Australia's Skillaroos were recognised at Parliament House on Wednesday 14 October 2026, where the Hon Andrew Giles MP, Minister for Skills and Training, congratulated the team on their outstanding performance at the 48th WorldSkills International Competition in Shanghai. Competitors were presented with certificates acknowledging their contribution to Team Australia and their achievements on the global stage.
The recognition event celebrated the success of Team Australia, which returned home with one Silver Medal, one Bronze Medal and 11 Medals for Excellence. These results highlight the strength of Australia's vocational education and training (VET) system and demonstrate the skill, dedication and potential of the nation's emerging workforce.
The Australian team achieved:
- One Silver Medal, awarded to Lachlan Basc in 3D Digital Game Art, who was also named Australia's Best of Nation competitor.
- One Bronze Medal, awarded to Lachlan Wright in Heavy Vehicle Technology.
- Eleven Medals for Excellence, awarded to competitors who achieved scores at or above the international benchmark of excellence in their respective skill areas.
The 11 Medals for Excellence were awarded across a broad range of disciplines, further highlighting the important role vocational training plays in preparing Australians for the industries and technologies shaping the future economy.
Across 6 days of competition, approximately 1,400 competitors representing 70 countries tested their skills in 64 competition categories before an audience of more than 400,000 visitors. Among them, Australia's Skillaroos demonstrated exceptional technical ability, professionalism and determination, reinforcing Australia's reputation for excellence in skills training and workforce development.
The Australian Government supports WorldSkills Australia as part of its ongoing commitment to promoting skills excellence, strengthening workforce capability and highlighting the opportunities available through VET pathways.
Building Skills for Australia's Future
As Australia responds to changing workforce needs, initiatives that promote skills excellence help strengthen the pipeline of skilled workers across key sectors of the economy.
The competition also showcases excellence across trades, technical occupations and emerging industries. In addition to developing world-class technical expertise, competitors gain valuable transferable skills, including adaptability, resilience, teamwork and problem-solving, qualities highly sought after by employers.
A Lasting Legacy
While medals and rankings provide important recognition, the lasting impact of WorldSkills extends well beyond the podium.
The experience equips competitors with the confidence, leadership capabilities and professional skills that will continue to influence their careers long after the competition concludes. These young Australians represent the next generation of industry leaders, innovators and skilled professionals.
As the Skillaroos return home, their achievements serve as an inspiration to future apprentices, trainees and students considering a VET pathway.
Read more
- Media Release from Minister Giles.
- Biographies of the WorldSkills Team Australia Skillaroos Squad.