ACFIPS was delighted to host a break-through meeting in early September to look at setting up a pilot for a Live Production traineeship program. The meeting brought together TAFE NSW, employers and ArtsReady, a Group Training Organisation.

TAFE NSW and ArtsReady said they were keen to work closely with employers to ensure that training package units match the needs of the workplace environment. With the recent opening of the new International Convention Centre, ICC Sydney and an increase in events at the Sydney Recital Hall and other venues there has been a shortage of skilled live production technicians.

ACFIPS Chair Tim Cramsie said that the situation will not improve without action being taken now. ‘We have more hotels being built, the NSW Government is promoting Sydney as an events centre and there are also major plans for Parramatta to become a cultural centre. What is needed is a trainee program that will provide on-the-job training, mentoring and support for skilled live production technicians.’

The shortage of live production technicians is not just a Sydney problem as many regions have active festival and cultural programs that require skilled technicians as well.

​Tim Cramsie was pleased with the outcome of the meeting. ‘We have an action plan and commitment from employers to take on trainees. It is a great start and once the pilot is completed there is no reason not to roll out to regions.’
 
 

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NRMA Insurance recently launched its major smash repair industry employment and retention program — AutoPath — targeting school students, parents and career advisers.
 
The AutoPath website has been designed as a platform to change the perceptions of the Autobody industry in Australia, and engage young people in ways that will encourage them to undertake a TAFE course and immediately set out on a rewarding career.
 
The program has been the subject of careful planning, research and wide consultation among key industry and tertiary organisations. Social media, local community repair showcases and BBQs, and facilitating repairer job opportunities, interviews and mentoring will be major planks of the strategy.
 
AutoPath is an initiative backed by NRMA Insurance and its partners TAFE NSW, Auto Skills Australia and the Automotive Training Board of NSW.
 
The program is designed to attract new talent to the industry. While its initial focus is NSW, its aim is to engage nationally with other like-minded organisations that are facing the same crisis in attracting and retaining school leavers. 

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