❓ Shadow Minister Ravlich questions Minister Collier on his responsibilities regarding potential job losses in the mining sector due to airport congestion and the distinction between training and workforce development. Minister Collier defends his portfolio and highlights government initiatives.
AnsweredQoN 20Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
MINISTER FOR TRAINING AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT — RESPONSIBILITIES
Further to the question I asked yesterday about the possible loss of 27 000 fly in, fly out mining jobs to eastern states workers because of congestion at Perth Airport and the minister’s response that the question should have been directed to the Minister for Transport, I ask — (1) If the loss of Western Australian jobs is not a part of the minister’s portfolio responsibility as workforce development minister, what are the minister’s workforce development responsibilities? (2) How are the minister’s workforce development responsibilities different from his training responsibilities, if, indeed, they are? (3) Has the minister had discussions with the Minister for Transport about how to deal with the possible loss of 27 000 fly in, fly out mining jobs; and, if not, why not? Hon PETER COLLIER
Further to the question I asked yesterday about the possible loss of 27 000 fly in, fly out mining jobs to eastern states workers because of congestion at Perth Airport and the minister’s response that the question should have been directed to the Minister for Transport, I ask — (1) If the loss of Western Australian jobs is not a part of the minister’s portfolio responsibility as workforce development minister, what are the minister’s workforce development responsibilities? (2) How are the minister’s workforce development responsibilities different from his training responsibilities, if, indeed, they are? (3) Has the minister had discussions with the Minister for Transport about how to deal with the possible loss of 27 000 fly in, fly out mining jobs; and, if not, why not? Hon PETER COLLIER
AnswerView source ↗
I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1)–(3) I start with question (3). We have had several discussions about the question Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich asked yesterday—in terms of its relevance, more than anything—and we will continue to have those discussions. Hon Norman Moore, I will try to keep my response short. At this stage— Several members interjected The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The minister can provide his own answer. I do not think he needs help. Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
(1) If the loss of Western Australian jobs is not a part of the minister’s portfolio responsibility as workforce development minister, what are the minister’s workforce development responsibilities? (2) How are the minister’s workforce development responsibilities different from his training responsibilities, if, indeed, they are? (3) Has the minister had discussions with the Minister for Transport about how to deal with the possible loss of 27 000 fly in, fly out mining jobs; and, if not, why not? Hon PETER COLLIER replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1)–(3) I start with question (3). We have had several discussions about the question Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich asked yesterday—in terms of its relevance, more than anything—and we will continue to have those discussions. Hon Norman Moore, I will try to keep my response short. At this stage— Several members interjected The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The minister can provide his own answer. I do not think he needs help. Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
(2) How are the minister’s workforce development responsibilities different from his training responsibilities, if, indeed, they are? (3) Has the minister had discussions with the Minister for Transport about how to deal with the possible loss of 27 000 fly in, fly out mining jobs; and, if not, why not? Hon PETER COLLIER replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1)–(3) I start with question (3). We have had several discussions about the question Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich asked yesterday—in terms of its relevance, more than anything—and we will continue to have those discussions. Hon Norman Moore, I will try to keep my response short. At this stage— Several members interjected The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The minister can provide his own answer. I do not think he needs help. Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
(3) Has the minister had discussions with the Minister for Transport about how to deal with the possible loss of 27 000 fly in, fly out mining jobs; and, if not, why not? Hon PETER COLLIER replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1)–(3) I start with question (3). We have had several discussions about the question Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich asked yesterday—in terms of its relevance, more than anything—and we will continue to have those discussions. Hon Norman Moore, I will try to keep my response short. At this stage— Several members interjected The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The minister can provide his own answer. I do not think he needs help. Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon PETER COLLIER replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1)–(3) I start with question (3). We have had several discussions about the question Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich asked yesterday—in terms of its relevance, more than anything—and we will continue to have those discussions. Hon Norman Moore, I will try to keep my response short. At this stage— Several members interjected The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The minister can provide his own answer. I do not think he needs help. Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1)–(3) I start with question (3). We have had several discussions about the question Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich asked yesterday—in terms of its relevance, more than anything—and we will continue to have those discussions. Hon Norman Moore, I will try to keep my response short. At this stage— Several members interjected The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The minister can provide his own answer. I do not think he needs help. Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
(1)–(3) I start with question (3). We have had several discussions about the question Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich asked yesterday—in terms of its relevance, more than anything—and we will continue to have those discussions. Hon Norman Moore, I will try to keep my response short. At this stage— Several members interjected The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The minister can provide his own answer. I do not think he needs help. Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Several members interjected The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The minister can provide his own answer. I do not think he needs help. Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The minister can provide his own answer. I do not think he needs help. Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
(1) If the loss of Western Australian jobs is not a part of the minister’s portfolio responsibility as workforce development minister, what are the minister’s workforce development responsibilities? (2) How are the minister’s workforce development responsibilities different from his training responsibilities, if, indeed, they are? (3) Has the minister had discussions with the Minister for Transport about how to deal with the possible loss of 27 000 fly in, fly out mining jobs; and, if not, why not? Hon PETER COLLIER replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1)–(3) I start with question (3). We have had several discussions about the question Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich asked yesterday—in terms of its relevance, more than anything—and we will continue to have those discussions. Hon Norman Moore, I will try to keep my response short. At this stage— Several members interjected The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The minister can provide his own answer. I do not think he needs help. Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
(2) How are the minister’s workforce development responsibilities different from his training responsibilities, if, indeed, they are? (3) Has the minister had discussions with the Minister for Transport about how to deal with the possible loss of 27 000 fly in, fly out mining jobs; and, if not, why not? Hon PETER COLLIER replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1)–(3) I start with question (3). We have had several discussions about the question Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich asked yesterday—in terms of its relevance, more than anything—and we will continue to have those discussions. Hon Norman Moore, I will try to keep my response short. At this stage— Several members interjected The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The minister can provide his own answer. I do not think he needs help. Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
(3) Has the minister had discussions with the Minister for Transport about how to deal with the possible loss of 27 000 fly in, fly out mining jobs; and, if not, why not? Hon PETER COLLIER replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1)–(3) I start with question (3). We have had several discussions about the question Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich asked yesterday—in terms of its relevance, more than anything—and we will continue to have those discussions. Hon Norman Moore, I will try to keep my response short. At this stage— Several members interjected The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The minister can provide his own answer. I do not think he needs help. Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon PETER COLLIER replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1)–(3) I start with question (3). We have had several discussions about the question Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich asked yesterday—in terms of its relevance, more than anything—and we will continue to have those discussions. Hon Norman Moore, I will try to keep my response short. At this stage— Several members interjected The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The minister can provide his own answer. I do not think he needs help. Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1)–(3) I start with question (3). We have had several discussions about the question Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich asked yesterday—in terms of its relevance, more than anything—and we will continue to have those discussions. Hon Norman Moore, I will try to keep my response short. At this stage— Several members interjected The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The minister can provide his own answer. I do not think he needs help. Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
(1)–(3) I start with question (3). We have had several discussions about the question Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich asked yesterday—in terms of its relevance, more than anything—and we will continue to have those discussions. Hon Norman Moore, I will try to keep my response short. At this stage— Several members interjected The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The minister can provide his own answer. I do not think he needs help. Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Several members interjected The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The minister can provide his own answer. I do not think he needs help. Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The minister can provide his own answer. I do not think he needs help. Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon PETER COLLIER : With all due respect, I could stand here for the next half an hour; in fact, I think I will! Training and workforce development is such a wonderful portfolio. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : You just don’t know the answer, sunshine! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon PETER COLLIER : I am trying hard to not interject—I mean “respond”! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich keeps calling out. She has not done her homework again. Mr President, you should kick her out. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
The PRESIDENT : Order, members! The member should not stretch the friendship too far. Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon PETER COLLIER : I would have thought that Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich, who was a minister for this portfolio before she got sacked, would have known this: workforce development is about making training relevant to employment. When I became the minister, I was insistent that the new department comprise training and workforce development, rather than only a dedicated department of training. We have engaged with industry—I refer to the building, automotive, hospitality and tourism sectors—and listened to its needs. We have compiled training packages to suit those workforce development needs. That is what my role is as Minister for Training and Workforce Development. In addition, I must ensure that we have a good training sector, both public and private. We are raising the status of training not only through advertising, cosmetic measures and the re-badging of our public providers, but also by giving them more autonomy. We are ensuring that they have exactly what they want. They are at the coalface, so they know what they want. We are creating training packages that meet the needs of industry. My dialogue with industry is constant and comprehensive. We are ensuring that training packages provide for a seamless transition into the workforce. Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : There’s nothing new in what you have said. It is old news. Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon PETER COLLIER : She is calling out again. Mr President, will you send her out? Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich : Don’t be a sook, you pathetic thing! The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
The PRESIDENT : Order! Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich is out of order. The member should ask her question and wait for the answer. The minister should not interject on himself! Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Hon PETER COLLIER : I am sorry, Mr President! I am trying so hard. I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
I hope that the honourable member now understands the distinction between training and workforce development. The concept is new to the minister, because the Labor Party did not make such a distinction during its eight years in government. When we created the new department, we made sure that it comprised not only training but also workforce development. Local governments, industry and the community are salivating at the prospect of being part of the new department. It has been widely embraced. Indeed, with one exception, it has been embraced unanimously. The one person who is not rowing in the same direction is Hon Ljiljanna Ravlich. I think I can live with that. Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Job losses will always be an issue. We have done profiles over the past few months and we expect a 26 per cent increase in the number of trainees and apprentices—that is, another 10 000 trainees—by 2012. That expectation has come about in the past few months as a result of things that this government has initiated. In addition, this year there has been a 17 per cent increase in enrolments—people coming into training. We are about to announce a wonderful comprehensive program that will engage Aboriginal people in training. We will work with Aboriginal people, who are one of the most marginalised groups in our community, to provide them opportunities that will lead to career prospects. Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
Finally, as I mentioned today in my ministerial statement, last year we provided fee exemptions for the unemployed. Four thousand unemployed people are now in training. Those 4 000 people could have ended up on the streets or could have become depressed or disillusioned. They are now in training, and they will be provided the opportunity to pursue a worthwhile career, which is better than the alternatives. I am proud of what we are doing in the department. We have only just started; indeed, the best is yet to come.
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