Patron - Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia
GTA is the national peak body representing the network of over 150 Group Training Organisations (GTOs) employing over 40,000
apprentices and trainees throughout Australia.
7 June 2009
GTA welcomes new Minister Senator Arbib
Group Training Australia (GTA), the single largest network employing over 40,000
apprentices and trainees, today welcomed the
appointment of Senator Mark Arbib as the
new Minister for Employment Participation.
GTA Chief Executive Officer,
Jim Barron, said the appointment reflects the Rudd
Government’s continued emphasis on improved employment participation as a priority
economic and social issue.
“We are delighted to welcome Senator Arbib and believe this appointment is a sign of the
critical role that training and employment initiatives will continue to play in establishing a
productive and sustainable labour market.
“The recent injection of funds into employment assistance programs has been of immense
value to those who have lost their jobs due to the global economic downturn.
“Access to training for retrenched and displaced workers is critical as we manage through
the economic slowdown in order to prepare for economic recovery, so that we do not face
skills shortages into the future.
“It is important that vocational education and training (VET) is integrated into the key
government programs, including into the operations of the government’s new employment
arm, Job Services Australia.
“VET also has a critical role in developing improved pathways to employment for
Indigenous and disabled jobseekers, and in creating opportunities for school leavers and
mature age apprentices and trainees.
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the former minister, Brendan O’Connor
with whom we have enjoyed a close and productive working relationship. We wish him
every success in his new portfolio,” Mr Barron said.
Media Contact:
Bob Bowden, Foresight Communications 02 9241 2811, 0412 753 298,
bbowden@bowmac.com.au
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