The principal object of this Act is to provide for the establishment and operation of Australian Technical Colleges in order to provide trade skills training, education and mentoring for young Australians through:

(a) promoting pride and excellence in trade skills training for young people; and
(b) providing skills and education in a flexible learning environment to build a solid basis for secure and rewarding careers; and
(c) adopting a new industry-led approach to providing education and training in partnership with local communities; and
(d) establishing an industry-led governing council for each Australian Technical College that is to set out strategic directions and performance objectives for the College and select the principal of the College; and
(e) providing trade training that is relevant to industry and that leads to nationally recognised qualifications through School-Based New Apprenticeships, and academic and vocational education that is relevant to trade careers and that leads to a Year 12 Certificate; and
(f) ensuring the autonomy of the principal of each Australian Technical College to manage the College, to select the best staff and to meet the targets and performance measures set by the governing council of the College; and
(g) encouraging an environment of freedom and reward for effort for the staff of Australian Technical Colleges through flexible employment arrangements which provide rewards linked to excellent performance.