In recent years, up until January 2016, all Training Packages were developed and managed by Industry Skills Councils (ISCs). There were 11 ISCs in total, with each one taking responsibility for a designated range of industry sectors. Between them, they managed around 65 Training Packages, which collectively contained over 1600 qualifications.

Under a new system implemented by the Department of Education and Training, all ISCs were due to be abolished in January 2016 and replaced with a group of Service Skills Organisations (SSOs). This was designed to change the structure and make-up of the organisations and the bodies that provide industry advice to them.

In practice, not all ISCs were abolished at this time, because the Department was unable to find a suitable SSO for some industry sectors - specifically: automotive, manufacturing, mining and drilling. So at the time of publication of this learner guide, the Training Packages relating to those industry sectors are still being managed by their respective ISCs, while all other Training Packages have now moved to their new SSO.

Industry Reference Committees

SSOs are advised by Industry Reference Committees (IRCs) when Training Packages are being developed, reviewed and implemented. Each IRC is made up of industry experts who provide a representative cross section of that industry sector, and it helps the SSO to collect up-to-date information on changing skills requirements and training needs.

For the latest information on the establishment of Service Skills Organisations and the Industry Reference Committees that advise them, go to the Commonwealth Government's Department of Education and Training website.