Since launch its Star Ratings Scheme to recognise RTOs, The Institute for Trade Skills Excellence has received feedback from industry suggesting that, for the first time, industry knows what it wants and can expect from Australia's VET system.

Specific feedback received includes:

"For the first time ever, our department and our staff have been judged by their industry, and not found wanting. And we know what we need to do to improve further."

"For the first time ever, we've had a chance to assess ourselves against what industry wants, and we realise we're not yet quite ready. Hope to reapply next year."

"We didn't get any stars awarded and although we're discouraged, we now know that we need to be more up-to-date to be worthy of a higher grading."

These are just a few of the many unsolicited comments that the Institute for Trade Skills Excellence has received in the past six months since it launched its star rating scheme.

During this period, well over 50 providers have been evaluated, and there is a long queue for evaluations over the next couple of months.

The star rating scheme, along with SkillsOne and the trade teacher of the year award is part of a total strategy to help Industry meet their needs and find constructive solutions to the skills shortage over the long term.

Brian Wexham, CEO says, "Australia's industries have been needing a scheme such as the star rating scheme: a scheme that tells everyone: from employers, potential trainees and apprentices, school career advisors and parents, which RTOs are really first class in a particular industry area of their choice."

The Institute is very much focused on the future, and is committed to ensuring that skills, and those who provide the best skills training, are promoted in every way possible.