Urban Innovators | MetroCity India Magazine | 2025 Edition
In the heart of Australia’s Northern Territory, far from the country’s major cities and corporate hubs, a small organisation is creating an outsized impact on education and community development. The Institute of Skills and Training Australia (ISTA), a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) operated by the GTNT Group, is being recognised as one of Australia’s most dynamic training providers—combining agility, quality, and purpose to redefine vocational education.
In 2023, ISTA’s bold work earned national acclaim. The organisation won the coveted Small Training Provider of the Year at the NT Training Awards, followed by a prestigious national award, recognising its powerful impact on students and regional communities alike.
“The awards created a sense of excitement and motivation among team members,” says Kathryn Stenson, Chief Executive Officer of ISTA. “This recognition has not only boosted our collective confidence but also sharpened our focus on excellence in every aspect of our work.”
Small Team, National Recognition
ISTA’s achievements are even more remarkable considering its lean structure—a compact team of just four core members. This small but highly capable team delivers high-quality, community-focused training across the Northern Territory.
“This compact size allows us to be incredibly versatile and adaptive,” explains Stenson. “We’re constantly showcasing our diverse skill set while building new capabilities.”
Their strategic focus includes expanding training access to remote and regional areas such as Alice Springs, Tennant Creek, and Katherine. One standout project is their collaboration with the Barunga and Beswick communities, helping equip residents with the skills and confidence to launch and manage local social clubs—a model that combines enterprise training with real community empowerment.
The Role of VET in Australia’s Workforce
ISTA champions Vocational Education and Training (VET)—an essential part of Australia’s education landscape that prepares individuals for employment through job-specific, practical training. Particularly in regional areas, VET is key to building self-sufficient communities and a responsive workforce.
“VET equips Territorians with practical skills that enhance their employability and career prospects while addressing industry needs for a skilled workforce,” Stenson explains.
She further notes that VET helps boost productivity, drive innovation, and increase global competitiveness. “It offers a faster route to employment than traditional academic paths and is an effective tool for addressing unemployment and job market skill gaps,” she adds.
What ISTA Offers: Practical Skills with Purpose
ISTA offers a diverse portfolio of nationally recognised courses, balancing theory with hands-on training and designed to meet the needs of both new learners and professionals seeking to upskill.
Here is the full list of programs offered:
• Child Protection and Safety
• Basic Food Hygiene & RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol)
• Barista Coffee Course
• Communication Skills
• Professional Preparation Program (Preparing for the Workforce)
• Digital Literacy and Competence
• Organise Personal Work Priorities – BSBPEF301
• English Language Programs (with a Native Teacher)
• Leadership
• Team Building
• Professional Development
• Management Skills
• Diploma of Business – 1 year
• Diploma of Hospitality Management – 1–2 years
• Dual Diploma in Leadership & Business – 1 year
• Certificate II in Communication – 1 week
• Certificate III in Business – 1 year
• Certificate III in Hospitality – 1 year
• Certificate III in Commercial Cookery – 1 year
Most of these courses are available to groups of 10 or more students, and are ideal for individuals, organisations, and communities looking to build capacity and unlock job-ready skills.
Bridging Cultures: A Global Learning Experience
Although ISTA is based in Australia, its internationally recognised training programs offer a unique opportunity for overseas students to gain valuable, career-relevant education. Taught by Australian trainers, the programs provide a rich cultural and professional learning environment—preparing students to understand and operate confidently in Australian workplaces and beyond.
“Studying with us will expose you to a variety of experiences and challenges,” says Stenson. “We provide a blend of classroom knowledge and real-world exposure that prepares you not only to succeed in Australia—but globally.”
Empowering Communities, Shaping Futures
Whether building hospitality skills, boosting digital literacy, or enabling regional entrepreneurship, ISTA is deeply rooted in community upliftment. Its work is changing lives in remote areas by creating new opportunities and developing skilled, confident individuals ready for the future.
ISTA’s story is a testament to how small organisations can lead big change. It proves that innovation, recognition, and real-world impact don’t always come from large institutions—they can thrive in the quiet corners of the country, driven by passion, purpose, and precision.
With national awards, community partnerships, and international relevance, ISTA is truly Australia’s hidden powerhouse of training—one that’s building the workforce of tomorrow, today.
