SIEMENS SMART CITY OFFERS INSIGHTS FOR FUTURE OF VET

Premier Gladys Berejiklian today announced the NSW Government is working with German powerhouse Siemens to finalise a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to bring advanced technologies and innovations in vocational education and training (VET) to the Western Sydney Aerotropolis.

Founded in 1847, Siemens is the largest industrial manufacturing company in Europe.

Ms Berejiklian made the announcement ahead of a tour of a 'Smart City' to learn about Germany's innovative approach to vocational education and training (VET) on the sixth and final day of her international trade mission.

The up to €600 million 'Siemensstadt 2.0' or Siemens City 2.0 innovation precinct is set to transform a 70 hectare industrial area in Berlin into a modern, urban district with offices, residences, laboratories and production plants in place by 2030.

"The NSW Government is committed to building a supply of skilled labour to meet the jobs needs of the future," Ms Berejiklian said.

"I'm excited to learn more about Germany's dual system of on-the-job and classroom training and see how that works in practice for companies like Siemens."

Germany's VET system provides trainees with high-level technical skills and has been especially effective at responding to changes in technology and the employment needs of business, providing a reliable source of high-skilled labour for local companies and supporting the global competitiveness of small to medium enterprises.

Siemens is a major investor in VET, training around 8000 apprentices and students in Germany each year.

Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said a strong VET system will be essential for ensuring the success of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis.

"The key to ensuring that additional jobs created through the Aerotropolis are sustainable is to provide workers with the skills they need for future industries," Mr Ayres said. "That's why the NSW Government will establish a permanent VET facility in the Aerotropolis with a focus on advanced manufacturing, technology and engineering."