Vocational excellence: Global insights, local futures for TAFE Centres of Excellence

This Fellowship examines international models of Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs) across Europe and New Zealand to inform Australia’s emerging TAFE Centres of Excellence agenda. Through site visits, interviews, and policy analysis, the study identifies how CoVEs drive innovation, industry collaboration, applied research, and regional development. It highlights the need for Australia to adopt a clear national definition of vocational excellence, strengthen co-governance with industry, embed cross-cutting priorities such as sustainability and digital capability, and establish robust evaluation frameworks. The report offers practical insights and considerations for governments, TAFEs, and providers seeking to build transformative, future-focused VET ecosystems.