The Australian Education Union is pleased to announce that the winner of the 2008 Arthur Hamilton Award for Outstanding Contribution to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education is the Aboriginal Training Programs Team of TAFE Tasmania.

We congratulate the dedicated staff of the Aboriginal Training Programs whose educational practices and programs are underpinned by principles of inclusive education.

The marks the first time that a TAFE Institute has won the Award and could be the first time an application has been received from a TAFE institute.

All positions within the small but dynamic state wide Aboriginal Programs Team are staffed by Aboriginal people in identified positions. They pride themselves on providing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with quality vocational education and training and are committed to ensuring quality content and delivery of Aboriginal specific programs through strong involvement in programs not run by them.

More general training can range from basic reading, writing and maths skills to specific employment related training. They also assist with access to training at all TAFE Tasmania campuses. Aboriginal VET Officers' time is also spent in consultation with the Aboriginal community identifying future local training needs. Finally they provide Cross Cultural Awareness training and advice to both teaching and non- teaching staff and management on Aboriginal issues.

Established in 1999, this Award is in recognition of AEU members who are committed to ensuring that all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students have the right to high quality education throughout their lives.

The field was very highly competitive this year demonstrated by the fact that three Special Commendation certificates were awarded. The recipients are Gina Archer (QTU), Stephanie Ingster (ACT Branch), and Donna Bridge (SSTUWA).

The AEU congratulates the Aboriginal Programs Team, the staff and community of TAFE Tasmania on their success in winning this Award.