The Andrews Labor Government has revamped two key grants programs to align them better with the needs of Victorian industries, regions, and disadvantaged learners so that these programs better support industry to find the workers they need.
A new streamlined grant process will make it easier for applicants and provide them with better up-front guidance on priorities, with areas of critical need aligned closely with the recently released Victorian Skills Plan.
Minister for Training and Skills and Higher Education Gayle Tierney said the Regional and Specialist Training Fund and Workforce Training and Innovation Funds guidelines have been changed to ensure better alignment the growth opportunities and skills needs for the Victorian economy.
The Regional and Specialist Training Fund (RSTF) enables training providers to address specific training gaps in regional areas by providing financial support to deliver courses which would otherwise not be available for employers and students at regional TAFEs.
The Workforce Training Innovation Fund (WTIF) provides grants for initiatives that will make the training and TAFE system more effective in meeting industry skill needs in areas of the Victorian Labor Government's economic growth priorities.
Under the new RSTF guidelines, all Victorian training providers with a Skills First VET Funding Contract can apply for funding. Under the new WTIF guidelines, TAFES, RTOS, industry and employers can apply for funding.
Guidelines will be updated annually to ensure they align with the latest Victorian Skills Authority Skills Plan and the Office of TAFE Coordination and Delivery's Statement of Priorities.
Applications for both funds will be open three times a year, with the next round running from September 21 to October 28, 2022. Opportunities in between rounds may arise at times to meet workforce needs or priorities.
Since 2014, the Labor Government has made a record $3.5 billion investment to rebuild the Liberals' broken TAFE sector, and support universities and higher education to give every Victorian access to quality education and rewarding career pathways.
To learn more about both programs go to:
www.vic.gov.au/workforce-training-innovation-fundExternal Link
www.vic.gov.au/regional-and-specialist-training-fundExternal Link
As stated by Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney
"Working shoulder to shoulder across industry, unions, training providers and government will mean we can work with one purpose in mind - a high quality, accessible training system that delivers what students and employers need."
"It's only a Labor Government that will build a world-class TAFE system, helping to boost our workforce and to get Victorians the skills and training they need."
