The National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) acknowledges concerns raised by disability advocates regarding the description and classifications of disability contained within the recently published VET Information Standard.

The classifications used within the VET Information Standard were drawn from an outdated classification standard which was undetected prior to publication of the new standard.  We recognise that some of this language is offensive to people with disability and may affect whether individuals feel respected, represented and willing to participate in national data collections.

We unreservedly apologise. On this occasion, NCVER fell short of the expectations we set for ourselves, and those expected of us by governments, stakeholders and the broader community to ensure the VET system meets the needs of users.

NCVER is treating this matter as an urgent priority and has convened a meeting with representatives from all governments to consider options for updating the disability classifications and associated language used within the VET Information Standard.

We understand that confidence in NCVER and the national data standards we maintain depends on our ability to ensure they remain respectful, appropriate and fit for purpose. We are committed to addressing this issue transparently and will provide further updates as this work progresses.

John King
Managing Director
National Centre for Vocational Education Research

6 August 2026