Inquiry demonstrates need to clamp down on for-profit VET providers

The Greens have renewed their push to clamp down on for-profit VET providers in light of the findings from the Senate Inquiry into the operation, regulation and funding of private vocational education and training (VET) providers in Australia.

The inquiry found that for-profit, vocational providers are providing sub-standard qualifications that are failing to meet the needs of students and often leaving them with mountains of debt.

"This inquiry has vindicated what we've known all along - that the for-profit model of education is fundamentally flawed," Australian Greens spokesperson on Higher Education, Senator Simms said.

"The business model of these institutions is to maximise profits at the expense of students.

"The inquiry noted that although enrolments may have increased due to deregulation, student outcomes have plummeted, with many students left with worthless degrees and saddled by debt and no enhanced job prospects."

"Rather than funnel more money into attempting to regulate a broken sector, we should instead focus on funding the public TAFE system, which has a proven track record of success."

More than 100 former students of for-profit vocational provider, Evocca College, are looking to launch a class action against the college for allegations of sub-standard degrees and unfair marketing.

"The evidence points to these for-profit providers paying huge sums to education brokers to unscrupulously recruit students while pocketing whopping profit margins. How much money is actually left for over for ensuring quality education for students?"

Media contact: Cambell Klose 0417 173 508

Attached is a submission to the Inquiry of one student's experience with a for-profit college.
Contact details of one of the former students involved in the class action available on request.