Victoria government logo

The Hon Gayle Tierney MP
Minister for Training and Skills
Minister for Higher Education
Minister for Agriculture
Level 1, 2 Treasury Place
East Melbourne VIC 3002

Dear Minister

In accordance with the Financial Management Act 1994, I am pleased to submit the Adult, Community and Further Education Board’s Annual Report for the year ending 30 June 2022.

Ms Maria Peters
Chairperson
Adult, Community and Further Education Board


Date:
November 2022

Year in review

Our vision

The vision of the Adult, Community and Further Education Board (the Board) is that the adult, community and further education (ACFE) sector develops the core skills Victorian adults need for study, work and life.

Our mission

The mission of the Board is to lead literacy, numeracy, English language, employability and digital skills education and training for adult learners in Victoria.

Our values

In accordance with the Public Administration Act 2004, the Board upholds the 7 core Victorian public sector values of:

  • responsiveness
  • integrity
  • impartiality
  • accountability
  • respect
  • leadership
  • human rights.

Chairperson’s report

Our Learn Local sector has always been important as a vital and unique part of our state’s education system. Learn Locals provide places where people come to connect and improve their language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills. They are where people can build skills for study, work and life and, most importantly, where the confidence, expectations and hopes of adult learners are changed for thousands of Victorians each year.

Last year highlighted that many people in Victoria need even more support. Our sector continues to provide opportunities for people to re-engage and participate in a positive learning experience, and to gain the vital confidence and skills they need in life, in study and in work. The Board greatly appreciates the work that providers do every day to help learners achieve their dreams.

During 2021–22, the sector continued to show resilience, dedication and innovation to meet the fluctuating challenges of the COVID-19 environment. The Board recognised the struggles faced by the sector and remained learner focused, through approval of flexible funding arrangements and the development of new initiatives. It supported Learn Local providers to deliver the relevant and quality training that learners need to develop skills for study and work, to have positive lives and to participate in their communities.

Although the Board was focused on being responsive to the needs of the sector during the COVID-19 pandemic, it also maintained momentum in achieving the goals and aspirations of the Ministerial Statement, The Future of Adult Community Education in Victoria 2020–25, to provide strong foundations for the sector, and support learners and Learn Local staff to ensure a sustainable sector into the future.

Learners

The Board continued to focus on work that leads to a better understanding of our learners, particularly hard‑to-reach and disengaged learners, and their barriers and motivations to engagement, including Koorie and culturally and linguistically diverse learners. This work aims to improve participation and success in pre-accredited training through place-based local learning, using a choice of delivery modes and experiences that meet the needs and goals of learners.

In 2021–22, the sector continued to experience a softening of learner demand. The number of module enrolments in Learn Local courses funded by the Board in 2021 indicates that, although enrolments were lower than the target, they represent an improvement on 2020 when the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic were first being realised.

Despite the continued lower demand by learners, results of the 2021 Pre-accredited Learner Survey were very positive. Most respondents were highly satisfied with the teaching and learning experiences they received, and learners continued to achieve positive employment outcomes from undertaking Learn Local courses. I would like to again congratulate Learn Local providers on the results of the survey, which acknowledge the hard work of educators.

Buoyed by these results, the Board continued providing programs to encourage more learners to participate in Learn Local courses. This included research, programs and additional centrally developed resources to assist the sector to deliver pre-accredited training in areas of greatest need.

In response to the significant impact of the COVID-19 environment on delivery and uptake of training, the Board looked to initiatives to support learner access and sector sustainability. A key project has commenced to establish sustainable pre-accredited regional provision models that foster and support different delivery approaches between providers, which will cater for thin markets and support providers to meet place-based needs.

Partnerships

The Board focused on supporting partnerships across our communities to make sure that the role of the sector is better understood, is promoted, and is part of place-based local solutions. These include improving partnerships of Learn Locals with TAFEs and dual-sector universities, which will be further strengthened though collaboration with the Office of TAFE Coordination and Delivery. These partnerships will assist with developing stronger pathways for learners from pre-accredited into accredited training. Collaborative arrangements have also been established between the Victorian Skills Authority and Regional Councils, to exchange intelligence on local workforce needs and training issues.

The Board also supported Learn Local providers to assist with the development of new initiatives, including the Just in Time Learn Local–Industry Partnerships and Learn Local at Work case studies. These projects assist Learn Locals to form relationships with industry, and provide the support and resources needed for this. These important projects will help build understanding of the sector across industry, and how it can assist industry to meet workforce needs.

Working with job agencies, industry and TAFE will increase opportunities and improve employment and training pathways for learners who wish to gain skills and find employment. It will also support local industry and the local economy.

Working with the sector

The Board also focused on developing strengthened approaches to professional development to support the Learn Local workforce. Continued engagement with the sector makes professional development accessible, supports workforce skills and improves knowledge of the sector, which effectively addresses the needs of its learners, communities, industry and other partners.

The Board provided support and training for Learn Locals to deliver online or remote training. This included guidance materials, support networks and webinars on innovative delivery strategies. Centralised resources were made available to assist the sector to deliver training in areas of greatest need, including digital literacy modules and courses, pathways into further study and work, and industry-contextualised training.

The Board maintained its high level of engagement and consultation with stakeholders and the sector. It continued face-to-face and virtual visits with Learn Local providers, to see their work and thank them for their work, commitment, resilience and adaptability. In doing this, the Board gained a better understanding of the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 environment and what the impact of other changes, such as higher employment levels, was having on provision and community needs. The feedback from these and other sector sessions held with the Board, online COVID-19 sessions, and the Learn Local pulse surveys, provided the Board with much needed insight into the challenges facing the sector during these unprecedented times.

This feedback has been instrumental in assisting the Board’s strategic planning for 2022 and beyond, including increased support and flexible funding for Learn Locals.

Sector recognition

The 2021 Learn Local Awards Gala Ceremony was an opportunity to come together and celebrate achievements of learners, and the work and value of the sector. In 2021, the Board introduced several new award categories, including the Victorian Learn Local Leadership Award and the Victorian Learn Local Innovation Award, with the aim of recognising these important aspects of our sector. The 2020 Awards winners and finalists were also invited to attend, as we were unable to hold an in-person gala in 2020.

We take great pride in what we do, and, through the positive impact we have on so many individuals in our communities, we change lives. These awards are just one way that we shine a spotlight on the amazing work of the Learn Local sector.

The Board’s work and governance

In 2021–22, investment was made in research to build learner engagement, sector brand recognition and impact with key stakeholders, through the delivery of evidence-based communication strategies and activities. The Board also finalised important strategic policies on provision, procurement and registration, to make sure that the distribution of Board funding was aligned with the goals of the Ministerial Statement. I am positive that the Board can encourage more learners back to Learn Local courses and improve outcomes for learners who are most in need.

To further progress implementation of the 2020 governance review of ACFE, the Board and the Department of Education and Training (the department) worked together to develop the ACFE System Governance Guidelines to support effective working relationships and strengthen outcomes.

In response to the Parliamentary Secretary’s 2021 Strengthening Regional Councils review, the Board approved an implementation plan of the review’s 21 recommendations in February 2022. This plan makes sure that all recommendations from the review will be implemented throughout 2022. A focus on stronger collaboration, and relevant and effective resources and processes, will make sure that the Board and Regional Councils have an effective relationship into the future.

Acknowledgements

I would like to thank all Board members for their expertise, leadership, work and ongoing commitment to do the best they can for our leaners and the Learn Local sector. I would like to acknowledge the contribution of Mr Raoul Wainwright and Ms Penny Wilson, whose terms ended during 2021–22.

Mr Wainwright was Deputy Chairperson of the Board until 25 September 2021. He brought many key attributes and skills to the Board, including his extensive legal background. Through his commitment to improving education opportunities for all Victorians, he made a strong contribution to the Board over his term.

Ms Wilson’s background in Learn Local provision gave the Board first-hand knowledge of the place-based provision of ACFE. Her passion for the sector, together with her expertise in communications and governance, and her understanding of business management, were much valued on the Board.

On behalf of the Board, I wish to thank them for their positive contribution on the Board and their commitment to adult community education. I wish them well in their future endeavours and achievements.

During 2021–22, the Board welcomed 2 new members: Ms Deborah Sansom and Mr Ekrem Ozyurek.

Mr Ozyurek brings 30 years of experience in primary and secondary education to the Board. The Board will benefit greatly from his knowledge and work in community, and cultural development in culturally and linguistically diverse communities, specifically the Turkish and Islamic communities.

Ms Sansom has widespread experience in media, communications and stakeholder engagement. Through her consultancy business, she brings to the Board specialised skills in community engagement and workforce development, across the arts, government, business and not-for-profit sectors.

In 2021–22, we also welcomed new and reappointed members to our 8 Regional Councils. I sincerely thank Regional Council members for their critical role as part of the Board’s governance, for their advocacy of the sector in their regions, for their insights and regional knowledge, and for their advice on the needs of their communities. The Board values the Regional Councils’ continued contribution to and support of its work to improve educational training opportunities for adult Victorians.

On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank the General Manager of the Board, Ms Jeanette Nagorcka, and the staff within the ACFE Division and broader department, who are involved in delivering our priorities and work, and who support our learners and the sector.

Looking to the future, the Board remains committed to supporting and working with the sector to provide the best outcomes for adult learners in Victoria. I am immensely honoured to be part of the Board and to work with so many wonderful people in our sector. The Board is proud of the sector’s ongoing commitment to learners and their communities, and its ongoing resilience and work over the last few difficult years.

The Board looks forward to continuing to work with the sector and to both lead and support it, to make sure that the important work it does will strengthen and prosper into the future.

Ms Maria Peters
Chairperson

Purpose and functions

The Board was established as an authority under Victorian legislation in 1991. It now performs important statutory functions under the Education and Training Reform Act 2006. Its key role is to support the development of ACFE in Victoria.

The Board has 5 broad functions that are:

  • developmental – to evaluate and report on the development of place-based ACFE policies, programs, resources and services
  • advisory – to advise the Minister for Training and Skills and, through the Minister, the Victorian Government, on ACFE matters
  • strategic – to strategically plan and evaluate policies, programs, resources and services. We consider and prioritise the needs of adult learners seeking to attain the education and core skills necessary for further study and employment, and establish objectives and targets to meet them
  • profiling – to foster and support research and development in the adult community education sector, as well as into the impact and benefit of ACFE
  • operational funding – to provide and fund policies, programs, resources and services to deliver accessible, inclusive and quality ACFE programs, resources and services, based on learner needs.

In performing these functions, the Board pays close attention to giving Victorians who previously have not benefited from education equitable access to adult community learning opportunities. The Board monitors the quality of education so that it remains relevant to specific community needs.

Adult community education in Victoria

The Victorian Government, through the Board, registers and funds adult community education providers to deliver Learn Local courses to a broad range of adult Victorians, so they can study and work in their local area. Learn Local courses are aimed at adult Victorians who want to develop their core skills for study, work or life. These short courses are offered at low or no cost to eligible Victorians. They range from literacy and numeracy to job-related and digital skills, and are delivered by experienced and dedicated trainers.

Learn Local courses contribute to the wellbeing of learners in a range of important ways, such as by building self-confidence and social engagement, and through positive learning experiences that lead to study pathways or employment.

They also provide:

  • greater opportunities through economic participation
  • stronger Victorian communities and economies, through greater workforce participation
  • increased socioeconomic resilience and improved mental health.

By strengthening the ability of adult Victorians to participate fully as members of the Victorian community, courses deliver the social and societal benefits of true citizen participation.

Adult community education providers delivering Board-funded courses are part of the Learn Local sector. The Learn Local sector is an essential part of Victoria’s post-secondary education and training system. It plays a vital role in providing pathways for adult learners to transition to employment and further training.

The Learn Local sector supports adult learners with diverse needs. Adults who are still developing core skills may not have completed secondary school, or may not have been engaged in education for a significant period. Some face other challenges in their lives, such as adverse physical or mental health, disability, cultural differences, homelessness or housing instability, violence or discrimination, or they may have long‑term or generational unemployment.

The sector also supports people who are in the workforce, but have a level of vocational or employment skills that makes them vulnerable to job loss, particularly if their industry changes or is disrupted, such as when new technologies are introduced.

Learn Local providers adopt an informal, welcoming, flexible approach to learning, and are often the best means of accessing suitable education and training in the community.

Board-registered Learn Local providers are community-based organisations and managed not-for-profit organisations. They range from large, sophisticated organisations staffed by experts in many fields, to smaller organisations with simple structures that are staffed by people with expertise primarily in adult, community and further education. In 2022, 265 organisations are registered Learn Local providers, including AMES Australia.

All Learn Local providers are place-based community organisations, with some providers focusing solely on delivering Board-funded courses. For the majority of Learn Local providers, educational and service delivery responsibilities are much broader.

The Board’s strategic focus 2020–25

The Ministerial Statement The Future of Adult Community Education in Victoria 2020–25 was launched by the Minister for Training and Skills, Minister for Higher Education, and Minister for Agriculture on 14 November 2019. It establishes a reform agenda for the Board and the adult community education sector. It sets ambitious aspirations and goals with qualitative and quantitative measures.

The Ministerial Statement emphasises training in adult literacy, numeracy, employability and digital skills as a priority across all post-compulsory education sectors, including technical and further education (TAFE). It identifies a stronger role for the sector in supporting students to enter and successfully complete TAFE and university courses, and in upskilling and reskilling low-skilled workers who may be vulnerable to becoming unemployed as the nature of work changes.

The Ministerial Statement sets ambitious aspirations and goals for the Board and the adult community education sector during 2020–25, which include:

  • building the capability of the adult community education sector to provide literacy, numeracy, digital and employability skills training, enhancing professional development support for the sector and its teaching resources, and building Board capacity to deliver on statement priorities
  • developing partnerships with employers across the post-secondary education system and across the Victorian Government, to support learners to work, study and fully participate in society
  • enhancing learner access, inclusion and engagement across all local government areas, directing all Board funding to learners on the basis of need, and promoting the role and value of the adult community education sector.

The Ministerial Statement gives the adult community education sector the recognition and strategic direction it deserves. It will guide sectoral collaboration for the purpose of improving the lives of Victorian learners through education.

The Board’s Strategy 2020–25 is a blueprint for the Board and the Learn Local sector for the 6 years from 2020 to 2025. It is the primary means of delivering on the Ministerial Statement, and positioning and strengthening the sector’s role in Victoria. This strategy is closely aligned with the Ministerial Statement.

Strategy 2020–25 focuses on adult Victorians who are seeking to develop the core skills they need for study, work and life, and it places the learner at the centre. It acknowledges the sector’s strengths in terms of its level of engagement and participation of adult learners.

Strategy 2020–25 focuses on the 4 strategic directions of:

  • engaging learners and developing their confidence and skills
  • building greater collaboration between the Learn Local sector and partners, especially employers and TAFEs
  • investing in people across the sector, and in high-quality products and tools to support them
  • maintaining high standards of Board stewardship and governance, and championing and communicating the sector’s value and impact.

In 2021 and 2022, the Minister for Training and Skills provided the Board with annual Ministerial Statements of Expectations. These statements contribute to the delivery of the Ministerial Statement The Future of Adult Community Education in Victoria 2020–25 and the Board’s Strategy 2020–25. The Board reports on achievements against the Ministerial Statements of Expectations to the Minister for Training and Skills on a biannual basis.


Non-financial performance reporting

Performance against output performance measures

Performance measure

Unit of measure

2021–22 actual

2021–22
target

Performance variation (%)

Result

Number of government-subsidised pre‑accredited module enrolments funded through the ACFE Board

number

42,645

48,400

–11.9

Key: ◼ Performance target not achieved – more than 5% variance

The above performance measure relates to the calendar year. The 2021–22 actual is lower than the target, due to the continuing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on training activity in 2021.

Participation in Board-funded training

In 2021, the Board funded the training of 20,661 Victorians through 245 contracted Learn Local providers, including adult education institutions.

This funding provided access to learning opportunities for:

  • 4,698 early school leavers
  • 535 low-skilled and vulnerable workers
  • 415 Indigenous Australians
  • 6,928 unemployed learners
  • 5,347 people with a disability
  • 528 disengaged young learners
  • 9,943 culturally and linguistically diverse learners.

Note: Learners can be counted in more than one learner group.

Key initiatives and projects

This annual report covers the key initiatives and projects relating to the Board’s Strategy 2020–25. These can be categorised according to the 4 main strategic priorities of the strategy, which are:

  • our learners
  • our partners
  • our people
  • our Board.
  • Engagement and confidence building

    • Maintaining – and building on – the core strengths of Learn Local education and training
    • Continuing to successfully engage and re-engage adult learners
    • Providing supportive, inclusive, flexible learning environments

    Skills for further education, training, work, volunteering and life

    • Providing access to developing core skills for learners in every local government area
    • Offering equitable access for learners, regardless of their location, background or circumstances

    Pre-accredited Learner Survey

    In 2022, learners in pre-accredited education and training were again included in the vocational education and training (VET) Student Satisfaction Survey.

    The 2022 Pre-accredited Learner Survey of 2021 learners in pre-accredited programs had a response rate of 35.2% (5,564 learners).

    The 2022 survey results were very positive and indicated that learners were highly satisfied with the teaching and learning experience:

    • 83% indicated that they achieved their main reason for training.
    • 90% reported satisfaction with course materials and facilities, as well as the support they received from their trainers.
    • 86% reported positive perceptions of teaching.
    • 99% reported a safe, welcoming and culturally appropriate learning environment that factored in the diversity of learners.
    • 91% would recommend their Learn Local provider.
    • 89% indicated that they were satisfied with their training.
    • 92% were satisfied that their provider had identified their learning needs.
    • 85% were satisfied that their pre-accredited course addressed their learning needs.

    Employment outcomes for the 2021 cohort of pre-accredited training show several key employment improvements following pre-accredited training, including:

    • improved employment (up by 6.5 percentage points)
    • decreased unemployment (down by 3.1 percentage points)
    • increased volunteering and unpaid work (up by 0.1 percentage points)
    • increased workforce participation (up by 3.4 percentage points).

    The approximately 30% of learners who undertook pre-accredited training for work-related reasons contributed most to the overall improvements in employment outcomes for learners. They accounted for more than two-thirds of the increase in employment, decline in unemployment and increase in labour force participation.

    Meeting learner needs in the COVID-19 environment

    Recent challenges have highlighted that there is an even greater role for our sector and a critical need for our learners across all communities to build their core skills, including digital skills, for their lives and futures. Some Learn Locals continued to face difficulties in engaging learners throughout 2021, due to repeated lockdowns and distancing rules in the COVID-19 environment. In response, the Board implemented a range of business supports for Learn Local providers, including AMES Australia and the Centre for Adult Education (CAE), in delivery of Learn Local courses.

    This included support and training for Learn Locals to deliver online or remote training, guidance materials, support networks, and webinars on innovative delivery strategies. This supported learners to engage in Learn Local courses during this time, and to realise their personal and career goals. A suite of centralised resources was also developed to assist the sector to deliver training in areas of greatest need, including digital literacy skills.

    In the 2021–22 budget, $2.781 million over 2 years has been allocated for 2,400 additional pre‑accredited training places in digital literacy programs and 2,400 additional pre-accredited training places in employability skills programs.

    Better engagement

    Consultation with learners and research provided insight and evidence to better provide for learner needs, and assist future planning and provision. The Board has focused on work to understand our learners, particularly those who have been impacted by the last 2 years, and those who are hard to reach and would benefit from engaging in Learn Local courses. The work has had a focus on culturally and linguistically diverse and Koorie members of our communities. Participation and inclusion of First Nations peoples remains a key priority of the Board.

    Work is also underway to establish sustainable pre-accredited regional provision models through the development of networked and innovative models in the areas of East Gippsland, Swan Hill and South-Western Victoria. These models will address barriers to access and ensure ongoing training for learners, through collaborative and viable delivery approaches by Learn Local providers and partners. The outcomes of this work will inform provision and system-wide approaches.

    Stronger by Design and the Pre-accredited Quality Framework

    The Board approved a new pre-accredited curriculum model, Stronger by Design, which refocuses pre‑accredited training arrangements to reflect a learner journey perspective. The refocused approach to pre-accredited training during this period has entailed reworking the Pre-accredited Quality Framework (PQF). This framework includes processes, guidelines and tools to assist Learn Local program developers to design Board-funded courses, and ensures quality teaching and learning that meets learner needs.

    The revised pre-accredited model and PQF will reflect the Board’s focus on supplying adult learners with access to the language, literacy and numeracy knowledge, and the employability and digital skills necessary, to progress in further study and improve employment opportunities. The updated model and tools will also better reflect the contemporary teaching, learning and employment environment.

    Digital Literacy Skills

    The Board approved the Digital Literacy Skills for Adults program, which aims to establish a suite of digital literacy skills for adults modules and programs. Digital Essentials, the first stage of the program, was completed in 2021. It is designed to equip learners with the preparatory digital skills to engage in accredited training.

    The program consists of two 30-hour modules designed to help learners understand the digital basics of various areas of technology, including different digital devices and how they function, and the ways people can use these devices to connect with others and access services over the internet.

    The second stage of the program, delivered in 2022, comprises focused short modules for learners who are seeking a job or need to upskill or reskill. These short modules can be incorporated into existing longer pre-accredited courses. They are aimed at supporting learners to understand the digital basics of various areas of technology, and the ways people can use these devices to connect with others and access services over the internet.

    Work has also commenced on a pilot in libraries in the eastern region of Melbourne to build learner digital skills, and improve access to digital equipment and tools. The purpose of this project is to develop a partnership model between the Your Library Network and Learn Local providers across Maroondah, Knox, Yarra Ranges and Manningham local government areas. This will improve the opportunity for adult learners who are enrolled in pre-accredited training to access digital technologies and resources that are available to members of public libraries. It is hoped the initiative will provide a blueprint for similar partnerships with libraries and Learn Local providers across the state.

    Family Learning Partnerships

    The Family Learning Partnerships (FLP) program supports families experiencing education disadvantage to access adult education through:

    • collaborative relationships between Learn Local providers and other service providers, such as schools, early learning centres and other community services, to address barriers to learning
    • communities of practice that bring program providers together to share knowledge, skills and experience
    • flexible program funds that cover childcare costs for participating parents.

    The FLP program delivers on the Ministerial Statement’s priority focus on inclusion and universal access to core education and training. It is aligned with the Strategy 2020–25 by continuing to successfully engage adult learners and striving to offer them equitable access, regardless of their location, background or circumstances.

    Despite the difficulties of operating in a COVID-19 environment, delivery of the FLP program continued in 2021–22. Adjustments were made to enable providers to continue delivery of the programs throughout COVID‑19 restrictions.

    Learner Engagement A-frame

    To engage hard-to-reach learners who may find participation in shorter programs easier, the Board allocated $500,000 in 2021–22 to the Learner Engagement A-frame program.

    The program targets adults experiencing barriers to training, including:

    • disadvantaged or hard-to-reach learners
    • learners with complex or multiple needs
    • learners in thin markets or remote locations
    • unemployed and vulnerable workers.

    The program assists Learn Local providers to deliver short programs that:

    • offer Learn Local providers the flexibility to improve the participation of adults who experience barriers to training in pre-accredited programs
    • provide engagement activities that are linked to pathways to further training or employment
    • improve pathway outcomes for learners experiencing barriers to training by building the skills they need to participate in further pre-accredited training programs, accredited education or employment.

    Certificates in General Education for Adults

    The Board is a sponsor of some nationally recognised accredited curricula. There are 5 Certificates in General Education for Adults (CGEAs) that aim to assist educationally disadvantaged adult learners to improve their literacy, basic numeracy and general education skills, so they are better prepared to pursue further study, qualifications and work outcomes.

    Training organisations in Victoria are the chief users of the CGEA curriculum. However, other states also make ongoing use of the certificates.

    In 2021–22, Victoria University, the Board’s appointed curriculum maintenance manager, continued to provide core services for the CGEA and teacher professional development sessions. Teachers were provided with examples of quality practice in the design, delivery and assessment for these certificates, and in various education contexts.

    Accreditation of the certificates has been renewed to 30 June 2024.

    Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation

    The Board sponsors and funds an accredited curriculum focused on supporting educationally disadvantaged Victorians to prepare for tertiary study. The Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation was reaccredited on 30 June 2021 for a further 5 years to 30 June 2026. The scope of the certificate is sufficiently broad to support transition to a range of tertiary subject disciplines.

  • Partnering and collaboration

    • Developing partnerships between Learn Local providers, TAFEs, universities and other parts of the post-compulsory education system
    • Developing partnerships between Learn Local providers and employers
    • Developing arrangements for non-educational supports for learners from health and community services partners

    A priority provider of solutions

    • Delivering practical solutions aligned with employers’ needs and Victorian Government priorities

    Learn Local–industry partnerships

    Partnerships with industry are a way that Learn Local providers can tailor training solutions to employers’ workforce skills needs, and to support workers who are vulnerable to unemployment and/or vulnerable adults seeking employment.

    In 2021, a Just in Time Industry Partnership initiative was launched by the Board, with a focus on supporting emerging partnerships between Learn Locals and business, where there is an evidenced business core skills training need that can be matched by a co-designed, pre-accredited training solution.

    Thirteen Learn Local–employer partnerships were funded in late 2021 in a range of industry areas facing key skill shortages, including construction, hospitality, health care and support, cleaning, agriculture and horticulture, food processing and manufacturing.

    The number of partnerships continues to grow as industry becomes aware of the flexibility and responsiveness of pre-accredited programs. Learners benefit through the development of core skills they need to improve their job prospects and capacity to undertake further training. Employers have, through a customised program to fit their particular needs, potential employees who are job ready for their business.

    The pre-accredited program resources developed as part of the partnerships undergo a final quality assurance review. They are then shared across the Learn Local sector to encourage more Learn Local partnerships with industry that lead to learning and employment outcomes for learners.

    Lessons learned from the Just in Time initiative will inform the development of good practice guidelines for the facilitation of effective and sustainable Learn Local–industry partnerships for the benefit of learners. The good practice guidelines will also be informed by 4 Learn Local at Work with Industry case studies.

    The Learn Local at Work with Industry initiative was launched in 2022 with a focus on established Learn Local–industry partnerships.

    Four successful partnerships have been selected for showcasing as case studies. They have demonstrated good practice and provide strong lessons for the wider Learn Local provider community across Victoria, by working well with industry partners for the benefit of their learners to obtain or retain work. They include a mix of metropolitan, regional and rural-based Learn Local–industry partnerships.

    All 4 Learn Local at Work with Industry case studies are in production. They cover the why, how, what, when and where of the Learn Local–industry partnerships, and the impacts and key lessons learned. They include the perspective of the Learn Local provider, the industry partner and the learners involved, and will be available later in 2022 in print and online formats, with a short video highlighting key aspects.

    The tailored pre-accredited training programs used by the 4 case study partnerships, which enabled vulnerable adults to upskill to enter the workforce, are being prepared for sharing across the Learn Local sector.

    TAFE and pathways

    The Board continues to work with the ACFE Division in the department via the Office for TAFE Coordination and Delivery, and with TAFE institutes to strengthen relationships for the benefit of learners. The Board has focused on exploring ways to enhance pathway solutions for learners, through partnership arrangements and the development of courses to support learner transitions.

  • Investing in the Learn Local workforce

    • Investing in the professional development of Learn Local leaders and educators

    Investing in improved products and tools

    • Investing in high-quality learning resources

    Professional development

    The Board invests in professional development for the Learn Local workforce for the benefit of adult learners undertaking pre-accredited training programs.

    There has been strong ongoing investment in professional development through activities offered in a variety of learning modes based on sector input that leverage the learnings gained during COVID-19 disruptions. The investment aims to help build Learn Local sector resilience to future external impacts, as well as to consider new and emerging practices that further build on the skills of the sector to meet learner need, and to work with partners and communities. There continues to be a focus on building the skills of the sector to deliver the language, literacy, numeracy, digital and employability skills needed by our learners for their lives, for study and for work. There is also a focus on supporting innovation in practice and delivery though a variety of modes.

    During 2021–22, the Board supported Learn Local providers to improve the quality of their work by funding the following professional learning activities:

    • Two further rounds of the Adult Literacy and Numeracy Practitioners Program (ALNPP), developed and piloted in 2020, were provided to enhance the skills and practices of pre-accredited trainers delivering literacy and numeracy training in a vocational context. The program has been undertaken by more than 450 pre-accredited trainers and by at least one trainer in about 80% of all Learn Local providers.
    • For ALNPP alumni, a Professional Learning Network was established. This provides continuing learning opportunities for pre-accredited teachers to improve their literacy and numeracy teaching, and their literacy and numeracy leadership professional identity in the Learn Local sector. Members of the ALNPP alumni also tested an additional Koorie literacy and numeracy teaching and learning module, which embeds cultural awareness in teaching and learning strategies for First Nations communities.
    • As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, attention was focused on online teaching and learning. The VET Development Centre provided an intermediate-level online teaching and learning program for teachers who completed the introductory online teaching and learning program. The intermediate program involved mentors drawn from graduates of the previous advanced-level program. A showcase event held in May 2022 demonstrated the success of the programs in supporting teachers to become familiar with the online teaching environment, to learn about new approaches to teaching, and to develop, implement and evaluate online learning resources.
    • Professional development was offered to the Learn Local workforce in instructional design. The focus was on supporting Learn Local practitioners and trainers to develop their capacity and capability to produce high-quality curricula that were suitable for pre-accredited adult learners with low literacy, numeracy and employment skills below the Australian Core Skills Framework level 2. There were 124 participants in this professional development.
    • Professional development was also provided to support and review the Skills for Work and Study program.
    • A one-day ‘good practice’ sharing event called Marketplace was also run online. A variety of topics were determined and delivered by Learn Locals in a total of 25 sessions. Attendees across the sessions totalled more than 500.
    • During the COVID-19 period, the Board supported 100 Learn Local managers to complete the Pre‑accredited Business Planning and Marketing course provided by the Small Business Mentoring Service. The professional development included one-on-one mentoring support to Learn Locals.
    • The VET Development Centre provided a new 4-part program in blended delivery format for both pre-accredited and accredited VET educators on teaching, supporting and developing pathways for vulnerable learners. Between 20 and 30 participants attended each of the sessions.
    • The VET Development Centre provided a new ‘masterclass’ in VET and Learn Local leadership in a blended delivery format.

    Pre-accredited workforce Professional Practice and Recognition Framework

    In May 2022, the Board commissioned the development of a Professional Practice and Recognition Framework for the adult community education workforce, and a tool to assist in its use. The framework will support the sector to provide advice on its professional needs and build and recognise the skills of educators and leaders. It will also enable the Board to implement an integrated long-term professional development approach for the Learn Local workforce for educators.

    This strategic and integrated approach is being developed with significant expert, sector and Board advice. It will provide a holistic approach to workforce development of the sector by developing a tool that allows self-assessment of skills and knowledge, recognises and rewards existing skills, and facilitates dialogue on areas for individuals’ further professional development. It will be a simple tool for the sector to use and engage in through discussion at a local level, to identify individual professional development needs, and recognise and value the skills that individuals bring to the sector. It aims to strengthen professional practice, leadership and the quality of teaching and learning across the sector.

    The framework, together with ongoing sector advice and emerging needs, will inform decision-making and professional development investment for Learn Local educators and leaders at various levels of professional practice (or application levels), to provide for career development.

  • Stewardship and governance

    • Meeting the expectations and relevant outcomes set out in Ministerial Statement The Future of Adult Community Education in Victoria 2020–25
    • Modelling ethical, values-based stewardship and governance

    Communicating value and impact

    • Championing and communicating the value that the Learn Local sector creates

    Stewardship of the sector

    The Board is confident it is making good progress against ministerial expectations in making sure that the Learn Local sector adapts and strengthens its capacity to develop core skills, so that educationally disadvantaged learners can fully participate in study, work and life.

    The Board’s Strategy 2020–25, Planning and Accountability Framework, and our setting of 2022 priorities, underpinned by the department’s implementation plan, have established a clear program of work that has enabled the Board to reach many milestones in the first half of 2022. This work establishes a basis from which to move towards the achievement of all goals by 2025.

    Considered together, sector feedback, the needs of learners, contextual impacts, the goals of the Ministerial Statement and the 4 strategic directions of the Board’s Strategy 2020–25 resulted in finalisation of 3 strategic policies on provision, procurement and Learn Local registration.

    The Board has made significant investment in research to inform its strategic planning and decision-making, regarding training provision, investment in resources, sector initiatives and professional development. This work provides a strong evidence base for ACFE and an understanding of learners, including hard-to-reach and disengaged learners, their needs, and barriers and motivations to engagement.

    This work also provides insight into our providers, including:

    • their needs
    • their capacity to deliver on current and future provision needs
    • successes that can be shared across the sector
    • identification of areas for greater support
    • the value of Learn Locals and their impact and contribution to industry, the community and the economy.

    The research will also assist Regional Councils in their work, and will provide valuable information for the sector.

    In 2021, the Board applied a one-off 30% tolerance on the achievement of training targets for the release of 2021 pre-accredited training delivery payments, and a 30% tolerance for end-of-year recoupment of funds for training non-delivery. Timeframes for delivery of more specialised or newer training programs (Skills for Work and Study pilots and Pathways to TAFE programs) affected by the COVID-19 environment were also extended.

    Governance matters

    To further progress implementation of the 2020 governance review of ACFE, the Board and the department worked together to develop the ACFE System Governance Guidelines to support effective working relationships and strengthen outcomes. The guidelines provide a comprehensive and shared understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the Board, Regional Councils and the department, and other aspects of governance that underpin the ACFE system to support effective working relationships. Training sessions were delivered to the Board, department staff and Regional Council members.

    A new co-designed approach is now in place, with an implementation plan to strengthen the 8 ACFE Regional Councils, in response to the 21 recommendations in the Parliamentary Secretary’s Strengthening Regional Councils Review. A framework has been developed and implemented, where the Board sets a small number of annual priorities for Regional Councils that are aligned with its work and with their roles.

    Each Regional Council is required to develop an annual workplan that is reported on and discussed by the Board, to consider immediate needs and as key input into its annual planning. This has strengthened the governance link between Regional Councils and the Board, which was a key desired outcome. It has allowed Regional Councils to fulfil their newly articulated dual roles of advice to the Board and advocacy on behalf for the Learn Local sector in their respective regions. These reforms have been well received by Regional Councils, and they are positive about their future and the contribution they can make.

    Collaborative relationships are being fostered by the Board with the Office of TAFE Coordination and Delivery, to build and systemise Learn Local and TAFE two-way pathways, co-designed programs and other collaborative opportunities.

    The Board has also commenced working with the Victorian Skills Authority to make sure that pre-accredited training and the Learn Local sector are part of the Victorian Skills Plan and the collaborative model that fosters inclusion to meet the workforce and training needs of Victoria.

    This work will provide important evidence that the Board will consider in its annual planning. The exchange of information and involvement in joint work across the state, including working across all areas of the Victorian Skills Authority, such as Skills and Job Centres, remains a focus for the Board into the future.

    Brand and Value Proposition project

    The Brand and Value Proposition project is a major piece of work that aims to create a meaningful brand and value proposition. This project will champion and promote the value of the Learn Local sector and Learn Local courses to the Victorian community and economy, including learners, community, industry, TAFE institutes, job agencies and other key stakeholders.

    As the brand and value proposition underpins all of the Board’s work, this project is closely aligned with, and informs all of, the Board’s major projects and initiatives.

    In 2021–22, a Communications Impact Map was developed to report on implementation of the plan. The map provides baseline data that future maps can be compared against, to assess the effectiveness of the implementation.

    The finalised evaluation report indicated a high engagement rate with the Learn Local Skills Campaign and overall positive feedback. The results are informing current work, including Board‑funded multi-faceted promotional work that uses both state and local approaches, based on working with the sector. There is a greater focus on engagement with stakeholders, including culturally and linguistically diverse communities, Koorie communities and other learner groups, and key community groups. It also informed market research and concept testing, and partnering with the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions and the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing, through collaborative approaches to maximise impact.

    Regional stakeholder profiles were finalised for all ACFE regions. They provide key data and insights to help the Board, Regional Councils and department representatives engage with stakeholders at the regional level. They will enable Board and department representatives to identify priority stakeholder groups and trends across multiple Regional Council areas.

    Work also progressed on the Learn Local Brand Recognition and Baseline Measurement project. This multi-year project gathers baseline measures for brand recognition of Learn Local among key stakeholders. It sets annual targets to assist the Board and the department to establish a prompted brand recognition target of adult community education provision and purpose among potential learners, small-to-medium-sized businesses in relevant industries, and TAFE institutes. A secondary objective of the project is to develop an understanding of the ‘most in need’ potential learner cohort. The final report, developed by KPMG, establishes short- and long-term brand recognition targets, and provides a number of recommendations to improve brand recognition awareness.

    Other work completed during 2021–22 included a draft Stakeholder Engagement Plan, a range of collateral to promote Learn Local providers and pre-accredited training and updated Learn Local Brand Guidelines. This work will be further developed as part of building the sector's profile and promoting its value and importance.

    2021 Learn Local Awards

    The Victorian Learn Local Awards promote ACFE by recognising the outstanding achievements of learners, practitioners and Learn Local providers. They reward best practice and innovation, and encourage high standards. The awards in 2021 were an opportunity to celebrate the resilience of the Learn Local sector and the 15th anniversary of the awards.

    Presentations were made to the 2021 award winners at an in-person gala on Friday 10 December 2021. The gala was hosted by MC Gorgi Coughlan. Prize money totalling $84,000 was awarded to:

    • The Ro Allen Award – Learn Local Pre-accredited Learner (Skills for study and life):
      • Omer Ntunzwenimana, Sunraysia Mallee Ethnic Communities Council
    • Victorian Learn Local Young Pre-accredited Learner (Skills for work) Award:
      • Mariam Yacoub Ibrahim, Farnham Street Neighbourhood Learning Centre
    • Victorian Learn Local Pre-accredited Trainer Award:
      • Robyn Matthews, Loddon Campaspe Multicultural Services
    • Victorian Learn Local Leadership Award:
      • Rana Tbaileh, Banksia Gardens Community Services
    • Victorian Learn Local Pre-accredited Program Award (For small providers):
      • Starting Work in Australia – Karen Engineering Studies (Loddon Campaspe Multicultural Services)
    • Victorian Learn Local Pre-accredited Program Award (For large providers):
      • Catering for Success, The Basin Community House Inc.
    • Victorian Learn Local Innovation Award:
      • Starting Work in Australia, Karen Engineering Studies (Loddon Campaspe Multicultural Services)
    • Victorian Learn Local Partnership Award:
      • Starting Work in Australia, Karen Engineering Studies (Loddon Campaspe Multicultural Services)

    2021 Victorian Training Awards – Victorian Community Training Provider of the Year

    For the 7th time, the Board sponsored the Victorian Community Training Provider of the Year Award at the annual Victorian Training Awards. The award was open to Learn Local providers, and awarded to an organisation demonstrating innovation and excellence in local community education.

    The winner was judged on its:

    • design and implementation of quality training programs that are highly valued by the local community and responsive to learner needs
    • understanding of the local community and how to attract learners facing barriers to participation and attainment in vocational training
    • partnerships and participation in broader service delivery in the local community.

    Williamstown Community and Education Centre was announced as Community Training Provider of the Year at the 2021 Victorian Training Awards. The centre runs community education and employment programs across 5 sites in Melbourne's western suburbs. The organisation prides itself on having increased the number and range of services on offer to the diverse community within the area in recent years. It provides traditional services, such as digital literacy training and English language programs, for culturally and linguistically diverse learners, while also recently introducing innovative classes in yoga, meditation, acting and music.


Financial performance reporting

Summary of financial results

The table below summarises information from the Board’s financial reports for the 2021–22 financial year. It includes comparative results for the previous 4 years.

Five-year financial summary

Result

30 June 2022
$’000

30 June 2021
$’000

30 June 2020
$’000

30 June 2019
$’000

30 June 2018
$’000

Total income from transactions

38,052

36,869

37,294

41,592

32,095

Total expenses from transactions

37,751

33,314

34,853

35,411

35,712

Net result from transactions

301

3,555

2,441

6,181

(3,617)

Other economic flows included in net result

10

122

80

6

68

Net result for the period

311

3,677

2,521

6,187

(3,549)

Net cash flow from operating activities

136

Total assets

28,833

26,179

19,981

51,128

45,423

Total liabilities

5,266

2,923

402

1,673

2,155

Revenue

Total income increased by $1.2 million in 2021–22 with the receipt of additional funding to tackle the digital skills divide to get Victorians into jobs.

Expenses

Expenses in 2021–22 increased by $4.4 million, reflecting an increase in training delivery grants compared with 2020–21, in part due to the impact of the COVID-19 environment.

Organisational structure and corporate governance

Board membership matters

The Board has 12 members, including a chairperson and a deputy chairperson. Members are appointed by the Governor in Council on the recommendation of the Minister for Training and Skills.

Members of the Board reflect the breadth and diversity of adult education in the community, and provide links to government, industry and community sector activity.

On 20 July 2021, Ms Peters was reappointed to the Board as Chairperson for a 3-year term, and Ms Brennan and Mr Grogan were each reappointed to the Board for another 3-year term.

On 25 September 2021, Mr Wainwright’s term on the Board ended.

On 19 October 2021, Dr Lam was appointed Acting Deputy Chairperson of the Board from 18 October 2021 to 25 October 2021. On 19 October 2021, Dr Lam was appointed Deputy Chairperson of the Board from 26 October 2021 to 30 April 2023.

On 21 December 2021, Mr Ozyurek and Ms Sansom were each appointed to the Board for a 3‑year term.

On 29 March 2022, Ms Lewis was appointed to a short-term appointment from 1 May 2022 to 30 June 2022, and Ms Wilson was appointed to a short-term appointment from 13 May 2022 to 30 June 2022. These short-term appointments were made while recruitment to the Board was finalised.

On 30 June 2022, the terms on the Board of Ms Lewis and Ms Wilson ended. On 1 July 2022, Ms Lewis was reappointed to the Board for another 3-year term.

ACFE Board members 2021–22

Ms Maria Peters (Chairperson) has been involved in the adult education and vocational sectors for more than 30 years, and is a respected leader in VET at state, national and international levels. Ms Peters has held a wide range of management, leadership and governance roles, including at Chisholm TAFE, where she had management roles in adult community education and foundation areas, before becoming Chief Executive Officer in 2011.

Ms Peters has a strong track record of service to communities, with a focus on improved participation, and strong student and industry outcomes. As a recipient of the Lynne Kosky Memorial Award for Lifetime Achievement at the 2017 Victorian Training Awards, Ms Peters was recognised for leading significant educational innovation in the VET sector. In 2018, Ms Peters was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Education from Swinburne University of Technology for her outstanding leadership and commitment to vocational education.

Ms Peters was the Independent Chairperson of the Future Opportunities for Adult Learners in Victoria Reference Group. She is a member of the RMIT University Council and was appointed to the Victorian Skills Authority Board in late 2021.

Mr Raoul Wainwright (Deputy Chairperson to 25 September 2021) has a background in public policy, industrial relations and community services. He is a legal officer for the Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union. Mr Wainwright holds a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts, has had ministerial advisory roles, and has been a member of local government. Mr Wainwright has longstanding experience in working with government at all levels, and is committed to improving access to educational opportunities for all Victorians. Mr Wainwright’s term on the Board ended on 25 September 2021.

Dr Maylyn Lam (Deputy Chairperson from 26 October 2021) has held senior policy and research roles in non-government organisations, including a role as Deputy Chief Executive Officer for peak body Jobs Australia. She worked for the Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation in 2021 and 2022, managing the Decent Work grants program, was a Commissioner for the National Youth Commission into Youth Unemployment and Transitions (2019 to 2020), and is Chairperson of the Board of Youth Development Australia. Dr Lam is currently working for the Brotherhood of St Laurence as an advisor to the Given the Chance employment services social enterprise. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy and Master of Education from the University of Melbourne.

Mr James Atkinson has a lifelong commitment to the preservation of First Nations culture, language and customs, and to the regeneration and continued advancement of his community. He has 35 years of experience across a range of Aboriginal services and government departments.

Mr Atkinson is Chief Executive Officer with the Aboriginal Community Elders Services. Previously, he was Director, Strategy and Development, Victorian Aboriginal Health Service, Chief Executive Officer of Rumbalara Aboriginal Co‑operative, and has held senior positions in the department.

He has a strong academic background in public policy and management, extensive experience in leadership and management focusing on the strategic planning, staffing and complex stakeholder management for Aboriginal organisations, and in Aboriginal education in early childhood, TAFE and the school sectors.

He also has significant involvement in state and federal government, and community advisory groups, and extensive connection and engagement with organisations focused on certainty of access to services for First Nations Australians.

Ms Sally Brennan is an experienced education consultant with a particular focus on community development and adult community education. She has extensive experience in the Learn Local sector, including 22 years as Chief Executive Officer of Upper Yarra Community House (now Cire Services), and in representing peak bodies at state and national levels.

Ms Brennan has worked with all levels of government, creating and maintaining local and regional services, engaging with communities, and working with industry and education providers to improve learning outcomes for disadvantaged and vulnerable learners. Ms Brennan has postgraduate qualifications in adult learning and development, including a Master of Education, and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Ms Claudia Fatone is the Head of Operations for Man Cave Global, a mental health and emotional intelligence charity, whose mission is to empower boys to become great men, by providing them and their communities with impactful programs, role models and resources. Prior to this role, Ms Fatone was Chief Executive Officer of the Fitzroy Legal Service, one of Australia’s oldest community legal centres.

Her work experience has included roles as Sector Development Manager of the Federation of Community Legal Centres, Associate Director of Sport Employment Australia, and Women’s Cricket Operations Manager with Cricket Victoria. A graduate member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Ms Fatone is also a board member of Respect Victoria, and an external member of the Victoria University Compliance Audit and Risk Committee. She is a former director of Cricket Victoria, Melbourne Stars and Melbourne Renegades, and a former board member of the Victoria Law Foundation.

Mr Michael Grogan is the State Director of Victorian, South Australian and Tasmanian branches of the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre. Previously Chief Executive Officer of Sutton Tools Pty Ltd, Mr Grogan sits on the Board of Manufacturing Skills Australia, and is Director of DMTC (formerly known as the Defence Materials Technology Centre). He chairs the William Ruthven Secondary College School Council, is the Director of Evolve in Focus and is a board member of Melbourne Polytechnic.

Ms Margaret Lewis has wide-ranging experience on community boards and committees. Ms Lewis is currently the Chair of Remembrance Parks Central Victoria and a board member of Castlemaine Health (now Dhelkaya Health), Planning for Sustainable Animal Industries Implementation Reference Group, and Joyces Creek Cemetery Trust, in addition to other non-government bodies and committees. She has extensive experience in education, having been a teacher for 25 years and a principal for 18 years in the Loddon Mallee Region. She was on the board of the Goldfields Local Learning and Employment Network for more than 20 years, and Deputy Chair for many years before retiring in May 2022.

Mr John Maddock AM has extensive governance and senior executive leadership experience in the tertiary and adult education sectors, including as Chief Executive Officer of Box Hill Institute, the Gordon Institute of TAFE and the CAE. His governance experience as a non-executive director in the education sector includes the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority Board, Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre Board of Trustees, Deakin University Council, Monash University Faculty of Education Board, Innovation and Business Skills Australia, Australian Training Products and eCoach boards.

Mr Maddock is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. He was awarded the Australian Sports Medal for volunteer services at the Sydney 2000 Olympics. In 2013, Mr Maddock was made a Member of the General Division of the Order of Australia for significant service to VET, and to the sport of basketball.

Mr Ekrem Ozyurek OAM has extensive experience in primary and secondary education, with more than 30 years of experience in the sector. Most recently, Mr Ozyurek was Principal of East Preston Islamic College for 14 years, and was previously the founding Principal of Mt Hira College. His experience and expertise extends to community and cultural development in culturally and linguistically diverse communities, specifically relating to Turkish and Islamic communities, with a focus on education.

In 2010, Mr Ozyurek was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the Turkish community of Victoria, and to education. He is currently a Director of the Yunus Emre Institute, and served as Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson of the Islamic Coordinating Council of Victoria from 2002 to 2020.

Ms Deborah Sansom has widespread experience in media, communications and stakeholder engagement, with previous roles as Executive Manager, Cultural Development and Community Engagement at the Geelong Regional Library Corporation, and as a producer for the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). She is from the Barwon region and has been the director of her own consultancy firm since 2003, specialising in community engagement, creativity and workforce development, across the arts, government, business and not-for-profit sectors.

Dr Winifred Scott is a consultant with extensive experience in the VET sector. She was Chief Executive Officer of Sunraysia Institute of TAFE until her retirement in June 2016. She was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Education in 2016 by La Trobe University and holds a Master of Educational Management. Dr Scott is the Chair of the Mallee Regional Partnership and a Member of the Regional Development Advisory Committee. She is also a member of other regional and local boards. Before joining the TAFE sector, she was a restaurateur in Bendigo.

Ms Penny Wilson has extensive government, community and private sector experience. As a senior partner at SHK Asia Pacific, she leads the executive search practice for government and public policy, including not-for-profit and private sector highly regulated settings. Ms Wilson has held senior roles in the public service, and is former Chief Executive Officer of both the Responsible Gambling Advocacy Centre and the Victorian Council of Social Service. A longstanding volunteer in adult learning programs, Ms Wilson was Chair of Learn for Yourself, a Learn Local provider. She has qualifications in social sciences, communications and business management, and is an experienced non-executive board director. Ms Wilson’s term on the Board ended on 30 June 2022.

Audit and Risk Committee membership and roles

In accordance with legislative requirements, the Board has an Audit and Risk Committee to oversee:

  • risk management
  • financial management, performance and sustainability reporting
  • compliance with legislation, regulations and standards
  • external audit
  • internal audit.

In 2021–22, the independent members on this committee were:

  • Lisa Woolmer (Chairperson)
  • Michael Grogan (Deputy Chairperson)
  • Claudia Fatone (from 16 December 2021)
  • John Maddock
  • Maria Peters
  • Raoul Wainwright (to 25 September 2021).

Representation on panels, advisory groups and working groups

Members of the Board also represent the Board on advisory and working groups and panels such as:

  • Victorian Learn Local Awards judging panels
  • Victorian Training Awards judging panels
  • ACFEB–TAFE CEO Stakeholder Group
  • The Brand and Value Recognition Advisory Group.

Eight members of the Board also took on liaison and communication support roles in Regional Councils as Regional Champions.

Representation on other bodies

Members of the Board also represent the Board on departmental bodies, such as the Marrung Central Governance Group, the Koorie VET Advisory Group, the Multicultural Partnerships Group, the Online Core Skills Assessment Tool Steering Group and the Wirnalung Ganai Steering Committee.

Regional Councils of ACFE

Eight Regional Councils of ACFE have been established under the Education and Training Reform Act 2006.

The Regional Councils cover the regional areas of:

  • Barwon South-Western
  • Gippsland
  • Grampians
  • Hume
  • Loddon Mallee.

The Regional Councils also cover the metropolitan areas of:

  • Eastern Metropolitan
  • North-Western Metropolitan
  • Southern Metropolitan.

The work of each Regional Council is supported by department staff.

Role of Regional Councils

The Board and Regional Councils work together to fulfil the Board’s mission.

Regional Councils draw together different expertise and aspects of local knowledge about adult education, to advise the Board on the needs of adult education across their regions.

In particular, Regional Councils play a key role in:

  • providing strategic advice and local intelligence to the Board
  • promoting and advocating for the Learn Local sector, and fostering collaboration and partnerships between Learn Locals and key regional stakeholders.

Regional Councils assist the Board to meet its objectives by:

  • developing processes that enable learners and providers to advise them and the Board of adult community education needs in their region
  • providing advice and preparing reports for the Board
  • providing information and contributing to planning by the Board
  • advising the Board on the effectiveness of activities in their region, including those activities funded by the Board
  • supporting and promoting pre-accredited training provision, networks between providers, and diversity and flexibility of provision
  • participating in recommending statewide priorities and policies to the Board.

Regional Councils consult with learners, providers, and other education and training organisations in their region, including local TAFEs and adult education institutions.

Composition

Each Regional Council has a minimum of 5 members, who are appointed by the Minister for Training and Skills, including an elected Chairperson and elected Deputy. Regional Councils may also co-opt two additional people for up to 12 months.

Members are appointed to make sure that Regional Councils reflect:

  • community diversity
  • the regional interests and views of individuals and groups who will benefit from adult education in the region
  • the regional interests and views of adult education providers
  • the importance of community-based adult education.

At least half of the members should have knowledge of, or experience in, providing ACFE.

Membership of Regional Councils 2021–22

Barwon South-Western

  • Jan Golden, Chairperson until 26 May 2022
  • Deryck Gall, Chairperson from 27 May 2022
  • Anne Marie Ryan, Deputy Chairperson
  • Dianne Baxter (appointed 28 September 2021)
  • Louisa-Jane Cunningham
  • Alan Davis
  • Vikki King (appointed 28 September 2021)
  • Peter MacDonald
  • Sabina Reynolds (appointed 28 September 2021)
  • Richelle Yow

Gippsland

  • Desmond Williams, Chairperson
  • Shae McGregor, Deputy Chairperson
  • Diane Carson
  • Karen Fleischer (term ended 30 September 2021)
  • Kate Gaffney (co-optee, appointed 21 December 2021)
  • Bruno Mascitelli (term ended 30 September 2021)
  • Glenda McPhee (term ended 5 July 2021)
  • Josie Rose
  • Julie Rowley (term ended 30 March 2022)

Grampians

  • Tim Shaw, Chairperson
  • Jannine Bennett, Deputy Chairperson
  • Bryan Crebbin
  • Annette Creek
  • Angela Dunn
  • Tim Harrison
  • Andrew Henwood
  • Michael Poulton
  • Nicola Rodger

Hume

  • Bradley Quilliam, Chairperson
  • Danny O’Donoghue, Deputy Chairperson
  • Trish Curtis
  • Linda Kelly (term ended 27 July 2021)
  • Renee Leary (term ended 17 August 2021)
  • Melva Tyson

Loddon Mallee

  • Brian Gould, Chairperson
  • Craig Leary, Deputy Chairperson (term ended 30 September 2021)
  • Neale Chandler (term ended 30 September 2021)
  • Lisa Goettler
  • Sarah Graham
  • Natalie Green (term ended 3 June 2022)
  • Angela Hughes (term ended 10 January 2022)
  • Robin Kuhne (co-optee, appointed 5 August 2021)
  • Deborah Quin

Eastern Metropolitan

  • Beverley Knowles, Chairperson
  • Joseph Cullen, Deputy Chairperson
  • Alexander Law
  • Delys Leslie
  • Angela Hoare-Lippman
  • Grant Meyer
  • Wendy Morris
  • Fiona Purcell
  • Helen Ruddell

North-Western Metropolitan

  • Gregory Ferrington, Chairperson
  • Maria Floudiotis, Deputy Chairperson (term ended 30 September 2021)
  • Anthony Broad
  • Christine McCall
  • John Sheen
  • Hadi Shehab

Southern Metropolitan

  • Martin Corman, Chairperson
  • Judith Bissland, Deputy Chairperson
  • Ali Aziz
  • Sandra George
  • Gillian Latchford
  • Catherine McGrath
  • Suriakumarie Naidoo (term ended 24 March 2022)

Administrative and project support

Under the Education and Training Reform Act, the General Manager of the Board is responsible for implementing the Board’s policies and decisions. During 2021–22, this role was filled by Ms Jeanette Nagorcka, Executive Director of ACFE Division of the department. More broadly, the Board’s planning, policy and resource allocation roles were supported in the department by the General Manager and the ACFE Division of Higher Education and Skills.

The department also helped the 8 Regional Councils and the Learn Local providers meet the Victorian Government’s goals and targets for adult learning and community building. It provides advice about the Learn Local sector, supports the Board to build organisational capacity and administers the Board’s grant programs.

Organisational structure

Figure 1 schematically describes the legislative relationships and accountabilities of the Board as at 30 June 2022.

Figure 1 Organisational chart

Organisational chart

Occupational health and safety, incident management, and employment and conduct principles

The department manages matters related to staffing, workforce data, the application of merit and equity principles, incident management and occupational health and safety (see the department’s Annual Report 2021–22).

Workforce data

Public sector and employment principles, workforce data, workforce inclusion policies and executive officer data

The Board employs no staff. The department manages matters relating to staffing, workforce data, workforce inclusion policies and executive officer data (see the department’s Annual Report 2021–22).

Other disclosures

Government advertising expenditure

Nil reports.

Disclosure of major contracts

Nil reports.

Consultancy expenditure

Details of consultancies of $10,000 or greater

In 2021–22, there were 6 consultancies with total fees payable of $10,000 or greater. Total expenditure in relation to this was $602,132 (excluding goods and services tax (GST)). Details of individual consultancies are outlined below.

Consultant

Purpose of consultancy

Total approved project fee (excl. GST)
$’000

Expenditure 2021–22 (excl. GST)
$’000

Future expenditure (excl. GST)
$’000

KPMG Australia

Brand Recognition Baseline Measurement project

225

113

35

JOST & Co

ACFE System Governance Guidelines

65

65

Deloitte Access Economics

Scaling Up Pre-Accredited Training

135

134

Australian Council For Educational Research

Evaluation of the Adult Literacy and Numeracy Practitioners Program

85

82

Deakin University

Contemporary Pre-accredited Quality Framework

115

78

37

KPMG Australia

Future of Software Licensing

130

130

Details of consultancies under $10,000

In 2021–22, there were no consultancies for which the total fees payable to an individual consultant were less than $10,000. The total expenditure incurred during 2021–22 was nil.

Information and communications technology expenditure

For 2021–22, the Board expended a total of $827,000 on information and communications technology (ICT), as detailed below.

All operational ICT expenditure

ICT expenditure related to projects to create or enhance ICT capabilities

Business as usual (BAU) ICT expenditure

Non-business as usual (non-BAU) ICT expenditure (Total = Operational expenditure + Capital expenditure)

Operational expenditure

Capital expenditure

$'000

$'000

$'000

$'000

812

15

15

Freedom of information

The Freedom of Information Act 1982 (the FOI Act) allows the public a right of access to documents held by the Board, including documents created during work done for the Board and documents supplied to the Board by an external organisation or individual.

The FOI Act gives members of the public the right to access information held by government departments, local councils, ministers and other bodies subject to the FOI Act.

The FOI Act allows the Board to refuse access, either fully or partially, to certain documents or information, such as:

  • Cabinet documents
  • some internal working documents
  • law enforcement documents
  • documents covered by legal professional privilege (for example, legal advice)
  • personal information about other people
  • information provided to the Board in confidence.

Making a request

Freedom of information requests may be submitted to the Board via the freedom of information form on the website of the Office of the Victorian Information CommissionerExternal Link . Search and access charges may apply.

A freedom of information request must be in writing and clearly identify the types of material sought. It may be made directly to:

Freedom of Information Manager
Adult, Community and Further Education Board
Department of Education and Training
GPO Box 4367
Melbourne VIC 3001

Processing time for freedom of information requests is 30 days. In certain circumstances, this can be extended.

Applicants who are dissatisfied by a Board decision under the FOI Act may seek a review by the Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner within 28 days of receiving the decision letter.

Freedom of information statistics

For the 12 months ending 30 June 2022, the Board received no new freedom of information applications.

Further information

Further information regarding freedom of information can be found in the FOI Act, its associated regulations, or online at the website of the Office of the Victorian Information CommissionerExternal Link .

Compliance with the Building Act 1993

The Board does not own or control any government buildings. Consequently, it is exempt from notifying its compliance with the building and maintenance provisions of the Building Act.

Competitive neutrality policy

Competitive neutrality requires that, where services of government business compete or potentially compete with those of the private sector, any advantage arising solely from government ownership be removed if it is not in the public interest. Government businesses are required to cost and price these services as if they were privately owned. Competitive neutrality policy supports fair competition between public and private businesses and provides government businesses with a tool to enhance decisions on resource allocation. This policy does not override other policy objectives of government and focuses on efficiency in the provision of service.

The Board does not operate as a business whose services compete, or potentially compete, with the private sector, therefore the National Competition Policy is not applicable to the Board.

Compliance with the Public Interest Disclosures Act 2012

The Public Interest Disclosures Act encourages and assists people with making disclosures of improper conduct by public officers and public bodies. The Act protects people who make disclosures in accordance with the Act, and establishes a system to investigate and take rectifying action on the matters that have been disclosed.

The Board does not tolerate improper conduct or reprisals against those who have come forward to disclose such conduct. The Board is committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in its administrative and management practices. It supports the making of disclosures that reveal corrupt conduct, conduct involving substantial mismanagement of public resources, or conduct involving a substantial risk to public health, safety or the environment.

The Board will take all reasonable steps to protect people who make such disclosures from any detrimental action as reprisal for making the disclosure. It will also afford justice to the person who is the subject of the disclosure to the extent legally possible.

Reporting procedures

Disclosures of improper conduct or detrimental action by the Board or its officers may be made directly to:

Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission
Level 1, North Tower
459 Collins Street
Melbourne VIC 3000
Telephone: 1300 735 135
Internet: website of the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption CommissionExternal Link
Email: See the website for a secure email disclosure process that ensures anonymity.

Further information

Information on public interest disclosure procedures, which outlines the system for reporting disclosures of improper conduct or detrimental action, is available from the Public Interest Disclosures Officer:

Public Interest Disclosures Officer
Adult, Community and Further Education Board
Department of Education and Training
GPO Box 4367
Melbourne VIC 3001
Email: acfe@education.vic.gov.au

Compliance with the Disability Act 2006

The Disability Act reaffirms and strengthens the rights and responsibilities of persons with disability, and recognises that doing so requires support across the government sector and in the community. The department manages the implementation of a disability plan related to the employment of staff. (See the department’s Annual Report 2021–22.)

Through the Board, the Victorian Government funds Learn Local providers to provide pre-accredited training to people whose current or past life circumstances present barriers to educational achievement. The Board specifically targets funding towards vulnerable learners, including people with disability.

Compliance with the Social Procurement Framework

The Victorian Government’s Social Procurement Framework (the framework) clearly defines social and sustainable procurement as a key value‑for-money component, and outlines how it can make a difference to Victorian communities. For buyers, the framework is guidance for embedding social and sustainable procurement into existing processes. For suppliers, the framework points to methods to deliver government objectives, while continuing to participate in government procurement and grow their business.

The framework applies to all Victorian Government procurement relating to goods, services and construction.

In 2019, the Board received an exemption from developing its own Social Procurement Strategy. Instead, it has adopted the department’s Social Procurement Strategy, and has agreed to comply with all associated policies and procedures related to implementing the framework.

The framework objectives that were prioritised during 2021–22 include:

  • opportunities for Victorian Aboriginal people
  • women’s equality and safety
  • opportunities for disadvantaged Victorians
  • supporting safe and fair workplaces
  • environmentally sustainable outputs.

The department has provided advice to its staff undertaking procurement activity on behalf of the Board, on how to implement the framework.

In 2021–22, the Board directly engaged two verified social benefit suppliers.

Office-based environmental impacts

The Board’s operations are administered by the department, including the provision of department employees, facilities, office accommodation and fleet services required to support the Board’s activities. The department’s Annual Report 2021–22 disclosure includes the environmental impacts of the Board’s operations.

Additional information available on request

Consistent with the requirements of the Financial Management Act 1994, the Board has prepared material on the topics listed below. Details of this material are held by the Executive Director of the department’s ACFE Division and are available to the public on request, subject to the FOI Act.

The information retained by the Board includes details (where applicable) of any:

  • statement that declarations of pecuniary interests have been duly completed by all relevant officers
  • shares held by a senior officer as nominee or held beneficially in a statutory authority or subsidiary
  • publications produced by the Board about itself, and details on how these can be obtained
  • changes in prices, fees, charges, rates and levies charged by the Board
  • major external reviews carried out on the Board
  • major research and development activities undertaken by the Board
  • overseas visits undertaken, including a summary of the objectives and outcomes of each visit
  • major promotional, public relations and marketing activities undertaken by the Board to develop community awareness of the entity and its services
  • assessments and measures undertaken to improve the occupational health and safety of employees
  • general statement about industrial relations within the Board, and details of time lost through industrial accidents and disputes
  • list of major committees sponsored by the Board, the purposes of each committee and the extent to which the purposes have been achieved
  • consultancies and contractors, including:
    • the consultants or contractors engaged
    • the services provided
    • expenditure committed for each engagement.

Enquiries regarding details of this information should be made to:

Executive Director, Adult, Community and Further Education
Higher Education and Skills
Department of Education and Training
GPO Box 4367
Melbourne VIC 3001
Telephone: (03) 8468 9223

Attestation for financial management compliance with Standing Direction 5.1.4

I, Ms Maria Peters, on behalf of the Responsible Body, certify that the Adult, Community and Further Education Board has no Material Deficiency with respect to the applicable Standing Directions under the Financial Management Act 1994 and Instructions.

Asset Management Accountability Framework (AMAF) maturity assessment

The Adult, Community and Further Education Board does not have any assets for the purposes of the AMAF.


Financial statements

Declaration in the financial statements

The attached financial statements for the Adult, Community and Further Education Board have been prepared in accordance with Direction 5.2 of the Standing Directions of the Assistant Treasurer under the Financial Management Act 1994, applicable Financial Reporting Directions, Australian Accounting Standards including Interpretations, and other mandatory professional reporting requirements.

We further state that, in our opinion, the information set out in the comprehensive operating statement, balance sheet, statement of changes in equity, cash flow statement and accompanying notes, presents fairly the financial transactions during the year ended 30 June 2022 and financial position of the Board at 30 June 2022.

At the time of signing, we are not aware of any circumstance which would render any particulars included in the financial statements to be misleading or inaccurate.

We authorise the attached financial statements for issue on 29 September 2022.

Ms Jeanette Nagorcka
Chief Finance Officer
Adult, Community and Further Education Board
29 September 2022

Ms Tonella Costa
Accountable Officer
Adult, Community and Further Education Board
29 September 2022

Ms Maria Peters
Chairperson
Adult, Community and Further Education Board
29 September 2022

Comprehensive operating statement

For the financial year ended 30 June 2022

Notes

30 June
2022
$’000

30 June
2021
$’000

Income from transactions

Grants

2

32,089

31,228

Services received free of charge

2

5,963

5,641

Total income from transactions

38,052

36,869

Expenses from transactions

Grants and transfer payments

3

(29,431)

(25,753)

Operating expenses

4

(2,357)

(1,920)

Services provided free of charge

4

(5,963)

(5,641)

Total expenses from transactions

(37,751)

(33,314)

Net result from transactions (net operating balance)

301

3,555

Other economic flows included in net result

Net gain/(loss) on financial instruments

5

10

122

Total other economic flows included in net result

10

122

Net result

311

3,677

Other economic flows – other comprehensive income

Items that will not be reclassified to net result

Total other economic flows – other comprehensive income

Comprehensive result

311

3,677

The above comprehensive operating statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

Balance sheet

As at 30 June 2022

Notes

30 June
2022
$’000

30 June
2021
$’000

Assets

Financial assets

Receivables

6, 9

28,514

25,870

Total financial assets

28,514

25,870

Non-financial assets

Prepayment

319

309

Total non-financial assets

319

309

Total assets

28,833

26,179

Liabilities

Payables

7, 9

5,266

2,923

Total liabilities

5,266

2,923

Net assets

23,567

23,256

Equity

Accumulated surplus/(deficit)

23,567

23,256

Net worth

23,567

23,256

The above balance sheet should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

Statement of changes in equity

For the financial year ended 30 June 2022

Physical asset revaluation surplus

$’000

Accumulated surplus

$’000

Contributions by owner

$’000

Total

$’000

Balance at 30 June 2020

19,579

19,579

Net result for the year

3,677

3,677

Balance at 30 June 2021

23,256

23,256

Net result for the year

311

311

Balance at 30 June 2022

23,567

23,567

The above statement of changes in equity should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

Cash flow statement

For the financial year ended 30 June 2022

Notes

30 June 2022
$’000

30 June
2021
$’000

Cash flows from operating activities

Receipts

Receipts from government

29,411

25,007

GST recovered from ATO

2,738

2,446

Total receipts

32,149

27,453

Payments

Payments of grants and other expenses

(32,149)

(27,453)

Total payments

(32,149)

(27,453)

Net cash flows from/(used in) operating activities

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the financial year

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the financial year

Notes to and forming part of the financial statements

  • The financial statements cover the Adult, Community and Further Education Board as an individual reporting entity under the Education and Training Reform Act 2006. The Board is a statutory authority under the Education and Training Reform Act 2006. It reports separately to Parliament through the Minister for Higher Education, Minister for Training and Skills and Minister for Agriculture.

    The Board’s principal address is:

    Adult, Community and Further Education Board
    Level 3
    2 Treasury Place
    East Melbourne VIC 3002

    A description of the nature of the Board’s operations and its principal activities is included in the report of operations, which does not form part of these financial statements.

    Objectives and funding

    The Board’s overall objective is to support the expansion of adult community education across all learner groups, qualification levels and industry sectors, and to develop a strong Learn Local provider base that is responsive to industry and community needs. The Board is predominantly funded by accrual‑based parliamentary appropriations.

    Basis of preparation

    These financial statements are presented in Australian dollars and prepared in accordance with the historical cost convention.

    The accrual basis of accounting has been applied in the preparation of these financial statements whereby assets, liabilities, equity, income and expenses are recognised in the reporting period to which they relate, regardless of when cash is received or paid.

    Income, expenses and assets are recognised net of GST unless the GST is not recoverable from the taxation authority. In this case, it is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of the expense.

    Judgements, estimates and assumptions are required to be made about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on professional judgements derived from historical experience and various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

    Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised and also in future periods affected by the revision. Judgements and assumptions made by management in the application of Australian Accounting Standards (AASs) that have significant effects on the financial statements and estimates, with a risk of material adjustments in the subsequent reporting period, are disclosed throughout the notes to the financial statements.

    Amounts in the financial statements have been rounded to the nearest 1,000 dollars unless otherwise stated. Figures in the financial statements may not equate due to rounding.

    Compliance information

    These general-purpose financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Financial Management Act 1994 (FMA), applicable Financial Reporting Directions (FRDs) and applicable AASs, which include interpretations, issued by the Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB). In particular, they are presented in a manner consistent with the requirements of the AASB 1049 ‘Whole of Government and General Government Sector Financial Reporting’.

    Where appropriate, those paragraphs of the AASs applicable to not-for-profit entities have been applied. Accounting policies are selected and applied in a manner that ensures the resulting financial information satisfies the concepts of relevance and reliability, thereby ensuring that the substance of the underlying transactions or other events is reported.

    COVID-19 environment

    The Board has continued to consider the impacts of the COVID-19 environment on the Board’s operations, financial position and cash flows during the year. COVID-19 has continued to present challenges to the sector. To support training providers to navigate the economic impacts of COVID-19 and in line with advice from the department, the Board continued to release contracted grant payments as training providers have satisfied their contract requirements through Board-approved modified/alternative activities where necessary.

    Management has considered the impacts of COVID-19 on the judgements and assumptions applied to accounting policies. The impacts and assessments have been considered on assets and liabilities which are detailed in Note 6 ‘Receivables’ and Note 9 ‘Financial Instruments’.

  • Income from transactions

    30 June 2022
    $’000

    30 June 2021
    $’000

    Grants from the Department of Education and Training

    32,089

    31,228

    Administrative and salaries income received free of charge

    5,963

    5,641

    Total income from transactions

    38,052

    36,869

    Income is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the entity and the income can be reliably measured.

    Grants

    State government grants, received by the Board during a reporting period, are recognised as income of that reporting period consistent with AASB 1058 ‘Income of Not-for-Profit Entities’. Income from grants without sufficiently specific performance obligations, or that are not enforceable, is recognised when the Board has an unconditional right to receive cash which coincides with the receipt of grant funding from the department.

    Services received free of charge

    Contributions of services received free of charge are recognised at fair value when control is obtained over them, irrespective of whether these contributions are subject to restrictions or conditions over their use. In accordance with AASB 1058 ‘Income of Not-for-Profit Entities’ income in the form of services is only recognised when a fair value can be reliably determined, and the services would have been purchased if they had not been received as a donation.

    The fair value of services received free of charge is measured based on an allocation of estimated time incurred by department staff in supporting the Board, and includes relevant employee benefits (including oncosts), contractors support and overheads.

  • Grants and transfer payments

    30 June 2022
    $’000

    30 June 2021
    $’000

    Payments to adult community education organisations

    25,767

    23,323

    Payments to adult education institutions

    2,070

    1,431

    Payments to other education organisations

    1,594

    999

    Total grants and transfer payments

    29,431

    25,753

    Grants and transfer payments

    Grants and other transfers to third parties (other than contributions to owners) are recognised as an expense in the reporting period in which they are paid or payable. They include transactions such as grants, subsidies and other transfer payments to educational providers.

  • Operating and administrative expenses

    30 June 2022
    $’000

    30 June 2021
    $’000

    Operational expenditure

    Operating expenses

    2,357

    1,920

    Services provided free of charge

    Administrative and salary expenses provided free of charge

    5,963

    5,641

    Total operating and administrative expenses

    8,320

    7,561

    Operating expenses

    Operating expenses generally represent the day-to-day running costs incurred in the normal operations of the Board. These items are recognised as an expense in the reporting period in which they are incurred.

    Services provided free of charge

    Contributions of resources provided free of charge are recognised at their fair value once control is obtained over them, irrespective of whether restrictions or conditions are imposed over their use. Contributions in the form of services are only recognised when a fair value can be reliably determined, and the services would have been purchased if they had not been donated.

    The fair value of services provided free of charge equals the services received free of charge from the Department of Education in supporting the operation of the Board.

  • Net gain/(loss) on financial instruments

    30 June 2022
    $’000

    30 June 2021
    $’000

    Movement in contractual receivables (impairment)

    10

    122

    Total net gain/(loss) on financial instruments

    10

    122

    ‘Other economic flows included in net result’ are changes in the volume or value of an asset or liability that do not result from transactions. They include:

    • gains and losses from disposals and impairments of non-financial physical and intangible assets
    • fair value changes of financial instruments
    • gains and losses on remeasuring available‑for‑sale financial assets.

    Net gain/(loss) on financial instruments

    Net gain/(loss) on financial instruments includes:

    • realised/unrealised gains and losses from revaluations of financial instruments at fair value
    • impairment and reversal of impairment for financial instruments at amortised cost
    • disposals of financial assets and derecognition of financial liabilities.

    Revaluations of financial instruments at fair value

    At the end of each reporting period, the Board assesses whether there is objective evidence that a financial asset or group of financial assets is impaired. Objective evidence includes financial difficulties of the debtor identified and recorded in the Board’s provider risk register and default payments. All financial assets, except for those measured at fair value through profit or loss, are subject to annual review for impairment.

    Receivables are assessed for impairment and bad debts on a regular basis. Those bad debts considered as written off through mutual consent are classified as a transaction expense. Bad debts not written off by mutual consent and the impairment of receivables are classified as other economic flows in net result.

  • Receivables

    30 June 2022
    $’000

    30 June 2021
    $’000

    Contractual receivables

    Trade and other receivables

    31

    Expected credit loss

    (10)

    Total contractual receivables

    21

    Statutory receivables

    Receivables from Victorian Government

    28,058

    25,584

    GST input tax credit recoverable

    456

    265

    Total statutory receivables

    28,514

    25,849

    Total receivables

    28,514

    25,870

    Receivables consist of:

    • contractual receivables, such as debtors in relation to goods and services
    • statutory receivables, such as amounts owing from the Victorian GST.

    Contractual receivables are classified as financial instruments. Statutory receivables are not classified as financial instruments because they do not arise from a contract.

    Receivables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost, using the effective interest method, less expected credit losses. Expected credit loss is classified as other economic flows in the net result. Contractual receivables are written off when there is no reasonable expectation of recovery and impairment losses are classified as a transaction expense. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited against the same line item.

    Details on the Board’s impairment policies, exposure to credit risk, and the calculation of the loss allowance are set out in Note 9 ‘Financial instruments’.

    Movement in the provision for expected credit loss

    30 June 2022
    $’000

    30 June 2021
    $’000

    Opening loss allowance

    (10)

    (132)

    (Increase)/decrease in allowance recognised in surplus or deficit

    10

    122

    Balance at end of the year

    (10)

  • Payables

    30 June 2022
    $’000

    30 June 2021
    $’000

    Contractual payables

    5,266

    2,923

    Statutory payables

    Total payables

    5,266

    2,923

    Payables consist of:

    • contractual payables, such as accounts payable and expenditure accruals. Contractual payables represent liabilities for goods and services provided to the Board before the end of the financial year that are unpaid and arise when the Board becomes obliged to make future payments in respect of the purchase of those goods and services.
    • statutory payables, such as GST.

    Contractual payables are classified as financial instruments and categorised as financial liabilities at amortised cost. Statutory payables are recognised and measured similarly to contractual payables but are not classified as financial instruments and not included in the category of financial liabilities at amortised cost, because they do not arise from a contract.

  • Contingent assets and contingent liabilities are not recognised in the balance sheet, but are disclosed by way of a note and, if quantifiable, are measured at nominal value. Contingent assets and liabilities are presented inclusive of GST receivable or payable respectively. As at 30 June 2022, the Board had no knowledge of any contingent assets or contingent liabilities (2021 – Nil).

  • Financial risk management objectives and policies

    The Board’s principal financial instruments comprise:

    • receivables (excluding statutory receivables)
    • payables (excluding statutory payables).

    The main purpose in holding financial instruments is to prudentially manage the Board’s financial risks within government policy parameters.

    The Board’s main financial risks include credit risk and liquidity risk. The Board has overall responsibility for the establishment and oversight of its risk management framework.

    Credit risk

    Credit risk arises from the contractual financial assets of the Board, which comprise contractual receivables. The Board’s exposure to credit risk arises from potential default of a counterparty on its contractual obligations, resulting in financial loss to the Board.

    Credit risk associated with the Board’s contractual receivables is minimal, because the main debtor is the Victorian Government. For debtors other than the government, it is the Board’s policy to deal only with organisations that meet the standard financial viability requirements.

    There are no financial assets that have had their terms renegotiated to prevent them from being past due or impaired, and they are stated at the carrying amounts as indicated.

    Liquidity risk

    Liquidity risk is the risk that the Board would be unable to meet its financial obligations as and when they fall due. The Board’s exposure to liquidity risks is deemed insignificant, as no obligation to allocate funding is entered into without securing appropriate sources to meet the commitments.

    Measurement basis and accounting policy

    Financial instrument classification

    Accounting policy

    Financial assets

    Contractual receivables

    Receivables are recognised at fair value, being the amount receivable, which is reduced for any impairment.

    Outstanding debts are reviewed at regular intervals to assess their collectability.

    Financial liabilities

    Contractual payables

    Liabilities are recognised for amounts to be paid in future for services provided by organisations contracted with the Board which, at balance sheet date, remain unsettled.

    The Board considers the carrying amount of financial instrument assets and liabilities recorded in the financial statements to be a fair approximation of their fair values, because of the short-term nature of the financial instruments and the expectation that they will be paid in full. The fair values and net fair values of financial instrument assets and liabilities are determined as follows:

    • The fair value of financial instrument assets and liabilities with standard terms and conditions and traded in active liquid markets are determined with reference to quoted market prices.
    • The fair value of other financial instrument assets and liabilities are determined in accordance with generally accepted pricing models based on discounted cash flow analysis.

    Contractual financial assets

    The Board applies the AASB 9 ‘Financial Instruments’ simplified approach for all contractual receivables to measure expected credit losses using a lifetime expected loss allowance based on assumptions about the risk of default and expected loss rates. The Board has grouped contractual receivables on shared credit risk characteristics and days past due and selected the expected credit loss rate based on past history, existing market conditions, as well as forward-looking estimates at the end of the financial year.

    2022 contractual receivables

    Current
    $’000

    Less than
    1 month
    $’000

    1 to 3 months
    $’000

    3 to 12
    months
    $’000

    1 to 5 years
    $’000

    Total
    $’000

    Expected loss rate

    Gross carrying amount

    Less loss allowance

    Net carrying value

    2021 contractual receivables

    Current
    $’000

    Less than
    1 month
    $’000

    1 to 3 months
    $’000

    3 to 12
    months
    $’000

    1 to 5 years
    $’000

    Total
    $’000

    Expected loss rate (i)

    0%

    0%

    0%

    0%

    33%

    33%

    Gross carrying amount

    31

    31

    Less loss allowance

    (10

    (10

    Net carrying value

    21

    21

    (i) The expected credit loss considers the impact that COVID-19 had on debtors trading conditions

    Ageing analysis of contractual financial liabilities

    2022 liabilities

    Carrying amount
    $’000

    Nominal amount
    $’000

    Maturity dates

    Less than 1 month
    $’000

    1 to 3 months
    $’000

    3 to 12 months
    $’000

    1 to 5
    years
    $’000

    Contractual payables

    5,266

    5,266

    191

    5,075

    Total

    5,266

    5,266

    191

    5,075

    2021 liabilities

    Carrying amount
    $’000

    Nominal amount
    $’000

    Maturity dates

    Less than 1 month

    $’000

    1 to 3 months

    $’000

    3 to 12 months

    $’000

    1 to 5
    years

    $’000

    Contractual payables

    2,923

    2,923

    2,882

    41

    Total

    2,923

    2,923

    2,882

    41

  • Reconciliation of net result for the period to net cash flow from operating activities

    30 June 2022
    $’000

    30 June 2021
    $’000

    Net result for the period

    311

    3,677

    Other non-cash items affecting results

    (Increase)/decrease in receivables

    (2,644)

    (6,196)

    (Increase)/decrease in prepayments

    (10)

    (2)

    Increase/(decrease) in payables

    2,343

    2,521

    Net cash flows from/(used in) operating activities

  • In accordance with the Ministerial Directions issued by the Assistant Treasurer under the Financial Management Act 1994, the following disclosures are made regarding responsible persons for the reporting period.

    The persons who held the positions of Minister and Accountable Officer on the Board are as follows:

    Responsible Minister

    • The Hon Gayle Tierney MP (1 July 2021 – 30 June 2022)

    The following persons acted in the absence of the responsible Minister during the year:

    • The Hon Ingrid Stitt MP (3–10 July 2021, and 7–10 January 2022)
    • The Hon James Merlino MP (21–22 September 2021, and 11–27 January 2022)

    Accountable Officer

    • Ms Jeanette Nagorcka (1 July 2021 – 30 June 2022)

    The following officers acted in the absence of Ms Jeanette Nagorcka during the year:

    • Mr Simon Booth (4–14 January 2022)

    Significant transactions with government-related entities

    During the year, the Board had the following significant government-related entity transactions:

    • receipt of grant funding from the Department of Education and Training ($32.1 million), together with resources received free of charge ($6.0 million), to undertake legislative responsibilities
    • payments to the Department of Health and Human Services ($0.2 million) for the support of a grants management system
    • payments to the Centre for Adult Education ($0.8 million) and AMES Australia ($1.3 million) for the delivery of educational services.

    Key management personnel and related parties

    Related parties of the Board include all key management personnel and their close family members and personal business interests (controlled entities, joint ventures and entities they may have significant influence over). Other related parties include Victorian Cabinet ministers (including their close family members) and public sector entities that are controlled and consolidated into the whole of government consolidated financial statements.

    Key management personnel of the Board include:

    • Board members
    • Minister for Higher Education, Minister for Training and Skills and Minister for Agriculture in the Parliament of Victoria
    • Accountable Officer.

    Entity

    Key management personnel

    Position title

    Period

    Parliament of Victoria

    The Hon Gayle Tierney MP

    Minister for Higher Education, Minister for Training and Skills and Minister for Agriculture

    1 July 2021 – 30 June 2022

    Board

    Ms Jeanette Nagorcka

    Accountable Officer

    1 July 2021 – 30 June 2022

    Board

    Ms Maria Peters

    Chairperson

    1 July 2021 – 30 June 2022

    Board

    Mr Raoul Wainwright

    Deputy Chairperson

    1 July 2021 – 25 September 2021

    Board

    Dr Maylyn Lam

    Deputy Chairperson

    26 October 2021 – 30 June 2022

    Board member

    1 July 2021 – 25 October 2021

    Board

    Mr James Atkinson

    Board member

    1 July 2021 – 30 June 2022

    Board

    Ms Sally Brennan

    Board member

    1 July 2021 – 30 June 2022

    Board

    Ms Claudia Fatone

    Board member

    1 July 2021 – 30 June 2022

    Board

    Mr Michael Grogan

    Board member

    1 July 2021 – 30 June 2022

    Board

    Ms Margaret Lewis

    Board member

    1 July 2021 – 30 June 2022

    Board

    Mr John Maddock

    Board member

    1 July 2021 – 30 June 2022

    Board

    Mr Ekrem Ozyurek

    Board member

    12 December 2021 – 30 June 2022

    Board

    Ms Deborah Sansom

    Board member

    12 December 2021 – 30 June 2022

    Board

    Dr Winifred Scott

    Board member

    1 July 2021 – 30 June 2022

    Board

    Ms Penny Wilson

    Board member

    1 July 2021 – 30 June 2022

    The compensation detailed below excludes salaries and benefits that the portfolio Minister received. The Minister’s remuneration and allowances are set by the Parliamentary Salaries and Superannuation Act 1968 and are reported in the Department of Parliamentary Services’ Financial Report.

    Remuneration of key management personnel

    Other than ministers and accountable officers, the number of key management personnel and their total remuneration during the reporting period are shown in the table below. Remuneration comprises employee benefits in all forms of consideration paid, payable or provided by the entity, or on behalf of the entity, in exchange for services rendered, and is disclosed in the following categories:

    • Short-term employee benefits include amounts such as wages, salaries, annual leave or sick leave that are usually paid or payable on a regular basis, as well as non-monetary benefits such as allowances and free or subsidised goods or services.
    • Post-employment benefits include pensions and other retirement benefits paid or payable on a discrete basis when employment has ceased.
    • Other long-term benefits include long service leave, other long service benefits or deferred compensation.
    • Termination benefits include termination of employment payments, such as severance packages.

    Remuneration of key management personnel
    (excluding responsible ministers)

    30 June 2022

    30 June 2021

    Short-term benefits

    $145,017

    $182,924

    Post-employment benefits

    $4,283

    $5,752

    Other long-term benefits

    Termination benefits

    N/A

    N/A

    Share-based payments

    N/A

    N/A

    Total remuneration

    $149,300

    $188,676

    Total number of key management personnel

    13

    13

    Total annualised employee equivalents (i)

    N/A

    N/A

    (i) Board members do not fall within employee definitions.

    Remuneration of Accountable Officer

    The Accountable Officer is an executive officer employed by the Department of Education and Training, with information on remuneration disclosed in the department’s financial statements. The Board recognises the indirect cost associated with the Accountable Officer’s time within the services free of charge recognised in the operating statement.

    Retirement benefits of responsible persons

    There were no retirement benefits made in connection with retirement of responsible persons of the reporting entity.

    Transactions and balances with key management personnel and other related parties

    During the reporting period, no responsible person received or was entitled to receive any benefit (other than remuneration disclosed in the financial report) from a contract between the Board and that responsible person or a firm or company of which that responsible person is a member or has a substantial interest.

    During the reporting period, Adult Learning Australia undertook maintenance of Learn Local digital assets. During the 2021–22 financial year, a one-year extension was authorised by the department. While Ms Sally Brennan was a Board member of both the Adult, Community and Further Education Board and Adult Learning Australia, there was no consultation with, or involvement from, Board members in the contract amendment or extension.

    Outside normal citizen-type transactions, there were no other related-party transactions that involved key management personnel, their close family members or their personal business interests. No provision has been required, nor any expense recognised, for impairment of receivables from related parties. Other related transactions and loans requiring disclosure under the Directions of the Assistant Treasurer have been considered and there are no matters to report.

  • There is no remuneration of executive officers (other than the Accountable Officer) to be reported for the accounting period, as it was paid by the Department of Education and Training.

  • Victorian Auditor-General’s Office

    30 June 2022
    $’000

    30 June 2021
    $’000

    Audit of the financial statements

    35

    35

  • The State of Victoria released the ‘Stay Well In Winter’ campaign on Thursday 12 July 2022, requesting employers to consider working from home arrangements, in an effort to control the spread of COVID-19. While these recommendations modified the manner in which entities operate, there are no known significant financial impacts on the Board’s operations, future results and financial position requiring disclosure after the reporting date.

    No other matters or circumstances have arisen since the end of the financial year which significantly affected or may affect the operations, the results of operations or the state of affairs of the Board in future financial years.

  • Operating commitments 30 June 2022

    Payment timeframe

    Total
    $’000

    1 year
    $’000

    1–5 years
    $’000

    5 years or more
    $’000

    Pre-accredited training delivery

    10,526

    10,526

    Other program delivery

    2,139

    2,139

    Total expenditure commitments

    12,665

    12,665

    Operating commitments 30 June 2021

    Payment timeframe

    Total
    $’000

    1 year
    $’000

    1–5 years
    $’000

    5 years or more
    $’000

    Pre-accredited training delivery

    11,655

    11,655

    Other program delivery

    2,125

    2,125

    Total expenditure commitments

    13,780

    13,780

    Commitments for future expenditure include operating and capital commitments arising from contracts. These commitments are not recognised in the balance sheet but are disclosed at their nominal value and inclusive of GST payable. In addition, where it is considered appropriate and provides additional relevant information to users, the net present values of significant individual projects are stated. These future expenditures cease to be disclosed as commitments once the related liabilities are recognised in the balance sheet.

  • Cash and deposits

    The Board does not hold a bank account with any financial institution. Total approved appropriations for the relevant period are transferred by the Department of Education and Training to the Board, in a phased manner throughout the financial year via inter-entity transactions.

    Comprehensive operating statement

    The comprehensive operating statement comprises 3 components: ‘net result from transactions’ (or ‘net operating balance’), ‘other economic flows included in net result’ and ‘other economic flows – other comprehensive income’. The sum of the first two, together with the net result from discontinued operations, represents the net result.

    The ‘net result from transactions’ or ‘net operating balance’ is a key fiscal aggregate and is derived by income from transactions minus expenses from transactions. It is a summary measure of the ongoing sustainability of operations. It excludes gains and losses resulting from changes in price levels and other changes in the volume of assets. It is the component of the change in net worth that is due to transactions and can be attributed directly to government policies.

    ‘Transactions’ are those economic flows that are considered to result from policy decisions, usually interactions between two entities by mutual agreement. Transactions also include flows within an entity, such as depreciation where the owner is simultaneously acting as the owner of the depreciating asset and as the consumer of the service provided by the asset. Taxation is regarded as mutually agreed interactions between the government and taxpayers.

    Transactions can be in kind (for example, assets provided or given free of charge or for nominal consideration) or where the final consideration is cash.

    Balance sheet

    Assets and liabilities are presented in liquidity order, with assets aggregated into financial assets and non-financial assets.

    Current and non-current assets and liabilities (those expected to be recovered or settled beyond 12 months) are disclosed in the notes, where relevant.

    Statement of changes in equity

    The statement of changes in equity presents reconciliations of each non-owner and owner equity opening balance at the beginning of the reporting period to the closing balance at the end of the reporting period.

    It also separately shows the changes due to amounts recognised in the ‘comprehensive result’ and amounts recognised in ‘other economic flows – other movements in equity’ related to ‘transactions with owner in its capacity as owner’.

    Cash flow statement

    Cash flows are classified according to whether they arise from operating activities, investing activities, or financial activities. This classification is consistent with requirements in AASB 107 ‘Statement of Cash Flows’.

    Receivables and payables are stated inclusive of the amount of GST receivable or payable. The net amount of GST recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority is included with other receivables or payables on the balance sheet.

    Cash flows are presented on a gross basis. The GST components of cash flows arising from investing or financing activities that are recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority, are presented as operating cash flow.

    Australian Accounting Standards (AASs) issued that are not yet effective

    Certain new accounting standards and interpretations have been published but are not mandatory for the 30 June 2022 reporting period. The Board assesses the impact of these new standards to determine their applicability and early adoption where applicable.

    As at 30 June 2022, the following standards and interpretations that are applicable to the Board had been issued but were not made mandatory for the financial year ending 30 June 2022. The Board has not and does not intend to adopt these standards early.

    Topic

    Key requirements

    Effective date

    AASB 2020–1 ‘Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards – Classification of Liabilities as Current or Non-Current

    This Standard amends AASB 101 to clarify requirements for the presentation of liabilities in the statement of financial position as current or non-current. A liability is classified as non-current if an entity has the right at the end of the reporting period to defer settlement of the liability for at least 12 months after the reporting period. The meaning of settlement of a liability is also clarified.

    1 January 2023

    In addition to the new standards and amendments outlined in the table above, the AASB has issued a list of other amending standards that are not effective for the 2021–22 reporting period (as listed below). In general, these amending standards include editorial and reference changes that are expected to have insignificant impacts on public sector reporting:

    AASB 2020–3 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards – Annual Improvements 2018–20 and Other Amendments.

    AASB 2021–2 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards – Disclosure of Accounting Policies and Definitions of Accounting Estimates.

    AASB 2021–6 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards – Disclosure of Accounting Policies: Tier 2 and Other Australian Accounting Standards.

    AASB 2021–7 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards – Effective Date of Amendments to AASB 10 and AASB 128 and Editorial Corrections.


Appendices

  • The Annual Report of the Board is prepared in accordance with all relevant Victorian legislation. This index has been prepared to facilitate identification of our compliance with statutory disclosure requirements.

    Legislation

    Requirement

    Page

    Standing Directions and Financial Reporting Directions

    Report of operations

    Charter and purpose

    FRD 22

    Manner of establishment and the relevant ministers

    9

    FRD 22

    Purpose, functions, powers and duties

    9–11

    FRD 22

    Initiatives and key achievements

    12–23

    FRD 22

    Nature and range of services provided

    9–23

    Management and structure

    FRD 22

    Organisational structure

    32

    Financial and other information

    FRD 8

    Performance against output performance measures

    12

    FRD 10

    Disclosure index

    59–60

    FRD 12

    Disclosure of major contracts

    33

    FRD 15

    Executive officer disclosures

    33

    FRD 22

    Employment and conduct principles

    32

    FRD 22

    Occupational health and safety policy

    32

    FRD 22

    Summary of financial results for the year

    24

    FRD 22

    Significant changes in financial position during the year

    24

    FRD 22

    Major changes or factors affecting performance

    24

    FRD 22

    Subsequent events

    56

    FRD 22

    Application and operation of the Freedom of Information Act 1982

    34

    FRD 22

    Compliance with building and maintenance provisions of the Building Act 1993

    35

    FRD 22

    Statement on National Competition Policy

    35

    FRD 22

    Application and operation of the Public Interest Disclosures Act 2012

    35–6

    FRD 22

    Details of consultancies over $10,000

    33

    FRD 22

    Details of consultancies under $10,000

    33

    FRD 22

    Disclosure of government advertising expenditure

    33

    FRD 22

    Disclosure of ICT expenditure

    34

    FRD 22

    Statement of availability of other information

    37–8

    FRD 22

    Asset Management Accountability Framework

    38

    FRD 24

    Reporting on office-based environmental impacts

    37

    FRD 29

    Workforce data disclosures

    33

    SD 5.2

    Specific requirements under Standing Direction 5.2

    1, 40

    Compliance attestation and declaration

    SD 5.1.4

    Attestation for compliance with Ministerial Standing Direction

    38

    SD 5.2.3

    Declaration in report of operations

    1

    Financial statements

    Declaration

    SD 5.2.2

    Declaration in financial statements

    40

    Other requirements under Standing Directions 5.2

    SD 5.2.1(a)

    Compliance with AASs and other authoritative pronouncements

    47

    SD 5.2.1(a)

    Compliance with Standing Directions

    40

    SD 5.2.1(b)

    Compliance with Model Financial Report

    40–58

    Other disclosures as required by FRDs in notes to the financial statements*

    FRD 21

    Disclosures of responsible persons, executive officers and other personnel (contractors with significant management responsibilities) in the Financial Report

    53–5

    FRD 110

    Cash flow statements

    45

    FRD 114

    Financial instruments – general government entities and public non-financial corporations

    49–52

    FRD 120

    AASs applicable for for-profit and not-for-profit entities

    58

    FRD 122

    Transitional requirements on the application of AASB 1058 ‘Income of Not-For-Profit Entities’

    47–8

    * Note: References to FRDs have been removed from the disclosure index if the specific FRDs do not contain requirements that are of the nature of the disclosure.

    Legislation

    Freedom of Information Act 1982

    34

    Building Act 1993

    35

    Financial Management Act 1994

    1, 47

    Disability Act 2006

    36

    Public Interest Disclosures Act 2012

    35–6

  • The following grant payments were made to certain companies and organisations during 2021–22:

    Name of company or organisation

    Pre-accredited and associated grants
    $’000
    (excl. GST)

    Sector support grants
    $’000
    (excl. GST)

    Total
    $’000
    (excl. GST)

    Access Australia Group Limited

    88

    88

    Adult and Community Education (Victoria) Incorporated

    6

    6

    Adult Learning Australia Ltd

    0

    778

    778

    Alamein Neighbourhood & Learning Centre Inc

    88

    28

    116

    Albury Wodonga Community College Limited

    26

    26

    Albury Wodonga Volunteer Resource Bureau Inc

    21

    21

    AMES Australia

    1,265

    1,265

    Anglesea Community House Inc.

    1

    1

    Angliss Neighbourhood House

    90

    90

    Ararat Neighbourhood House

    10

    10

    Arrabri Community House Inc

    128

    46

    174

    Art Resource Collective Incorporated

    10

    10

    Australian Multicultural Community Services Limited

    26

    26

    Australian Croatian Community Services Ltd

    25

    25

    Australian Romanian Community Welfare, Health and Services Association of Victoria Inc

    18

    18

    Australian Vietnamese Women's Association

    149

    149

    Avenue Neighbourhood House At Eley Inc

    97

    97

    Balance Training Services Pty Ltd

    68

    68

    Ballan & District Community House & Adult Education Centre Inc

    12

    12

    Ballarat Neighbourhood Centre Inc

    288

    288

    Banksia Gardens Community Services

    610

    27

    637

    Bass Coast Adult Learning Inc

    132

    132

    Beaufort Community House and Learning Centre Incorporated

    14

    14

    Belgium Avenue Neighbourhood House Incorporated

    53

    53

    Bellarine Living and Learning Centre Inc

    20

    20

    Bellarine Training and Community Hub Incorporated

    15

    15

    Belvedere Community Centre Inc

    30

    32

    62

    Bendigo Neighbourhood Hub Inc

    75

    75

    Berry Street Victoria Incorporated

    27

    27

    Beulah Historical, Learning and Progress Association Inc

    21

    21

    Birallee Park Neighbourhood House Inc

    29

    29

    Bnym Aboriginal Corporation

    67

    67

    Box Hill Institute

    787

    787

    BRACE Education Training & Employment Limited

    59

    59

    Brunswick Neighbourhood House Co-operative Limited

    240

    240

    Bubup Wilam Aboriginal Child and Family Centre Incorporated

    12

    12

    Buchan District Outreach Inc

    12

    13

    25

    Carlton Neighbourhood Learning Centre Inc

    131

    131

    Carringbush Adult Education Inc

    170

    51

    221

    Castlemaine Community House Incorporated

    173

    30

    203

    Central Highlands Group Training Incorporated

    15

    15

    Central Ringwood Community Centre

    104

    104

    Centre for Participation Inc

    245

    249

    CERES Inc

    40

    40

    Cheltenham Community Centre Inc

    263

    263

    Child and Family Care Network Inc

    186

    186

    Christie Centre Inc

    23

    23

    Churchill Neighbourhood Centre Inc

    21

    21

    Cire Services Incorporated

    259

    32

    291

    Clota Cottage Neighbourhood House Inc

    11

    11

    Cloverdale Community Centre Inc

    245

    46

    291

    Cobram Community House Inc

    27

    27

    Comm Unity Plus Services

    234

    234

    Community College Gippsland Ltd

    224

    224

    Community Hub Inc

    27

    27

    Concern Australia Welfare Inc

    70

    70

    Continuing Education and Arts Centre of Alexandra Inc

    17

    1

    18

    Coonara Community House Inc

    139

    139

    Corryong Neighbourhood House Inc

    18

    18

    Craigieburn Education and Community Centre Incorporated

    61

    61

    Cranbourne Community House Inc

    136

    136

    Dallas Neighbourhood House Assoc Inc

    185

    185

    Dandenong Neighbourhood Community and Learning Centre Inc

    260

    260

    Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre Inc

    25

    25

    Diamond Valley Learning Centre Inc

    126

    126

    Djerriwarrh Employment & Education Services Inc

    263

    80

    343

    Donald Learning Group Inc

    10

    10

    Doveton Neighbourhood Learning Centre Inc

    128

    46

    174

    Duke Street Community House Association Inc

    252

    252

    East End Community House Inc

    262

    262

    Echuca Neighbourhood House Inc

    29

    29

    Elwood–St Kilda Neighbourhood Learning Centre Inc

    127

    127

    Emerald Community House Inc

    86

    86

    Encompass Community Services Incorporated

    31

    31

    Endeavour Hills Neighbourhood Centre Inc

    117

    117

    Euroa Health Inc

    2

    2

    Farnham Street Neighbourhood Learning Centre Inc

    472

    472

    Fitzroy Learning Network Inc

    64

    64

    Footscray Community Arts Centre Limited

    16

    16

    Foundation 61 Inc

    105

    105

    Foundation Learning Centre Inc

    361

    174

    535

    Frankston City Council

    44

    44

    Geelong Ethnic Communities Council Incorporated

    438

    438

    Gippsland Employment Skills Training Inc

    183

    183

    Glen Eira Adult Learning Centre Inc

    211

    211

    Glen Park Community Centre Inc

    205

    46

    251

    Glenroy Neighbourhood Learning Centre Inc

    128

    128

    Godfrey Street Community House Association Inc

    15

    15

    Goldfields Employment and Learning Centre Inc

    64

    64

    Grampians Community Health

    1

    1

    Great Ocean Road Health

    10

    10

    Haddon Community Learning Centre Inc

    33

    33

    Hallam Community Learning Centre Inc

    114

    114

    Hampton Park Care Group Inc

    63

    63

    Healesville Living & Learning Centre Inc

    62

    62

    Heyfield Community Resource Centre Inc

    27

    27

    Holden Street Neighbourhood House Inc

    50

    50

    Horsham Community House Inc

    18

    18

    Hume City Council

    111

    111

    Inclusion Melbourne Inc

    93

    93

    Inner Melbourne VET Cluster Inc

    46

    18

    64

    Japara Neighbourhood House Inc

    9

    9

    Jesuit Social Services Limited

    331

    4

    335

    Jewish Care (Victoria) Inc

    10

    10

    Jika Jika Community Centre Inc

    18

    18

    JobCo Employment Services Association Inc

    46

    59

    105

    K.Y.M. (Victoria) Incorporated

    232

    232

    Kangaroo Flat Community Group Inc

    1

    1

    Karingal St Laurence Limited

    139

    139

    Kensington Neighbourhood House Inc

    110

    28

    138

    Kerrie Neighbourhood House Inc

    18

    18

    Kew Neighbourhood Learning Centre Inc

    208

    65

    273

    King Valley Learning Exchange Inc

    27

    27

    Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House Inc

    37

    37

    Kyabram Community and Learning Centre Inc

    15

    15

    Kyneton Community & Learning Centre Inc

    106

    46

    152

    Lalor Living and Learning Centre Inc

    112

    112

    Langwarrin Community Centre Inc

    0

    0

    Lara Community Centre Inc

    25

    25

    Laurels Education and Training Incorporated

    53

    53

    Laverton Community Integrated Services Inc

    288

    288

    Life Skills Victoria Incorporated

    72

    72

    LINK Neighbourhood House Inc

    13

    13

    Living and Learning at Ajani Inc

    29

    27

    56

    Living Learning Pakenham Inc

    242

    242

    Loddon Campaspe Multicultural Services Inc

    149

    75

    224

    Longbeach Place Inc

    33

    33

    Lyrebird Community Centre Inc

    87

    87

    MACE Inc

    77

    77

    Macedon Ranges Further Education Centre Inc

    84

    84

    MADEC Australia

    59

    59

    Maldon Neighbourhood Centre Inc

    28

    28

    Mallacoota District Health & Support Service Inc

    9

    9

    Manna Gum Community House Inc

    41

    46

    87

    Meadow Heights Learning Shop Inc

    215

    215

    Melton South Community Centre Inc

    89

    89

    Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre Inc

    92

    92

    Micare Ltd

    143

    143

    Migrant Resource Centre North West Region Inc

    39

    39

    MiLife-Victoria Inc

    128

    128

    Mill Park Community Services Group Inc

    340

    340

    Milpara Community House Inc

    71

    71

    Mitcham Community House Incorporated

    41

    41

    Moe Neighbourhood House Inc

    29

    29

    Moongala Women's Collective Inc

    30

    30

    Mordialloc Neighbourhood House Inc

    51

    51

    Mount Beauty Neighbourhood Centre Inc

    51

    51

    Mountain District Women’s Co-Operative Limited

    227

    28

    255

    Murray Adult Community Education–Swan Hill Inc

    119

    119

    Murray Human Services Inc

    38

    38

    Myrtleford Neighbourhood Centre Inc

    35

    35

    Ngwala Willumbong Limited

    122

    122

    Nhill Neighbourhood House Learning Centre Inc

    233

    21

    254

    Nillumbik Shire Council

    33

    33

    North Melbourne Language & Learning Inc

    192

    192

    North Ringwood Community House Incorporated

    50

    50

    North Shepparton Community & Learning Centre Inc

    20

    20

    Noweyung Ltd

    9

    9

    Numurkah Community Learning Centre Inc

    21

    21

    Olympic Adult Education Inc

    295

    295

    Open Door Neighbourhood House Inc

    150

    150

    Orana Neighbourhood House Inc

    115

    115

    Orbost Education Centre Incorporated

    41

    41

    Outlets Co-operative Neighbourhood House Limited

    14

    14

    Outlook (Vic.) Inc

    93

    93

    Pangerang Community House Inc

    15

    15

    Park Orchards Community House & Learning Centre Inc

    50

    50

    Paynesville Neighbourhood Centre Inc

    85

    4

    89

    Peninsula Training and Employment Program Inc

    125

    28

    153

    Phillip Island Community and Learning Centre Inc

    26

    26

    Pines Learning Inc

    147

    147

    Port Phillip Community Group Limited

    129

    30

    159

    Portland Workskills Inc

    66

    66

    PRACE Inc

    422

    99

    521

    Prahran Community Learning Centre Inc

    171

    171

    Preston Neighbourhood House Inc

    380

    46

    426

    Pyramid Hill Neighbourhood House Inc

    2

    2

    Quantin Binnah Community Centre Inc

    8

    8

    Red Cliffs Community Resource Centre Inc

    25

    25

    Rejoice Chinese Christian Communication Centre Inc

    19

    19

    Resurrection Catholic Church Keysborough

    334

    334

    Reynard Street Neighbourhood House Incorporated

    62

    62

    Richmond Community Learning Centre Inc

    32

    32

    Robinvale Network House Inc

    17

    17

    Rosewall Neighbourhood Centre Inc

    91

    91

    Rowville Neighbourhood Learning Centre Inc

    106

    106

    Rural Industries Skill Training Centre Inc

    109

    109

    Rushworth Community House Inc

    13

    13

    Sale Neighbourhood House Inc

    25

    25

    Sandybeach Community Co-operative Society Limited

    279

    279

    SCAA Shearer Woolhandler Training Inc

    28

    41

    69

    Selby Community House Inc

    23

    23

    Shepparton Access

    93

    93

    Shepparton Adult and Community Education College Inc

    26

    26

    Small Business Mentoring Service Inc

    165

    165

    South Shepparton Community Centre Inc

    12

    12

    Southern Grampians Adult Education Inc

    34

    34

    Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre Inc

    32

    32

    Southport Community Centre Incorporated

    108

    108

    SPAN Community House Inc

    32

    32

    SpringDale Neighbourhood Centre Inc

    144

    144

    Springvale Indo-Chinese Mutual Assistance Association Inc

    89

    89

    Springvale Learning and Activities Centre Incorporated

    258

    46

    304

    Springvale Neighbourhood House Inc

    267

    267

    St. Arnaud Neighbourhood House Inc

    14

    14

    Stawell Neighbourhood House Inc

    10

    10

    Sunraysia Mallee Ethnic Communities Council Inc

    124

    124

    Sunraysia Regional Consulting Limited

    18

    18

    Sussex Neighbourhood House Inc

    57

    57

    Task Force Community Agency Inc

    213

    213

    Tatura Community House Inc

    19

    19

    The Basin Community House Inc

    213

    213

    The Centre for Continuing Education Inc

    599

    4

    603

    The Centre: Connecting Community in North & West Melbourne Inc

    44

    44

    The Kevin Heinze Garden Centre Incorporated

    10

    10

    The Old Courthouse Committee of Management Inc

    25

    25

    The Onemda Association Inc

    115

    115

    The South Kingsville Community Centre Inc

    32

    32

    Traralgon Neighbourhood Learning House Inc

    55

    55

    U3A Network Victoria Inc

    0

    165

    165

    Uniting (Victoria and Tasmania) Limited

    61

    61

    Upper Beaconsfield Community Centre Inc

    10

    10

    Vermont South Community House Incorporated

    57

    57

    VET Development Centre Ltd

    46

    194

    240

    VICSEG New Futures

    47

    4

    51

    Victoria University

    0

    235

    235

    Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association Limited

    43

    43

    Victorian Adult Literacy and Basic Education Council Inc

    0

    39

    39

    Victorian Vocational Rehabilitation Association

    39

    39

    Waminda Inc

    8

    8

    Warracknabeal Neighbourhood House and Learning Centre Inc

    48

    46

    94

    Warragul Community House Inc

    47

    47

    Warrandyte Neighbourhood House Inc

    11

    11

    Waverley Community Learning Centre Inc

    82

    82

    Wedderburn Community House Inc

    16

    16

    Wellsprings For Women Incorporated

    250

    51

    301

    Wendouree Neighbourhood Centre Inc

    156

    156

    Westgate Community Initiatives Group Ltd

    280

    280

    Whittlesea Community Connections Inc

    31

    31

    Whittlesea Community House Inc

    36

    36

    Williamstown Community and Education Centre Inc

    346

    346

    Winchelsea Community House Inc

    Wingate Avenue Community Centre Inc

    196

    34

    230

    Women's Information and Referral Exchange Incorporated

    11

    11

    Wonga Park Community Cottage Inc

    15

    15

    Workforce Plus Inc

    241

    241

    Wycheproof Community Resource Centre Inc

    12

    12

    Wyndham Community and Education Centre Inc

    417

    248

    665

    Yarraville Community Centre Inc

    311

    32

    343

    Yarrawonga Neighbourhood House Inc

    46

    46

    Yarrunga Community Centre Inc

    109

    109

    Youth Projects Limited

    23

    23

    YouthNow Inc

    391

    28

    419

    Zoe Support Australia

    65

    65

    Grand total

    27,001

    3,401

    30,402


List of abbreviations

AAS

Australian Accounting Standards

AASB

Australian Accounting Standards Board

ACFE

Adult, community and further education

ALNPP

Adult Literacy and Numeracy Practitioners Program

AMAF

Asset Management Accountability Framework

CGEA

Certificates in General Education for Adults

the department

Department of Education and Training

FLP

Family Learning Partnerships

FOI Act

Freedom of Information Act 1982

FRD

Financial Reporting Directive

GST

Goods and services tax

ICT

Information and communications technology

PQF

Pre-accredited Quality Framework

TAFE

Technical and further education

the Board

Adult, Community and Further Education Board

VET

Vocational education and training


Contacts

Central office
GPO Box 4367
Melbourne VIC 3001
Telephone: 03 7022 1526
Email: acfe@education.vic.gov.au

North-Eastern Victoria region
Level 2
295 Springvale Road,
Glen Waverley VIC 3150
Telephone: 03 9084 8573
Email: training.participation@education.vic.gov.au

North-Western Victoria region
7–15 McLaren Street
Bendigo VIC 3550
Telephone: 03 4433 7582
Email: training.participation@education.vic.gov.au

South-Eastern Victoria region
6th Floor
165–169 Thomas Street
Dandenong VIC 3175
Telephone: 03 8904 2580
Email: training.participation@education.vic.gov.au

South-Western Victoria region
75 High Street
Belmont VIC 3216
Telephone: 03 5215 5204
Email: training.participation@education.vic.gov.au


Reviewed 23 January 2023