Australia’s most talented apprentices, trainees, VET students,
skills and training teachers, businesses, and training providers were honoured
at the 2016 Australian Training Awards in Darwin tonight.
Assistant Minister for Vocational Education and
Skills, Karen Andrews, said the strong field of finalists showed what can be
achieved with vocational education and training (VET).
“I believe in the transformative nature of vocational
education that tonight’s awards highlight,” Minister Andrews said.
“I have a very clear message for Australians; you
don’t have to go to university to get a job and build a career. VET and
Australian Apprenticeships can take you there.”
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Douglas Wright
AM for his enormous contribution to vocational education and training.
The National Achievement Award was received by Denise
Stevens for her dedication and innovation within the sector.
Minister Andrews congratulated all those involved in
the awards for the important role they play as students who contribute to the
skilled workforce, as employers that invest in staff training and development,
and as providers of the highest quality training.
“Thank you for sharing your remarkable journeys on
the education highway that is offered by vocational education and training –
for so many it is a journey of passion, determination and opportunity to reach
exciting and rewarding destinations.
“Tonight is the 23rd time we are
celebrating the outstanding achievements of skills and training in Australia.
Those 23 years have underlined a continuing dedication to excellence.”
The Australian Training Awards — the peak national
awards for the vocational education and training system in Australia — are held
each year in November.
A full list of winners and more information is available at www.australiantrainingawards.gov.au. Photographs of winners can be provided on request.
