NECA recognises the importance of the nationally recognised and industry led vocational education and training (VET) system within Australia. It is vital that any staff training and development is underpinned by the quality assurance processes of the Australian VET system.  This includes having externally audited and industry recognised Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) delivering accredited training developed by and for industry.

However, it is also recognised that electrical contractors are busy going about their day to day business and may find it difficult to access nationally recognised training at times and locations convenient to them.  NECA is also mindful that sometimes documentation for training is often kept from other interested parties who could benefit from access to some materials in the interests of better understanding the complexities of the electrical and communication industry and the diverse, complex and ever evolving skill requirements.

Therefore, NECA entered into a partnership with the Federal Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (on behalf of the National Framework for Energy Efficiency - a joint initiative of Australian, State and Territory Governments) and the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) to develop some introductory materials that could be widely disseminated to employers, employees and the broader community to provide more detailed background to the EcoSmart Electricians training course and the efforts being made by industry to raise awareness of the issues relating to the environment which directly impact on the industry.

It is important that in reviewing the following materials that all are aware that:

• In order to secure accreditation then a nationally recognised RTO will need to undertake some training of all participants and then assess their competencies prior to any issuing of a statement of attainment.  Please contact your nearest office of NECA in order to access an RTO that is recognised as having the appropriate industry related skills to undertake this assessment and support;

• Much of the information contained in the support materials is technical and should not be attempted in practice unless under supervision from an RTO or as part of a nationally accredited training arrangement (like an apprenticeship).  They are useful information for all in the community to get a better understanding of the industry and issues; and

• The materials are introductory only and most NECA EcoSmart Electricians’ recognised RTOs will have additional support materials, current expertise and advise to supplement them. 

Please note that this starter kit does not constitute a training course and does not include any assessment materials. No qualification and/or EcoSmart Electricians accreditation can be issued solely on the basis of a person reading these materials. The materials are introductory only and indicative of the training provided in the EcoSmart Electricians training course. The course itself is constantly evolving to take into account technological advances and regulatory changes.

NECA  welcomes comments on the materials and hope you enjoy them.

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