National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) was established in 1981 as a not-for-profit company owned by the Commonwealth and state and territory ministers with responsibility for vocational education and training (VET). It is a professional, independent body at arm's length from government. The company initially conducted research and managed the development of national curriculum and learning resources for the technical and further education (TAFE) sector, at a time when Australia had little real research capacity in vocational education and training. This strategic plan provides the framework for the operations of the NCVER over the next three years. It describes NCVER's roles and responsibilities, the environment in which it operates, and some key aspects of its forward work program. It also presents a more detailed work plan for the next 12 months (beginning January 2009).