SUNITAFE has been named as Australia’s number one large training provider for 2019 for their commitment to local students.
The announcement was made at the 2019 Australian Training Awards held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre last Thursday.
SuniTAFE chief executive officer Geoff Dea said the award was a testament to the “committed team” of staff and students at SuniTAFE.
“The manner in which SuniTAFE staff have served the students and businesses in this region is now a national award-winning model, reinforcing our belief in how training should be delivered in regional Australia,” Mr Dea said.
“SuniTAFE is incredibly honoured for the recognition, particularly considering the calibre of fellow finalists in Charles Darwin University and Canberra Institute of Technology, both having achieved the highest of standards and we congratulate them in being among the top three training providers in the country.”
The national award concludes a year of high effort and achievement for SuniTAFE across its campuses in Mildura, Swan Hill, Robinvale and Horsham.
Following an internal review in 2018, a five-year strategic plan was developed leading to significant growth and change in all aspects of their operations and culture.
Mr Dea there had been a particular focus on staff, student and employee satisfaction, resulting in a 45 per cent increase in government funded commencements between 2018 and 2019.
“This award is proof that we have an incredibly committed team of staff working with us across all campuses,” Mr Dea said.
“Together we are completely invested in bringing about the best possible outcomes for the Sunraysia community.
“Throughout this whole year, the professionalism, cooperation and passion they have shown has been inspiring.”
Mr Dea said SuniTAFE had responded to regional demands of skilled labour requirements in horticulture, health services, transport and logistics areas by establishing partnerships and collaborations.
“The region’s industry leaders and businesses have contributed to our vision, and the role they have played in our programs has been crucial,” he said.
“Through listening to them we know our patch and understand where the workforce opportunities are, so we can adapt accordingly to meet demand.
“The partnership programs with industry provide students with sector expertise and the most current training available.”
Other initiatives include the establishment of skills and job centres, business advisory boards and client engagement officers to ensure both students’ employment goals and industry’s skills requirements are met.
SuniTAFE Swan Hill administration manager Jacinta Sutton congratulated all staff and students for being recognised at the national level.
“SuniTAFE Swan Hill is extremely proud of this recognition, we offer a huge congratulations to staff, students and the entire community of Swan Hill,” Ms Sutton said.
“Winning this award provides a boost of certainty for the whole community an it’s really fantastic to be recognised as the best in Australia.”
