Study with us
Open Days
Get career help
Get business support
Make an enquiry
About us
Come and Visit Us

I'm looking for...

Applied Research and Innovation Project

Empowering Victorian TAFEs to collaboratively design, lead, and deliver applied research that strengthens outcomes across the care and support economy.

Apply for Funding Download the Application Guide

About the Applied Research and Innovation (ARI) Project

The Applied Research and Innovation (ARI) Project is a two-year initiative funded by the Victorian Government and led by Holmesglen Institute.

This is the first project of its kind in Victoria, redefining vocational education’s role by enabling TAFE practitioners to lead real-world applied research addressing critical challenges in the care economy. The project is funded through a $2 million grant administered by the Office of TAFE Coordination and Delivery (OTCD).

Our mission is to bridge the gap between industry, academia, and government by fostering a culture of research-driven innovation that delivers practical, scalable solutions for this vital sector.

ARI-funded projects contribute to:

  • Real-world innovation across the Victorian care economy
  • Stronger partnerships between TAFEs, industry and community organisations
  • Evidence-based improvements in teaching, learning and workforce development
  • Enhanced applied research capability across the Victorian TAFE network
  • Practical, scalable solutions with measurable sector impact

Applied Research and Innovation Project snapshot

Your voice: 2025 sector-wide survey results

The 2025 sector survey identified the key capability needs of the Victorian TAFE workforce, highlighting clear opportunities to strengthen research skills and engagement. In response, the ARI project will deliver a suite of initiatives, including targeted workshops, designed to build research capability and ensure each activity addresses real-world staff needs. Explore the insights in more detail below. 

 

Unlocking research capacity

The biggest opportunities to increase TAFE capacity are time and clearer processes. Staff are interested in research, but structural barriers limit participation. Data suggests that addressing Time Release (35%) and clarifying Process Uncertainty (33%), we can better support staff in ther research journeys. 

Prioritising professional growth

A targeted roadmap for professional development should focus on the areas with the highest demand. Prioritising Research Software (78%), Publishing (71%), and Protocols (67%) will help staff build technical confidence and contribute more effectively to the VET evidence base.


Scaling sector knowledge

Survey results show a 1:19 ratio between those with the experience to mentor and those seeking mentorship in applied research. This imbalance highlights the need for a Community of Practice (CoP) model. By focusing on shared knowledge, we can provide more staff with access to the expertise needed to build their research capability.

Our collaborative potential

There is notable interest in industry-aligned research, with only 10% of staff having collaborated with industry compared to 93% who want to. This gap highlights a clear opportunity to build stronger pathways between TAFE expertise and industry needs.

Help us build the 2026 roadmap

We’ve carefully considered your initial feedback (see the Survey 1 insights above), and now we're moving into the next phase. To ensure our 2026 calendar is practical and accessible, we invite your input on the following:

  • Format: Would you prefer quick "Lunch and Learn" sessions, or more in-depth, hands-on workshops?
  • Peer Support: Are you seeking informal Communities of Practice (CoP), or a more structured mentorship model?
  • Experience Audit: Whether you're an experienced researcher or just beginning, understanding your level of experience will help us tailor support appropriately.

 

Begin survey
Applied Research for Victorian TAFE Professionals: A practical guide to inquiry and impact

As part of the ARI project, Holmesglen has led the development of a landmark microcredential for the Victorian TAFE sector. The microcredential guides you through the complete research lifecycle - from defining a local problem and navigating ethics to co-designing with partners, translating findings into impact and leading a sustainable research culture. 

This microcredential allows you to document your impact, build leadership capacity, and join a state-wide network of research-active professionals.

We look forward to sharing further announcements about opportunities to participate in this first-of-its-kind program at Holmesglen. 

Stay connected

Subscribe to our newsletter

For general enquiries or to receive direct registration links for upcoming workshops:

Contact us at: appliedresearch@holmesglen.edu.au