Industry training in New Zealand plays a crucial role in developing a skilled workforce and ensuring that people are equipped with the knowledge and competencies necessary to meet the demands of various industries.

The government is currently reviewing the structure of the vocational education and training sector.

Hon. Penny Simmonds, Minister for Tertiary Education and Skills, has released the proposed plan for the future of vocational education and training (VET) system in New Zealand.

The plan includes a six-week consultation period, 1 August – 12 September, in which New Zealanders are encouraged to have their say on the proposed structure, and what they believe is the best structure for New Zealand.

Three proposals for feedback:

1. A redesigned Polytechnic (ITP) network to respond to regional needs
   a) Establishment of a federation of ITPs
   b) Anchored to Open Polytechnic – who will provide programmes and services dependent on needs of each ITP.
   
   
2. Two options for Industry-led system for standard setting and industry training
   a) Establishment of Industry Training Boards – similar to previous ITOs (Industry Training Organisations) (possibly up to 8)
   b) Replace Workforce Development Councils with industry specific Standard Setting Bodies (possibly up to 8)
   i. Industry training divisions in Te Pūkenga would be divided into separate units and become a PTE or other entity delivering programmes.
   
   
3. Changes to Funding System: Restore funding rates to what would have been Student Achievement Component (SAC funding)
   a) 2025: Stop the Strategic Component Fund and increase provider funding by 10%
   b) From 2026:
   i. Reprioritise funding from work-based learning to fund standard setting separately to arranging training
   ii. Establish funding arrangements for ITPs to engage with regional industries and international education

The detailed knowledge and different perspectives of people across New Zealand will help the Government to get the final design right.

During the consultation period, the Ministry of Education (MoE) and the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) will host information sessions. These will include regional face-to-face meetings in the first four weeks, and online events throughout the period.

Regional face-to-face meetings will be held in: Whangārei, Auckland Central, South Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua, Hawke’s Bay, Palmerston North, Taranaki, Wellington, Nelson, Greymouth, Christchurch, Dunedin and Invercargill.

The online events will include sessions for each region, different industry stakeholder groups, learners, education providers and other key stakeholders.

TEC will send out invitations to the events and will also have information on their webpage (www.tec.govt.nz) on how to register to attend regional events, including dates and venues as they are confirmed.