About

Empowering local communities since 1980

Novaskill is an Australian Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and Group Training Organisation (GTO) that has empowered local communities through training, employment and community services since 1980. An RTO is an organisation accredited to deliver nationally recognised vocational education and training, and a GTO employs apprentices and trainees then places them with host businesses.

Our mission is to empower and support the local community in reaching their full potential by providing high-quality training, employment and community services. That mission guides everything Novaskill does, from connecting apprentices and trainees to meaningful work to delivering nationally recognised qualifications and short courses across the Hunter, Newcastle and the wider region of New South Wales (NSW).

Founded in 1980, Novaskill brings 45+ years of experience to vocational training and group training. We are built on four values: connection, consistency, collaboration and personal development. Whether you are an individual planning your next step, an apprentice starting a trade, or an employer looking to grow your team, Novaskill is here to guide and support you.

Novaskill team members in a training room

Key facts about Novaskill

  • Established in 1980, with 45+ years supporting local communities.
  • Registered Training Organisation (RTO) delivering nationally recognised training. RTO provider code: 6996.
  • Group Training Organisation (GTO) employing apprentices and trainees and placing them with host employers.
  • Legal entity: HGT Australia Ltd. trading as Novaskill.
  • Regions served: Hunter, Newcastle and the wider region of New South Wales (NSW).
45+Years supporting communities
RTO 6996Nationally recognised training
Northern NSW to Central CoastLocations across the region
ThousandsApprentices and trainees supported

What does Novaskill do?

Novaskill delivers nationally recognised training, employs and places apprentices and trainees, and runs community services across the Hunter, Newcastle and NSW. As one organisation we cover three connected areas of support.

Training

Nationally recognised qualifications and short courses delivered as a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).

Group training

As a Group Training Organisation (GTO), we employ apprentices and trainees and place them with host employers, handling the paperwork and ongoing support.

Community services

Programs that empower local communities through employment pathways and personal development.

Learn more about what group training is and how Novaskill supports apprentices and trainees, browse our nationally recognised short courses, or explore the full range of Novaskill community and training programs.

Meet our board of directors

Phillip John Walkley

Phillip John Walkley

Chairman

Former Managing Director and qualified boilermaker, bringing decades of industry leadership to the Novaskill board.

Lou McPherson, LLB

Lou McPherson, LLB

Secretary

Solicitor and Director of McPherson Lawyers, advising the Novaskill board on legal and governance matters.

Melanie Jade Hamilton

Melanie Jade Hamilton

Deputy Chair

Accountant, Tax Agent and Business Advisor, supporting the financial governance of Novaskill.

Gail Baker

Gail Baker

Director

More than 40 years of experience in business administration, contributing operational insight to the board.

Tony Rhodes

Tony Rhodes

Director

Managing Director of the Mullane Group for 30 years and President of Business Hunter, connecting Novaskill to the regional business community.

Kyle Mathieson

Kyle Mathieson

Director

Finance Manager and member of the ICAA and GAICD, strengthening Novaskill governance and financial oversight.

Frequently asked questions about Novaskill

Novaskill was established in 1980. For 45+ years Novaskill has empowered local communities through training, employment and community services across the Hunter, Newcastle and New South Wales (NSW).

Yes. Novaskill is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), which means it is accredited to deliver nationally recognised vocational education and training. The Novaskill RTO provider code is 6996.

A Registered Training Organisation (RTO) delivers nationally recognised qualifications and short courses, while a Group Training Organisation (GTO) employs apprentices and trainees and places them with host businesses. Novaskill is both an RTO and a GTO, so it can train you and help connect you to work. Read more on the what is group training page.

Novaskill serves the Hunter, Newcastle and the wider region of New South Wales (NSW). To find your nearest branch or ask a question, visit the Novaskill contact page.

Explore Novaskill

Want to know more about Novaskill?

Our team is happy to talk through training, apprenticeships and community programs.

Contact us

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