NECA defends private RTOs

NECA, the National Electrical and Communications Association, has defended private registered training organisations (RTOs) following reports in the media about poor vocational education and training outcomes at some private RTOs.

NECA itself trains over 2000 electrical and communications apprentices, many of whom receive their training through private RTOs.

“After seeing the reports in the media, some people may have incorrectly concluded that privately run RTOs are in some way inferior and produce poorly skilled workers,” said NECA’s CEO James Tinslay. “This is untrue and unfair.

“RTOs providing off-the-job training to Australia’s future electricians - both private and public - and deliver high-quality training that meets employer expectations.”

Tinslay said it is important that there is an open and contestable market for training.

“Private RTOs play a crucial role in an open and competitive market and employers seek a provider that is focused on working with them to produce graduates who meet employer skills needs,” said Tinslay.

“NECA operates or works closely with a range of private RTOs and believes that they provide high-quality training and a valuable resource to industry.”