In an era where technology underpins almost every aspect of teaching, learning, and workplace performance, ensuring digital readiness is no longer optional—it’s essential. Within the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector, this shift is particularly critical, as learners often come from diverse backgrounds, possess varying levels of digital literacy, and enter programs with different career and personal goals. 

This presentation will explore the emerging requirement for Training Organisations to test learners’ digital capabilities prior to enrolment and, crucially, to inform them of the support they will need for successful participation. Such early identification of digital strengths and gaps not only enhances student preparedness but also empowers Training Organisations to tailor interventions—from targeted tutorials and mentoring to technology access and skill-building resources. By doing so, we can safeguard the learner experience and bolster retention and completion rates. 

Additionally, the focus will extend to the reciprocal requirement for staff. Effective digital transformation demands that educators and support teams are themselves equipped with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to guide learners through new technologies, blended delivery models, and virtual collaboration platforms. We will discuss practical strategies to build staff capacity, including professional development, peer support networks, and continuous skill audits. 

Attendees will discover how to integrate digital capability assessments into existing workflows, align digital literacy support with compliance requirements, and foster a culture of continuous improvement in their institutions. Ultimately, this session will underscore how a robust digital testing and support system can create more equitable opportunities, ensuring that learners thrive in—and beyond—the VET environment.