The Australian government has established Public Skills Australia as one of the five new operational Jobs and Skills Councils (JSCs). This is a significant move to tackle skills shortages in various sectors.
These JSCs were announced last December, with a dedicated budget of $402 million over four years, to address the pressing skills challenges faced by different industries.
Primary objectives of Public Skills Australia
One of the primary objectives of Public Skills Australia is to tackle the persistent skills shortages experienced within the public sector. It encompasses crucial areas such as police, fire and emergency services, defence, correctional services, and government agencies. However, its mandate extends beyond just the federal public service, as it also aims to address issues affecting local, state, and territory governments.
This is particularly crucial for local governments, which often struggle to attract qualified professionals and provide adequate training opportunities, especially as Public Skills Australia recognises several workforce challenges prevalent in the public sector.
Firstly, with the recent AUKUS partnership and the acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines, the demand for skilled workers is expected to increase significantly. Public Skills Australia will play a vital role in coordinating efforts to upskill the workforce, ensuring that the necessary talent is available to support this substantial undertaking.
In addition, addressing the aging workforce and implementing succession planning strategies are crucial. As many professionals retire in the coming years, attracting and training new talent is essential.
Furthermore, skills shortages and the growing demand for STEM skills pose challenges across various sectors. Public Skills Australia will prioritise addressing these shortages by promoting the development and accessibility of STEM training programs, encouraging individuals to pursue careers in these fields and supporting industries in obtaining the required expertise.
Collaboration for a skilled workforce
Public Skills Australia comprises seven voting members representing employers, industry organisations, and employee associations. The Department of Defence serves as the sole employer member, while industry representation is provided by the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council Limited, the Australia New Zealand Council of the Police Profession through the Australia New Zealand Policing Advisory Agency, and the Defence Force Welfare Association.
The three employee organisations involved are the CPSU State Public Sector Federation Group, the United Firefighters Union of Australia, and the Police Federation of Australia. This collaborative approach ensures that the interests of all stakeholders are considered when addressing skills challenges.
Public Skills Australia’s efforts to address skills shortages and workforce challenges in the public sector will contribute to a resilient economy and a skilled workforce. By investing in training, attracting talent, and promoting collaboration, it will play a crucial role in securing Australia’s position as a leading nation and ensuring the prosperity of its citizens.