18 June 2018.
The NSW Teachers Federation is concerned that today’s announcement on TAFE does not do enough to assist students.
"The announcement by Minister John Barilaro shows this government has little understanding of TAFE NSW," said NSW Teachers Federation President Maurie Mulheron.
"Most apprentices have their TAFE fees paid by the employer, so this is more money going into the hands of businesses, not assistance to students who are struggling to get into the workforce," Mr Mulheron said.
He said TAFE should be providing more pre-apprenticeship programs to help get young people into the workforce but funding for such programs had been cut by Mr Barilaro’s government in 2015.
"Throwing money at a group of courses now, proves this government’s Smart and Skilled funding model doesn’t work," said NSW Teachers Federation Deputy Secretary Maxine Sharkey.
"This government must guarantee a minimum of 70% government funding directly to TAFE, restore TAFE funding to at least 2012 levels and reinvest in the TAFE teaching workforce," Ms Sharkey said.
She said while Minister Barilaro acknowledged an upfront fee of $2000 acts as an impediment to students enrolling in TAFE courses, this announcement ignores the barrier of even higher fees imposed for non-apprenticeship courses such as child care, aged care and hospitality.
Media comment Maxine Sharkey 0418428623
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