Meat industry training in SA is under a cloud after an audit by the Australian Skills Quality Authority.
Earlier this week, tafeSA’s Certificate II in Meat Processing (Abattoirs) – an entry level course for abattoir workers – was among 14 courses suspended.
The audit found tafeSA did not comply with national standards and recommended 170 students should be reassessed on their knife sharpening skills.
Australian Meat Industry Council executive director Paul Sandercock said it was a concern students had not been receiving the necessary training, which may not be available at all going forward.
He hoped the independent tafeSA review would be conducted quickly to ensure minimal disruption.
“Our industry needs people and people going into these areas need training,” he said.
“The two retail and trade butchering apprenticeships are also available through other registered training organisations but there are certain courses where tafeSA is the sole provider.”