The Australian Technical Colleges (ATCs) Program was established in 2005 to implement a range of training, skills and industry policy objectives for students in Year 11 and 12.  It established 24 ATCs across the country that provided both academic and vocational technical education. 

The Program ceased on 31 December 2009.

The Australian Government undertook an extensive consultation process at national, state and local levels to integrate the 24 ATCs into the broader education and training effort.

All 24 ATCs were integrated into existing education and training systems (state/territory government, catholic and anglican), with some continuing as stand-alone independent schools.

What else is the Australian Government doing to address skill needs?

A range of new and continuing initiatives is available to address shortages in skilled occupations, including:

Trades Training Centres in Schools Program

The Australian Government has announced $2.5 billion over 10 years to enable secondary schools across Australia to apply for funding of between $500,000 and $1.5 million for Trade Training Centres.

Further information can be found at the Trade Training Centres in Schools Program website.

Australian Apprenticeship Centres

The Australian Government currently contracts organisations, known as Australian Apprenticeship Centres (AACs), to deliver apprenticeship Support Services across Australia.  

AACs provide a free service to employers to help them with the administration, including sign-up, and lodgement of a Apprenticeship Training Contract.  In addition, AACs:

• provide information on apprenticeship options to employers, apprentices and trainees and other interested people;
• market and promote apprenticeships in the local area;
• administer the Australian Government’s Apprenticeships Incentives Programme, including the processing of applications and claims;
• work with the State/Territory Training Authority to provide an integrated service; and
• establish effective relationships with Australian Government contracted Job Network Members, training providers, schools and other organisations

These free services are available to employers, students and other interested parties, as appropriate.  To find an Australian Apprenticeship Centre in your region please call 13 38 73.