VOCATIONAL education and training (VET) in Melton has the lowest enrolment rate in the western metropolitan region, new figures reveal.
Figures from a state government report released last week show only 1800 Melton residents were enrolled in VET in 2012 — behind 16,000 in Maribyrnong, 14,200 in Brimbank, 8700 in Wyndham, 6900 in Hobsons Bay and 5800 in Moonee Valley.
Moorabool had 700 enrolments, an increase of 6 per cent and the third-highest increase in the Central Highlands region. Moorabool also recorded a 38 per cent increase in course providers, with 18 in 2012.
The rate of enrolment in Melton increased 17 per cent. There were 35 VET providers, an increase of 59 per cent.
Brimbank/Melton Local Learning and Employment Network executive officer Graeme Brown said enrolments across seven Melton schools that make up a ‘VET cluster’ dropped 14 per cent in 2012.
‘‘Given that VET in schools is in decline, it’s a surprise that generally there is an increase across all age groups,’’ he said. ‘‘More mature people might be doing training and probably people doing re-training because of being retrenched.’’
One of the key challenges recognised in the report was that a majority of Melton residents were enrolling with training providers outside the area.
Mr Brown said an increase in private VET providers in other western metropolitan areas could be a factor.
‘‘Most of the training providers are located more centrally in the inner-suburban areas. There’s been an increase in the number of the registered training providers. It’s really to do with that access and where the registered training organisation is located.’’
Mr Brown said more local providers would be beneficial because they often delivered a specific range of courses. ‘‘The more providers there is, the better the scope to access different types of training.’’
Customised Training Bacchus Marsh business development manager Cliff Rundle said while the figures were a healthy sign for industry, a shortage of local construction jobs meant people should consider enhancing their resume with new skills.
‘‘My advice would be to skill up in the downtime. Industries have booms and busts so an extra qualification will make you more employable.’’
— with Ben Cameron
