Now more than ever, it is critical to keep Victorians engaged in training and learning. To support the wellbeing of learners in this uncertain environment, but also to make sure we are training Victorians for the jobs needed now to respond to the crisis, and those skills needed as we recover.

The Department of Education and Training (the Department) is working with other state government departments and the Australian Government to ensure Victoria’s TAFE and training sector is supported during this unprecedented time.

Social Distancing

This morning the Victorian Government confirmed gatherings would be limited to two people in Victoria. This will be enforced by an on-the-spot fine of $1,652. It excludes people who live in the same house, or those in workplaces and education facilities such as TAFEs and other training organisations.

This restriction will come into effect from midnight tonight, Monday 30 March, and will be reviewed after four weeks.

The Victorian Government also reiterated that there are only four reasons for Victorians to leave the house:

  1. shopping for what you need – food and essential supplies
  2. medical, care or compassionate needs
  3. exercise in compliance with the public gathering requirements
  4. work and study if you can’t work or learn remotely.

Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Guidance Note – Victorian Public Sector

Secondly, I refer all TAFEs to the Guidance Note Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) guidance note – Victorian Public Sector

This Guidance Note applies to the Victorian TAFE Sector and provides useful information about safe working practices, managing leave requests and employees undertaking overseas travel.

Advice for Learn Local Organisations

Learn Local organisations with a current Business Governance Status (BGS) assessment due by 31 March 2020 are advised that the ACFE Board has approved a six-month extension to this requirement until 30 September 2020. You can find more information about this in the latest memo.

Remote Learning and Working

I know many of you are currently planning to deliver as much training as possible remotely and I want to thank you for this work. These are unprecedented times and the strength and agility of our training sector is so important and this work should continue.

While people are still able to leave their house to attend university, TAFE or other training, we need to support staff working from home and students learning from home wherever possible.

I will continue to update you this week with any new information when it is available.

You should also refer to the Department’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) web page for the most up-to-date information. The Department’s TAFE and Training hotline is also available to contact between 8.30am-5.30pm, Monday to Friday on 131 823.