Labor's training cuts, coming just six working days before Christmas, will directly impact the jobs of staff and trainers at each of these 58 RTOs and may result in many closing their doors for good.
Students who were enrolled in the courses offered by these RTOs in 2026 will also be impacted.
The latest data from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) revealed that over 61 percent of Victorian employers selected independent training providers for their nationally recognised training. Independent RTOs support more than 88 percent of student enrolments in Victoria's skills sector.
Victoria is forecast to require an additional 352,000 workers between 2023 and 2026 to meet labour market needs according to the Victorian Skills Authority, particularly in the care economy, clean economy and construction sectors.
Shadow Minister for Jobs and Skills, Bridget Vallence, said: "Labor has once again made more cuts to a pipeline of skilled workers Victoria needs and destroyed independent training businesses that Victorian employers prefer.
"Labor has callously told 58 businesses and employers their expected contracts next year are cut with only six working days before Christmas. Clearly, the Government doesn't care about the hundreds of staff and trainers whose jobs will be impacted.
"Over the last decade Labor has been unable to provide a fit-for-purpose vocational and education training system that addresses skills shortages in Victoria. A Wilson Liberal and Nationals Government will ensure a robust and healthy training sector that can deliver the skills required."
