The national training system’s e-learning strategy, the Australian Flexible Learning Framework (Framework), has received the go ahead for its activities until the end of June 2011, opening up approximately $3.5m in funding opportunities for Australian registered training organisations (RTOs), business and industry to embed e-learning as a key aspect of their business strategy and tailor training to meet learners’ needs.

This announcement is timely, as a recent survey* found that 50% of Australian businesses surveyed are now using e-learning to provide flexible and efficient employee training (up from 40% in 2009).

This six month allocation will bring the Framework funding cycle in line with other funding arrangements under the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR), which are based on a financial year calendar.

For RTOs, business and industry, funding opportunities will enable them to:

• implement innovative e-learning solutions for business and learners through E-learning Innovations funding and support

• develop high quality learning objects (small self contained components of learning material) to support the online delivery of nationally recognised training packages through Flexible Learning Toolboxes funding and support

• embed e-learning in industry-led workforce development, with support from Industry Integration of
  E-learning funding for three new business clusters and continued multiple year funding for 10 ongoing industry sectors

• implement and trial an e-portfolio system to support learner mobility

• conduct trials into key emerging technologies and tools that may impact on learning and where future standards support may be required, with support from E-standards for Training funding.

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