Background
In 2006 the Energy Networks Association (ENA) published the Network Passport Guideline. This document was created to pave the way for the development of a Skills Passport in Australia. The objectives of that Guideline included encouraging nationally consistent practices in training standards for competencies and authorisations.
These objectives led industry associations in 2008 to commence the development of an Australian ESI Skills Passport and common refresher training.
Latest update
The framework of this project is now complete and has resulted in a new Passport, this website, rules relating to the administration of the Passport, a management committee of industry representatives and standardised refresher training competencies.
The Passport was launched in September 2010 and at May 2011, over 14,600 Passports have been issued in the Electricity Supply Industry (ESI).
On October 13 2010, the Hon Martin Ferguson AM MP, welcomed the introduction of the Passport at the EE-Oz annual general conference on the Gold Coast. In his speech Mr Ferguson spoke of the importance of proper training and workforce mobility. A copy of Mr Ferguson’s speech can be found here.
Passport Management
The ongoing management of the Passport will be undertaken by the Passport Steering Committee (PSC). The PSC is representative all sectors of the ESI including the ENA member network operators, the ETU and EE-Oz. The Department of Resources and Energy are welcome observers to the operations of the committee.
The workings of the committee are governed by a charter which can be found at the link to the right.