BACK TO ALL NEWS

26-Aug-2025 | Education & Training

SYC and SA Housing Trust Named Finalists in 2025 SA Training Awards

SYC and the South Australian Housing Trust have been announced as finalists for the 2025 South Australian Industry Collaboration Award at the upcoming SA Training Awards, hosted by the South Australian Skills Commission.

The Industry Collaboration Award recognises outstanding partnerships that support skills development through nationally recognised vocational education and training. This nomination highlights the success of the Building Links and Build Your Career programs, which combine practical training with meaningful community outcomes.

The announcement comes during National Skills Week (August 25 to 31), an annual initiative that celebrates the power of vocational education and the opportunities it creates for individuals, communities and industries. It is a timely recognition of how collaboration and hands-on learning can create real pathways into skilled employment.

Through these initiatives, participants gain accredited qualifications while helping to renovate Housing Trust properties. This provides valuable real-world construction experience while also improving housing for South Australians.

• Building Links enables secondary school students to complete a Certificate II in Construction Pathways.
• Build Your Career supports unemployed adults in achieving the South Australian Introduction to Construction Skill Set.

Each year, the South Australian Housing Trust provides SYC with two properties and building materials for training purposes. It also connects participants with employment opportunities through its contractor network. SYC delivers high-quality live-works training and assessment, with students carrying out real construction tasks on-site. In addition, SYC’s Success and Wellbeing Services assist learners by supporting study skills and helping address any personal challenges that may impact their training.

This collaboration helps meet the growing demand for skilled workers in the construction industry and gives students authentic experience in the field. It also supports their transition into long-term employment. At the end of each project, a South Australian family moves into a newly renovated home, offering a safe and high-quality living environment.

“We are incredibly proud to see our partnership with the South Australian Housing Trust recognised on this stage,” said Stacey Dutschke, Chief Operating Officer – Employment and Education at SYC. “These programs not only provide students with valuable qualifications and hands-on skills, they also create real change in our communities. It’s a powerful example of what can be achieved when industry, government and education providers work together.”

SYC is also proud to sponsor the VET Teacher / Trainer of the Year award, which recognises innovation and excellence in vocational education. This award honours outstanding trainers or teachers delivering nationally recognised training at a registered training organisation or in partnership with one.

Winners of the SA Training Awards will be announced later this year.