December 04, 2023
3 min read

Western Sydney has become an essential source of growth and innovation in New South Wales. The region is home to a third of Sydney’s skilled manufacturing workforce* who produce highly innovative products, export globally and are committed to transforming their business processes.  

With the development of the new Western Sydney International Airport and the surrounding Aerotropolis, industries such as pharmaceutical and advanced manufacturing are growing rapidly and the skills needed to fill jobs in these emerging industries are changing. 

What is the New Education and Training Model? 

The introduction of the New Education and Training Model (NETM) by the NSW Government aims to fill these skill gaps by delivering microcredentials – short, targeted training courses taught over 40 hours.  

The courses, developed in collaboration with industry and leading education providers such as the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), allow workers to build the knowledge, skills and experience employers need. 

Upskilling pharmaceutical and allied industries  

UTS, in partnership with the Western Parkland City Authority, have collaborated with Vitex Pharmaceuticals to co-design four foundational microcredentials for those who wish to upskill in pharmaceutical manufacturing and allied industries (such as medical devices, biotechnology, food, dairy and meat industries): 

Build an appreciation of what nature can provide in therapeutic value to pharmaceutical manufacturing of Listed Medicines. You’ll develop an understanding of various cellular and molecular regulatory pathways and the important mechanisms involved when a patient takes a drug.  

One of the key issues faced in pharmaceutical manufacturing is contamination by things we cannot see, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Learn more about microorganisms and how they can affect product stability and shelf life. 

Gain an understanding of the therapeutic claims of ingredients used in Listed Medicines. You’ll be able to better understand market demands and what ailments can be addressed with these unique ingredients. 
Chemical processes can introduce inorganic, harmful heavy metals. This microcredential will guide you through contaminants and how to eradicate and control them. 

Vitex is an Australian-owned and family-operated company. As one of Australia’s leading complementary medicine manufacturers, they offer innovative solutions for leading brands and private labels – from concept development, regulatory compliance, and quality assurance to manufacturing, packaging and distribution.  

Learn more about our partnership with NETM or talk to Plus UTS to see how we can help your organisation. 

*The Western Parkland City https://www.wpca.sydney/our-region/the-western-parkland-city