A key recommendation of the independent review of the NSW vocational education and training (VET) sector, the TAFE NSW Charter lets the people of NSW know what they should expect from TAFE – as the provider at the heart of vocational training.
Yesterday the NSW government launched the new TAFE NSW Charter, reaffirming its commitment to equipping the state with the skilled workforce it urgently needs.
Launched to coincide with the start of Semester 1, 2025, the announcement comes as students return to campuses across NSW. The government says this marks a pivotal moment for TAFE NSW, along with the rollout of its new operating model.
This model, also stemming from the NSW VET Review, introduces teaching faculties with deeper ties to local industries and communities, enhancing responsiveness and collaboration.
The Charter reflects TAFE NSW as an important public asset, community space, industry partner and a leader of educational quality and innovation within the broader VET sector. The government says the TAFE NSW Charter and operating model will strengthen the critical role TAFE NSW plays for industry and communities across the state.
The announcement was made at TAFE NSW Kingscliff, where a $33 million government investment is upgrading facilities, including a new learning space for health services students.
Critical skills
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said, ‘A skilled workforce is the backbone of our economy, and TAFE NSW is central to delivering the critical skills training needed for strong industries and thriving NSW communities.
‘The TAFE NSW Charter is a commitment that TAFE NSW will deliver world-class education and training focused on critical skills needs for NSW, now and into the future,’ he said.
‘It provides a clear mandate for TAFE NSW to lead the way in delivering innovative, industry-aligned training that equips people with the skills and confidence to succeed, while driving economic growth and inclusion for communities.
‘It details how TAFE NSW, as the public training provider, will deliver quality skills training to workers beginning and continuing careers in those industries we know are a priority for the state, such as construction, advanced manufacturing, and the care sector.’
Commitment
Acting Managing Director TAFE NSW, Chloe Read said, ‘The TAFE NSW Charter is more than a statement of purpose – it’s a commitment to the diverse range of students, industries, and communities we support.
‘It will secure TAFE NSW’s place at the heart of the VET sector, providing high-quality training that prepares individuals for success in their careers and strengthens the fabric of our local economies and communities.’
Diploma of Nursing student TAFE NSW Kingscliff, Sophie D’Arcy said, ‘Having a strong and sustainable organisation like TAFE NSW underpinning the VET sector means that we can access the vital training needed to pursue our dream professions.
‘For me, that’s starting my journey as a nurse through the Diploma of Nursing at TAFE NSW Kingscliff. I am due to complete my studies later this year and am confident my training, combined with practical application and supportive teachers, will give me the skills I need to succeed in my future career.’
