The Alliance

 Aboriginal Community Controlled Registered Training Organisations (ACCRTOs) are vital institutions within the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector. These RTOs are governed by a non-for-profit model, ensuring that all revenue is reinvested directly into Aboriginal services. Managed by an Aboriginal board of directors, ACCRTOs provide holistic cultural education tailored specifically to the needs of Aboriginal people.

ACCRTOs play a crucial role in the VET sector by:

• Offering culturally appropriate training and education that respects and integrates Aboriginal cultural values and traditions.
• Ensuring that the governance and management of these institutions are led by Aboriginal people, which enhances community engagement and relevance.
• Reinforcing the sustainability of Aboriginal services and programs through reinvestment of revenue.

By fostering an educational environment that is both inclusive and culturally sensitive, ACCRTOs help to bridge educational gaps and support the professional and personal development of Aboriginal individuals, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of closing the gap in educational and employment outcomes

Aboriginal Community Controlled RTO (ACCRTO):

• Community-Owned and Governed: These RTOs are owned and governed by Aboriginal people, ensuring that the management and decision-making processes are led by the Aboriginal community.
• Non-for-Profit Model: All revenue generated is reinvested into Aboriginal services, supporting the community’s educational and social needs to Close the Gap.

Aboriginal Owned RTO:

• Private and/or Commercial Business: These RTOs operate as private or commercial entities.
• Ownership: Part or full ownership is held by individuals who are Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

Private RTO:

• Non-for-Profit or Commercial: These RTOs can be either non-for-profit organizations or commercial businesses.
• Non-Aboriginal Organizations: They are generally not owned or governed by Aboriginal people.

TAFE NSW:

• Government Provider: TAFE NSW is the primary government provider of VET services in New South Wales.
• Public Institution: It operates under the government’s educational framework, offering a wide array of courses and training programs.

1. Increase Funding to ACCRTOs and Aboriginal-Owned RTOs in NSW:

• Advocate for increased financial support to ensure ACCRTOs and Aboriginal Owned RTOs have the resources to provide high-quality, culturally relevant vocational education and training.

2. Recognise ACCRTOs as Unique Entities:

• Ensure that ACCRTOs are recognised and treated distinctly from other RTOs in NSW, acknowledging their unique role and contributions. Due to their community ownership and governance structures, ACCRTOs should be regarded similarly to government providers.

3. Inclusion in Policy Consultations:

• Guarantee that ACCRTOs are included in all state and federal consultations regarding VET decision-making processes. Their involvement is crucial for developing policies that effectively address the needs of Aboriginal communities.

4. Promote culturally safe vocational education and training (VET) in Aboriginal communities in NSW:

• Provide comprehensive advice and advocates to government and non-government organisations to ensure VET provision to Aboriginal communities in NSW.

These policy positions aim to strengthen ACCRTOs' capacity and impact, ensuring they can continue to provide essential education and training services to Aboriginal communities in New South Wales.