Changes in our economy and advances in science and technology are reshaping how Australians work and live. As a nation we must adapt and upskill, or we risk being left behind by our global peers.
Australian universities have a vital role to play in addressing the nation’s skill shortages, ensuring businesses – big and small – have the workforce they need to fuel our economy.
Of the almost one million jobs expected to be created over the next five years, more than half will require a university degree. These are jobs in healthcare, teaching, and scientific, technical and professional services – all professions that are critical to Australia’s continued prosperity.
Failure to equip workers today with the education and skills they need for the future will hinder our ability to solve challenges and embrace opportunities tomorrow, slowing our economic growth and progress.
We have no time to waste.
This submission outlines Universities Australia’s four-pronged approach to ensuring Australia has the pipeline of workers that employers and the economy need to grow and prosper – now and in the future.
The solutions outlined in this submission will:
- make it easier for people to retrain and upskill
- provide incentives for university, industry and research collaborations
- attract and keep international students and knowledge workers, and
- drive more investment in university-trained workers.
This White Paper is a well-timed opportunity for the country to take stock of the demand for skills and to place Australia in the best position for the decade ahead.
summary of Recommendations
- Addressing workforce shortages
- Support sovereign capability through investment in research
- Labour force participation
- Make it easier for Australians to retrain and upskill
- Retain more international graduates and knowledge workers
