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In late 2007 the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) commissioned two authors to examine the characteristics, and find examples, of innovative teaching and learning practice in Australia and in Europe. This is the Australian report, written by Jane Figgis, whose approach was to talk to managers and practitioners and get close to their field of endeavour. What follows, along with Yvonne Hillier’s separate study of developments in the United Kingdom and Europe ('Innovation in teaching and learning in vocational education and training: international perspectives', indexed at TD/TNC 95.23), formed the basis of a series of workshops across the country, where NCVER heard how practitioners can best use this research, and gathered further contributions to our knowledge of good teaching and learning in VET.This publication explores both the characteristics and examples of innovative teaching and learning practice in Australia. It is based on discussions with practitioners and vocational education and training (VET) managers responsible for teaching and learning. It examines why and how people are changing their pedagogy, and with what results. It found that improvements in teaching and learning practice arise from a perceived need to change. The imperatives to change are usually locally based and dependent for their success on a commitment by all those supporting the learner. Practice is best shared through effective mentoring and by using networks effectively.