The Learning Object Repository Network Project is building the capacity of the Australian VTE system to share teaching and learning resources that support flexible delivery. As the key source of e-learning resources for the VTE system, the Learning Object Repository Network provides a foundation to share resources within the VTE system through the establishment and embedding of agreed principles in the design and development of resources and resource repositories.

In 2006, the targeted areas of activity will be:

• extending the scope of the web services, such as:
• transaction of commercial licences for learning objects
• facilitating elementary digital rights management (DRM) as part of a staged approach to embedding more rigorous DRM processes
• establishing mechanisms for digital object identifiers
• undertaking further usability testing and system enhancements
• undertaking a significant promotional strategy targeting teachers, practitioners, resource developers and repository owners
• extending the number of repositories by targeting specific organisations with existing repositories to facilitate them in becoming part of the Learning Object Repository Network
• researching processes for sharing customised resources
• establishing sustainable governance arrangements for the maintenance and ongoing development of the search engine and Network infrastructure

To date the Project has had a significant role in establishing and ensuring the implementation of standards and protocols for sharing resources. This is expected to develop a greater influence in 2006. The establishment of a robust governance model and conformance to national standards will ensure the ongoing sustainability of the project beyond 2006.