The Victorian Government has announced a further $400,000 for the state’s Recognition of Prior Learning for Veterans Pilot Program, which is being delivered in partnership with Wodonga TAFE in a bid to support veterans to find work as they transition into civilian life.
Minister for Veterans, Natalie Suleyman said the program will continue to be led by Wodonga TAFE – which has a deep understanding of the knowledge and skills of veterans, with extensive experience supporting individuals transitioning from service to civilian life.
While many veterans transition out of the Defence Force to civilian life successfully, some experience challenges finding employment – a problem that recognition of their skills and experience from service can help to address, the Minister said.
The recognition of prior learning model converts the skills and knowledge of veterans into nationally recognised civilian qualifications, units of competency for qualifications and skill sets.
“The Allan Labor Government is committed to supporting veterans and their families and our partnership with Wodonga Tafe will assist veterans to get their skills recognised, leading to better employment outcomes in the civilian workforce,” said Ms Suleyman.
“We know Victorian veterans have significant leadership and technical skills that will add value to workplaces across the state – this program helps to ensure their skills and experience are recognised.”
Wodonga TAFE’s Veteran Liaison Officer also guides veterans on how to demonstrate their skills and knowledge and works closely with other TAFEs and Skills and Jobs Centres across Victoria.
Veterans in the pilot program are currently pursuing qualifications in a range of fields including engineering, fitness, leadership and management and cyber security.
“We are excited to be able to continue our journey of building the Recognition of Prior Learning for Veterans Pilot Program which proves the value of establishing direct connections with Veterans, Defence, and TAFE. With this extension it allows us to open the program up to more opportunities across Victoria, working closely with the Skills and Jobs Centre network,” said Wodonga TAFE Chief Executive Officer, Phil Paterson.
“We’re proud to be able to find meaningful ways to recognise Veterans qualifications, skills and experience, to transfer this into training and employment opportunities in the civilian workforce.”
The pilot program is part of the support the Labor Government is providing to help veterans and their families thrive both during and after their service, including through initiatives such as the Veterans Card – Victoria and Public Sector Veterans Employment Strategy.
