Auckland Growth supported by Industry Training

Auckland Growth supported by Industry Training

A research report on Auckland and Industry Training was released by the Industry Training Federation (ITF) today. A copy of the report is available at http://www.itf.org.nz/

"Auckland is our fastest growing region and economic powerhouse. For New Zealand to advance economically it is crucial Auckland has a highly trained and skilled workforce. This report investigates the changing shape of Auckland's economy and labour-force, and the implications this has for Industry Training Organisations (ITOs)", said Darel Hall Executive Director of the ITF.

"As Auckland's labour-force becomes increasingly diverse Industry Training must evolve so it remains relevant and accessible to a wider range of learners. The expansion of foundation-level training to meet the increasing diversity of the Auckland population is one area where more emphasis will be required.

"Our analysis shows that the Industry Training network will need to be expanded if Auckland's industry training needs are to be met.

"The service sector and construction are forecast to become increasingly important to Auckland's economy. ITO penetration in these sectors may face challenges as there are policy constraints on training the self employed and for very short programmes. This restricts access for small business owners and part-time and casual employees - groups over represented, respectively, in the construction and service sectors. For ITOs to meet Auckland's future training needs more flexible policy arrangements are required.

"The report suggests that Auckland enterprises have a lower awareness of industry training, and that more needs to be done to promote the value ITOs add to business. The ITF looks forward to working with initiatives such as the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs and Skill New Zealand to raise the profile of Industry Training.

ENDS

31 March 2005

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