Media Release

This is driving demand for sustainability skilled professionals, with the World Economic Forum predicting global job growth of more than 25% for Sustainability Specialists by 2030.

TAFE NSW’s higher education Diploma of Sustainable Practice is providing an opportunity-rich industry with graduates who bring practical, industry-informed experience. It is the only Australian qualification accredited by the International Society of Sustainability Professionals (ISSP). It also recently became the first TAFE in Australia to be awarded an International Green Gown Award for superior education quality and real-world impact.

In Australia, businesses that fail to meet the industry’s national financial reporting standards face fines of up to $15.65 million or 10 per cent of turnover while also risking reputational damage. Industry expert and best-selling sustainability author and founder of ESG Strategy, Lee Stewart, says most businesses are grossly underprepared.

“The practical element of the Diploma is what really helps graduates and their employers. Coupled with the ISSP accreditation, the course provides a good foundation of theoretical frameworks.

“Businesses in Australia tend to fall into two camps. Those who see sustainability as a competitive advantage, and those who are reluctantly complying. Businesses who leave their reporting to the last minute will suffer. Now’s the time to build capacity in your business to meet these reporting requirements and expectations, which will remain consistent going forward,” he said.

Dr Alison Mitchell, one of the Diploma’s teaching team, says the implementation of ASRS is accelerating demand for graduates who understand both risk and opportunity in a low‑carbon economy. “ASRS forces organisations to look further into the future,” she said.

“This isn’t just compliance, it’s about businesses building resilience, competitiveness and long‑term viability. Whether you work in finance, procurement, communications, operations or frontline work, sustainability is becoming part of your job.”

For sustainability professional Patricia Lee, the course provided tools she still uses every day. “I really appreciated the guidance from the TAFE NSW teachers. Their support and understanding helped me identify the opportunities in this field. The studies align with my current work as a sustainability manager, and I am still applying the practical skills I learnt every day.

“For anyone looking into this as a career, there will be a part of your professional life that will focus on sustainability. It’s the right thing to do, so I encourage everyone to go for it!” she said.

Past graduates from the Diploma have gone on to roles in universities, local government, consulting, environmental sustainability teams, property and infrastructure, and community organisations.

Media contact: Melanie Pope, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000.

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