Abstract
Join us to explore how the NSW Department of Education (NSW) is enacting the National Foundation Skills Strategy 2025–2035. This session will showcase NSW’s comprehensive initiatives to strengthen foundation skills training access and outcomes with, and through, the NSW ACE sector. As a joint initiative of the Commonwealth and NSW governments under the National Skills Agreement,  actions include a suite of innovative workforce development programs and approaches, needs-based funding reforms, and support for non-accredited training.  NSW are drawing heavily upon literacy and numeracy experts and peaks,  as well as Commonwealth and other state governments to maximise impact for foundation skills learners.  Their approach creates a good practice model from which others can learn.

Bios
Helen Zwicker
Helen’s entire career has focused on adult learning. Having worked across the  Tafe, private, and Adult Community Education sectors, she joined the NSW Department of Education in 2023. Immediately prior to this, Helen was CEO of Kiama & Shoalhaven Community Colleges. Her deep passion for the ACE sector, and the learners they serve, continues to drive her work. She currently leads a number of work streams for NSW  implementation of the National Skills Agreement- Ensuring Access To Foundation Skills.

Franchesca Zacchini is the Relieving Director, Equity Programs within the NSW Department of Education. She has shaped, and is responsible for, NSW implementation of National Skills Agreement for Foundation Skills through the NSW ACE Sector. Before joining the NSW Government in 2017, Chesca worked in the Not-For-Profit sector managing employment services programs as well as for the Australian Government, managing social and welfare support services. Since joining the NSW Government, Chesca has led and shaped programs and initiatives focusing on improved outcomes for post-school and transitioning young people and adults who experience a range of barriers. More recently, initiatives have included outcomes-funded youth programs, the NSW ACE Strategy, and oversight of National Skills Agreement – Closing the Gap. She has an enduring commitment to advancing Adult and Community Education (ACE) and supporting equitable learning outcomes, particularly for people not well supported by our current systems. Her leadership combines deep expertise in program delivery, collaborative partnerships, and cultural capability to create inclusive and empowering educational opportunities.