The Forestry Workforce Training Program is delivering resultsFriday 24 Apr 2026
ForestEdu and digital capability The ForestEdu digital platform is on track to be completed by June 2026. The ForestEdu Network has been established as an industry social platform with nine industry discussion groups already supporting peer learning and collaboration. The ForestEdu Library has been configured as a searchable virtual catalogue. By June 2026, digital learning and assessment content will be available for more than 100 competency units, supported by over 700 learning and assessment assets. Unit packages include assessment kits, interactive e-learning, learner guides, mapping documentation and Moodle integration, improving the consistency, quality and flexibility of delivery across the sector. In addition, 29 targeted video resources are being produced to support workplace-based training and assessment. The ForestEdu Demand Aggregator is under development and is being set up to support an industry training demand and discovery platform, that will allow employers to search available industry training programs and to connect directly with training providers. Skills recognition and trainer capability A total of 1,149 workers across 20 employers were nominated through the submitted applications, with up to 130 RPL assessments scheduled to be completed by June 2026. Workplace-based trainer capability is also a priority. Ten industry workers completed the Work Skill Instructor Skill Set in 2025, with further cohorts scheduled throughout 2026. Delivery was designed to be flexible and inclusive. The demand was strong, with more than 60 expressions of interest, including for a dedicated women’s cohort. Micro-credentials and workforce pathways The program made substantial progress in establishing stackable micro-credential pathways for new entrants, operators and emerging leaders. Over the coming months, 80 workers are expected to progress toward enrolment in leadership micro-credentials and a further 65 toward essential skills micro-credential training. These pathways are being supported by expanded digital resources and targeted trainer upskilling, helping to build a more scalable and flexible training system. A new Graduate Certificate in Forestry was established as a flexible, industry-supported tertiary pathway for foresters. The pilot achieved strong enrolments, positive feedback from participants and employers, and effective collaboration between industry and university partners. Two cohorts completed the qualification: a pre-trial cohort of 17 students in 2024 and a second cohort of 23 students in 2025. Participants included plantation managers, forest planners, policy advisers and operational staff. Inclusion and Employment Outcomes FWTP also delivered strong inclusion and employment outcomes. On the Tiwi Islands, 19 of 21 First Nations participants completed training and moved directly into employment with the Tiwi Plantation Corporation nursery. Forestry Australia’s mentoring program also supported 26 women across forestry and timber processing, with positive feedback highlighting increased confidence, stronger industry connection and career development. The new Guide for Gender and Culturally Inclusive Training is now available here. This practical resource supports training package developers, resource creators, trainers, and assessors in making training more inclusive, accessible, and relevant for underrepresented workers. It offers clear recommendations, checklists, practical exercises, sample assessment questions, and ready-to-use tools to help review learning materials, improve online accessibility, enhance inclusive communication, support participation, and promote fair assessment practices. More >> Source & image credit: ForestWorks  | ||
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