National Skills Week 2025

Welcome to National Skills Week

National Skills Week is dedicated to raising the profile and status of skills and vocational learning, dispelling outdated myths and showcasing the attractive career opportunities for all Australians.

Vocational Education and Training (VET) has been the foundation of Australia’s strong and vibrant economy. It has produced industry leaders, it offers great diversity, new and exciting career paths, supports our resources and primary industries, builds our cities, supports our tourism, our monuments, our heritage and much, much more.

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Spotlight

Spotlight on National Skills Week

Time Poor? Quick Ways to Get Involved this National Skills Week 2025

News and media
April 27th, 2025

Pressed for time and looking for quick, impactful ways to participate in National Skills Week (25 – 31 August) this year? Whether you’re part of a school, training organisation, industry, employer, or a general supporter of Vocational Education & Training (VET), here’s some great ideas to get you started: For Schools: Spotlight SBATsFacilitate sessions where...

Save the Date: National Skills Week: 25-31 AUGUST 2025 Media Alert

Media Releases
April 1st, 2025

On behalf of National Skills Week 2025 THEME: “Explore ALL the Options” Sydney – 19 March 2025 National Skills Week 2025 is set to take place from 25 – 31 August 2025 , under the exciting theme “Explore ALL the Options” This year’s...

Ideas for Schools- The 2025 School Kit now available

News and media
March 7th, 2025

The 2025 School Kit is now available, brimming with ideas and visuals on how schools could get involved and engage with students, parents, industry and training organisation during the week. Make sure that you register the activity- even if it is private event – to shout out your support and committment to Vocational education and...

AISNSW’s VET In Independent Schools booklet- Case studies on VET in School

News and media
April 8th, 2025

A new brochure released by Association of Independent Schoos of l NSW on their VET in school programs, case studies and statistics on growth in VET programs within the independent school sector in NSW. Open the flip book and read the fantastic examples of how students utilised VET programs in the independent schoold to ...

Tickets on Sale National Launch in Canberra

News and media
June 27th, 2025

Registration is noww open for the National Launch of the week. taking place in Canberra on Wednesday 27th August @ 7am, the event will include the keynote address from the Hon. Minister Andrew Giles, Minister for Skills and Training, a panel of Industry and VEt Ambassadors speaking on their success and program plus a...

Career Stories

Take a look at some success stories from the VET Alumni.

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Lachlan Carey2024 Australian Training Awards Trainee of the Year Winner

"I really wanted to make a difference in kids lives who faced challenges whether it be race, family issues and form of disadvantage. I wanted to make sure all kids had a fair go and opportunities in life. I decided to do early childhood because I feel this is the space where I could help set the foundations for these kids."

Andrew Bartlett2024 Australian Training Awards Vocational Student of the Year Finalist

"Avoided technology couldn’t use a laptop. Within 6 months was helping others. I found it daunting to go back to study - 49 years old, leaving a good job, but very quickly my teachers brought my confidence up, recognising what I could do."

Benjamin Barker2024 Australian Training Awards Apprentice of the Year Finalist

"I explored VET Courses while still in high school which provided a hands-on learning environment. This positive experience solidified my decision to pursue a Certificate III in Heavy Diesel Mechanics through an apprenticeship with Veolia. VET made me feel like I had a purpose because of my dyslexia and not fitting into traditional schooling"

Lawson Dane Connor2024 Australian Training Awards School Based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year Award Finalist

"I always knew I was interested in the health sector but wasn’t sure which area to pursue. With the support of my school—particularly a teacher—I explored my options and applied for an Allied Health Apprenticeship. Through my work placement, I was exposed to various disciplines across the healthcare system, which helped me narrow down my passion for paramedicine."

Lara Wilson2024 Australian Training Awards School Based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year Award Winner

"I fell in love with the job on my first day, still absolutely love working with kids, and I’ve never looked back,. The certificate gave me a qualification certificate plus contributed to great ATAR. Now undertaking higher education in Primary teaching- it is closely linked to my course and experience already."

Ellie Wotherspoon2024 Australian Training Awards Apprentice of the Year Award Finalist

"Never met a female sparky until I was 19. I know what VET did for me - there was no promotion of trade pathways for women."

Carly Brown2024 Australian Training Awards Vocational Student of the Year Finalist

"I decided on my VET qualification by struggling at a mainstream academic school so I researched a career related to my hobbies which is trains and cars and found engineering certificate II. Through the school I was involved in the year 10 tester program to try out all of the trades and technology’s and I found electrical technology was my favourite."

Almira Dall2024 Australian Training Awards Trainee of the Year Finalist

"I started studying agriculture in high school and always knew I wanted to work with animals. After several weeks on farm I decided I wanted to do some short study course while working and found out about the Western Dairy traineeship for the cert 3 and 4, so I started that and realised I wanted to keep studying while working and I deferred my uni offer to do so."

Taylor Hampton2024 Australian Training Awards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year Finalist

"I thought was not academic until I found my passion. I did a certificate II in schools support whilst at school as a traineeship and that jump started my career - dual certificate Iv in youth work plus a diploma and now the Certificate IV in leadership. I like to challenge myself and expand on my knowledge and skills completed."

Harry Roberts2024 Australian Training Awards Apprentice of the Year Finalist

"I liked working at heights and being outdoors, whilst learning about the environment. Arboriculture seemed to be the perfect fit."

Ariah Holmes2024 - Australian Training Awards Trainee of the Year - Finalist

"I wanted to receive a tertiary qualification which would be applicable across many sectors. I researched several options and this was one I knew would be accessible, welcoming, affordable and give me the best outcomes."

Video Gallery

Watch videos from our video library

Highlights of National Skills Week NSW Launch 2024

News and media
September 10th, 2024

Highlight Video of NSW launch held at Busiess Sydney Head Office Events Centre on Wednesday 21st August. Master of Ceremonies: Paul Nicolaou, Executive Director, Business Sydney National Skills Week Speech: Brian Wexham, Chief Executive Officer, SkillsOne & Founder of National Skills Week Keynote Address The Hon. Steve Whan, Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education...

On demand Webinar: Game Changing Apprenticeships

News and media
August 22nd, 2024

Traditional apprenticeship models are being reimagined and revamped to keep pace with the rapid changes in technology, industry practices, and market needs. This webinar explores the innovative approaches being taken to design and implement apprenticeships that not only equip individuals with essential skills but also drive the growth and competitiveness of Australian industries. They discuss...

Network of opportunity: How VET connected Joe to a tech career: FSO Video Case Study

News and media
August 9th, 2024

Future Skills Organisation Case Study: Network of opportunity: How VET connected Joe to a tech career For as long as he can remember, Joe Kellie has been into technology. So, when it came to choosing a career, he knew he wanted to be in tech, but didn’t know which path to take to get...

On demand Webinar: Game Changing Regional Careers and Opportunities

News and media
August 22nd, 2024

Working in a regional and remote area can have amazing advantages for somebody. It could be for somebody to remain in the regional or remote area where they have always lived or in a lot of cases people making the decision to move their life from a metropolitan area and to commence training and all...

Our Major Partners

INSTAGRAM #nationalskillsweek

The official Instagram page for National Skills Week in Australia.

nationalskillsweek

🌿 Empowering First Nations Futures Through Apprenticeships -->> We are proud to partner with @apprenticeshipsupportaustralia who specialise in supporting First Nations Australians to start strong through apprenticeships and vocational pathways.

This aligns with one of our key focuses here at National Skills Week — spotlighting inspiring success stories and ensuring every learner has the opportunity to thrive.

From cultural connection to career confidence, apprenticeships offer powerful pathways for Indigenous talent to build skills, grow careers and shape the future.

💬 Let’s remember to #ExploreAllTheOptions
#NationalSkillsWeek #FirstNationsSuccess #ApprenticeshipSupportAustralia #Apprenticeships

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Jul 25

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🌿 Empowering First Nations Futures Through Apprenticeships -->> We are proud to partner with @apprenticeshipsupportaustralia who specialise in supporting First Nations Australians to start strong through apprenticeships and vocational pathways. This aligns with one of our key focuses here at National Skills Week — spotlighting inspiring success stories and ensuring every learner has the opportunity to thrive. From cultural connection to career confidence, apprenticeships offer powerful pathways for Indigenous talent to build skills, grow careers and shape the future. 💬 Let’s remember to #ExploreAllTheOptions
#NationalSkillsWeek #FirstNationsSuccess #ApprenticeshipSupportAustralia #Apprenticeships

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nationalskillsweek

"VET can be the spark—not just the step.” 🎇

🎓 As a proud partner of National Skills Week 2025, UQ Skills is Reframing the Future of Pathways -- challenging the old idea that Vocational Education & Training (VET) is just a step toward university.

As UQ Skills Director, Dane Ivicevic puts it: "It’s important to reframe VET beyond pathways and credit transfer… because VET isn`t just about where you go next, it`s about who you become along the way."

From building confidence and aspiration to equipping learners with real-world skills, VET opens doors in many directions... not just toward further study, but toward identity, purpose and success.

#ExploreAllTheOptions #NationalSkillsWeek2025 #Partner #UQskills #Pathways #VETeducation

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Jul 24

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🔧 Explore All the Options — Hear It From the Tradies Themselves.

This National Skills Week, we’re proud to showcase our partner @citb_sa “Tradie Tales” — a video series spotlighting real stories from real people who love their jobs. From plumbers to power line workers, each story shines a light on the passion, pride, and purpose found in a skilled trade & great reasons to "Trade up".

Thinking about your next career move? Watch these inspiring testimonials and see just how many different paths Vocational Education and Training (VET) can take you on. 💬👷‍♀️👷

🎥 Watch now: Link in Story Highlights.
#ExploreAllTheOptions #NationalSkillsWeek #TradieTales #TradeUp #CITB

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Jul 24

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nationalskillsweek

Vocational Education & Training goes beyond the trades. From creative industries and aged care to cybersecurity, VET powers every sector.

National Skills Week is just 5 short weeks away! Share how you`re getting involved and supporting the skills of the future today.

#NationalSkillsWeek #ExploreAllTheOptions

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Jul 18

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Vocational Education & Training goes beyond the trades. From creative industries and aged care to cybersecurity, VET powers every sector. National Skills Week is just 5 short weeks away! Share how you're getting involved and supporting the skills of the future today. #NationalSkillsWeek #ExploreAllTheOptions

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nationalskillsweek

📣 Welcome to our 2025 Partners & Supporters! • We are thrilled to welcome the incredible organisations supporting this year’s National Skills Week!

Heartfelt thanks to all of our supporters for championing skills, career pathways, and VET success stories 🙏

#NationalSkillsWeek #ExploreAllTheOptions

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Jul 16

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nationalskillsweek

🎤 Introducing our MC for the National Skills Week Federal Launch: Casey Fox!

The launch event is taking place in Canberra on the morning of Wednesday, 27 August.

@fox_casey is a passionate advocate for Vocational Education and the transformative power it holds — especially for adult learners. With over 20 years of leadership experience in the retail sector, she has combined her industry expertise with vocational qualifications to now train and assess in Training & Education, Business Leadership, and Retail Management.

🏆 In 2022, Casey was named NSW Vocational Student of the Year and a national finalist, recognised for her commitment to helping others elevate their careers through VET.

Her mission? To show how vocational pathways can empower professionals to re-engage with learning and become exceptional trainers and leaders in their fields.

We’re proud to have Casey leading the conversation at our Canberra Launch — an inspiring morning of skills, stories and sector celebration.

🎟️ Purchase Tickets: LINK IN BIO

#NationalSkillsWeek #ExploreAllTheOptions #SkillsMatter #NSWK2025 #VocationalEducation

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Jul 10

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nationalskillsweek

Are you ready❓ From August 25–31 2025, we’ll be showcasing the power of skills, vocational pathways, and the future of work across the country. It’s shaping up to be our biggest and boldest year yet — and now is the time to get involved! #NationalSkillsWeek #ExploreAllTheOptions

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Jul 7

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