Voices in Vet with Allens Training

Taylah

Voices in VET is a podcast created by Allens Training Pty Ltd, RTO 90909, to engage, educate and inspire partners, trainers and the wider VET community. It gives a voice to the people behind the training sharing insights, real stories and practical conversations that matter in the day-to-day world of vocational education and first aid training. From industry trends and compliance conversations to business growth and partner development, each episode explores the challenges and opportunities shaping the VET space. This isn’t just about courses. It’s about the people delivering them, the businesses building them, and the standards that support them.

Episodes

  1. Jul 15 ·  Video

    What Makes First Aid Training Memorable? With Chloe Betts

    In Episode 7 of Voices in VET, we're joined by Chloe Betts from Central West First Aid Training Specialists, an Allens Training partner, current paramedic and business owner to explore what makes first aid training truly memorable.  Drawing on years of frontline experience, Chloe shares how real-world emergency response has shaped the way she delivers training and why building confidence is just as important as teaching practical skills. From realistic scenarios and learner engagement to creating training experiences that students remember long after they've left the classroom, this episode explores the qualities that make great first aid education.  We also discuss the importance of preparing students to act when it matters most, the value of creating a positive and supportive learning environment, and why authentic stories and practical experience can have such a lasting impact on learner confidence.  Beyond the classroom, Chloe shares her journey of growing Central West First Aid Training Specialists, building a strong professional presence on LinkedIn and social media, and the role networking has played in the success of her business. She also discusses balancing family life with running a growing organisation and offers practical advice for trainers and business owners looking to grow both professionally and personally.  Throughout this episode, we cover:  Bringing frontline paramedic experience into the training roomCreating engaging and memorable learning experiencesBuilding student confidence through realistic trainingThe difference between completing training and feeling ready to respondGrowing a successful training businessBuilding professional networks through social mediaBalancing business, family and professional development Whether you're a trainer, assessor, business owner, or simply passionate about quality first aid education, this episode is full of practical insights, real-world experiences and ideas that can help create training that leaves a lasting impact.   Learn more about Central West First Aid Training Specialists: https://www.centralwestfirstaidtraining.com.au/   Send us Fan Mail

  2. Jun 22 ·  Video

    Equipment Matters: Creating Better Training Experiences with AERO Healthcare

    In Episode 6 of Voices in VET, we're joined by Alexander from AERO Healthcare to discuss the important role equipment plays in creating engaging, realistic and effective training experiences.   While equipment is often viewed as a simple requirement for course delivery, the reality is that the right equipment can significantly influence student engagement, confidence and learning outcomes. From first aid training through to broader vocational education, quality equipment helps bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.   Throughout this episode, we discuss:  Why equipment matters in training environments The impact equipment can have on student confidence and competence The importance of realism in training Industry trends and innovations in first aid equipment Common considerations when selecting and maintaining training resources How quality equipment can improve the student experience  Alexander also shares insights into innovations within the first aid industry, including AERO Healthcare's modular first aid kit range. Designed with colour-coded treatment modules, the system allows users to quickly identify and access the equipment they need in an emergency while simplifying restocking and ongoing maintenance.   A key takeaway from this conversation is that equipment is more than just what sits in a training room. The right setup can directly impact student confidence, engagement and how prepared someone feels to respond in a real emergency. The episode concludes by linking these concepts back to Standard 1.8 of the 2025 Standards for RTOs, which highlights the importance of ensuring facilities, resources and equipment remain suitable, current and reflective of industry practice.   Whether you're a trainer, assessor, RTO manager or compliance professional, this episode provides practical insights into one of the most important and often overlooked aspects of quality training delivery. Learn more about AERO Healthcare: https://aerohealthcare.com/  Learn more about AERO Healthcare's modular first aid kit range: https://aerohealthcare.com/product-category/first-aid-kits/filled-kits/4-series-modulator/ Send us Fan Mail

  3. Jun 9 ·  Video

    Thank a First Responder Day: Supporting Those Who Serve | Danny from Fortem Australia

    In this special Thank a First Responder Day episode of Voices in VET, we're joined by Danny from Fortem Australia to discuss the people behind the uniforms and the importance of supporting first responders and their families.  Thank a First Responder Day, held annually on 10 June, was created by Fortem Australia to recognise the incredible contribution first responders make to communities across Australia.  Throughout this conversation, we explore the realities of frontline service, the impact emergency work can have on responders and their families, and the evolving conversation around mental health and wellbeing within the emergency services sector.  We also discuss the role community connection plays in supporting first responders, the challenges many face during and after their careers, and how organisations like Fortem Australia are helping provide support, resources and opportunities for responders and their families.  At Allens Training, many trainers, partners and team members are current or former first responders, making this an important conversation for both the training sector and the wider community.    Whether you're a first responder, family member, trainer, student or community member, this episode offers valuable insights into the people who dedicate their lives to serving others and the ways we can all play a role in supporting them.    Learn more about Thank a First Responder Day: https://fortemaustralia.org.au/tafrd-2/ Learn more about Fortem Australia: https://fortemaustralia.org.au/ Send us Fan Mail

  4. May 12 ·  Video

    Teaching Kids to Be Ready: First Aid, Families and Little Heroes with Amy Gomes

    Welcome to Episode 4 of Voices in VET. In this episode, Taylah is joined by Amy Gomes, Founder of One Little Heart, Critical Care Paramedic, and co-author of What Little Heroes Do. Written by Critical Care Nurse Sarah Duncanson and Critical Care Paramedic Amy Gomes, and illustrated by Pia Leo, What Little Heroes Do was created through a shared passion for education and empowering children. The book is designed to help start conversations around medical emergencies and teach kids about common first aid encounters in a safe, approachable way. Amy shares the story behind the book and why she’s so passionate about helping children understand emergencies and first aid from a young age. The conversation explores what kids are actually capable of understanding, what adults often get wrong, and how parents and educators can start simple, practical conversations without creating fear. With school holidays and long weekends often meaning more time around water, travel and outdoor activities, this episode focuses on simple, practical ways families can help prepare children for real-life emergency situations. A key part of the conversation focuses on why educating kids about first aid early matters not just to empower them in an emergency, but to reduce fear and psychological harm and the thinking behind both What Paramedics Do and the newly released What Little Heroes Do. Amy has also shared a discount code for listeners! Use code LOYAL10 when purchasing the books. We also explore Amy’s work through One Little Heart and her experience on the front line, including what she believes every first aider and trainer should know before help arrives.   🎧 In This Episode • What inspired What Little Heroes Do • Why kids should be part of emergency conversations • What adults often underestimate about children • How to talk to kids about emergencies without fear • Simple ways families can prepare children for emergencies • What paramedics wish first aid trainers would emphasise • What every first aider should know before help arrives   🔗 Links mentioned in this episode 🧡 One Little Heart  https://onelittleheart.com.au/ 📚 What Little Heroes Do https://onelittleheart.com.au/product/what-little-heroes-do/ 📖 What Paramedics Do https://onelittleheart.com.au/product/book-what-paramedics-do/ Send us Fan Mail

  5. Apr 13

    What’s Changing in First Aid Training: NIFAT and Industry Insights with Andy Panes

    Welcome to Episode 3 of Voices in VET.  In this episode, Rob is joined by Andy Panes, Director of the National Institute of First Aid Trainers (NIFAT), long-time first aid trainer, and a well-known figure in the industry.  NIFAT plays a key role in supporting and representing first aid trainers across Australia, with a strong focus on professional development, industry standards and advocacy.  Together, they unpack the current state of the first aid training sector, including how organisations are navigating the 2025 Standards and the increasing focus on quality and compliance.  The conversation covers the challenges training organisations are facing, what’s changing across the industry, and what trainers should be focusing on in their day-to-day delivery.  If you’re delivering training or working in the industry, this episode gives a clear, practical look at where things are at and what’s coming next.  In This Episode  Where the first aid training industry is sitting right now How the 2025 Standards are impacting trainers and RTOs The biggest challenges across the sector What to expect from the NIFAT conference What separates a good trainer from a great one Practical things trainers can implement immediately What needs to change in training delivery  Links mentioned in this episode 👤 Andy Panes https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-panes-41a96224/ 🏢 National Institute of First Aid Trainers (NIFAT) https://www.linkedin.com/company/nifat-au/ 📅 NIFAT Conference Program https://conference.nifat.com.au/program/ 📱 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nifat/ 📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nifataus/   Send us Fan Mail

  6. Mar 23

    The Annual CEO Declaration: What We’re Signing Off On (and Why It Matters)

    Welcome to Episode 2 of Voices in VET. In this episode, Rob shares a practical look at the Annual Declaration on Compliance (ADC), and how Allens Training has approached completing it under the new Standards. Rather than going line by line, this episode focuses on how we’ve answered the declaration in practice. From continuous improvement and compliance systems, to third-party oversight and student support, Rob talks through the thinking behind our responses and what sits behind each declaration. You’ll also hear key insights from recent ASQA workshops, including what regulators are really looking for, and why clear, practical and genuine responses matter more than ever. This episode is designed to help RTO leaders understand what they’re signing off on, and how to approach the declaration with confidence and integrity. Voices in VET is designed for partners, trainers and those working in the VET sector, sharing real conversations, practical insights and the thinking behind what’s happening in the industry. In this episode, we cover:  What the Annual Declaration on Compliance (ADC) requires CEOs to confirm  Insights from ASQA on how to approach your declaration  How we’ve answered key areas of the declaration in practice  Continuous improvement and what that looks like day-to-day  Managing compliance across systems, staff and third parties  Why honest, practical responses matter more than generic answersSend us Fan Mail

About

Voices in VET is a podcast created by Allens Training Pty Ltd, RTO 90909, to engage, educate and inspire partners, trainers and the wider VET community. It gives a voice to the people behind the training sharing insights, real stories and practical conversations that matter in the day-to-day world of vocational education and first aid training. From industry trends and compliance conversations to business growth and partner development, each episode explores the challenges and opportunities shaping the VET space. This isn’t just about courses. It’s about the people delivering them, the businesses building them, and the standards that support them.