Last week I was honoured to be on a panel for the launch of the CIT 2025-2035 Strategic Plan. Other panellists included the Acting CEO of the Smart Energy Council, the 
CEO of Master Plumbers and the Founder of Building Women. The facilitator, Christine Robertson, who is the interim CEO of CIT, asked each of us what would be different in 10 years times. To the left and right of me were the colleagues from the Smart Energy Council and Master Plumbers, both of whom talked about the fact electrification will have occurred … the transition will have taken place.
This is significant because it is the shift in training that is needed now that our TAFE teachers are adapting to quickly so they can equip learners and meet this national objective. For example, plumbers need capabilities to move from gas to electricity, and specific technical skills are needed by electric vehicle workers who are maintaining electric vehicle bus fleets and cars. These are not skills for the future. These are skills that TAFEs like CIT are teaching now, in partnership with industry such as the two peak bodies on the panel.
The CIT strategic plan launch occurred in the truly amazing new CIT premises at Woden, ACT. I’ve seen a lot of new TAFE campus buildings, and this one is technologically out there. The ACT government has funded the learning environments at the highest level possible to provide contemporary, technology supported learning spaces. It is impressive and the building will open in July. For TAFE CEOs coming to Canberra in September, we have a tour planned and you will be blown away.
Both aspects of the above CIT launch highlight the importance of adaptability. Adaptability and continual learning are inherent within a TAFE teacher’s job. TAFE teachers must be responsive and able to use the latest technical equipment to meet the new demands of the industries we serve, and they must use contemporary learning technology with expectations from students that they are competent. This is no small ask.
Teacher adaptability, continual learning, and striving for excellence were also evident this week at the WorldSkills national competition in Brisbane. The skills being displayed by the participants don’t just happen without the amazing contribution of dedicated teachers. Most of those teachers are members of the TAFE workforce. They are training these young people to be excellent and to harness contemporary skills for national priority industries.
Therefore, it is the skills that are being taught now that will ensure that Australia is meeting its national priority goals in ten years’ time. We see these on display by TAFE teachers in so many contexts.
Australia’s largest skills and trades showcase — the 2025 WorldSkills Australia National Championships & Skills Show — has wrapped up in spectacular fashion, drawing record crowds and awarding the nation’s best young apprentices and trainees with a bold new medallion that celebrates craftsmanship and unity.
Held at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre from 12–14 June, the event brought together more than 35,000 visitors, who witnessed over 600 competitors from every state and territory go head-to-head across more than 60 skill categories, ranging from cyber security and cabinetmaking to cookery, floristry and plumbing.
One of the largest National Championships in WorldSkills Australia’s 44-year history, the 2025 event was a high-energy celebration of vocational excellence.
After three fierce days of competition, NSW was crowned the overall winner, topping the medal tally with outstanding results across multiple categories.
Final Medal Tally
WorldSkills Australia CEO, Trevor Schwenke described it as a true celebration of what’s possible when young people, educators, government, and industry come together to back skills.
“Brisbane was an incredible host and it was fantastic to walk the floor and witness the outstanding level of competition, as the nation’s best young skills talent gave it their all. Their passion was inspiring and I’m sure many visitors are now considering where a vocational career could take them,” he said.
Some of the top awards presented were:
On the eve of the Worldskills Australia showcase, the former Minister for Skills and Training Brendan O’Connor was named as the organisation’s inaugural patron.
Image: Mr O’Connor at the WorldSkills Australia welcome reception with Anna Faithfull, Deputy Secretary, Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, and Mary Faraone, WorldSkills Australia Chair and Chief Executive of Holmesglen Institute.
The Chief Executive Officer of TAFE SA, David Coltman (pictured), has announced his decision to stand down, after more than six years at the helm of the organisation.
In an email last week to all staff, Mr Coltman advised of family priorities that had made the decision urgent.
Mr Coltman, who was recently appointed TDA Chair, has provided the following:
This was to be my first letter to you in my new role as Chair of the TDA Board, and it is. It is also my last as TDA Chair and last as a TDA Board member representing South Australia.
As I reflect on my time with TAFE SA and the broader TAFE network, I am struck by the depth of collaboration and the shared vision that unites us across disciplines, states, and institutions. This network is more than a collection of educational establishments; it is a tapestry woven with the threads of commitment, innovation, and mutual respect. Each member, whether an educator, administrator, or leader, contributes a unique perspective and strength that enriches the collective mission.
So, in preparing to leave, I want to thank you the staff of TAFEs across Australia. The strength of this network is so powerful and is often underestimated. The TDA network goes beyond a gathering of Chief Executives. It crosses disciplines and functions, bringing together educators and professional teams. Focused on specific vocations, it builds capability through a federation model, leveraging cooperation rather than competition.
There is so much more of this potential in TAFEs across Australia that is yet to be realised. You, its people are its potential. You are deeply dedicated, resilient, and passionate about providing quality education and opportunities for growth. Every challenge we’ve faced together as a network has been met with unwavering commitment and ingenuity, shaping TAFEs into institutions that are beacons of excellence and innovation and are once again a source of pride for all.
I thank you with a heartfelt sincerity for allowing me to be part of this great sector.
Reflecting on the journey, I have learned that leadership in education is as much about fostering connections and building trust as it is about achieving measurable outcomes. TAFEs, by design, represent a unique model of collaboration and unity, standing testament to the transformative power of collective effort. It is a privilege to have contributed to this story, knowing that the progress we’ve made will continue to resonate for years to come.
I wish the TAFE Network every continued success. You are a skilled and dedicated team of passionate individuals, enabling people to make changes to their lives. Your humility astounds me, and it has been such a privilege to work and stand beside you over the past 11 years. Thank you all.
David Coltman
Ingrid Haythorpe, Chair, TAFE SA Board
Under David’s stewardship, TAFE SA achieved national recognition, being named Australia’s Large Training Provider of the Year at the 2024 Australian Training Awards. Enrolments, apprentice and trainee numbers have grown, and 88% of our students are now employed or pursuing further study, clear evidence of the positive outcomes being delivered across the state. The TAFE SA Board extends its deep appreciation to David for his vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His contributions leave a solid foundation for the future, and we wish him the best.
Jenny Dodd, CEO TAFE Directors Australia
Tertiary education in Australia has benefited enormously from David’s leadership. He went to TAFE SA when it needed a strong, passionate leader for public education, and he was enormously successful. Farewell David Coltman, but hopefully not for long – we look forward to your return to continue your amazing contributions to strengthening the quality of Australia’s tertiary education system.
Craig Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Victorian Skills Authority
David’s contributions to education and training in South Australia and nationally as CEO of TAFE SA are immeasurable. During his six years at the helm, he has built its capacity for world leading VET and higher education, so it is seen as the engine room for economic priorities such as defence industries. David has always been willing to engage in national debates on the critical roles TAFEs play for Australians and Australia. His generosity of spirit marks him out as a trusted collaborator and true leader.
Mary Faraone, Chief Executive, Holmesglen Institute
I had the pleasure of working with David at Holmesglen Institute and watched his journey as a talented and engaged TAFE executive, most recently at TAFESA and the TDA Board. The sector will miss his insight, and passion for the sector to be high quality and respected.
Christine Robertson, Interim CEO, Canberra Institute of Technology
David is a generous and gracious colleague – his leadership of TAFE SA over the past 6 years has been inspirational. His strong sense of optimism and belief in the power of public TAFE provision has been evident in his many achievements across the range of executive leadership roles he has held. He leaves a significant legacy and will be deeply missed.
Dr Norman Baker, Executive Dean, Education Operations, TAFE SA
I feel incredibly fortunate to work under David’s leadership. I’m deeply grateful for the trust, wisdom, and example he continues to provide. The transformation of TAFESA over the last six years has been particularly challenging and ultimately rewarding, and I admire the strength of character David has displayed through difficult times. I feel privileged to have supported him during this period, and I thank him sincerely for that honour.
A personal reflection from Penny Johnston, Executive Dean, Academic Development, TAFE SA, supported by Andrew Williamson, Executive Director, Regions, Industry and Community, TAFE SA
There are many reasons why having David as your boss is a blessing. I’ve called them ‘David’s Quality Indicators’ and labelled them ‘Wise Counsel and Intellectual Prowess’, ‘Emotional Intelligence and Pastoral Care’ and ‘Aesthetic and Comic Sensibility.’ David’s Wise Counsel and Intellectual Prowess have been transformative across TAFE SA Defence and Space Industry Engagement, Strategic Industry Partnerships, New Product Development, Inclusive Education, and our Teaching and Learning Strategies. David’s Emotional Intelligence and Pastoral Care have led us to make great strides in Equality and Inclusion, including strengthening First Nations representation in our decision-making, auditing and improving campus Cultural Safety and championing Gender Equity and LGBTIQA+ inclusion and celebration. David’s Aesthetic Sensibilities have been reflected in the improved quality and beauty of our Corporate and Board Reporting, our Communications, and the refresh of our TAFE SA Brand. David’s comic sensibility has been evident in TAFE SA’s strong engagement with Festivals SA and David’s own Board membership of the SA Circus Centre. Overall, we are really going to miss having such as Wise, Emotional, Stylish and Funny Chief Executive. TAFE SA has been permanently positively transformed as a result.
Join us to learn more about the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and how TAFEs are applying the framework to improve inclusive learning and teaching practice.
Supported by Australian Disability Clearinghouse on Education and Training (ADCET), this session will provide an overview of UDL 3.0, along with practical examples of its integration into practice at TAFE NSW, TAFE SA and CIT.
Federal, state and territory skills ministers have elevated the importance of apprenticeships at their latest meeting, agreeing to a nationwide plan to lift commencements and completions.
The Skills and Workforce Ministerial Council meeting in Brisbane on Friday agreed to establish a Future Apprenticeships Workplan “to deliver immediate and long-term actions to support the ambitions for growth in priority areas”.
The Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles (pictured) told the National Apprentice Employment Network conference in Brisbane on Thursday that the government was working on a response to the Strategic Review of Apprentice Incentives, released earlier this year.
The ministerial council also discussed:
See the Skills and Workforce Ministerial Council Communique.
After 20 years helping those in aged care, Tammara Cooper is taking her 
passion one step further by pursuing a Diploma of Nursing at CQUniversity.
Tammara has held a Certificate IV in Aged Care and worked in the industry in Rockhampton for many years, but thanks to the Queensland Government’s Fee-Free TAFE (FFT) program, the mature-age student has been able to pursue further training to become a nurse.
Applications are now open for those studying nursing at TAFE to receive financial support under the new Commonwealth Prac Payments (CPP) for VET.
The payment will provide over 5,000 VET students with $331.65 per week during their clinical placements. It includes many who are already studying under the Free TAFE program.
Eligible VET students undertaking a Diploma of Nursing can apply for a grant, covering up to a maximum of 400 mandatory prac placement hours.
Students can now visit Your Career to apply for CPP (VET) for placements on or after July 1.
Free student webinar
A free student webinar will be held tomorrow at 2pm AEST to explain how CPP (VET) works, eligibility criteria and see a live walk though of how to apply.
Pre-apprenticeship programs can significantly boost the chances of successfully completing an apprenticeship, according to a new study released by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER).
The report, Understanding the value of pre-apprenticeships, found that students who completed a pre-apprenticeship in the same field of education as their apprenticeship were 7.3 percentage-points more likely to finish their apprenticeship.
NCVER Managing Director John King said the findings highlight the important role pre-apprenticeships can play in preparing students for success.
“Pre-apprenticeships help turn initial curiosity into commitment, building both skills and passion.”
The impact of pre-apprenticeships was evident in trade occupations, where those who had completed a pre-apprenticeship were 4.1-percentage-points more likely to complete their apprenticeship.
“This may reflect the value of hands-on preparation and the motivation among students who actively choose trade pre-apprenticeships,” Mr King said.
Some groups benefit more than others. Younger apprentices, males and those not identifying with an equity group were more likely to both commence and complete an apprenticeship after enrolling in a pre-apprenticeship.
Around one in three students who did not complete their pre-apprenticeship still moved into apprenticeships with employers. However, they were less likely to complete their apprenticeship when compared to those who had not enrolled in a pre-apprenticeship.
Join us to explore the evolving impact of generative AI on integrity and assessment. Dr Lenka Ucnik from TEQSA will outline TEQSA’s national AI guidelines for Higher Education and their relevance for TAFEs.
You will also hear from Dr Jenny Game from Chisholm Institute, who will share strategies to ensure assessment security and learning outcomes in AI-rich environments.
Finally, Dr Hayden Park and Dr Elly Thomson from Melbourne Polytechnic will present findings of their recent study on AI-generated feedback in teacher education, highlighting its benefits, risks and practical implications.
Applications are closing soon for the Fulbright Professional Scholarship in Vocational Education and Training.
This is a prestigious opportunity for VET leaders, managers, and educators to undertake research in the United States.
The Fulbright Professional Scholarship in VET is funded by the Commonwealth Department of Education and is open to TAFE employees.
It supports four months of study that advances practice, policy, or innovation in vocational education. Awardees gain access to a world-class network and bring valuable insights back to Australia.
Over the years, the scholarship has seen a number of fascinating projects, including:
Applications close 1 July 2025. If you’re interested in applying, contact Alex Maclaurin: alex.maclaurin@fulbright.org.au, or check out the website.
Join us for an engaging TAFETalks session exploring how TAFE Queensland is strategically transforming digital learning to drive educational innovation and learner success. Michelle Roberts from the Brisbane Educator Capability team will share how Adobe tools are being embedded across teaching and administrative functions, with a spotlight on their powerful impact in the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP), enhancing both engagement and accessibility.
Michelle will be joined by educator Sophie Nguyen to present a recent digital capability project focused on boosting learners’ digital literacy. Discover how creative and strategic approaches are being used to make learning more accessible, inclusive, and engaging across diverse student cohorts.
This session is ideal for TAFE leaders, educators, and decision-makers seeking practical insights and scalable strategies to embed digital capability and innovation across the education sector.
Service and Creative Skills Australia
Retail Qualifications Continuum Review – Initial consultation now open
Apply to join the Technical Committee
Complete the survey (closes 21 July at 5 pm AEST)
Register for an interactive workshop
TAFETalks: Powering inclusive TAFE Teaching with UDL guidelines
18 June 2025
Register here
Apprentice Employment Network NSW & ACT
2025 Skills Conference
24 June 2025
Amora Hotel, Sydney
More information
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Symposium 2025
Navigating Authentic Assessment and Learning in a Digital World
25-26 June 2025
University of Sydney
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Scholarship of Learning and Teaching (SoLT) 2025
3 July 2025
South Bank, Queensland
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34th National Vocational Education and Training (VET) Research Conference ‘No Frills’
9-11 July 2025. Registrations are now open.
Gold Coast
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TAFETalks: Navigating assessment and integrity in the age of GenAI
Wednesday 23 July 2-3pm AEST
Register here
TAFETalks: Evolving digital learning for strategic impact at TAFE Queensland
6 August 2025 14:00 Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney
Register here
Victorian TAFE Association TAFECreates25 Conference
7 August 2025
Melbourne Polytechnic Conference Centre, Melbourne
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VET National Teaching & Learning Conference
14-15 August 2025
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
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National Skills Week
‘Explore All the Options’
25-31 August 2025
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MyeQuals Connect
2 September 2025
Venue: Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Register here
25% discount code: TDAMyeQuals
Impact ATEM 2025
Association for Tertiary Education Management annual conference
7-10 September 2025
Australian National University, Canberra.
More information
TAFETalks: Build the future of education with humans and GenAI
29 October 2025 14:00 Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney
Register here
Velg Training National VET Conference
30-31 October 2025
Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre
More information
Association of Colleges Annual Conference
18-19 November 2025
Birmingham, England
More information (contact TDA memberservices@tda.edu.au)
TDA Convention 2026
SAVE the DATE
5-7 May 2026
Brisbane
More information
48th WorldSkills International Competition Shanghai
22-27 September 2026
More information
2026 WFCP World Congress
23-28 November 2026
Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, Kenya
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