The government is set to get to work on its jobs plan with the release of its employment white paper in Adelaide on Monday in a bid to build a “dynamic and inclusive” labour market.
The first treasury document of its kind since 1994, the jobs blueprint is set to include initiatives and policy directions across a range of areas, including reforms to the migration system, investment in skills and changes to enhance workforce participation.
In releasing its jobs plan, the government will announce a $31 million investment to fast track new TAFE Centres of Excellence to provide students with “cutting edge” skills.
A further $10 million to develop higher and degree apprenticeships, a new qualification that will allow TAFEs to deliver advanced skill apprenticeships.
Minister for Skills and Training Brendan O’Connor said the changes were designed to help students move more easily between vocational education and higher education.
“For the workers of the future it doesn’t necessarily have to be one or the other – TAFE or Uni – it can be a combination of technical skills development and conceptual knowledge,” Mr O’Connor said ahead of the release.
Alongside the launch of digital passport for skills, the government has also foreshadowed changes to the government’s full-employment objective to “sustained and inclusive employment”
“We want more people in more part of our country to have the opportunity for secure, well-paid jobs in an economy where workers, employers and communities can thrive and adapt,” Treasurer Jim Chalmers said.
“The government’s vision is for a dynamic and inclusive labour market and the employment white paper is our road map for getting there.”