Today, we learnt that the Minister of Tertiary Education and the government have released their decisions regarding the redesign of the vocational education and training system – following the recent consultation process.

The implications for Workforce Development Councils (WDCs), in particular, are:

• the standard setting functions currently delivered by WDCs will be taken over by Industry Skills Boards
• To ensure the design meets the needs of industry, a targeted consultation will take place on two work-based learning options
• Information on these options and a targeted consultation process will be provided to industry bodies in January 2025.
• WDCs will continue to operate in the interim.

Amplifying industry voice is an essential part of WDCs; we will work with the industry in the New Year to ensure that this voice and opinions are actively sought and involved in the future. We will continue to do this as we transition into the new structure.

We have greatly valued the trusting relationships that we have built to date and know that we can count on your support as we manage this transition together.