This document is the 2010 Annual Report for the Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology (DFEEST) in South Australia. It provides an overview of the department's key activities and achievements in 2010, including major reforms to the vocational education and training system through the "Skills for All" agenda, increased investment in TAFE infrastructure, and progress on initiatives relating to science, research and the digital economy. The report also contains information on the department's strategic plan, workforce, finances, VET activity and other reporting requirements.

2. FOR FURTHER COPIES AND ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT
Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology
Office of the Chief Executive
GPO Box 320
ADELAIDE SA 5001
ABN: 16692317206
Telephone: (08) 8226 3821
Facsimile: (08) 8226 9533
The 2010 Annual Report is available on the department’s website at:
http:://www.dfeest.sa.gov.au
ISSN: 1449-6437
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3. 3

4. TABLE OF CONTENTS
AGENCY ROLE AND GOVERNANCE
Chief Executive’s Overview ....................................................................................... 7
Highlights 2010 ......................................................................................................... 9
Vision, Mission and Values ..................................................................................... 18
Role, Legislation and Structure ............................................................................... 19
Boards, Committees and Authorities ....................................................................... 20
Governance............................................................................................................. 24
REPORT ON OPERATIONS AGAINST THE DEPARTMENT OF FURTHER
EDUCATION, EMPLOYMENT, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY’S
STRATEGIC PLAN
Goal 1
Exemplary Workforce Planning and Development .................................................. 30
Goal 2
Strong Industry Partnerships ................................................................................... 42
Goal 3
High Levels of Participation and Achievement in Learning and Work ..................... 51
Goal 4
Excellence in Tertiary Education and Training ........................................................ 60
Goal 5
World Competitive Research, Technology and Innovation ...................................... 75
Goal 6
Skills and Technology for the State’s Environmental Sustainability ........................ 85
Goal 7
DFEEST is a High Performance Organisation ........................................................ 90
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5. MANAGEMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES
Workforce Data .................................................................................................... 100
Workforce Diversity .............................................................................................. 102
Occupational Health, Safety and Injury Management .......................................... 112
FINANCIAL REPORT
Financial Overview ............................................................................................... 114
Audited General Purpose Financial Report .......................................................... 120
Account Payment Performance ............................................................................ 160
Contractual Arrangements ................................................................................... 160
Fraud .................................................................................................................... 160
Consultancy Expenditure ..................................................................................... 161
PROFILE OF VET ACTIVITY
Profile of VET Activity ........................................................................................... 166
Training Package Activity ..................................................................................... 169
OTHER REPORTING ITEMS
Employees Overseas Travel ................................................................................ 175
Reconciliation Statement Report .......................................................................... 176
Reporting against Carers Recognition Act 2005 .................................................. 177
Disability Action Plans .......................................................................................... 177
Whistleblower Protection Act................................................................................ 177
Freedom of Information ........................................................................................ 178
Asbestos Management......................................................................................... 180
Urban Design Charter .......................................................................................... 181
Sustainability Report ............................................................................................ 181
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6. AGENCY, ROLE
AND GOVERNANCE

7. CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S OVERVIEW
I am pleased to present the Department of Further Education, Employment, Science
and Technology 2010 Annual Report.
This year has been a pivotal one for the department and portfolio, with a number of
major reforms and achievements which would not have been possible without the
support and leadership of Ministers Snelling and O’Brien.
In July this year, the Premier and Minister launched the Skills for All agenda, which
will see the largest investment in skills in the state’s history. The State Government
has committed $194 million over six years to fund an additional 100,000 training
places to help create 100,000 new jobs.
The Skills for All reforms will for the first time offer every person over the age of
16 an entitlement to be funded to undertake training, the reforms aim to significantly
increase both the uptake and level of training so as to increase participation in the
workforce and increase productivity.
The increased funding for training has also been complemented by an overhaul of
TAFE SA infrastructure with over $200 million committed by the State and
Commonwealth Governments to upgrade existing facilities and build new
infrastructure, including:
 $125 million committed to build a world-class Sustainable Industries Education
Centre on the former Mitsubishi site at Tonsley Park
 $20.3 million invested to upgrade TAFE SA’s Noarlunga ($8.7 million), Regency
Park ($5 million) and Tea Tree Gully ($6.6 million)
 $10 million invested to upgrade TAFE SA’s Whyalla ($6.5 million) and Mount
Gambier ($3.5 million) campuses
 $9.4 million invested to build a new TAFE SA Victor Harbor campus
These projects, combined with funding committed last financial year, represent the
largest infrastructure upgrade in TAFE SA’s history.
Another highlight for the department in 2010 was the successful delivery of the new
Productivity Places Program, with $32.3 million committed to train and retrain
existing workers and $11.4 million for job seekers in the last 12 months.
The economy has continued to recover from the impact of Global Financial Crisis
with the number of South Australians starting apprenticeships and traineeships
increasing by 6.4 percent over the previous year. Overall, there were 22 100
commencements across the state in the last 12 months to 30 June 2010.
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8. There were an estimated 12 500 apprentices and trainee completions over the year
ending 30 June 2010, an increase of nearly 11 per cent on the previous 12 months.
This compared to a national increase of 6.4 per cent over the same period, with
South Australia recording the highest annual percentage increase in completions of
all states and territories.
A significant effort has been in 2010 in ensuring that South Australia maintains it’s
reputation for high quality education and training. Regulatory procedures were
strengthened and delivery of training remained at the highest standards with 90.5 per
cent of South Australia’s vocational education and training graduates saying they
were satisfied with their training - the highest level of student satisfaction in the
nation.
South Australia’s international education sector remained relatively strong
throughout the year despite challenging circumstances with the international
education sector generating $990 million for the South Australian economy last
financial year and employing more than 6,500 people.
The rollout of the AdamMax program was completed in 2010, providing up to 55,000
residential and business premises across Adelaide with the opportunity to access
high speed broadband. This joint initiative between the State Government, the
Australian Government and local internet service provider, Adam Internet, involved
the construction of 59 WiMAX towers, providing high speed broadband services to
350 blackspot areas across metropolitan Adelaide.
The department continued to work with the state’s universities and research
organisations in securing increased funding for research and development and
highlights of the year included the opening of the $30.9 million Plant Accelerator,
known as the ‘super greenhouse’, at the University of Adelaide’s Waite Campus and
a commitment to invest $25 million towards the Goyder Institute for Water Research,
which will position South Australia as a world leader in water innovation and science.
I would like to thank all staff in the department for their ongoing support, dedication
and commitment to making a difference – the department has punched well above
its weight in 2010 and none of this would have been possible without your efforts in
what has been a difficult fiscal year for the state.
In 2011, a key focus for the department will be delivering the State Government’s
Skills for All reforms, implementing the infrastructure plan, maximising opportunities
from the National Broadband Network and implementing the Science Technology
and Engineering and Maths strategy.
More than ever the work of the department and key stakeholders in these areas will
be critical for the social and economic future of the state.
Raymond Garrand
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
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9. HIGHLIGHTS 2010
Training, Skills and Employment
Skills for All, a major reform of the South Australian vocational education and training
system which includes an extra $194 million investment in training over six years
was released as a green paper for consultation.
The department, through the South Australia Works spent $30.4 million in 2009-10 to
provide 30 700 learning, skills development, training and work opportunities to
people facing difficulty entering the workforce. Over 16 690 people participated in
employment programs with over 7500, including 1135 Aboriginal people, gaining a
job.
A review of both the South Australia Works and Adult Community Education
Programs was undertaken in 2010, which resulted in a re-prioritisation of the
strategic directions of South Australia Works, and a strengthened focus of the Adult
Community Education Program.
The department implemented the Building Family Opportunities Program,
a $9.6 million (over four years) program in partnership with the Department of the
Premier and Cabinet. The program provides long-term jobless families with the
support and necessary assistance for them to gain sustainable employment. The
program provides intensive support to families across the local government areas of
Playford, Port Augusta and Port Adelaide Enfield. Over 100 families participated in
the program during 2009-10.
In April 2010, the department, in partnership with Reconciliation SA and the
Commonwealth Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
facilitated the Aboriginal Employment Industry Champions Network, a network of
24 industry champions to help work with their colleagues in their industry sector to
create training and employment opportunities for Aboriginal people. Seven industry
clusters have been set-up to help focus effort in the hospitality, mining, health and
community services, retail, finance and advanced manufacturing industry sectors.
The department secured $3.1 million in funding from the Department of Education,
Employment and Workplace Relations, to manage the Apprentice Kickstart Pre-
Apprenticeship project. The project will provide at least 500 pre-apprenticeship
training opportunities in South Australia by June 2011, in occupations or industries
included on the National Skills Needs List, thereby increasing the number of
individuals taking up formal apprenticeship training in traditional trade occupations.
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10. The Training and Skills Commission, established in September 2008, released its
Five Year Plan for Skills and Workforce Development Skills for Jobs in September
2010.
The department completed the re-registration process for all South Australian
Education Services for Overseas Students providers across three sectors (English
Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students, vocational education and
training, and higher education). South Australia was commended for its co-operative
and excellent response by the Department of Education, Employment and
Workplace Relations.
In May 2010 the Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education initiated
the McCann Review regarding the regulation of vocational education and training
services to overseas students studying in South Australia. The Government
accepted the review’s recommendations and proceeded with proposed amendments
to the Training and Skills Development Act (2008). The bill will be considered in
2011.
The review, while resulting in the development of a stronger compliance regime
supported by tighter sanctions and penalties for non-compliance and improved risk
management, requires no increased regulation for providers complying with the
legislation and the standards.
The department, received a positive audit review report from the Australian
Universities Quality Agency for its regulation of higher education.
TAFE SA
TAFE SA delivered training to nearly 80 000 students in more than 800 courses
across 48 campuses (NCVER 2010). As South Australia’s largest provider of
vocational education and training TAFE SA played a major role in providing a
comprehensive range of courses to industry, the community and disadvantaged
groups.
Together the three institutes - Adelaide South Institute, Adelaide North Institute and
Regional will play a critical role in delivering on government priorities, including the
facilitation of an additional 100 000 training places over six years.
TAFE SA consistently leads Australia in terms of student satisfaction and
employment outcomes for students.
92% of TAFE SA graduates are satisfied with the overall quality of their training
(NCVER 2010) and 95% of TAFE SA graduates would recommend to others the
training they undertook
TAFE SA campuses and facilities have received major Commonwealth and State
Government infrastructure investment over the last year to upgrade campuses. The
State Government has also committed to develop the Sustainable Industries
Education Centre, a $125 million building and construction education hub to be
constructed at Tonsley Park.
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11. TAFE SA courses are increasingly an alternative pathway to university and over the
last three years the number of offers to universities being made on the basis on an
applicant’s TAFE qualification, increased 30 percent from 924 in 2008 to 1204 in
2010.
TAFE SA has continued this year to increase the flexibility of its training through
online, external and blended delivery, so that its 87% part-time and 13% full-time
students are better able to balance study with work and family commitments.
TAFE SA is well known and highly regarded by employers for providing consistent
and nationally recognised training that meets industry needs (Synovate 2009).
TAFE SA works closely with industry and the community to ensure students’
qualifications are relevant to current and emerging skill demands. TAFE SA is
committed to building on long-term relationships working with businesses and
enterprises to customise and tailor training solutions.
87% of employers are satisfied with both the quality of training delivered by TAFE SA
to apprentices and trainees, and the quality of nationally recognised training
delivered by TAFE SA (National Centre for Vocational Education Research 2009a).
TAFE SA’s contribution to building the capability, quality and capacity of the
vocational education and training system was recognised at the 2010 South
Australian Training Awards.
Nominated in two organisational award categories, TAFE SA Adelaide North Institute
won the Large Training Provider of the Year. Of the twelve TAFE SA students
nominated in individual award categories, five students from regional and
metropolitan campuses won awards for: Apprentice of the Year, Trainee of the Year,
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year, Vocational Student of the
Year and School-Based Apprentice of the Year.
A 2010 competition to design a section of the Adelaide Botanic Gardens highlighted
TAFE SA’s commitment to high quality student outcomes. Of the five awards on
offer, four TAFE SA Urrbrae campus students studying for the Diploma of Garden
Design won in the gold, silver, bronze and highly commended categories.
TAFE SA statistics from 2009 include:1:
1
2010 data not yet finalised at time of report being prepared
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12. TAFE SA Students by Age Group
50
45
40
35 19 and Under
Percentage (%)
30 20 - 29
30 - 39
25
40 - 59
20 60 and over
15 Unknown
10
5
0
Age Groups
1
TAFE SA Students by Australian Qualifications Framework Level
25
Graduate Diploma
Graduate Certificate
20
Bachelor Degree (Pass)
Advanced Diploma
Percentage (%)
15 Diploma
Certificate IV
Certificate III
10 Certificate II
Certificate I
Statement of Attainment
5
Not Elsewhere Classified
Non Award Studies
0
1
Qualifications
2
Infrastructure
In 2009-2010, the department successfully delivered over $33.3 million of
infrastructure projects funded through the Australian Government’s Better TAFE
Facilities and Training Infrastructure Investment for Tomorrow Programs and the
DFEEST capital budget. These works included a:
 $3.5 million development at the Mt Gambier TAFE providing a new 1100m2
building to accommodate building and furnishing programs
 $6.5 million campus upgrade at the Whyalla TAFE
2
‘Not Elsewhere Classified’ means no level of classification was specified
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13.  $6.6 million upgrade to the Tea Tree Gully TAFE to accommodate printing and
graphic arts programs
 $4 million upgrade to the Adelaide TAFE to accommodate Fashion and Footwear
programs
 $8.7 million upgrade to the Noarlunga TAFE including a new Health and
Community Services area incorporating five new skills labs and classrooms,
increased work and storage space for the Beauty program, a mezzanine area
providing a large student common area and a refitted workshop with 15 additional
welding bays and a state of the art spray booth
 $5 million upgrade to the Regency Park TAFE to develop an Industry Training
Centre for the Cooking and Hospitality Programs.
Construction continued on the new $9.4 million Victor Harbor campus with building
works completed and the compliance testing beginning ahead of opening for
business in March 2011.
In September 2010, as part of the 2010-11 budget process, the State Government
announced the allocation of $125 million to build a Sustainable Industries Education
Centre on the 61 hectare site at Tonsley Park (previously Mitsubishi). This initiative
includes:
 consolidation of all TAFE SA metropolitan Building, Construction and Furnishing
programs into the new facility
 divestment of outdated TAFE campuses – Panorama, Marleston and O’Halloran
Hill
 consolidation of educational programs other than Building, Construction and
furnishing from divested campuses to remaining TAFE campuses
 substantial savings in operating costs associated with program delivery, facilities
management and utilities.
Science and Information Economy
The report, Getting Connected, Staying Connected; Exploring South Australia’s
Digital Futures, by Adelaide’s 15th Thinker in Residence, Dr Genevieve Bell, was
delivered in June 2010. DFEEST initiated Dr Bell’s residency and co-ordinated the
Government response to her report.
Significant broadband projects funded by the Broadband Development Fund were
initiated and substantially progressed during 2010. A major highlight was the
completion of the network providing fixed-wireless broadband services to
metropolitan premises within broadband blackspots. Two regional projects were
initiated through collaboration between the department, local councils, Regional
Development Australia and other government agencies. These projects completed
the acquittal of the $7 million Broadband Development Fund which has funded
11 broadband projects valued at a capital outlay of $42 million in total.
A key achievement for 2010 in the science and research area was the success of the
Chief Scientist and the Premier’s Science and Research Council in winning
Government support for establishment of the Goyder Institute for Water Research in
South Australia. This collaborative venture, which involves the state’s three local
universities, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation and
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14. relevant State Government agencies, will ensure that South Australia becomes a
leader in water research and home to some of the nation’s top water scientists. Its
main purpose is to gain a better understanding of ground, surface and waste water,
with a view to informing policy development (at state and national level) and
facilitating a more integrated approach to management of this critical resource.
Another highlight was the crowning in August 2010 of two of the state’s leading
scientists – Professor Angel Lopez and Professor Tanya Monro – as the 2010 South
Australian Scientist of the Year. The judging panel was unable to separate this year’s
winners, who are both leaders in their respective fields of medical science, and have
demonstrated outstanding commitment to excellence in science.
Seven other researchers and educators were also awarded at the 2010 South
Australian Science Excellence Awards.
In 2010 the increased number of women involved in the awards was particularly
pleasing; across all categories there was a 27% increase in nominations from
females, and the number of female finalists was up by 100% from previous rounds.
The increase in industry based nominations and finalists was also warmly welcomed.
South Australia was successful in winning its first Australian Research Council
Centre of Excellence in Plant Cell Wall Biology. This Centre is being provided with
$500 000 from the department over three years commencing in 2011.
The Outback Connect program has focused on digital inclusion through identifying
needs and encouraging the development of digital literacy skills. In addition to
traditional users who have geographic and age barriers to participation in the digital
economy, Job Service Agencies has been targeted to introduce e-learning options to
both job seekers and Job Services Agencies staff. This has been a year of
consolidation and investigation of place-based programs in selected public access
locations such as the West Torrens Library.
In a collaborative program with Health SA, the Health in All Policies Digital
Technology recommendations were endorsed by the Chief Executives Group. The
digital technology program was considered a landmark example of the innovative
strategy, and the department was invited to represent this whole-of-government
initiative at an Asia Pacific forum on the Social Determinants of Health, in Jakarta in
November 2010.
As part of the department’s on-going commitment to the uptake of science,
technology, engineering and mathematics, a renewed agreement (2010 - 2013) with
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation Education was
signed. The funding provided has enabled this organisation to curriculum-based
science education to almost 60 000 primary and secondary students per annum.
An early to mid-career researcher professional development program was trialled in
2010, with $120,000 provide to six South Australian researchers. One of these
researchers will commence an Australian Research Council Future Fellowship, worth
$800 000 (2011 - 2014).
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15. Partnerships and Cooperation with the Australian Government
The department was active in national negotiations in the establishment of the
National Vocational Education and Training Regulator which will regulate registered
training organisations and accredit courses to meet niche markets and the National
Standards Council.
The department is also supporting the development of the National Higher Education
Regulator Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency.
Both the National Vocational Education and Training Regulator and the Tertiary
Education Quality and Standards Agency are subject to national legislation,
expected to commence in 2011 under which the Training and Skills Development
Act, and the role of the Training and Skills Commission as regulators will end.
The Australian Government’s Productivity Places Program provided additional
training opportunities to assist South Australian workers and job seekers to develop
new skills to meet the growing needs of industry. In 2010, the department allocated
two funding rounds for Job Seekers and one round for Existing Workers.
In November 2009, the department announced the first round of Jobseeker 2010
funds with successful applicants commencing programs from January 2010. Almost
$6.6m of Productivity Places Program funding was allocated for 2268 qualifications.
As of December 2010, there were over 2100 qualifications commenced through this
funding.
In April 2010, the department allocated the second round of Jobseeker 2010 funds.
Almost $4.8m of Productivity Places Program funding was allocated for over 1634
qualifications. As of December 2010, almost 1000 qualification commencements are
recorded for this funding.
In total, as at December 2010, over 5500 Job Seekers qualification commencements
were recorded for the Productivity Places Program for Job Seekers through 2009
and 2010 funding allocations and over 3000 qualifications have been issued.
In October 2010, the department allocated around $32.3 million of Productivity
Places Program funding toward almost 8000 existing worker qualifications. There
were almost 500 Existing Workers qualifications commencements for this funding
recorded as at December 2010. All enrolments into the Existing Worker 2010
Program are due 31 March 2011. Furthermore, from 1 July, 2010 an additional
$1.6m of Productivity Places Program funding has supported approximately 200
additional User Choice existing worker traineeship positions under Contracts of
Training. These Productivity Places Program funded trainees are undertaking higher
level qualifications (Certificate IV and above) where User Choice funding would not
otherwise be available.
In total, as at December 2010, over 7000 qualification commencements were
recorded for the Productivity Places Program for Existing Workers through 2008,
2009 and 2010 funding allocations and over 2100 qualifications have been issued.
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16. The department successfully secured $1.23m funding for South Australia in 2010
through the Commonwealth Industry and Indigenous Skills Centre program (formerly
known as the National Training Infrastructure Program). Funding was granted from
two streams of the program: Industry Skills Centres and Vocational Education and
Training Infrastructure for Indigenous People.
In 2010 the Retrenched Worker Program expanded its services to include two
regional areas and non Automotive companies. A joint initiative of the
Commonwealth and State Governments, these support packages provided
assistance to retrenched workers from:
National Foods, Riverland
Fletchers Freighters, Riverland
Carter Holt Harvey, Nangwarry, South East.
Assistance was also provided to Bridgestone Australia Limited, Salisbury.
As part of the Commonwealth’s five-year National Collaborative Research
Infrastructure Strategy the State Government has co-invested $21.9 million in
11 strategic areas of scientific research aligned with the state’s key economic
strengths. As at 30 June 2010, almost $20.7 million had been allocated to the
selected recipients.
The National Partnership Agreement for Indigenous Public Internet Access was
implemented in Oodnadatta in February 2010 and established a public internet
facility for the Dunjiba community in collaboration with the Oodnadatta Aboriginal
School. A local employment and training opportunity was provided for a member of
the community who has supported increased digital economy participation among
this community. This initiative was jointly funded by state and Commonwealth
contributions, and exceeded participation targets.
During 2010, the department was appointed the lead agency to coordinate
implementation of the National Partnership Agreement on Indigenous Economic
Participation in South Australia. This National Partnership Agreement commits South
Australia to achieving specific Aboriginal employment outcomes that contribute to the
Council of Australian Governments National Indigenous Reform Agreement (Closing
the Gap).
This has resulted in the achievement of significant outcomes including the provision
of sustainable employment opportunities for former Community Development
Employment Program recipients and the development of a new South Australian
Government procurement policy that will help maximise Aboriginal employment
opportunities in major government infrastructure projects.
The department will continue to work with the Australian Government and other
South Australian Government agencies to ensure that this National Partnership
Agreement is implemented in South Australia which will lead to increased Aboriginal
employment outcomes.
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17. The department was also involved in chairing three national groups on behalf of all
jurisdictions, whilst working closely with the Australian Government, these include:
▪ Access and Participation Principal Committee - one of four principal committees
established by the Ministerial Council for Tertiary Education and Employment as
part of its new governance structure to progress the ministerial council’s strategic
plan and framework for 2010-2013. The focus of the principal committee is to
increase participation, and improve access, to further education training and
employment, and improve qualification and employment outcomes for the
disadvantaged and disengaged. The principal committee is chaired by the
Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education.
▪ Flexible Learning Advisory Group – provides strategic direction and supports the
Australian Flexible Learning Framework, on national issues related to the
directions and priorities for flexible learning in vocational education and training,
with particular reference to e-learning. The group is chaired by the Chief
Executive.
▪ National Vocational Education and Training Data Strategy Action Group – the
group was endorsed by the Ministerial Council for Tertiary Education and
Employment to expand the breadth and depth of national vocational education
and training data and to improve its collection, storage and accessibility. The
action group is chaired by Deputy Chief Executive, Planning, Policy and
Innovation.
Based on discussions in 2010, the department expects to conclude a Memorandum
of Understanding with the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace
Relations in early 2011 to further the existing close working relationships.
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18. VISION, MISSION AND VALUES
Our Vision
South Australia has a highly skilled workforce and maximised employment participation
that shapes the state’s economic competitiveness, and is distinguished by a culture of
excellence, innovation, continuous learning and social inclusion.
Our Mission
To optimally match workforce skills, training and participation, with current and future
employment, working with individuals, community and industry to strategically support
the state’s development. This mission requires creative and integrated policy that
delivers effective training, employment programs and services.
Our Values
The department is striving to become a high performance learning organisation, which
attracts, develops and retains a highly talented workforce. The department will only
achieve its vision through a strong commitment to our people and core values. We will
show integrity in our:
Respect for:
 the values, beliefs, customs and cultures of individuals and our community
 others rights, responsibilities and professionalism
Responsiveness in:
 providing timely and caring services
 generating creative, shared solutions
 embracing change where it is appropriate
 recognising and celebrating effort and achievement
Openness in decision-making by:
 providing supporting reasons
 restricting information only where there is a wider public interest
 declaring any relevant private interests
 resolving conflicts
 being transparent
Striving for excellence in:
 using public resources efficiently and effectively
 embedding equality of access and opportunity
 fairness in our operations
 standards of service
Courage in:
 challenging and being challenged
 taking risks
 doing things in different ways
 taking responsibility for mistakes and learning from them
 enforcing our code of conduct
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19. ROLE, LEGISLATION AND STRUCTURE
Portfolio governance for further education, employment, science and technology is
managed through a number of councils, boards and committees. These work in
conjunction with the department to advise the Minister for Employment, Training and
Further Education and, the Minister for Science and Information Economy on key
strategic areas.
Agency
The Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology.
Acts Administered
Technical and Further Education Act 1975
Training and Skills Development Act 2008
Construction Industry Training Fund Act 1993
Flinders University of South Australia Act 1966
University of Adelaide Act 1971
University of South Australia Act 1990
Regulations
Technical and Further Education Regulations 1999
Technical and Further Education (Vehicles) Regulations 1998
Training and Skills Development Regulations 2008
Construction Industry Training Fund Regulations 2008
Public Corporations (Bio Innovation SA) Regulations 2001
Public Corporations (Education Adelaide) Regulations 1998
Public Corporations (Playford Centre) Regulations 1996
19

20. BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND AUTHORITIES WITHIN
THE MINISTER’S PORTFOLIO
Training and Skills Commission
The Training and Skills Development Act 2008 establishes the Training and Skills
Commission and outlines its functions.
The current commission, appointed on 1 September 2010, has nine members and
two deputy members appointed by the Governor. It is chaired by Mr Adrian Smith,
who has been a commission member since 2003.
The Act gives authority to the commission in regulating training providers in both
VET and higher education and apprenticeships and traineeships. The commission
advises and makes recommendations to the Minister on matters relating to the
development, funding, quality and performance of the vocational education and
training, adult community education and higher education sectors.
The Act also establishes two reference groups, the Adult Community Education
Reference Group and the Training Regulation Reference Group. These groups are
chaired by commission members but draw on the wider resources of industry and
the community for specialist advice through their membership and consultations.
The commission advises the Minister on skills and workforce development priorities.
The commission is responsible for the preparation, and annual update, of a Five
Year Plan for Skills and Workforce Development in South Australia. The plan is the
principal instrument by which the commission provides its advice to the Minister.
In developing its advice to the Minister the commission is required, under the Act, to
consult with a wide range of stakeholders, including groups representing industry,
employees, education and training providers, industry skills boards and training
advisory bodies, government and community.
For more information regarding the Training and Skills Commission go to:
http://www.tasc.sa.gov.au/
TAFE SA Institute Councils
The councils are established by the Minister for Employment, Training and Further
Education for each of the three institutes of TAFE SA under the Technical and
Further Education Act 1975. The councils advise, monitor performance and provide
supplementary funding for the institutes’ operations.
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21. Austraining International
Austraining International was formed in 1991 and is wholly owned by the
Government of South Australia. Austraining is a specialist project management and
international development organisation managing projects throughout the Asia
Pacific and Middle East. Austraining employs around 85 staff with 19 in-country
offices across the Asia-Pacific.
For more information regarding Austraining International go to:
http://www.austraining.com.au/aboutus
Education Adelaide
Education Adelaide is a subsidiary of the Minister for Employment, Training and
Further Education established under the Public Corporations (Education Adelaide)
Regulations 1988. It operates as a partnership between the City of Adelaide, the
state’s universities, the state government and numerous private colleges and
schools. Its strategic direction is to accelerate the growth of South Australia’s
education export industry to benefit the state’s education providers, the local
economy and community. Education Adelaide works closely with the department to
achieve international student targets outlined in South Australia’s Strategic Plan.
For more information regarding Education Adelaide go to:
http://www.studyadelaide.com/about-us.aspx
Office of the Training Advocate
The Office of the Training Advocate provides a public contact point to respond to
questions or complaints about the training system including higher education,
vocational education and training, apprenticeships and traineeships, adult
community education and education services for overseas students.
The Training Advocate is an independent statutory authority established under the
Training and Skills Development Act 2008 and operates in accordance with a
Charter of Functions. These functions are designed to enhance consumer protection
by improving access and effective participation in employment and skill formation
opportunities, and to contribute to strategies which raise the quality and
responsiveness of the training system in South Australia.
The functions are established to:
 promote employment, education and training
 provide independent complaint handling
 provide advocacy
 provide information and advice
 monitor the training system.
The Training Advocate reports to the Minister for Employment, Training and Further
Education and tables a separate Annual Report.
For more information regarding the Office of the Training Advocate go to:
http://www.trainingadvocate.sa.gov.au/
21

22. Digital Economy Strategy Group
To oversee the Government’s role in the activities resulting from the Genevieve Bell
report, the Digital Economy Strategy Group was created in 2010. The high level
government working group is Chaired by the Chief Executive of the Department of
the Premier and Cabinet and comprises senior executives from relevant
departments; Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and
Technology, Office of the Chief Information Officer, Department of Education and
Children’s Services, Department of Health and Department for Families and
Communities. The purpose of the Digital Economy Strategy Group is to provide
strategic input and direction to position the state to take maximum advantage of the
digital economy. It reports through the Minister for Science and Information
The Premier’s Science and Research Council
The Premier’s Science and Research Council was established to advise the
government on strategies for boosting local science and research capabilities and
contributing to strategic development - economic, social and environmental – of the
state. The council is chaired by South Australia’s Chief Scientist and is
administratively supported by the department.
South Australian Telecommunications Strategy Implementation Group
This group provided oversight for the Broadband Development Fund and has been
disbanded following the final expenditure from that Fund and the formation, by the
Office of the Chief Information Officer, of the state’s National Broadband Network
Taskforce. The department is a key partner in the taskforce.
SABRENet Ltd
SABRENet Ltd is a company limited by guarantee with the three local universities
and the South Australian Government as members. It is a not for profit organisation
which has as its objective to further the use of advanced data networking for the
conduct of research and education in South Australia.
SABRENet Ltd owns a dark fibre optical cable telecommunications network linking
the major higher education campuses and research precincts, as well as some
schools and TAFE SA campuses. The department is represented on its board.
For more information regarding SABRENet Ltd go to: http://sabrenet.edu.au/
Bio Innovation SA
Bio Innovation SA is a subsidiary of the Minister for Science and Information
Economy established by the Public Corporation (Bio Innovation SA) Regulations
2001. South Australia has a dynamic bioscience industry based on a strong tradition
of medical and agricultural research that drives commercial opportunities. To build
on these opportunities, the South Australian Government established Bio Innovation
SA, a bioscience industry development organisation that provides business
development, finance, infrastructure and marketing assistance. An external review of
22

23. this organisation was undertaken in 2009 which demonstrated the positive impact of
its work in the state economy.
For more information on Bio Innovation SA go to:
http://www.bioinnovationsa.com.au/
Playford Centre
Playford Centre is a subsidiary of the Minister for Science and Information Economy
established by the Public Corporations (Playford Centre) Regulations 1996, to
contribute to South Australia’s economic growth, exports, commercialisation of
research and entrepreneurial activity, by facilitating the formation and development
of innovative technology ventures.
Playford Capital
In 2001, Playford Centre formed a subsidiary Playford Capital Pty Ltd. Playford
Capital uses funding provided by the Australian Government’s Building on
Information Technology Strengths and Information and Communications Technology
Incubator Programs to invest in South Australian information and communications
technology firms which have the potential and commitment to become high growth
companies exporting interstate and overseas.
For more information on Playford Capital go to:
http://playford.com.au
23

24. GOVERNANCE
The department’s corporate governance obligations are prescribed in the Public
Sector Act 2009 and the Technical and Further Education Act 1975. These Acts
establish general management aims, personnel management and employee conduct
standards. The Chief Executive of the Department of Further Education,
Employment, Science and Technology is responsible for observance of these aims
and standards.
The department maintains a governance framework (refer page 27) that integrates
strategic management, leadership and accountability, in the way it manages its
people and resources to achieve best performance of its functions.
Governance Framework
In 2010 the department’s governance structure encompassed the following:
Corporate Executive
Corporate Executive is a high level decision making and leadership group in the
department. Its primary role is to ensure the successful achievement of the
department’s strategic planning and portfolio outcomes and it has responsibility for
maintaining the effectiveness of these governance mechanisms.
Budget and Finance Executive Committee
The Budget and Finance Executive Committee is an expert committee providing
financial governance over the department's resources. The committee monitors the
department's performance against fiscal targets for the current financial year. It
regularly reviews the department's financial strategies and the performance of the
current year’s operating and capital budgets. It considers options and advises the
Chief Executive on the department's financial strategies and options to mitigate
budget risk in the current financial year.
Asset Strategy Committee
The Asset Strategy Committee provides strategic guidance for the integrated
planning and management of all government-owned infrastructure requirements
across the department, and the development of strategic infrastructure plans for its
portfolios
24

25. People and Culture Committee
The People and Culture Committee provides strategic guidance for the prioritisation,
planning and management of all organisational development requirements across
the department and the implementation of the People and Culture Plan.
Audit and Risk Management Committee
The committee is an integral part of the department’s framework for governance and
is established to provide assurance to and assist the Chief Executive in undertaking
their statutory responsibilities. Some of the committees members are external.
Occupational Health and Safety Committee
The Occupational Health and Safety Committee provides leadership in Injury
Prevention and Injury Management for the department’s directorates and contributes
to the establishment, implementation, monitoring and review of Injury Prevention and
Management Systems within directorates.
The committee works collaboratively and within the strategic guidance of the
department’s Strategic Occupational Health Safety and Injury Management
Committee.
Information and Communications Technology Governance Board
The purpose of the Information and Communications Technology Governance Board
is to set the department’s strategic directions for Information and Communications
Technology, to monitor the implementation of Information and Communications
Technology strategies across the agency, to drive value for money in Information
and Communications Technology investment and to ensure compliance to the
Information and Communications Technology governance framework.
Strategic Procurement Committee
The Strategic Procurement Committee oversees procurement operations within the
department to advance the State Procurement Act objective of advancing
government priorities by a system of procurement for public authorities directed
towards:
▪ obtaining value for money in the expenditure of public money
▪ providing for ethical and fair treatment of participants
▪ ensuring probity, accountability and transparency in procurement operations.
Executive Forum
Executive Forum consists of the executive leaders responsible for the achievement
of department objectives. The form also has a role in providing strategic discussion,
collaboration and shared vision for the agency.
25

26. TAFE SA Adelaide North Institute Executive Management Team
The TAFE SA Adelaide North Institute Executive Management Team is
responsible for supporting the role, function and responsibilities of the Managing
Director.
TAFE SA Regional Executive Committee
The TAFE SA Regional Executive Committee supports the Managing Director, TAFE
SA Regional in the execution of the role, function and responsibilities of the position.
TAFE SA Adelaide South Institute Executive Committee
The TAFE SA Adelaide South Institute Executive Management Team is responsible
for supporting the role, function and responsibilities of the Managing Director.
TAFE SA Councils
Each institute has their own council. Each council has all the powers, authorities,
duties and obligations as prescribed in the TAFE Act 1975, Regulation 56. The
Council will focus in particular on the identification of strategic priorities for the
institute's training activities and maximise the contribution TAFE SA makes to the
community and industry.
The TAFE SA Network Executive
The network is a peak decision making body for all strategic issues relating to the
TAFE SA Network. It leads the implementation of the Skills Strategy and will
standardise services across a range of institute operational areas across TAFE SA.
26

27. DFEEST Governance Framework
Chief Executive
Strategic Procurement Audit and Risk Management
Committee Committee
Chair: Deputy Chief Chair: External
Executive, Employment and
Training Services
Occupational Health and
Executive Forum Safety Committee
Chair: Chief Executive Chair: Executive Director,
Corporate Services
Corporate Executive
Committee
Chair: Chief Executive
Providing Quarterly Reports
TAFE SA Adelaide TAFE SA Adelaide TAFE SA
South Institute North Institute Regional
Managing Director Managing Director Managing Director
Budget and Asset ICT People and
Finance Strategy Governance Culture
Executive Committee Board Committee
Committee Chair: Chair: Chair: TAFE SA Network Executive
Chair: Executive Executive Deputy Chief
Deputy Chief Director, Director, Executive,
Executive, Corporate Corporate Employment TAFE SA Adelaide TAFE SA Adelaide TAFE SA
Planning, Services Services and Training South Institute North Institute Regional Institute
Policy and Services Council Council Council
Innovation
These standing committees will be complemented with temporary policy feeder groups and project teams that are responsible to one of the standing committees.
27

28. 2010 DFEEST SENIOR MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE
AND REPORTING ARRANGEMENTS
MANAGING DIRECTOR MANAGING DIRECTOR
MANAGING DIRECTOR
TAFE SA ADELAIDE TAFE SA ADELAIDE
TAFE SA REGIONAL
SOUTH INSTITUTE NORTH INSTITUTE
DEPUTY TAFE SA NETWORK SERVICES
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING
SERVICES
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
TRAINEESHIP &
EMPLOYMENT CORPORATE
APPRENTICESHIP
PROGRAMS COMMUNICATIONS UNIT
SERVICES
DIRECTOR DIRECTOR PRINCIPAL
INFORMATION AND ORGANISATIONAL CONSULTANT
COMMUNICATION DEVELOPMENT AND BUSINESS
TECHNOLOGY HUMAN RESOURCES IMPROVEMENT
MINISTER FOR EMPLOYMENT,
TRAINING AND FURTHER CHIEF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
EDUCATION EXECUTIVE SHARED BUSINESS
MINISTER FOR SCIENCE AND SERVICES
INFORMATION ECONOMY
DIRECTOR
INFRASTRUCTURE, MANAGER INTERNAL
ASSET AND AUDIT AND RISK
PROCUREMENT MANAGEMENT
SERVICES
DIRECTOR
EXECUTIVE
SERVICES
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
SCIENCE AND
QUALITY AND TERTIARY
INFORMATION
EDUCATION POLICY
ECONOMY
DEPUTY
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
PLANNING, POLICY AND
INNOVATION
DIRECTOR DIRECTOR
PLANNING AND INDUSTRY SKILLS
WORKFORCE PLANNING
AND POLICY EVALUATION DEVELOPMENT
OFFICE OF THE
TRAINING AND SKILLS
COMMISSION
DFEEST also has many important relationships with other organisations for example, Office of the Training Advocate, Education
Adelaide, Playford Capital, BioInnovation SA, Austraining. These relationships are not shown here.
28

29. REPORT ON OPERATIONS
AGAINST THE
DFEEST STRATEGIC PLAN
2010 - 2014

30. REPORT ON OPERATIONS
Report on Operations Against the Department of Further Education, Employment,
Science and Technology 2010-2014 Strategic Plan
GOAL 1 - Exemplary Workforce Planning and Development
Our future workforce will be built through a world-class system of workforce
planning and development based on understanding and responding to both
industry and individual demand.
1.1 Strong and effective engagement with industry, education and
training providers, regions, community and government in
understanding and analysing the demand for skills across the state
(Links to South Australia’s Strategic Plan Targets T1.10, T1.11, T1.12,
T6.15, T6.19, T6.20, T6.21 and T1.26).
The Training and Skills Commission, released its Five Year Plan for Skills
and Workforce Development Skills for Jobs in September 2010. Key
recommendations from the Commission were adopted by the Government
in the Skills for All consultation paper released in July 2010.
Skills for All sets out the key directions for significantly increasing the skills
of South Australians to support increased labour force participation and
productivity in South Australia. Extensive consultation occurred throughout
2010 and feedback has been used to inform the preparation of the final
policy recommendations for Cabinet consideration.
TAFE SA’s presence throughout the state enabled it to actively engage
with key stakeholders to determine how needs can be effectively met
through strategic collaborative arrangements. Examples of this
engagement include:
TAFE SA significantly increased the collaboration with South Australian
universities in 2010 to enable the delivery in 2011 of targeted qualifications
in a cost effective manner, utilising the human and infrastructure resources
30

31. of TAFE SA Regional to support university presence in regional locations.
Following the strategic review of South Australia Works the initiative has
re-prioritised its strategic directions to assist more people in increasing
their skills, qualifications and future employment opportunities. This review
included extensive consultations with key stakeholders.
Over 500 people attended 16 stakeholder forums throughout the state,
which provided an understanding of the workforce development needs for
the 12 State Government regions. Seventeen South Australia Works
Networks across the state also consulted with industry and communities
on workforce development issues which were articulated in three year
strategic plans.
A strategic review of the Adult Community Education Program was also
completed in March 2010 and provided an opportunity to clearly identify
and strengthen the role of the program within the context of
Commonwealth policy and departmental priorities. Adult Community
Education has been strengthened as the ‘fourth’ sector of education and
has sharpened its focus on adult numeracy and literacy training,
foundation skills and supported the development of a more structured
literacy and numeracy curriculum being delivered by South Australian
adult community education providers.
Resources and Engineering Skills Alliance
In 2010, the State Government committed $3.6 million to support the
ongoing operations of the Resources and Engineering Skills Alliance to the
resources industry over the period 2010-2014.
The Resources and Engineering Skills Alliance works with industry,
government and training providers to address a number of critical issues
facing the minerals, resources and heavy engineering sectors, including:
 the global skills shortages in the minerals and resources sectors which
is exacerbated by the relatively remote locations of mining activity
 industry feedback that existing education and training structures and
programs are confusing, complex, difficult to access and lacking in
coordination
 the need to rejuvenate the education and training system in the Upper
Spencer Gulf
 the need to attract young people in greater numbers to careers in the
mining and heavy engineering industry.
Industry-led workforce action plans
The department has continued to support the development and
implementation of industry- led workforce action plans by providing
information about the labour market and linking with a range of
government programs. In 2010, industry-led workforce action plans were
developed and released for Agrifood and Wine industries; Health and
31

32. Community Services and Advanced Manufacturing, Construction, Defence
and Mining.
State’s Universities
The department continues to work closely with the three South Australian
universities in the development of the two national higher education
targets:
 that by 2020, 20% of enrolments will be of students from low socio-
economic backgrounds
 that by 2025, 40% of people aged 25 to 34 years of age will have
completed an undergraduate degree or better.
The department negotiated the state’s contribution of $5 million to the re-
development of the Roseworthy Agricultural College of the University of
Adelaide; university priorities for infrastructure funding are negotiated with
the Commonwealth with consideration for state strategic priorities.
The department continues to place emphasis on policy initiatives that
improve participation in higher education particularly through pathways
from vocational education and training to higher education. The
department also facilitated a project, in collaboration with the Department
of Education and Children’s Services and the universities to provide
options for talented high school students to participate in university studies
while still at school.
1.2 Exemplary workforce policies, plans and strategies to address the
state’s demand for increased workforce participation and the high-
level skills needed by industry, employers and regions (Links to
South Australia’s Strategic Plan Targets T1.10, T1.11, T1.12, T1.26,
T6.19, T6.20 and T6.21)
Trainee and Apprentice Activity
Traineeships and apprenticeships are integral to the development and
maintenance of a highly skilled labour force in South Australia. The
department is responsible for the regulation of the traineeship and
apprenticeship system in South Australia, under delegation from the
Training and Skills Commission, and for the provision of subsidies to
support the training of trainees and apprentices.
Training figures for trainees and apprentices remained stable in 2009-10
with a strong increase in commencements being offset in part by
increased completions. As at 30 June 2010, there were an estimated 32
100 trainees and apprentices in training, a 0.2 per cent decrease on the
figure for 2009.
32

33. In 2009-10, there were an estimated 22 200 traineeship and
apprenticeship commencements, a 6.7 per cent increase over the 2008-
09 figure of 20 800, and a 7.2 per cent increase over the estimated 20
700 commencements in 2005-06.
There was a significant increase in traineeship and apprenticeship
completions in South Australia in 2009-10. An estimated total of 12 600
trainees and apprentices completed in the twelve months to 30 June
2010, an 11.5 per cent increase over the estimated 11 300 completions
in 2008-09. The increase in completions may be attributed to the
completion of full term contracts in response to economic conditions in
2008 and 2009, and a higher proportion of earlier, competency-based
completions and existing workers undertaking traineeships and
apprenticeships in South Australia.
Reduced terms of the training contracts resulting from of increased
earlier competency based completions is a contributing factor to the 0.2
per cent decrease in the 30 June 2010 in training figure.
Figure 1: Trainee and apprentice activity, five years
ending 30 June 20103
40000
35000
Number of trainees and apprentices
30000
25000
20000
15000
10000
5000
0
2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Year
In training Commencements Completions
3
Data for Figures 1 and 2 are sourced from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research Australian
vocational education and training statistics – Apprentices and trainees June quarter (2010) report. Data for 2010
and in training data for 2009 are estimates. The National Centre for Vocational Education Research may revise
these figures in the future. In training data are provided at 30 June annually; commencement and completion
data are provided for the 12 months ending 30 June of each year.
33

34. Figure 2: Existing Worker trainee and apprentice
commencements, five years ending 30 June 2010
10000
Number of trainees and apprentices
8000
6000
4000
2000
0
2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Year
Existing Worker Commencements
Figure 3: Trainee and apprentice early completions,
4
five years ending 30 June 2010
10000
Number of trainees and apprentices
8000
6000
4000
2000
0
2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Year
Early Completions
4
Data for Figure 3 are sourced from the department’s VENUS data store, and are subject to fluctuations due to a
time lag relating to the receipt and processing of paperwork submitted to the department.
34

35. Trainee and Apprentice Activity
In collaboration with the Training and Skills Commission, the department
developed Guidelines for the approval of applications for the declaration
of trades and vocations under the Training and Skills Development Act
2008, and Guidelines for persons who supervise apprentices or trainees.
The latter, which is in effect from 1 January, 2011, prescribes the
supervision ratios to be applied to one or more trainees or apprentices,
depending on the year or stage of the traineeship or apprenticeship.
A memorandum of understanding was signed between the Department
of Employment Education and Workplace Relations, the Department of
Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology and Santos for
the implementation of an Indigenous training and employment project in
the mining industry. Santos provided funding to the department for the
employment of two mentor/employment brokers, who are based with
group training organisations, and will mentor 25 apprentices and
25 school based apprentices over 2 years.
Apprentice Kickstart Pre-Apprenticeship Project
In collaboration with the Department of Education, Employment, and
Workplace Relations, the department manages the Apprentice Kickstart
Pre-Apprenticeship project. The project, an initiative under the National
Partnership Agreement on Pre-Apprenticeship Training between the
Australian and South Australian Governments, will allow nine
organisations to deliver 44 training courses, thus providing at least 500
pre-apprenticeship training opportunities in South Australia by June
2011.
The objectives of the project are to increase the number of apprentices
in areas of skills needs as determined by the National Skills Needs List,
by providing pre-apprenticeship training opportunities, and to accelerate
apprenticeship completions through recognition of prior learning.
Since June 2010, six organisations have commenced delivery of training
courses, with a total of 185 participants. It is anticipated that a total of
579 pre-apprenticeship training opportunities will be created through the
project.
2008-10 Pre-Apprenticeship and Traineeship Program
In 2010, the 2008-10 Pre-Apprenticeship and Traineeship Program was
superseded by the Apprentice Kickstart Pre-Apprenticeship Project. The
Pre-Apprenticeship and Traineeship Program was designed to increase
the number of apprentices and trainees in strategically important
occupations and industries, through the provision of technical and
employability skills training, tailored for a specific apprenticeship or
traineeship. Participants also undertook work placements with
35

36. employers.
During 2009-10, 22 Pre-Apprenticeship and Traineeship Program
participants gained traineeships and apprenticeships in aged care,
carpentry and joinery, and fabrication and mechanical engineering. A
total of 90 participants entered into apprenticeships or traineeships over
the life of the program.
Joint Group Training Program
As at 31 December 2010, there were 3895 apprentices and trainees
employed by 16 group training organisations jointly funded by the State
and Commonwealth governments through the Joint Group Training
Program. Collectively, these organisations received $2.25 million to
support the commencement, retention and completion of traineeships
and apprenticeships.
Throughout the year, the department audited six group training
organisations which were found to be compliant with the National
Standards for Group Training Organisations.
Productivity Places Program
In 2010, the department allocated over $43 million of Productivity Places
Program funding for approximately 11 000 qualifications to be delivered
to existing workers and job seekers.
Productivity Places Program for Job Seeker training is directed to people
over 17 years who are not currently working and intending to seek paid
employment after completing the qualification so that they are better
equipped to participate in emerging work opportunities. Over 3900 Job
Seeker qualifications were allocated in 2010 , 45% at Certificate II Level,
43% at Certificate III, 8% at Certificate IV and 3% at Diploma Level.
There have been approximately 3100 qualification commencements
recorded for allocated 2010 Job Seeker funding, 44% at the Certificate II
Level, 47% at Certificate III, 7% at Certificate IV and 2% at Diploma
Level.
South Australia has administered Productivity Places Program for Job
Seekers since 2009 and has recorded over 5500 Job Seeker
qualification commencements. In addition, over 3000 qualifications have
been issued, 58% at the Certificate II Level, 36% at Certificate III, 5% at
Certificate IV and 1% at Diploma Level.
The Productivity Places Program for Existing Workers training is for
people already in the workforce to address skill shortages across SA
industry sectors. The program pays for 90% of the agreed training costs
for these qualifications and industry contributes the remaining 10%.
36

37. Almost 8000 existing worker qualifications were allocated in 2010 and
11% were at Certificate III Australian Qualifications Training Framework
level, 57% at Certificate IV, 26% at Diploma Level and 6% at advanced
diploma level. As of December 2010, almost 500 qualification
commencements recorded for 2010 allocated Existing Worker funding.
1.3 Resource allocation plans for training delivery to meet the state’s
skill needs and the best investments for publicly funded training
and workforce development. (Links to South Australia’s Strategic
Plan Targets T1.16, T6.20, T6.21 and T1.26)
User Choice Training Subsidies
The department is responsible for the provision of User Choice training
subsidies to both public and private training organisations, to support
trainees and apprentices with the cost of formal training. These subsidies
are focused on traineeships and apprenticeships in occupations
experiencing skill shortages in South Australia. The User Choice policy
supports a range of traineeships at Certificate II and III Australian
Qualifications Framework levels, a small number of higher level
traineeship qualifications and all trade qualifications.
During 2009, 154 registered training organisations, consisting of
TAFE SA and privately owned providers, received training subsidies
under a User Choice agreement. A total of $43 million was provided by
the department during the year, to support in excess of 23 000 trainees
and apprentices undertaking a nationally recognised qualification.
As illustrated in the figures below, funding for apprentices5 represented
52 per cent of student numbers and 70 per cent of expenditure, whilst
funding for traineeships represented 48 per cent of student numbers and
30 per cent of expenditure.
The first Strategic Resource Allocation Plan was developed in response
to the Training and Skill’s Commission’s five year plan Skills for Jobs and
addressed those commission recommendations which were consistent
with current government policy. Other recommendations will be
5
The funding for traineeships and apprenticeships does not equal total expenditure for User Choice, as other
expenses associated with User Choice are included in the total expenditure for the program.
37

38. addressed through the Skills for All process.
The Strategic Resource Allocation Plan discusses the broader
vocational, education and training policy context and analyses the
outcomes achieved from 2006 – 2008. It was used to inform the TAFE
Purchase Agreements, Productivity Places Program priorities and
eligibility for User Choice funding.
Key points include:
 the provision of User Choice funding for a range of qualifications at
the Certificate IV level
 an increase in planned intakes by Australian Qualifications
Framework level to address imbalances projected by the commission
 a target for completions in the TAFE Purchase Agreements
 targets for Indigenous students, students with a disability and
students residing in low socio-economic status areas.
1.4 High quality, coordinated and accessible career development and
workforce information services to assist individuals, employers and
industry to plan and make decisions. (Links to South Australia’s
Strategic Plan Targets T6.15, T6.19, T6.20 and T6.21)
The Training and Skills Commission’s Five Year Plan for Skills and
Workforce Development Skills for Jobs: Priorities for Developing South
Australia’s Workforce, released in September 2010, noted many of the
recommendations in its 2009 plan were taken up in the Government’s
Skills for All consultation paper released in July 2010.
The priorities identified in the 2010 plan included the need for
improvement in language, literacy and numeracy skills through a range
of measures to increase employment participation; better partnerships
between vocational education and training and
higher education; preparing for the ‘new economy’ so workers can more
rapidly adapt to new demands; and renewed efforts to improve the use of
skills in the workplace. This year the commission developed a specialist
occupations list, and a detailed industry appendix that includes advice
from industry on skilling priorities.
The commission updates its plan annually to respond to changing
economic circumstances and policy developments
Traineeship and Apprenticeship Information Service
The department operates an information service to provide advice and
information on the traineeship and apprenticeship system to trainees,
apprentices, their employers, and the general public. In 2010, the
information service responded to 25 918 phone calls, an average of 498
38

39. calls per week. This represents a 2.8 per cent increase over 2009.
Career development services have been provided through South
Australia Works to support people who experience barriers to
employment through localised, targeted services. These services have
assisted individuals to make informed choices about education, training
and work, and facilitated planned pathways and successful transitions to
learning and work. Over 1600 people have accessed career
development services through the program.
Eight Career Development Centres operate in Limestone Coast,
Murraylands, Adelaide Hills, Port Augusta, Whyalla, Fleurieu, Barossa
and Northern Adelaide. Career Development Services are also being
delivered through contracted services in a further seven regions;
Southern and Eastern Adelaide, and Kangaroo Island with new
dedicated services in Yorke, Mid North, Southern Flinders and Eyre
Regions. A Customer Satisfaction Survey identified that 84.1 per cent of
respondents were satisfied to very satisfied with the overall services
provided through these services.
The distribution of a wide variety of workforce information and services to
South Australians has promoted best practice workforce policy, planning
and development. Provision of the following services have assisted
individuals, employers and industry to plan and make sound forward
looking decisions:
 Workforce Information Service Website
The Workforce Information Service provides high quality workforce
planning tools and resources, including workforce strategies, and
industry and regional profiles. The redevelopment, in 2010, of
Workforce Information Service OnLine has made it a more user-
friendly system, providing a coordinated career development and
workforce information service to the community, industry and
government. Qualitative and quantitative feedback reports high levels
of both satisfaction and application of the information available.
 WorkforceInfo Newsletter
WorkforceInfo, an online monthly newsletter, launched in May 2010,
complements the Workforce Information Service website by linking
readers to the latest Workforce Information Service Online content.
Each newsletter features labour market data, coming events, and the
latest workforce development and planning publications and
resources. The number of subscriptions and downloads of popular
departmental resources including the Workforce Wizard, regional
profiles and Career Choices continues to increase.
39

40.  Workforce Wizard
The Workforce Wizard, an online tool, launched in June 2010, is
designed to assist organisations and individuals interested in
workforce research and planning in South Australia. Specifically, the
Workforce Wizard customises information about an occupation (or
occupations) on a variety of topics including employment size and
status, regional and industry composition of employment, gender and
age profiles, qualifications and schooling profiles, and vocational
education and training and Higher Education information. It covers
over 350 occupations, (as defined by the Australian and New Zealand
Standard Classification of Occupations, at the unit group level).
The Wizard is fast becoming one of the Workforce Information
Service’s most popular content areas, with over 213 active
subscribers, from a variety of organisations including government,
registered training organisations, industry skills boards, industry
associations, employment service providers and schools. Workforce
Wizard 2011 will have a significantly expanded capability.
 Career Choices
Career Choices in South Australia (Career Choices) assists young
people make informed choices about their careers and the education
and training pathways that will lead them there.
The most current South Australian labour market information
available has been used to give people information about:
- employment prospects for 27 industries, including earning
potential in each
- the range of occupations and nature of employment in each
industry
- learning pathways into each industry - the qualifications needed to
get a job
- VET in SACE pathways
- links to further information.
Designed to complement existing national career and occupation
information found on MyFuture and Job Outlook, Career Choices is of
particular benefit to vocational education and training coordinators
and career counsellors in secondary schools with Vocational
Education and Training in South Australian Certificate of Education
options.
Close collaboration with the South Australia Certificate of Education
Board; vocational education and training coordinators in public,
Catholic and independent high schools; TAFE SA; the Australian
Council for Private Education and Training; and South Australia’s
nine industry skills boards has resulted in high quality content
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41. available both as a hard copy publication, with over 7000 copies
distributed, and online.
Feedback gathered through extensive consultation and evaluation is
being used to develop the next edition of Career Choices. A broader
coverage of 32 industry sectors and application to people of all ages,
especially those disengaged from school, training or the workforce to
make informed choices about education and training which matches
their interests and aspirations with future job opportunities.
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42. GOAL 2 - Strong Industry Partnerships
Strong partnerships ensure employers have people with the right skills at the
time to increase productivity in a rapidly changing and higher skilled
economy.
2.1 Education and training providers partner with industry and
employers to identify and implement skills and workforce
development strategies that increase productivity and the
achievements of learners. (Links to South Australia’s Strategic
Plan Targets T6.15 T1.11 T1.12, T1.26 and T4.8)
During 2010, TAFE SA continued to develop and strengthen
partnerships with industry and employers to provide the required
training and education to benefit individuals, organisations and the
state. Examples of key partnerships include:
 working closely with Holden to tailor and complete over 2500
qualifications in the areas of Competitive Manufacturing and
Engineering. By strengthening the skill level of Holden’s employees
and its partners, they are ready to respond to the increasing
demands of the domestic vehicle market
 demonstrating best practice nationally, TAFE SA’s Regency
International Centre has introduced an ‘Enterprise Development
Consultancy’ model, providing a direct approach to working with
employers to identify their workforce training needs. The Regency
International Centre has been working directly with the Hilton Hotel
Adelaide to identify individual employee learning needs, provide
recognition of existing skills and qualifications, and provide a gap
training plan to fast-track their training. The Hilton Hotel Adelaide
has reported improved productivity and staff retention rates as a
direct result of working with our consultants. This award winning
approach won the Business Developer/ Marketer of the Year Award
at the 2010 Australian Training Marketing Association Awards
 the TAFE SA @ Bower Place initiative represents excellence in true
blended delivery where immersion in industry practice, e-learning,
facilitated tutorial sessions and vocational placement come together
to create a transformational learning experience for participants.
This is a unique model for human services. While it is common in
many industry sectors to have models of upfront industry exposure,
the challenges of facilitating a learning environment where there
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43. could be the need to concurrently manage difficult behaviours and
the complexity of clients presenting with co-morbidity as well as the
inherent confidentiality issues make this model particularly
commendable. This has only been made possible through the
partnership with Bower Place
 during 2010, TAFE SA signed a memorandum of understanding
that further strengthened TAFE SA’s commitment to the national
dairy industry (National Centre for Dairy Education and Dairy
Australia) for the provision of high quality education and training
 talented TAFE SA Adelaide College of the Arts graduates and
students have been recipients of the Helpmann Academy
competitive grants during 2010, which were awarded to fourteen
individual projects to emerging artists from a wide range of creative
disciplines. Many of these students and graduates are at the very
beginning of their careers as artists and this grant will allow them to
tap into the knowledge and experience of overseas artists through
master-classes and international arts institutions.
Traineeship and Apprenticeship Activity
Traineeships and apprenticeships are fundamental to meeting the skills
needs of industry and require a strong commitment by employers and
partnership with the training provider.
In 2009-10, 61.3 per cent of trainees and apprentices completed their
training, a 2.5 per cent increase on 2008-09, and a 3.8 per cent
increase over the base figure.
In 2009-10, 69.5 per cent of training contracts were completed and
signed off before the nominal completion date of the contract term,
representing a 20.5 per cent increase over the base figure.
Productivity Places Program
The Productivity Places Program for Existing Workers was amended
during the year to strengthen the connection with industry by requiring
applicants to demonstrate their engagement with registered training
organisations, have industry endorsement (through an industry skills
council or South Australian industry skills boards or similar), and have a
pre-established partnership with employer(s).
Regular consultations are held between South Australian industry skills
boards, and a number of national industry skills councils have also
been consulted, on skills priorities, allocation mechanisms, and for
advice on individual enterprise skill needs.
Industry stakeholders are engaged (via forums, presentations and
other communication channels) through industry networks, and
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