Charles Sturt University has launched the Charles Sturt Skills Centre (CSSC), strengthening its commitment to delivering the skills and knowledge Australia needs for a future‑ready workforce.

The newly established CSSC has secured registration as a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), enabling Charles Sturt to offer both higher education and nationally recognised vocational qualifications. 

This expansion responds directly to growing demand from government and industry for high‑quality, applied training aligned with workforce capability needs. 

The CSSC will initially deliver four qualifications – Certificate IV in Government, Diploma of Government, Certificate IV in Leadership and Management, and Diploma of Leadership and Management – alongside targeted skill sets such as workplace coaching, lead auditor and basic biosecurity skill sets. 

These offerings are designed to support capability development across policy, regulatory, and operational roles. 

The launch coincides with the CSSC welcoming its first cohort of 140 government officers, reflecting strong early uptake and clear demand for vocational learning pathways delivered by the University. 

Professor David Mackay, Director of the Charles Sturt Skills Centre, said its establishment represents an important evolution in the University’s professional development offering. 

“The Charles Sturt Skills Centre allows us to bring vocational education and training into our professional development suite, complementing our higher education programs and providing flexible, applied learning pathways for working professionals.” 

“Vocational qualifications are a powerful way to translate knowledge into practice. By embedding VET within our professional education offering, we are helping build ongoing capability in leadership, management, government operations and specialist areas such as auditing and biosecurity.” 

With a strong focus on collaboration and co‑design, the CSSC will work closely with employers to ensure training is relevant, current and fit for purpose. 

The CSSC is positioned to play a key role in strengthening vocational pathways, supporting lifelong learning, and reinforcing Charles Sturt University’s commitment to practical, impact‑driven education for the public sector and beyond.