The 2019 Employer Satisfaction Survey – published today by Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching – finds 84 per cent of direct supervisors say they are satisfied with their new graduate employees.

Universities Australia’s Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said the strong results show universities continue to produce graduates who are work-ready, highly employable and able to make an immediate contribution in the workplace.

“This is a strong endorsement, direct from employers, that Australia’s universities are preparing students to succeed in the world of work,” she said.

“What’s particularly compelling about this survey is that it seeks feedback from direct supervisors in the workplace – the people who see first-hand a graduate’s skills in action.”

“Universities are very focused on both educating students and preparing them for the world of work including through placement programs embedded within degrees.”

“A first of its kind Universities Australia study found that almost half a million students at Australia’s universities had the chance to gain real-world experience to help kick-start their careers through a work placement, internship or fieldwork as part of their degree.” (2017 figures).

The Employer Satisfaction Survey also found:

• 93 per cent satisfaction with general literacy, numeracy and communication skills, as well as the ability to investigate and integrate knowledge;
• 89 per cent satisfaction with their ability to apply skills or knowledge and work independently;
• 88 per cent satisfaction with teamwork and collaborative skills;
• 93 per cent satisfaction with graduates’ application of professional and technical knowledge and standards; and
• 85 per cent satisfaction with graduates’ ability to perform and innovate in the workplace.

The survey was first conducted in 2016 and employer satisfaction rates have been consistently recorded above 80 per cent since.