Nominations are open for the Andrews Labor Government’s 16th annual Victorian Learn Local Awards, recognising excellence in the adult and community education sector.

Member for Werribee Tim Pallas invited Werribee locals to nominate people whose stories illustrate the life-changing impact of the sector.

Categories at this year’s event celebrate trainers, leaders and learners as well as learn local programs – including the Ro Allen Award for Pre-accredited Learner (Skills for study and life).

The prize pool totals $84,000, while organisation award category winners each receive $10,000, individual category winners $5,000 and category finalists $1,000.

Among last year’s winners was Omer Ntunzwenimana who received the Ro Allen Award for his participation in the Sunraysia Mallee Ethnic Communities Council’s conversational English and reading program. He has since begun studying a Bachelor of Arts at LaTrobe University.

Starting Work in Australia – Karen Engineering Studies, run by Loddon Campaspe Multicultural Services, won four categories including the Pre-accredited Program Award (for small providers) and awards for innovation and partnership. Its founder Robyn Matthews was also recognised with the Pre-accredited Trainer Award.

The awards are presented by the Adult, Community and Further Education Board.

Learn Local providers offer a unique, community-based learning option, with a focus on the individual needs of learners. They are particularly suited to adult learners of all ages looking to develop their digital, literacy, numeracy and employability skills for study, work and life.

There are more than 240 not-for-profit community organisations registered as Learn Locals across Victoria, which deliver pre-accredited training and other programs to nearly 30,000 people each year.

To explore the categories and make a nomination visit www.vic.gov.au/learn-local-awards.

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“Our adult and community education system plays a vital role in helping Victorians build the skills they need for work and life – and the Learn Local Awards are a fantastic chance to recognise the lifechanging impact of the sector.”

“Learn Locals provide life-long learning opportunities to Victorians and build more connected communities – and if you know someone in Werribee whose story illustrates excellence in the sector, we want you to nominate them for an award.”

Quotes attributable to ACFE Board Chairperson Maria Peters

“This year is the 16^th anniversary of the Learn Local Awards and the ACFE Board is looking forward to recognising and celebrating the outstanding efforts of Learn Local learners, trainers, leaders and providers across the state.”