Canberra: As part of a wider initiative to address a nation-wide shortage faced by the aviation industry, Australia has adopted nation-wide standards and qualifications for pilots and other aviation workers. Industry experts predict the shortage is likely to reach 1800 pilots over the next two to three years.

Anthony Albanese, minister for infrastructure, transport, regional development and local government launched the new Aviation Training Package, pointing out that the initiative coincides with the announcement that commercial plane and helicopter pilots have been added to the government's official national skills shortage list. The list provides immigration priority for qualified professionals.

The Aviation Training Package will now be the official guide for training pilots and other aviation workers.

According to the minister, three special features mark the package:

The package eliminates a whole host of state qualifications to provide nationally consistent qualifications, which makes it easier for people considering a career in the aviation industry.

For the first time the two regulators of Australia's aviation industry - the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and the Defence Department - have agreed on standards and requirements for pilot qualifications. This uniformity ensures that those seeking a career in aviation will be able to move more easily between civilian and defence workforces.

The package also makes it easier for overseas students to train in Australia.

Earlier, there were a variety of state and territory qualifications apart from in-built prejudices between the civil and defence sectors with both not inclined torecognise each other's experience and qualifications.

"The new Package will be an important resource for trainers, registered training organisations, potential trainees and those already in the aviation industry," said Albanese.

The Aviation Training Package has been developed by the Transport and Logistics Skills Council following extensive industry consultation.

The Government is due to finalise an Aviation White Paper by mid-2009, which is meant to guide industry growth over the next decade and beyond. The Paper is intended to bring together all aspects of national aviation policy into a single statement.