Research

Research

What works where you are? The implementation of training packages in rural Australia

Training packages have been extensively implemented in the rural communities of Ainsworth, Baldwin, Colton, Duncan and Ellis. Providers of vocational education and training (VET) servicing these rural communities were constantly challenged by 'thin' markets—or markets characterised by low activity and thus lacking depth or volume—and the small numbers engaging in training. Funding for training provision and the range of training on offer were consequently limited.

Some policies and regulations governing funding and the delivery of training were seen by rural providers as working against their efforts to supply innovative solutions to meet the training needs of their communities. They would welcome some flexibility in the application of policy and regulations together with differential funding formulas.
There was evidence of extensive collaboration in the provision of training between stakeholders in rural communities. Networking and partnerships have allowed resource and information sharing, avoidance of unproductive duplication of effort, and positive outcomes for providers, learners, enterprises and the communities.

While competition policy has engendered a healthy training market, collaboration in rural communities is a sensible strategy for delivering effective vocational education and training. Any policies and incentives that support collaboration will assist in the broadening of training possibilities in non-metropolitan Australia.