Scott Cam will inspire the next generation of tradespeople in his new role as Australia’s first National Careers Ambassador, helping young Australians take advantage of surging demand for skilled workers.
Cam will highlight how practical and technical training can lead to high paying and fulfilling jobs, while also working with the National Careers Institute, alongside government, industry, education providers, career advisors, parents and employers to improve career options.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that as the economy changes people need to have a mix of skills and experience and this includes having more Australians with technical, trade and practical skills.
“For many years going to university has been the default expectation imposed on our young Australians, but it’s not the only path to rewarding and successful employment,” Morrison said.
“It’s time we broadened our view. I want to see more Australians become plumbers, electricians and bakers than lawyers and consultants. I would like to see more of them going on to become their own boss."
Meanwhile, work has begun on remodelling Australia's VET sector. The Federal Government has apppointed Adam Boyton as interim National Skills Commissioner.
Minister for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business, Michaelia Cash, said Boyton will play a critical role in leading engagement with stakeholders and overseeing foundational work to better match investment to the skills needs in the Australian economy.
"With years of industry experience, Boyton will ensure the design of the National Skills Commission is fit for purpose for our current and future skills needs," Cash said.
"The newly appointed Commissioner will oversee the early design work on how to nationally forecast skills demand in industry and options for a new funding model for VET qualifications."
At the same time a review of the national regulator for the VET sector, the Australian Skills Authority (ASQA) has commenced. "The government's rapid review will inform a 12 to 18 month program of improvements that will ensure regulation by ASQA is transparent and effective," Cash said.
The Federal Government is investing $18.1 million in a suite of measures to improve regulation of Australia's VET sector. This is in addition to a $585 million package that is currently being rolled out.
The package includes increased incentives for up to 80,000 new apprentices and expanded apprentice wage subsidy trials in rural and regional areas and 10 new Industry Training Hubs in areas of high youth unemployment to better connect schools with local employers, industries and training providers.