Industry training is a partnership between government and industry, and is provided to people in employment. It helps support the development of skills that meet industry needs. Industry training provides formal, structured employment-based training leading to qualifications, predominantly at levels 1 to 4 on the NZQF. 

Industry training is primarily governed by two Acts:

• the Industry Training and Apprenticeships Act 1992, and
•  the Education Act 1989 (the Act)

The ITF was established to support industry training. It enables industry training organisations (ITOs) to:

• develop and maintain skill standards (unit standards and qualifications), and
• develop and maintain arrangements for delivering training.

The ITF is the Government’s contribution to the cost of training. The balance of the cost is met through contributions from employers, trainees and apprentices.

The ITF also supports industry training-related projects:

• to help organise vocational skills competitions, such as WorldSkills, and
• to assist ITOs to undertake joint ventures or mergers, support best practice or enhance their efficiency and effectiveness.