Ivan Neville, Branch Manager, Labour Market Research and Analysis branch, Australian Government Department of Jobs and Small Business, was the guest presenter for the Term 1 VET and Vocational Learning PD & Network Day. His presentation highlighted Labour market trends and what employers are looking for in job seekers.
He described some of the changes in the labour market including globalisation, social and demographic changes, technology and automation and structural change. Not all jobs can be automated and jobs requiring social skills, creativity, complex thinking or managerial skills are in demand and with population growth, lifestyle changes and an ageing population many traditional jobs in the Services industries will keep growing.
Technology is not only replacing jobs, it’s also creating jobs such as AI Designers, Big Data Analysts, Solar Power Design Engineers, Digital Technology Teachers, Cyber Security Professionals, Aerial Surveyors, Social Media Managers and Robotic Clinical Specialists.
Youth unemployment remains a challenge, along with young people who don’t have working parents as role models.
While there has been a shift away from VET towards university pathways, VET can be a good option with most trades in shortage and VET graduates earning good starting salaries. Employers look for job seekers who have work experience and place significant emphasis on employability skills when hiring. Job advertisements requiring Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Digital Literacy and Creativity have increased by up to 200% since 2012. These transferable skills are not easily replicated by artificial intelligence
The Term 1 VET and Vocational Learning PD & Network Day was well attended by VET Coordinators and Career Development Practitioners from Catholic and Independent schools and incorporated other presenters including Michelle Potts, Department for Innovation and Skills; Adele Broster, SACE Board; Anna Cirillo, TAFE SA; a sharing of good practice in Career Counselling by Cornerstone College and networking opportunities.
