500 words)

Selection criteria

Criterion 1

Extent and quality of training for employees

Tell us about:

• how your organisation (either alone or in partnership with training organisations) has designed training specifically for your business
• the qualifications or courses that your employees are undertaking
• the percentage of your employees who are actively engaged in training
• how many hours per month (average) that your employees spend in training
• how you integrate on-the-job and off-the-job training
• how you commit to equity in training such as for employees who are from groups that are under-represented in employment, education and training (such as people with disabilities, First Nations people, people from non-English speaking backgrounds, people in older age groups, people living in remote areas).

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 2

Achievements of the business and its employees that can be attributed to training

Tell us about:

• how training has improved the productivity and well-being of your employees (briefly describe the personal training achievements of a few of your staff)
• how training has improved your relationships with clients
• how training has improved the productivity and profitability of your business
• how you measure the benefits of training
• how training will improve your business in the future
• how training is integrated into business planning.

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 3

Innovation and excellence in design and delivery of training

Tell us about:

• how your business has shown creativity, innovation and excellence in the design, development and delivery of training for your employees
• the innovative methods that you use to create positive relationships or partnerships with others to enhance the effectiveness of your training
• the innovative approaches that you use to encourage access to training for your employees (for example, mentoring, eLearning, collaborative learning).

(Limit: 800 words)

The Large Employer of the Year Award celebrates large businesses and enterprises that have achieved excellence in the provision of nationally recognised training to their employees. The winner of this award will be nominated to represent Victoria at the Australian Training Awards.

Eligibility 

Your organisation must:  

• deliver nationally recognised vocational education and training for your employees that leads to formal qualifications or Statements of Attainment issued by a Registered Training Organisation under the Australian Qualifications Framework 
• employ 100 or more full-time equivalent (FTE) employees.

Note: nominations will not be accepted from organisations whose core business is the delivery of vocational education and training (these organisations may consider nominating for either the Large or Small Training Provider of the Year Award).

Overview 

Provide a brief description of your business, including the products and, or services offered, plus any major milestones that have been achieved. 

(Limit: 500 words)

Selection criteria

Criterion 1

Extent and quality of training to employees

Tell us about: 

• how your organisation (either alone or in partnership with training organisations) has designed training specifically for your business
• the qualifications or courses that your employees are undertaking 
• the percentage of your employees who are actively engaged in training 
• how many hours per month (average) that your employees spend in training 
• how you integrate on-the-job and off- the-job training.

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 2 

Achievements of the business and its employees that can be attributed to training 

Tell us about: 

• how training has improved the productivity and well-being of your employees (briefly describe the personal training achievements of a few of your staff) 
• how training has improved your relationships with clients 
• how training has improved the productivity and profitability of your business 
• how you measure the benefits of training 
• how training will improve your business in the future.

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 3

Integration of training into business planning

Tell us about:

• the training aims of your business 
• the ‘training culture’ that you have established within your business 
• how training fits into your workforce development and business planning 
• how you have formalised an ongoing commitment to training 
• how you find out about the training needs of your employees. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 4 

Innovation and excellence in design and delivery of training

Tell us about: 

• how your business has shown creativity, innovation and excellence in the design, development and delivery of training for your employees 
• the innovative methods that you use to create positive relationships or partnerships with others to enhance the effectiveness of your training 
• the innovative approaches that you use to encourage access to training for your employees (for example, mentoring, eLearning, collaborative learning).

 (Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 5

Commitment to equity in training

Tell us about:

• how you commit to equity in training such as for employees who are from groups that are under-represented in employment, education and training (such as people with disabilities, First Nations people, people from non-English speaking backgrounds, people in older age groups, people living in remote areas) 
• the number of these employees who have actively engaged in training 
• the number of these employees who have actively trained for managerial or supervisory jobs 
• the training programs that have been specifically designed for these employees. 

(Limit: 800 words)

The Employer Award for Apprenticeship Development recognises those employers who have made innovative improvements in training which provide beneficial outcomes for their apprentices and, or trainees in Victoria and to their local community. This is a Victorian-only award and does not articulate to the Australian Training Awards.

Eligibility

Your organisation must:

• be an employer of Victorian apprentices or trainees at some time between 1 January 2023 and 5 June 2024
• have a formalised contract of training of apprenticeship or traineeship.

Overview

Provide a brief description of your business, including the products and, or services offered, plus any major milestones that have been achieved.

(Limit: 500 words)

Selection criteria

Criterion 1

Innovation in the delivery of training for apprentices and, or trainees

Tell us about: 

• how you have demonstrated innovation in your approach to the design and delivery of training for apprentices and, or trainees 
• the training programs and initiatives you have implemented and how they have improved outcomes for apprentices and, or trainees 
• any processes or new approaches you have adopted for the delivery of the training
• any unique elements of the training program(s) 
• the availability of quality training pathways. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 2 

Links with training providers and the community

Tell us about: 

• how you have partnered or collaborated with training providers and the broader community to deliver innovative training and skill outcomes 
• the partners included in the training of apprentices and, or trainees, including Registered Training Organisations and Australian Apprenticeship Support Network providers
• the extent of participation and the benefits of these partnerships
• how the skills required within the local community have been met 
• how the training programs have been promoted externally. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 3 

Apprentice and, or trainee outcomes

Tell us about: 

• how your approach to training has impacted positively on individual apprentices and, or trainees 
• evidence of successful learning outcomes for apprentices and, or trainees (for example, data relating to their progress, positive work outcomes and retention and completion rates) 
• if you have customised training or developed innovative use of recognition of prior learning and skills acquisition 
• if your individual apprentices and, or trainees have increased their foundation skill levels 
• any workplace mentoring in place and the resultant benefits. 

(Limit: 800 words)

The Industry Collaboration Award recognises exemplary skills development collaborations between at least one employer or industry body and at least one organisation delivering nationally recognised vocational education and training. The winner of this award will be nominated to represent Victoria at the Australian Training Awards.

Eligibility 

The collaboration must: 

• have at least one party who is an industry organisation (for example, employer, enterprise, group of enterprises, industry association, industry advisory body, trade union or professional association)
• have at least one party who is delivering nationally recognised vocational education and training or directly contributing to the outcomes of nationally recognised vocational education and training which leads to formal qualifications or Statements of Attainment under the Australian Qualifications Framework.

Note: applications will not be accepted from organisations operating under contractual ‘partnership’ agreements.

Overview 

Provide an overview of the collaboration, including the program being delivered and the role of each of the partners included. 

(Limit: 500 words)

Selection criteria

Criterion 1

Outstanding practice of the collaboration

Tell us about: 

• the basis of the collaboration partner’s agreement that have been so successful 
• the specific training need being addressed by the collaboration 
• the exemplary or innovative aspects that are a feature of the collaboration. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 2 

Achievements of the collaboration for training 

Tell us about: 

• examples of excellence in the training delivered 
• the training outcomes that have been achieved (including qualifications and skill sets awarded) 
• the improvements in the quality of learning and assessment that have been implemented 
• any new or improved career pathways and opportunities that have been created. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 3 

Training impacts of the collaboration 

Tell us about: 

• how the collaboration has benefited the participants, the community, the collaborating organisations and the broader training system 
• the improvements in the process or procedures of all collaborating organisations that have been implemented 
• what contribution there has been to social equity especially increasing the participation of people from groups underrepresented in the industry or workplaces. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 4 

Sustainability and future of the collaboration 

Tell us about: 

• any aspects of the collaboration that utilises government funding. If so, how could the collaboration be continued if government funding ceased? 
• how the outcomes of the collaboration can be replicated or modelled for other industries 
• the quality improvement or performance evaluations of the collaboration that are in place and planned. 

(Limit: 800 words)

The Community Training Provider of the Year Award recognises innovation and excellence by an organisation involved in improving skills in the local community or workplace. This is a Victorian-only award and does not articulate to the Australian Training Awards.

Eligibility 

Your organisation must: 

• deliver training in Victoria 
• have a history of timely compliance with contractual obligations and program requirements 
• be registered with the ACFE Board as a Learn Local organisation 
• have delivered ACFE Board-funded pre-accredited training in 2023.

Overview 

Provide a brief description of your organisation, including the reasons why you are applying for this award. 

(Limit: 500 words)

Selection criteria

Criterion 1 

Demonstrated design and implementation of quality training programs (pre-accredited and other) that are highly valued by the local community and are responsive to learner aspirations

Tell us about: 

• how your programs provide pathways to other opportunities, further learning and employment 
• what measures of quality you implement to ensure the successful delivery of your programs 
• what challenges have been overcome in planning and implementing your training programs 
• if the training programs might have a positive impact beyond the organisation in the wider community or environment 
• what techniques and, or strategies your organisation uses to engage learners in your programs and maintain good learner completion rates 
• what ways learners have been supported beyond the formal structures of program delivery 
• how you demonstrate creativity, excellence and, or innovation in the design and development of processes or techniques 
• your organisation’s history – how your services have responded to the changes in your local community. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 2 

Demonstrated understanding of local community and know-how to attract learners facing barriers to participation and attainment in vocational training

Tell us about: 

• if your programs benefit and appeal to individuals or groups who are typically underrepresented in traditional educational channels (in terms of gender, age, ethnicity, ability, location) 
• examples of learners with pathways into local businesses that have addressed local skills shortages 
• what your organisation does to encourage access 
• what degree of success the organisation has had in meeting the needs of learners facing barriers 
• what your organisation does to promote knowledge of clients and markets and how it responds to these 
• any systems and processes for collecting and analysing data on client needs and expectations 
• what local and learner needs are addressed by your organisation
• the benefits to your local community 
• what is unique or creative about your organisation’s approach to addressing local needs 
• how you support learners to connect with local community, further education and employment opportunities.

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 3 

Demonstrated partnerships and participation in broader service delivery within the local community

Tell us about: 

• how learners’ achievements have impacted on others either in the organisation or local community stakeholders 
• how your work environment demonstrates that it recognises the well-being of staff
• how you undertake continuous improvement within the organisation 
• how your organisation connects with the work and, or offerings of other organisations or groups in the local or wider community 
• how your organisation connects with business or industry (individuals or groups) 
• the strategies your organisation has to identify local and, or regional issues (such as social, economic, industrial or environmental issues) and how you incorporate these into service delivery 
• the methods your organisation uses to create positive relationships with individuals, enterprises, industries and local community groups (for example, industry consultation, partnerships, feedback) 
• if your organisation has supported learners to engage with their local community 
• any types of learner pathways your organisation helped to create 
• what partnership or network your organisation has established that has had positive outcomes for learners in your organisation or your local community. 

(Limit: 800 words)

The Inclusive Training Provider of the Year Award recognises exceptional training providers within the Victorian government’s vocational education and training sector that have demonstrated outstanding improvements with regard to the achievement, engagement and well-being of students with disability. This is a Victorian-only award and does not articulate to the Australian Training Awards.

Eligibility 

Your organisation must: 

• be a training provider whose core business is the delivery of training 
• deliver training in Victoria 
• be a training provider delivering an inclusive curriculum for students with a disability and, or additional needs 
• have an effective Disability Action Plan and inclusive and accessible employment plans in place.

Overview 

Provide a brief description of your organisation, including the reasons why you are applying for this award. 

(Limit: 500 words)

Selection criteria 

Criterion 1 

Focus on students

Tell us about: 

• how you make a positive impact on the achievement, engagement and well-being of students with additional needs 
• how you deliver outstanding improvements to increase understanding about students with disability and additional needs 
• how you engage with students with disability, their families and carers, to ensure their needs are considered and addressed, facilitating inclusive practices to deliver strong outcomes. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 2 

Quality and inclusive teaching and learning 

Tell us about: 

• how you demonstrate excellent curriculum, pedagogy, assessment and reporting practices in response to the needs of students with disability 
• innovative uses of technology to deliver an inclusive curriculum for students with a wide range of functional impairments 
• how you ensure reasonable adjustments are made to support students with disability. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 3 

Community and system engagement 

Tell us about: 

• how you demonstrate working in partnership with schools, networks, regions and the community to develop an understanding of students with additional needs 
• how you foster partnerships in local communities to increase employment opportunities for students with disability through the building of pathways from training to employment. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 4 

Implementing improvement, innovation and change 

Tell us about: 

• how you demonstrate leadership and implementation of initiatives or programs that meet the needs of students with additional needs 
• how these are developed and delivered in line with best practice principles 
• how you demonstrate development and maintenance of positive and purposeful relationships, working in partnership with schools, networks, regions and the community to improve collaborative practices, while positively building the reputation of the Victorian government’s vocational education and training (VET) system. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 5 

Inclusive workplace 

Tell us about: 

• the modelling of effective Disability Action Plans and inclusive and accessible employment practices to demonstrate to industry partners and other employers the benefits of a diverse workforce 
• how you demonstrate commitment to support current staff with disability and a track record of increasing the numbers of staff with disability 
• your inclusion of people with disability in the teaching and delivery of disability employment qualifications. 

(Limit: 800 words)

The Small Training Provider of the Year Award recognises small registered training organisations (RTOs) that offer a range of training products and services and that demonstrate excellence and high-level performance in all aspects of vocational education and training (VET). The winner of this Award will be nominated to represent Victoria at the Australian Training Awards.

Eligibility 

Your organisation must: 

• be a training provider whose core business is the delivery of training 
• deliver training in Victoria 
• have fewer than 500 students enrolled at the time of nomination, as reported by RTOs in the most recent annual National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) data collection period.

Overview 

Provide a brief description of your organisation, including the reasons why you are applying for this award. 

(Limit: 500 words)

Selection criteria 

Criterion 1 

High quality and leading practice in vocational education and training

Tell us about: 

• how you demonstrate excellence and high level performance in nationally accredited training arrangements 
• how you provide creative and innovative solutions to emerging training needs 
• the systems you have in place to manage, evaluate and enhance your VET products and services 
• how you implement and keep up with best practice
• how your training influences best practice 
• how you measure success (for example, outcome and completion data, satisfaction surveys, independent validations and evaluations, industry recognition, business outcomes from training activity) 
• how you undertake continuous improvement and apply quality controls within your organisation. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 2

Meeting student needs

Tell us about: 

• how you encourage access to your VET products and services
• what support services you provide to students during their training 
• the systems you have in place to be able to reach different cohorts (for example, online training)
• how you are inclusive of different students’ needs 
• how you provide students with the skills they need to be successful in the workplace 
• how satisfied students are with their training 
• the success you have achieved in meeting the needs of equity groups. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 3 

Meeting industry needs

Tell us about: 

• how you build new, innovative and effective partnerships with industry in the local or wider community 
• how you collect data on and understand industry or business needs and expectations 
• your capacity and flexibility to meet changing training needs and new training markets
• how your training reflects changing industry requirements and expectations. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 4 

High quality business management

Tell us about: 

• the strategies you have in place to identify local or regional issues (for example, social, economic, industrial or environmental issues) and how you incorporate these into your service delivery 
• the systems you have in place for planning and communicating your purpose, vision, goals, values and core business strategies (and for creating alignment across your whole organisation) 
• how you develop the capability and capacity of your workforce
• the strategies you have in place to build a positive workplace culture how you support employee wellbeing and positive mental health 
• how you incorporate inclusion and diversity into running your business
• how you identify and attract new clients and new markets, and how you address these without impacting the sustainability of your operations 
• how you enrol, train and report on online learners 
• how you ensure the sustainability of your operations, including your understanding of risk and risk management. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 5

Innovation and excellence in design and delivery of training

Tell us about: 

• he details of creativity, innovation and excellence in the design, development and delivery of training 
• how you demonstrate creativity and innovation in the design and development of your processes and techniques (operational or educational) 
• innovative methods that you use to create positive relationships or partnerships with others to enhance the effectiveness of your training 
• innovative approaches that you use to encourage access to training for your students (for example, mentoring, eLearning, collaborative learning). 

(Limit: 800 words)

The Large Training Provider of the Year Award recognises large registered training organisations (RTOs) that offer a range of training products and services and that demonstrate excellence and high-level performance in all aspects of vocational education and training. The winner of this award will be nominated to represent Victoria at the Australian Training Awards.

Eligibility 

Your organisation must: 

• be a training provider whose core business is the delivery of training 
• deliver training in Victoria 
• have 500 or more students enrolled at the time of nomination, as reported by RTOs in the most recent annual National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) data collection period.

Overview 

Provide a brief description of your organisation, including the reasons why you are applying for this award. 

(Limit: 500 words)

Selection criteria 

Criterion 1 

High quality and leading practice in vocational education and training

Tell us about: 

• how you demonstrate excellence and high level performance in nationally accredited training arrangements 
• how you provide creative and innovative solutions to emerging training needs 
• the systems you have in place to manage, evaluate and enhance your VET products and services 
• how you implement and keep up with best practice 
• how your training influences best practice 
• how you measure success (for example, outcome and completion data, satisfaction surveys, independent validations and evaluations, industry recognition, business outcomes from training activity) 
• how you undertake continuous improvement and apply quality controls within your organisation. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 2

Meeting student needs

Tell us about: 

• how you encourage access to your VET products and services 
• what support services you provide to students during their training 
• the systems you have in place to be able to reach different cohorts (for example, online training)
• how you are inclusive of different students’ needs 
• how you provide students with the skills they need to be successful in the workplace
• how satisfied students are with their training
• the success you have achieved in meeting the needs of equity groups. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 3 

Meeting industry needs

Tell us about: 

• how you build new, innovative and effective partnerships with industry in the local or wider community 
• how you collect data on and understand industry or business needs and expectations 
• your capacity and flexibility to meet changing training needs and new training markets 
• how your training reflects changing industry requirements and expectations. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 4 

High quality business management

Tell us about: 

• the strategies you have in place to identify local or regional issues (for example, social, economic, industrial or environmental issues) and how you incorporate these into your service delivery
• the systems you have in place for planning and communicating your purpose, vision, goals, values and core business strategies (and for creating alignment across your whole organisation) 
• how you develop the capability and capacity of your workforce 
• the strategies you have in place to build a positive workplace culture 
• how you support employee wellbeing and positive mental health 
• how you incorporate inclusion and diversity into running your business 
• how you identify and attract new clients and new markets, and how you address these without impacting the sustainability of your operations 
• how you enrol, train and report on online learners 
• how you ensure the sustainability of your operations, including your understanding of risk and risk management. 

(Limit: 800 words)

Criterion 5

Innovation and excellence in design and delivery of training

Tell us about: 

• the details of creativity, innovation and excellence in the design, development and delivery of training 
• how you demonstrate creativity and innovation in the design and development of your processes and techniques (operational or educational) 
• innovative methods that you use to create positive relationships or partnerships with others to enhance the effectiveness of your training 
• innovative approaches that you use to encourage access to training for your students (for example, mentoring, eLearning, collaborative learning). 

(Limit: 800 words)