Based on the latest health advice, a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy for most occupations and workforces will be introduced in a phased approach. This approach will apply mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations for expanded industries in WA (which will be classified as either Group 1 or Group 2 industries and occupations), as well as introducing a requirement for all critical workers to be vaccinated to attend work in the event of a lockdown or similar restrictions.  ​

Funding for the development of new and existing workers are a priority for the Community Pharmacy sector. Funding of three new skillsets within Western Australia has been approved: 

• SIRSS00030 Introduction to Community Pharmacy Skill Set  
  
• SIRSS00031 Community Pharmacy Delivery Skill Set  
  
• SIRSS00012 Community Pharmacy Dispensary Skill Set 
  

 
These skills sets are expected to be used by approximately 9,000 staff employed in Western Australian community pharmacies including pharmacists and non-pharmacist employees. For more information, please contact the Pharmacy Guild Australia or via reception@wa.guild.org.au (WA only).  ​

Australian Industry Standards (AIS) are seeking feedback on their performance as a Skills Service Organisation (SSO) over the past year. The 10-minute survey looks for comment and feedback on current industry engagement including areas done well and room for improvement. 
Click here to complete the survey. Feedback closes Friday 19 November 2021. ​

TeamWA won the Vocational Education and Training in Schools (VETiS) Shield for the second time running in an unforgettable display of Western Australia's training and skills excellence at the 2021 WorldSkills Australia National Championships.

Of the 150 medals awarded, TeamWA competitors won 54 medals - 19 gold, 22 silver and 13 bronze medals - and seven awards for excellence. Sixteen medals were won by Perth South competitors, earning them the Evatt Shield for best performing region. The LDSC extends our congratulations to all nominees and winners.

Click here for more information.

The National Centre for Vocational Education and Research (NCVER) have released the biennial Employers’ use and views of the VET system 2021 reports on employer engagement and satisfaction with training and on the various other ways employers meet their skills news. 
 
Click here to access the report. ​

Following the request for feedback, Australian Industry Standards (AIS) hosted a webinar on Friday 8 October 2021 to unpack and clarify the proposed Heavy Vehicle Driver Apprenticeship. This was attended by more than 200 participants nationwide. The LDSC Chair, Cathi Andrews participated as one of the four members of the Transport and Logistics Industry Reference Committee (IRC).  The proposed Heavy Vehicle Drivers Apprenticeship has been developed in response to industry’s call to professionalise the Heavy Vehicle Driver occupation. Feedback has now closed on the consultation paper, however the LDSC will keep you apprised of further developments. Thank you to those who provided the LDSC with insights into the proposed apprenticeship.  
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Watch this space for more information or contact the LDSC via info@ldsc.asn.au. ​

Deakin University’s Centre for Supply Chain and Logistics and Wayfinder: Supply Chain Careers for Women has released a report exploring the issues impacting the supply chain workforce. This includes forecasting the future skills this workforce will require. The report found that a powerful mix of historical issues has caused restrictions for industry as demand for workers grows. There has been massive industry transformation occurring at an unprecedented rate, an explosion of new technologies and an increased focus on ethical and sustainable practices. Geopolitical factors which have also influenced the industry and contributed to skills shortages.  
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Click here to read the report.  ​

The Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) recently released their report, Vet Delivered To Secondary School Students Scoping Study, which analysed the issues and risks associated with VET delivered to secondary school students (VETDSSS) and identifies the nature of ASQAs regulatory response.  
 
Click here to read the study. ​

The Training Accreditation Council (TAC) have released their Regulatory Strategy for 2021-2023. The Strategy informs Training Providers and VET stakeholders about areas of specific focus for TAC, and the highest risks to the quality of VET as well as the regulatory actions for monitoring and minimising those risks. ​

​Do you know someone suitable for the Defence Industry Pathways Program?  

Applications for the next round of trainees for the Certificate III Defence Industry Pathways Program close on 10 December 2021. This 12-month paid traineeship program is ideal for anyone considering a career in ship building or the Defence Industries. 

Click here to register your interest. Employers who wish to host a trainee should contact Rebecca College via DIPP@programmed.com.au.