Recognising Traditional Knowledge. Strengthening Pathways.
Central Regional TAFE, in partnership with the National TAFE Network and project partners across Australia, is leading the development of Australia's first National On-Country VET Framework for Recognising Traditional Knowledge. The project aims to explore how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Traditional Knowledge can be recognised within vocational education and training (VET) while supporting culturally responsive learning approaches and maintaining national training standards.
Working alongside Aboriginal communities, Elders, Traditional Knowledge holders, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs), Ranger programs and vocational education partners, the project seeks to strengthen pathways into education, skills development and employment while supporting the sharing and recognition of knowledge that has guided care for Country for thousands of years.
Why this project matters
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples possess deep environmental, cultural and land management knowledge that continues to play an important role in land and sea management, cultural heritage protection, biodiversity conservation and environmental stewardship.
This project will explore ways Traditional Knowledge can be recognised alongside contemporary vocational skills, helping to create more culturally responsive learning experiences and supporting stronger connections between education, communities and workforce opportunities.
The project also supports broader goals of strengthening participation in education and training, supporting regional workforce development and contributing to national Closing the Gap priorities.
Project Partners
Central Regional TAFE is leading the project in partnership with:
- National TAFE Network
- North Regional TAFE
- South Regional TAFE
- WA Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage (DPLH)
- Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs)
- Ranger programs
- Industry and government stakeholders
A key principle of the project is that Aboriginal communities, Elders and Traditional Knowledge holders guide the work through community-led consultation, cultural governance and co-design.
Looking ahead
Running from 2026 to 2028, the project will bring together communities, industry and vocational education providers to develop practical tools, resources and approaches that support the recognition of Traditional Knowledge within vocational education and training.
Through collaboration and community-led design, the project aims to strengthen pathways into education and employment, support culturally responsive training practices and create resources that can benefit learners, communities and training providers across Australia.
About the Project
The initial phase of the project focuses on learning pathways connected to:
- Conservation and ecosystem management
- Aboriginal Ranger programs
- Land and sea management
- Cultural heritage protection
- Environmental stewardship
- Cultural tourism opportunities
The framework is being designed to support future application across additional industries and regions throughout Australia
The project will be developed through community-led consultation and co-design with Aboriginal communities, Elders, Traditional Knowledge holders, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs), Ranger programs and vocational education partners.
A key principle of the project is that Aboriginal communities help guide how Traditional Knowledge is recognised and represented within the framework. Formal cultural governance and ongoing engagement will support the development of practical resources, tools and approaches that reflect community priorities and cultural protocols.
For more information about the National On-Country VET Framework for Recognising Traditional Knowledge project, please contact:
Suresh Job
Director Training Profile Operations
Email: Suresh.Job@crtafe.wa.edu.au
Phone: (08) 9956 6158