The Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) is calling for input on how the recently established Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) will operate on a permanent basis.
Releasing its Jobs and Skills Australia Discussion Paper, the Department said JSA was established as an Independent Statutory Body in November last year to provide advice on current, emerging and future workforce, skills and training needs.
“The Discussion Paper shares an update on what is being proposed for Jobs and Skills Australia’s ongoing arrangements and seeks your view on how Jobs and Skills Australia can work with stakeholders to provide the evidence and analysis needed to ensure Australia has a skilled workforce now and in the future,” DEWR said.
“Jobs and Skills Australia’s evidence and analysis will be pivotal in ensuring Australia has skilled workers at national, State and Territory, and regional levels, particularly in areas of greatest need,” it said.
“Its insights and influence will provide greater certainty for business, industry, and the economy; and greater opportunities for many Australians, particularly those most disadvantaged.”
DEWR proposed JSA continue to operate as a Statutory Body with independent research, analysis and advice.
It said the Body would use staff and support from DEWR to minimise establishment and ongoing operating costs.
The Department also proposed that JSA be governed by a senior Commissioner, with supporting Deputy Commissioners, who would actively engage with a tripartite advisory body.
In its Discussion Paper, open until 10 February, DEWR asked readers to consider what other design considerations could strengthen JSA’s ability to provide advice to Government; what principles should guide its priorities; what new information JSA should collect; and how the Body could present data and analysis to best inform Government work.
The Department’s 14-page Discussion Paper can be downloaded at this PS News link.
