“Skill shortages are plaguing so many sectors of the economy, affecting productivity and economic growth,” Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said.

“We need more skilled workers to alleviate these pressures and drive the economy.

“Microcredentials can help with that, and quickly. These short courses enable people to upskill or retrain in a short period of time, getting them into the workforce faster and helping them fulfil their own education goals.

“Government backing of universities to deliver these courses is further reinforcement of the essential role we play in educating the skilled workers Australia desperately needs.

“More than half of the million jobs expected to be created in coming years will require a university qualification, which is why we need the full support of government to continue doing our job for the nation.

“We’re continuing to advocate strongly for microcredentials to be fully supported by government. This program is good progress, but we can go further.

“Universities will continue to work closely with government and industry to ensure universities are developing programs in areas of skill needs and producing the workforce that drives our nation.”