Queensland collaborating to plan for the future

The Future of Work – Skills and Industry Summit held in Brisbane today saw Queensland’s industry leaders collaborate with Government to plan for the future of work.

Minister for Training and Skills Development Shannon Fentiman said the Summit gave some of the greatest contributors to our economy the opportunity to discuss how we can make sure Queensland has the skilled workers for the jobs of the future.

“Today, we asked for practical, achievable and imaginative ways to transition the state to be ahead of the game when it comes to new skills and jobs,” Ms Fentiman said.

“This was delivered. The interactive panel session and the four focused workshops were impressive and I have been inspired by passionate and innovative ideas.

Ms Fentiman highlighted the importance of ongoing collaboration between government and industry.

“It is vital we all play a role, not just today, but to focus efforts in an ongoing way to ensure all Queenslanders are ready to participate in the workforce we need now and into the future,” Ms Fentiman said.

“It’s great that everyone has such a positive outlook, and why shouldn’t we positive – Queensland is in a great strategic position and our economy is evolving and transforming from strength to strength.”

Throughout the sessions, there was focus on the need for government, unions, industry, the university and vocational education sector to collaborate and recognise the shared responsibility of a skilled workforce.

“It is clear that industry values vocational education and training and I know that there is more that government can do to help encourage young people to take up those educational pathways,” she said.

“We discussed the importance ofparticipation and the opportunity that exists for employers and employees from engaging with a broader array of people, including our ageing workforce, people from varied backgrounds and lived experiences.

“It is essential to support the productivity of all of our regions and industries, including consideration for our future workforce needs and planning to balance supply and demand.”

All of the feedback from today will be considered along with the submissions that have already been made through the Skills for Queensland Discussion paper, in the development of a new Skills Strategy.

“We all need to continue to work together to tackle the challenge that lies before us – to stay ahead of the change required, remain outward looking and include all Queenslanders in this growth.”

ENDS

Media Contact:          Inga Williams              0439 949 719