Foreword

This report covers the activities of the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre for the period 1 July 2000 to 30 June 2001. This period was one of continued success - the selection cycle being smooth and uneventful - combined with significant development of initiatives that will enhance future cycles.

The decision taken some years ago to systematically migrate all VTAC's processes to web-based facilities has proven to be most advantageous. Almost half of the 73,000 applications received for the 2001 academic year were submitted via this medium, with year 12 applicants especially preferring this technology. A new web-based package for schools and applicants, Courselink, was released. This facilitates course searches, using multiple criteria and practice applications as well as a range of monitoring and report functions for career teachers. It has been enthusiastically received. The new web-based on-line offering system for institutions will be available for the 2001/02 selection period.

VTAC and member institutions have advised the Victorian Government that they are keen to work with the recently established Victorian Qualifications Authority in progressing the recommendations in the Ministerial Review of Post-Compulsory Education and Training Pathways in Victoria, especially as they relate to modifications and expansions to the ENTER system. A discussion paper has been prepared to facilitate initial consideration of the concepts.

As was the case last year, the formulation of annual aims and objectives flowing from the rolling three-year strategic plan, and the development of annual performance measures, have provided VTAC with a structured framework to guide developments and system enhancements. The next stage of this approach, which will occur during 2001/02, is to prepare a business risk management plan encompassing the full range of VTAC's activities.

Four new Other Providers were welcomed to the system during the year. There are now fifty institutions participating in the system.

It is with pleasure that I present this report of the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre.